Generally, charges of domestic violence are filed as a misdemeanor. These charges can lead to significant penalties, including fines, time in county jail and probation. However, some accusations of domestic violence can lead to felony charges, the most severe type of criminal charge. What should those facing domestic violence charges know about felony and misdemeanor charges? When might domestic violence…
DUI
Could a domestic violence conviction impact your military career?
Military families experience significant stress, including worries about injury and the emotional strain of separation. In addition, the stress of combat leaves many veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental health concerns. All this can put military families under strain, and this could lead to conflict in their households. Unfortunately, if a fight leads to a domestic violence accusation,…
Will a domestic violence charge impact your gun ownership?
Many people own guns for sporting use or as a way to protect their loved ones if a threat arises. However, accusations of domestic violence can endanger the gun rights of even the safest firearm owners. While this law is intended to protect the safety of the public, it can also impact those who were wrongfully accused. Could a heated…
Can an alleged victim drop a domestic violence charge?
In any relationship, tempers may flare, and people may do things in the heat of the moment that they later regret. Those regrets may lead someone to recant their statement in a domestic violence case. If your partner or ex wants the charges against you dropped, does that mean that the charge will be dropped? In California, only the prosecutor…
How long are restraining orders valid?
If your partner or ex accuses you of domestic violence and requests a protection order, that order can significantly limit your freedom and opportunities while they are valid. An order may require you to stay away from your family. It may prevent you from owning any firearms or ammunition or move out of the home you shared with your partner. Any…
Could domestic violence charges impact your parental rights?
At the end of a marriage, tempers may run high. You may find yourself getting into arguments more often, and those arguments may become more severe. Divorce can relieve this tension, but if your spouse accuses you of domestic violence as a result, you may find your parental rights limited. What impact can accusations of domestic violence have on your…
How much does financial stress contribute to domestic conflict?
Financial strain can put everyone in a household under stress. When that stress escalates, it can lead to arguments, fights and even accusations of domestic violence. What should Californians know about the link between financial strain and conflict in their homes? Studies indicate a link between financial strain and household conflict. Unsurprisingly, strained finances can be a major factor in…
Can your social media posts lead to a domestic violence conviction?
Social media is an important part of the lives of many people today. However, the same sites that allow you to connect with friends and stay in touch with family could threaten your rights and freedom if you face domestic violence charges. The things you post on social media could be considered abuse or harassment, or the court could view…
Can you face charges if you did not touch your accuser?
Arguments happen in most relationships, and people often say or do things during those arguments that they later regret. However, even if the argument never became a physical altercation, you may find yourself facing domestic violence charges—and significant penalties—as a result of that dispute. Can someone close to you really accuse you of domestic violence if you did not touch…
Can you be convicted of domestic violence if you were defending yourself?
When an argument gets heated, things can escalate quickly, and sometimes it becomes necessary to defend yourself. However, if you took physical action to defend yourself from danger, you may find yourself accused of domestic violence. Can you be found guilty of domestic violence if you were defending yourself? Can I show that I acted in self defense? In California,…


