- What Happens When You’re Charged with Domestic Violence in Bonita?
- Common Defenses Against Domestic Violence Accusations
- The Legal Process for Domestic Violence Cases in California
- How a Conviction Can Affect Your Employment, Custody, and Rights
- Fighting False Allegations of Domestic Violence
- Can Domestic Violence Charges Be Dismissed or Reduced?
- Why Hiring a Local Bonita Lawyer Matters
- Schedule a Consultation with a Bonita Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer
Domestic violence crimes occur between people who supposedly trust and love each other. They are committed against those in close intimate relationships and can ruin lives and destroy families.
Bonita is governed by the California domestic violence laws to protect victims as well as those who are falsely accused. Finding dedicated lawyers for domestic violence cases in Bonita like those in our law officer is very important. This is because we can guide you through the legal procedures, enlighten you on what to expect, and help you prepare a strong case in court if needed.
Contact The San Diego Domestic Violence Defense Pros to learn how we might be able to help you during this stressful time.
What Happens When You’re Charged with Domestic Violence in Bonita?
Several things can happen when an individual is charged with a case of domestic violence in Bonita, California. Law enforcement agencies take such accusations quite seriously and you may be:
- Arrested and booked immediately
- Receive a TRO or temporary restraining order
- Get a court hearing to determine the verdict of the case
- Probation, fines, and even jail time
You need to get in touch with a domestic violence attorney in Bonita immediately to start working on a defense.
Common Defenses Against Domestic Violence Accusations
One of the things that makes domestic violence shocking is the fact that it happens amongst people in very close relationships. Each domestic violence case in Bonita is unique and may have several legal defenses including:
- Self-defense
- False accusation
- Lack of sufficient evidence
- Mutual combat
The Legal Process for Domestic Violence Cases in California
In California, domestic violence crimes are treated seriously. Normally, officers are given special training on how to handle any calls placed of this nature to offer relief to the victims. The order can be confirmed through the California restraining and protective order system where the offender is arrested.
Domestic violence crimes attract more penalties as determined by a court of law. While battery is considered a misdemeanor, domestic battery is treated as a felony if a wobbler ruling is made. This depends on the circumstances.
After you are arrested and booked, this is the process to expect:
- Arraignment where you enter a plea
- Pretrial proceedings: Here, your lawyer negotiates potential deals after gathering evidence
- A trial is needed if there is no resolution
- Sentencing involves penalties, probation, or case dismissal
How a Conviction Can Affect Your Employment, Custody, and Rights
Domestic violence convictions have grave consequences on your personal and professional life. They include:
- Criminal records make it hard to not only secure but maintain jobs
- Courts may limit your visitation or custody rights where a child or children are involved
- You may lose firearms rights
- Conviction may impact personal relations and rental application
Fighting False Allegations of Domestic Violence
One of the most unfortunate things is that cases of false domestic violence accusations do happen. Some individuals take this path to get an advantage in custody or divorce battles.
To fight this, you need a knowledgeable lawyer by your side. He or she can gather evidence and witness statements, challenge any inconsistencies in testimonies given, and offer a strong defense in court.
Can Domestic Violence Charges Be Dismissed or Reduced?
There are circumstances where domestic violence cases may be reduced or dismissed. The lawyer may negotiate a deal, where you get lesser charges or argue for dismissal if there isn’t sufficient evidence. In some cases, enrolling in diversion programs can help you avoid conviction.
Why Hiring a Local Bonita Lawyer Matters
Early legal intervention matters and so you need to hire a local Bonita domestic violence lawyer. Advantages of doing so include:
- Familiarity with the prosecutors and local Bonita courts
- Conversant with the legal landscape in Bonita and California in general
- Capacity to offer hands-on and personalized strategies
Schedule a Consultation with a Bonita Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer
You should never face domestic violence charges in Bonita alone. You need experienced attorneys who understand the legal landscape and court process and the surrounding areas. By choosing us, we will defend your rights while guiding you through the whole process. Get in touch with our Bonita DV defense law firm to explore your legal options.