Santa Monica Domestic Violence Attorney

Were you charged with domestic violence?

Domestic violence is defined as physical violence or abuse that occurs in a relationship. The relationship can be a married couple, formerly married co uple, cohabiting couple, two persons with a child in common, or two persons dating or formerly in a relationship. It can also apply to children that witness the violence or abuse, for which child endangerment charges would be filed. It encompasses numerous types of abuse, including the following:

Physical abuse
Sexual abuse
Verbal abuse
Child abuse
Social and financial abuse
Threatening
Stalking
Intimidation

At Lessem & Newstat, a Santa Monica criminal defense attorney can tenaciously fight for your rights. With over 50 years of combined experience in all types of domestic violence cases and criminal defense, we will present a solid defense on your behalf .

Domestic Violence Charges

Domestic violence can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony in the state of California, depending on the gravity of the abuse or violence, the criminal history of the aggressor, if it resulted in injuries and the seriousness of the injuries. Even if the victim drops the charges or did not warrant charges, the offender can still be arrested and prosecuted for domestic violence, thereby making these types of cases particularly complex to defend. If convicted, you can face harsh penalties, such as:

Fines
Counseling
Community service or physical labor
Stay-Away order
No Harm, No Strike order
Emergency protective order (valid for 5 days)
Temporary restraining order (up to 3 years)
County jail or state prison (up to 3 years)

It is important to secure a team of knowledgeable and skilled lawyers that master the California domestic violence laws and will know how to skillfully and effectively fight to protect your rights. Let us help you in Santa Monica, Malibu, Westwood, and Venice.

Contact a Santa Monica domestic violence lawyer now if you were charged with domestic violence.