San Pedro Domestic Violence Defense Lawyers
Domestic violence accusations can destroy your reputation, career, and family relationships, even when they’re completely false. Once these charges become public, employers may fire you immediately, and professional licenses can be suspended before you even get your day in court. Family and friends often distance themselves because they don’t know what to believe, and you might lose access to your own children through restraining orders.
What’s worse? Even after proving your innocence, the damage to your reputation can follow you for years since court records and news articles stay online forever.
For nearly three decades, The Law Offices of Robin D. Perry & Associates has defended San Pedro residents against unfounded domestic violence charges. We understand how these cases develop, know how to expose inconsistencies in accuser testimony, and have the investigative resources to uncover the truth. When your character is under attack, we fight back with facts. Learn more about our firm.
Experienced domestic violence defense is available at 100 Oceangate #525, Long Beach, CA, 90802, located in the professional district. San Pedro residents can reach our office in just 10 minutes via the direct I-710 route. Call 562-216-2944 or complete our confidential contact form immediately.
Recent Review
“I am beyond grateful for having Robin as my attorney during a great time of need. Robin was accessible, available and went beyond my expectations when it came to representing my best interest in court. He was very knowledgeable about my situation and had no problem explaining the legal process along the way. I couldn’t recommend him and his office more. Thanks!”
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What Is Domestic Violence Under California Law?
In California, domestic violence happens when someone hurts or threatens to hurt a person they have a close relationship with. The law applies to:
- Current or former spouses
- People who live together or used to live together
- People who are dating or used to date
- Parents of the same child
- Family members, such as parents, children, siblings, and grandparents
The law covers many types of harmful behavior, including physical violence, threats, harassment, and destroying someone’s property. California takes these cases very seriously, and even minor incidents can result in serious criminal charges.
Common Domestic Violence Charges You Might Face in San Pedro
The most common charge is domestic battery under Penal Code 243(e)(1), which involves touching someone in a harmful or offensive way. This is a misdemeanor that can result in up to one year in jail and fines up to $2,000.
More serious is corporal injury to a spouse or cohabitant under Penal Code 273.5. This charge applies when someone causes a physical injury that leaves a visible mark. Prosecutors can charge this as either a misdemeanor or a felony. If convicted of a misdemeanor, you could face up to one year in jail. A felony conviction can result in a prison sentence of up to four years.
Criminal threats under Penal Code 422 are another common charge. This happens when you threaten to hurt someone in a way that makes them reasonably fear for their safety. Like corporal injury charges, this can be filed as either a misdemeanor or felony.
What Happens If You’re Convicted?
A domestic violence conviction brings immediate consequences, including:
- Jail or prison time
- Fines and court costs
- Probation with strict rules
- Mandatory counseling classes that usually last 52 weeks
- Community service hours
The long-term effects can be even more damaging to your life. You’ll have a criminal record that appears on background checks, making it more difficult to find employment or secure housing. You’ll lose your right to own or possess firearms. If you’re not a U.S. citizen, you could face serious immigration problems, including deportation. Professional licenses may be suspended or revoked, which can significantly impact your career.
Restraining Orders
If you’re arrested for domestic violence, the court will likely issue a restraining order against you. This court order means you cannot contact the alleged victim in any way, cannot go to their home, work, or school, and cannot go within a certain distance of them. You may have to move out of your shared home immediately and could lose custody or visitation rights with your children temporarily.
Breaking a restraining order is a separate crime that can result in additional jail time and fines, even if the contact was friendly or the alleged victim initiated it.
Questions People Ask After Being Arrested
Can I talk to the alleged victim to work things out?
No. If there’s a restraining order, any contact is illegal. Even if they contact you first, you could still be arrested. Let your lawyer handle all communication.
What if the alleged victim wants to drop the charges?
Only the prosecutor (district attorney) can drop charges, not the victim. However, if the victim doesn’t want to cooperate, it may be harder for prosecutors to prove their case.
What if I was drinking or using drugs when it happened?
Being intoxicated is not a defense, but it might affect some aspects of your case. Tell your lawyer the truth about what happened so they can build the best defense.
How long will this stay on my record?
In California, some domestic violence convictions can be expunged (removed) from your record after you complete probation successfully. However, some consequences (like gun restrictions) may remain permanent.
What if I’m not a U.S. citizen?
Domestic violence convictions can lead to deportation or prevent you from becoming a citizen. Tell your lawyer about your immigration status immediately.
Call Our San Pedro Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys Today
If you’re facing domestic violence charges in California, time is working against you. Every day you wait to get proper legal representation makes it harder to build a strong defense. Police and prosecutors are already building their case against you, gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses.
You need an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands California domestic violence law and can start protecting your rights immediately. Call The Law Offices of Robin D. Perry & Associates at 562-216-2944 or fill out a contact form right now for a free consultation.
