The Law Offices Of - Karen L. Goldstein

Phone: 888-445-6313

Exclusively State And Federal Criminal Defense

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Domestic Violence And Spousal Battery

Rigorous Defense from a trial-tested Los Angeles Lawyer

If you have been accused or convicted of domestic violence, you may be facing thousands of dollars in fines, jail time, and long-term restrictions on your freedom. You may be able to avoid these consequences with the right attorney on your side.

Whether you have been arrested for domestic violence or spousal abuse for the first time or you are accused of being a repeat offender, you have a legal shield available to you. Karen L. Goldstein is a Los Angeles defense lawyer with a reputation for getting her clients' charges reduced or, in many cases, dismissed before trial. If your case must go to trial you will have an experienced lawyer on your side. Throughout Los Angeles and across California, Karen L. Goldstein is well-known for her excellence in both state and federal courts. 

Domestic violence, also called spousal abuse or spousal battery, refers to violent physical acts committed between spouses, ex-spouses, co-habitants, or people in a current or former dating relationship. Alleged victims of domestic violence often recant, or change their mind about pursuing the case. Unfortunately, under California law even if the alleged victim recants his or her story, or does not wish to pursue the case, only the prosecutor, or the judge, can dismiss the charges.

Other common charges which often accompany domestic violence cases are:

  • great bodily injury allegation
  • stalking
  • criminal threats
  • violation of a restraining order
  • child abuse
  • child neglect
  • elder abuse
  • child endangerment

Such charges are often combined to create extremely brutal penalties for multiple alleged offenses. To avoid such serious penalties, many people plead guilty to lesser charges even if they are not guilty. A knowledgeable attorney can help you make the best choices to insure your freedom and help protect you from being bullied by prosecutors. 

Penalties for Domestic Violence and Violations of Court Orders

The crime can be charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor depending on a variety of factors such as the extent of the violence, the severity of the alleged victim's injuries, the criminal history, or lack thereof, between the two parties and other factors.

In California, a conviction for domestic violence can disrupt your future and make maintaining your lifestyle almost impossible. Such a conviction carries extremely harsh penalties which may include

  • up to 1 year in jail or 4 years in prison
  • an informal or formal probation period
  • 1 year domestic violence counseling
  • 1 year parenting counseling
  • heavy fines and fees up to $6,000
  • a three year criminal protective order prohibiting any contact between the involved parties
  • additional jail or prison time for 2nd time and 3rd time offenders

Furthermore, someone who violates a court order issued in conjunction with a domestic violence case may be charged with a separate misdemeanor for an alleged violation of the court order. Such violations may be punished with

  • mandatory counseling
  • heavy fines
  • up to 1 year in county jail

Therefore, it is crucial that you consult with a skilled and experienced domestic violence attorney regarding all your legal options.

False Accusations are Common

There are many fabricated allegations of domestic violence. When you call our law firm to handle your defense, we will evaluate your case for all possible defenses and identify reasons why you may have been falsely accused. Common motives to fabricate charges include:

  • introduction of a new girlfriend (or boyfriend) and consequent jealousy by the alleged victim
  • a desire by the alleged victim to gain leverage in a custody battle or divorce
  • greed and desire for financial gain
  • psychological problems and chemical dependence issues suffered by the accuser

If you have been charged with or are under investigation for a crime, seek legal counsel who can assess the case and minimize your risks of conviction. 

In Difficult Times, there is no Substitute for a Skilled Attorney 

Experienced criminal defense attorneys understand the many kinds of situations that give rise to criminal charges. We help our clients understand their legal rights in spousal abuse cases so they can make clear decisions about how to proceed. By contacting us, you will see the importance of having an experienced and skilled attorney on your side to offer guidance and protection from prosecution.

Contact us for a free, confidential consultation.

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