Tustin Domestic Abuse Defense Lawyers

Punishment for Domestic Violence

Given the significant long-term effects of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse and other forms of domestic violence, it's no surprise that the punishment for domestic violence is often severe. Though punishment for domestic violence can vary depending on your specific location and where the violence was perpetrated, California cases usually incur similar punishments. These include:

Misdemeanor Cases

Misdemeanor domestic violence cases are considered to be of lesser severity than felony cases and are punishable by one year maximum imprisonment in a county jail. However, most misdemeanor convictions lead to imprisonment that is under six months in duration. In addition, perpetrators convicted of misdemeanor domestic abuse can be forced to participate in community service or physical labor, such as Cal-Trans road construction work, be put on probation, and be placed in therapy or mandatory counseling, including substance abuse counseling and/or Alcoholics Anonymous. Convicted perpetrators may also be ordered to contribute funds to domestic violence prevention projects, attend educational or training courses, and/or submit to restrictive protective or "stay away" orders that limit their contact with the victim and his or her family. Since jail time is always a possibility and realizing the negative impact a criminal conviction would have on your employment, contact with your family, etc., it is essential that you contact a qualified domestic violence defense attorney such as Wallin & Klarich.

Felony Cases

Felony domestic violence cases are dealt with much more severely than misdemeanor cases. Whether or not a felony conviction is pursued depends on the severity of the crime, prior cases of domestic violence, and other factors that contribute to the seriousness of the case. While all misdemeanor and felony cases can be eligible for bail, felony domestic violence accusations usually result in high bail. Wallin & Klarich can often seek a bail reduction under certain situations to allow our clients to defend the case while out of custody and not in custody thus allowing them to maintain work and school while the case in pending.

Imprisonment for felon domestic abusers can last for up to three years and be doled out at the State Penitentiary or county jail. In addition, more severe community service requirements and educational mandates, such as anger management programs or controlled counseling or substance abuse therapy, can be ordered. In addition, convicted domestic violence felons can face California's harsh "three strikes law," which forces life in prison for those convicted of three felonies.

If You've Been Accused

Whether or not you committed domestic violence, a domestic violence accusation is nothing to laugh at. In order to stay out of jail and keep a serious crime from your permanent record, you're going to need effective, understanding, and competent legal counsel. Wallin & Klarich's experienced domestic abuse defense attorneys specialize in gaining justice for those accused of serious crimes. We can help - call today for a completely confidential, complimentary phone consultation to discuss your domestic violence case.

At Wallin & Klarich, we approach every case with the belief that the person we're defending could easily be one of our own family members. We've seen firsthand how stressful legal matters can be for our clients and their loved ones. We are committed to being available to our clients at all times -- 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. If you or someone you love is facing domestic violence charges in Southern California, you should call Wallin & Klarich today for a free evaluation of your case. Call 1-888-280-6806 or fill out our online consultation form to get in contact with a legal professional today. We will be there when you call.