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 representation, 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.
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 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.
Choosing a Domestic Violence Lawyer in Riverside, CA
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 Bernadino, 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
- responsive and communicative in the process
- compassionate and understanding while treating you 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.
Take the time to research your options, read client testimonials, and run through previous case results when seeking an attorney who is the right fit for your needs.
If you have any questions surrounding your case, don’t hesitate to contact us at Comings Law.
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 attorney can review the evidence against you and identify any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Also, they can negotiate to seek a reduction or dismissal of the charges.
- 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.
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 help 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.
Consult a Domestic Violence Lawyer in Riverside
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, ranging from assault to stalking or child abuse.
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 (951) 686-3457 or contact us online. Don’t wait to get the legal help you need to protect your future.
