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Los Angeles Domestic Violence Lawyer

Los Angeles Domestic Violence Lawyer

If you’ve been accused of domestic violence in Los Angeles, your future could change quickly. A single phone call can lead to an arrest, a restraining order, and immediate limits on where you can go and who you can contact. Even before your court date, you might lose your home, access to your children, or your job.

William S. Kroger Criminal Defense Attorney at Law understands what’s at stake. We help people facing domestic violence charges protect their rights, stay out of jail, and fight for fair treatment. Whether the case involves false accusations, emotional disputes, or police mistakes, we build strong defenses that fit each situation.

We focus on the facts, look closely at police reports, and challenge every part of the case that doesn’t hold up. If you're facing charges, our Los Angeles domestic violence lawyer is here to defend you from day one.

Why You Need a Domestic Violence Lawyer in Los Angeles

A domestic violence arrest in Los Angeles can move fast. Prosecutors often file charges right away, and law enforcement can issue restraining orders even before you appear in court. That’s why it’s so important to have a lawyer who understands the law and the local system.

California’s Domestic Violence Laws and Penalties

Under California law, domestic violence includes physical harm, threats, emotional abuse, and even disturbing someone’s peace. Penalties can include jail time, domestic violence restraining orders, and a permanent criminal record.

Some charges fall under Penal Code Section 273.5 PC or California Penal Code § 243(e)(1) and may be considered misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the details of the case.

How Los Angeles Prosecutors Handle These Cases

The district attorney’s office in Los Angeles County often treats domestic violence cases as high priority. Even if the other person does not want to press charges, the case may still move forward.

Prosecutors rely on police reports, photos, and statements to try to prove what happened during the incident. 

Immediate Risks After an Arrest

After an arrest, a judge can issue a criminal protective order that stops you from going home or speaking to the other person involved. You could also lose access to your children or face delays in seeing them. These limits happen before your court date, so having a lawyer early makes a big difference.

Common Domestic Violence Charges We Defend

Common Domestic Violence Charges We Defend

Many different charges fall under domestic violence in California. Some involve physical harm, while others are based on threats or controlling behavior.

William S. Kroger Criminal Defense Attorney at Law defends people against both misdemeanor and felony charges. We work hard to protect your rights, tell your side of the story, and challenge weak claims.

Domestic Battery (Penal Code § 243(e)(1))

Domestic battery means using force or violence against someone with whom you have a close relationship. That could be a spouse, partner, roommate, or parent of your child. You can still be charged even if the other person wasn’t severely injured.

Under California Penal Code 243(e)(1), domestic battery is usually a misdemeanor, but it can still lead to jail time, restraining orders, and a criminal record.

Corporal Injury to a Spouse or Cohabitant (Penal Code § 273.5)

This charge is more serious and involves causing a visible injury. Under California Penal Code § 273.5, it is a felony to harm a spouse, partner, or someone you live with in a way that leaves bruises or other marks. If you are convicted, you may face state prison, fines, and long-term effects on your child custody or immigration status.

Criminal Threats (Penal Code § 422)

Criminal threats happen when someone threatens serious harm, causing the other person to feel scared or unsafe. The threat must be clear and believable, even if no action is taken. Under California Penal Code § 422, this charge can be a felony or misdemeanor, depending on the case.

A conviction can lead to jail time, a criminal protective order, and a strike under the Three Strikes Law.

Stalking and Harassment

Stalking and harassment charges often involve following someone, sending unwanted messages, or showing up repeatedly where they live or work. These actions may seem small at first, but they can lead to serious criminal charges. If the victim feels threatened or fears for their safety, the court may issue a restraining order.

Our team understands how social media, misunderstandings, or emotional situations can lead to these accusations, and we know how to build a strong defense.

Child Abuse and Child Endangerment

Child abuse and child endangerment are serious charges under California Penal Code § 273(d) and § 273(a). These cases may involve physical harm, neglect, or exposing a child to dangerous situations. A conviction can affect child custody, lead to jail time, and result in a criminal protective order.

Many of these cases come from misunderstandings or false reports. We help our clients express their side and protect their rights as care-givers.

Violation of a Restraining or Protective Order

Violating a restraining or protective order is a crime, even if the contact seems minor or was not meant to harm. These orders are taken seriously by the Los Angeles Superior Court and the district attorney’s office. You can face criminal charges and jail if accused.

We understand how these orders work and will review the facts to see if there was a real violation or if the contact was accidental or misunderstood.

Immediate Consequences of a Domestic Violence Arrest

Immediate Consequences of a Domestic Violence Arrest

An arrest for domestic violence in Los Angeles leads to fast and serious consequences. You may face jail, strict court rules, and limits on seeing loved ones. These actions happen even before your case is fully reviewed.

Some of the first things you may deal with after being arrested are:

Mandatory Jail Time and No-Contact Orders

In most domestic violence cases, the law requires the police to make an arrest right away. Even if the other person does not want to press charges, officers often take someone into custody. After the arrest, judges usually issue no-contact orders, which means you cannot call, text, or visit the other person.

This can affect your home life, your children, and even your job. Our Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer works fast to help reduce these restrictions and protect your rights.

Emergency Protective Orders and Their Impact

When someone is arrested for domestic violence, the police can ask a judge for an emergency protective order. This order can last up to seven days. It may force you to leave your home right away, even if your name is on the lease or mortgage. It can also stop you from contacting your partner or children.

These orders are serious and can affect many areas of your life. We step in quickly to help you understand your options and challenge the order if needed.

Custody, Housing, and Job Risks

A domestic violence arrest can cause big problems with your child custody rights. The court might limit or take away your time with your kids. You could also be forced to move out of your home, even if you have nowhere else to go.

Employers may also see the charges and decide to fire you or not hire you. These risks are real, but our legal team knows how to fight back and protect your future.

How Our Los Angeles Domestic Violence Lawyer Can Help

How Our Los Angeles Domestic Violence Lawyer Can Help

Getting legal help right away can make a big difference in your case. William S. Kroger Criminal Defense Attorney at Law, takes fast action to protect your rights. Whether you are under investigation or have already been arrested, we know how to step in and defend you from the start.

Early Intervention Before Charges Are Filed

Sometimes, police investigate domestic violence claims before making an arrest. This is your chance to get ahead of the problem. We contact the district attorney's office early, give your side of the story, and try to stop charges before they are even filed.

Our goal is to protect you from going to court at all. When you contact us early, we can act fast and give you the best chance to avoid a criminal case.

Challenging False Allegations or Exaggerated Claims

False or exaggerated accusations are more common than most people think, especially in emotional situations like breakups or custody fights. We know how to find the truth. Our team will review police reports, text messages, and any social media posts to look for mistakes or lies.

We also investigate the accuser’s background and motives. If someone is using the system to gain an advantage, we push back with facts. William S. Kroger, Criminal Defense Attorney at Law, fights hard to make sure your voice is heard and your rights are protected.

Gathering Evidence and Witness Testimony

  • We collect all available records, including 911 calls, police bodycam footage, and photos.
  • We talk to neighbors, family members, or anyone present during the incident.
  • We check for prior false claims or bias from the accuser.
  • We bring in expert witnesses when needed to support your side.
  • We prepare everything for court so your defense is strong and clear.

Negotiating Dismissals or Lesser Charges

When possible, we work directly with the district attorney’s office to have your charges dropped or reduced. If the evidence is weak or the case has issues, we push for a full dismissal. In some cases, we can negotiate for lesser charges, like reducing a felony to a misdemeanor. This can help you avoid jail time, protect your job, and keep your record clean.

William S. Kroger, Criminal Defense Attorney at Law, has years of experience with prosecutors across Los Angeles, and we know how to get results that protect your future.

FAQs

1. Can I be charged with simple assault without causing injury?

Yes. Simple assault does not require injury. Even attempting or threatening harm may lead to charges.

2. What does dissuading a witness from reporting a crime mean?

It means trying to stop someone from talking to the police or testifying in court. This is a serious criminal offense.

3. Where can someone call for immediate help with domestic violence?

You can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233 for immediate assistance, safety planning, and support.

4. What if the police acted unfairly during my arrest?

If there was police misconduct, such as excessive force or rights violations, we can raise that in your defense and challenge the evidence.

5. Can elder abuse be charged as domestic violence in Southern California?

Yes. If the victim is 65 or older and lives with or is related to the accused, elder abuse can lead to domestic violence charges. This includes physical harm, emotional abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation under California criminal law.

Call Our Los Angeles Domestic Violence Lawyer for a Free Consultation

Call Our Los Angeles Domestic Violence Lawyer for a Free Consultation

If you have been accused of domestic violence, getting legal help right away is very important. These cases can move quickly and have lasting effects on your family, job, and freedom. Our team understands how serious the situation is, and we are ready to help you protect your rights.

William S. Kroger, Criminal Defense Attorney at Law offers strong legal advocacy and personal support during every step of your case. We know how to deal with local prosecutors and how to defend your case with care and skill. As your Los Angeles domestic violence lawyer, we will review the facts, listen to your side, and build a defense that gives you the best chance to move forward.

Contact us now at (323) 655-5700 for a free consultation. We are here to give you the answers and help you need right away.

Client Reviews

★★★★★
"I would highly recommend Mr. Kroger for anyone seeking help in a drug case. He was very helpful at putting me at ease and took care of everything for me in court." Paul
★★★★★
"My first time using an attorney Bill Kroger took care if my issue that could have turned into something much worse in no time. The best." Stephen W
★★★★★
Bill and his team have helped my business tremendously. Friendly and easy to work with. Highly recommend! Ammar