Domestic Violence Lawyer in Riverside, California

Understanding the severity of the situation is crucial if you are facing domestic violence charges. These charges can lead to serious consequences, such as jail time, fines, and leave you with a longstanding criminal record. In addition, a conviction can impact your personal and professional life, limiting job opportunities and affecting custody arrangements.

For these reasons, it is important to seek legal representation as soon as possible. A skilled domestic violence attorney can assist you in comprehending the charges you face, your legal rights, and the available defense options. With the right Riverside domestic violence lawyer, you may be able to have the charges reduced or dismissed or negotiate a plea bargain that minimizes the impact of a conviction.

Understanding Domestic Violence Charges

If you are facing domestic violence charges, it is important to understand the nature of the charges and the potential consequences. Domestic violence charges can be brought against you if you are accused of committing a violent act against someone with whom you have a domestic relationship. This can include a spouse, former spouse, cohabitant, or someone with whom you have a child.

What Is Considered Domestic Violence Under California Law?

Domestic violence in California is defined broadly and includes physical harm, the threat of harm, or any form of abuse directed at someone with whom the accused has an intimate relationship—such as a spouse, former spouse, co-parent, or cohabitant. Under California Penal Code Section 13700, domestic violence encompasses both physical injury and harassment, stalking, and the destruction of personal property.

California Penal Code Section 273.5(a) PC

One of the most common domestic violence charges is a violation of California Penal Code Section 273.5(a), which makes it illegal to inflict corporal injury resulting in a traumatic condition upon a spouse or cohabitant. If you are convicted of this charge, you may face up to four years in state prison on top of thousands of dollars in fines. 

Second Domestic Violence Charge

If you have previously been convicted of domestic violence, a second domestic violence charge can result in even more severe consequences. Besides potential prison time and fines, you could also face additional penalties such as a restraining order, mandatory counseling, and other consequences.

It is essential to have an experienced and knowledgeable attorney by your side when facing domestic violence charges. A domestic violence attorney can help you understand your legal options, protect your rights, and work towards the best possible outcome in your case.

That’s where Attorney Gregory H. Comings comes in as an experienced domestic violence lawyer serving Riverside, San Bernardino, and Southern California. 

When choosing a domestic violence attorney, there are several factors to consider. Attorney Comings checks all the boxes with the following: 

• A track record of success in domestic violence and criminal defense cases.; 
• A deep understanding of the laws and procedures involved.;
• A rResponsive and communicationve style throughout in the process.; and
• A Ccompassionate and understanding approach that ensures you are treated with respect and empathy. 

Overall, choosing the right domestic violence attorney is crucial to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome in your case. 

If you have any questions surrounding your case, don’t hesitate to contact us at Comings Law. 

Comings Law for Your Riverside Domestic Violence Defense

Attorney Comings has extensive experience defending individuals facing domestic violence charges in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. He has a successful track record of guiding people like you through complex criminal defense cases, and he is known for his tenacity and deep knowledge of California’s domestic violence statutes. His approach emphasizes empathy, professionalism, and client advocacy at every stage.

With a thorough understanding of local court operations, Attorney Comings uses his professional relationships with Riverside prosecutors and judges to achieve favorable client outcomes. His past success in similar cases demonstrates his commitment to protecting client rights, whether through: 

• Getting your charges reduced, 
• Negotiating alternatives to jail and the most advantageous plea bargains possible, 
• Securing case dismissals, or
• Securing a not-guilty verdict at trial.

Comings Law offers a steady, guiding presence committed to your needs. Every case is unique, as is every client. Attorney Gregory Comings has the skill and experience to look at the specific facts surrounding your case, overcome challenges, and get you the best possible outcome to protect your future.

Getting a Domestic Violence Charge Dismissed

If you have been charged with domestic violence, you may be wondering how to get the charge dismissed. While every case is different, there are several steps you can take to increase your chances of having the charge dropped.

• Hire a defense attorney. A knowledgeable Riverside domestic violence attorney can review the evidence against you and identify any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Using these weaknesses for leverage, they can negotiate to seek a reduction or dismissal of the charges, seek a good plea deal, or take your case to trial and secure an acquittal.
• Challenge the evidence against you. Your attorney can file a motion to suppress evidence if the police obtained it illegally or if it was collected in violation of your constitutional rights. If the judge grants the motion, the evidence cannot be used against you in court, which may weaken the prosecution’s case.
• Insufficient evidence. The prosecution could dismiss the charges if they don’t have enough evidence to establish their case beyond a reasonable doubt. Your attorney can work to demonstrate that the evidence is insufficient or that there are other factors that make it unlikely that you committed the crime.
• Self-defense or defense of others. This could be a valid defense or reason for dismissal if you acted to protect yourself or another person from harm. If someone physically attacked you or someone else and you used reasonable force to stop the attack, and you can demonstrate the necessity of your actions, your lawyer might get the case dismissed or get an acquittal at trial.
• False allegations. Unfortunately, false accusations are sometimes made out of anger, jealousy, or as leverage in custody disputes. Your attorney can expose inconsistencies in the accuser’s story by collecting evidence like witness testimonies or alibis to disprove the allegations.

Hiring a lawyer with experience using these defenses increases your chances of getting a just result. They can analyze the case from all angles, ensuring your rights are safeguarded throughout the legal process.

What To Do If You Get Arrested for Domestic Violence in Riverside, CA

If you are arrested for domestic violence, it is important to take immediate action to protect your rights and minimize the potential consequences of the charges against you. Here are some steps you can take:

• Remain calm and cooperative. It is important to remain calm and cooperative with law enforcement officers when you are arrested. Do not resist arrest or argue with the officers, as this can only make the situation worse.
• Understand that you can remain silent. You have the right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself. Use this right and do not make any statements to the police without an attorney present.
• Contact an attorney. As soon as possible, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney who can protect you by helping you understand your rights and options.
• Follow court orders. If you are released on bail or on your own recognizance, make sure to follow any court orders, such as staying away from the alleged victim or attending counseling sessions.
• Document everything. Keep a record of all interactions with law enforcement, court proceedings, and any other relevant information related to your case. This can be helpful for your attorney in building a strong defense.

Each step is essential for building a solid case, reinforcing your credibility, and minimizing the impact of the charges.

Consult a Riverside Domestic Violence Lawyer

Consulting a domestic violence lawyer in Riverside is crucial if you are facing domestic violence charges.

While it may seem easier to plead guilty and accept a minimum sentence, a felony conviction can have lifelong consequences that can affect your job opportunities, housing, professional licensing, and even your right to possess certain weapons.

Attorney Gregory H. Comings has the experience and knowledge to protect your legal rights if you are accused of serious crimes in Riverside or San Bernardino County. He can handle all forms of domestic violence charges.,. 

By consulting with Attorney Comings, you can ensure that your case is handled with the utmost care and attention to detail.

To schedule an appointment to discuss your case, call or contact us online. Don’t wait to get the legal help you need to protect your future.

FAQs on Domestic Violence and Related Legal Concerns

Are There Alternatives to Jail Time for Domestic Violence Charges In California?

Yes, California offers alternative sentencing options, particularly for first-time offenders. Under Penal Code Section 1203.097, the court may require completing a batterer’s intervention program, community service, and probation instead of jail time. These alternatives often require compliance with specific conditions, and violating court-mandated terms can lead to stricter penalties.

Can a Domestic Violence Charge Affect Child Custody Arrangements?

Yes, domestic violence charges can significantly impact child custody arrangements. Under California Family Code Section 3044, there is a rebuttable presumption against awarding custody to a parent with a history of domestic violence. Courts prioritize the child’s safety and best interests, so a parent convicted of domestic violence must often prove they are not a risk to the child to retain custodial rights.

Can I Get a Domestic Violence Charge Expunged from My Record in California?

Expungement of a domestic violence conviction may be possible, but it depends on the specific charges, and whether you meet eligibility criteria under California Penal Code Section 1203.4. Generally, if you have completed probation successfully, you may petition the court for expungement. However, felony convictions that involve a prison sentence may be ineligible, so consulting a lawyer can help clarify your options.