ACCUSED OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE in
the sacramento area?

Sacramento Area Domestic Violence FAQ and Information

If you have been accused of domestic violence, you may be wondering what your options are. Many people facing a first-time domestic violence charge put off the thought of hiring a domestic violence attorney. Since it's a first-time offence, they expect nothing more than a lecture or fine. Unfortunately for those charged with this crime, Sacramento and California as a whole has strong laws surrounding this type of crime, so waiting can be dangerous, putting your liberty, money, and even child custody options at risk.

Understanding the Crime of Domestic Abuse

Domestic violence, according to California's current laws, is defined as physical or emotional violence or the threat of violence towards a child, girlfriend, boyfriend, spouse, ex-spouse, or another relative. This can also include sexual abuse, verbal abuse, and economic abuse. It can be a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on how serious the actions or injuries were.

How a Lawyer Can Help You Through a Domestic Violence Case

If you hire a lawyer from the time of your arrest, you will have a professional working with you to create a legal defense strategy. Often you will be asked to help find and collect evidence, such as photos of the crime scene or testimonies from those who witnessed the event. You will also need to give your statement to your lawyer as soon as possible after your arrest, thus giving yourself less time to forget pertinent facts.

If you are contacted by the police, the prosecutor, or the victim before your court date, direct them to talk to your domestic violence attorney and do not answer any questions yourself. Sacramento police officers or prosecutors are always "on the clock," and the things you say to them could come back to haunt you when you go to court.

Potential Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction

Another reason you need the help of a Sacramento defense attorney is because of the strict consequences surrounding this crime. Remember, you will be tried regardless of whether or not the victim decides to press charges. If you are convicted, you can expect consequences such as:

• Losing custody of your children.
• Spending time in jail.
• Serving under a restraining order.
• Being deported, denied naturalization, or denied re-entry if you are not a citizen.
• Requirement to attend substance abuse or anger management programs.
• Being restricted from owning and using firearms.
• Potential loss of a professional license.

The extent of your consequences will depend on whether you are facing misdemeanor or felony charges. You can also expect three years of formal probation.

Remember - these consequeces are worst case scenarios.  Your defense attorney may create a strategy that allows you to lessen these consequences and sometimes avoid prosecution.

Planning Your Domestic Violence Case Defense

The most important task your lawyer will have is planning your defense. You may be asked to take pictures, collect witness testimonies, and prepare a statement. The sooner you can do this after your arrest, the better the results will be. If at any time during this process you are contacted by the victim, prosecutor, or police, point them to your lawyer and do not answer their questions. Doing so could give them evidence against you that is admissible in court.

Remember, it will be several months between your arrest and your court date. Even early in your case, you can benefit from the help of a domestic violence attorney. Sacramento individuals who are accused of this crime must decide whether to face court or plea bargain, and your lawyer will help you make an informed decision. A lawyer will also help you file a Motion to Reduce Bail if the judge sets your bail high, giving you the freedom to leave jail while awaiting your court date. Domestic Violence is a charge with potentially serious consequences and as such you should consider hiring a lawyer so that you get the best possible outcome in your case.