How to Choose Your Defense Attorney Following a Domestic Violence Charge
Aug. 12, 2020
If you have been charged with domestic violence in California, you will need a capable criminal defense attorney who can either establish your innocence or reduce your sentence if you are found guilty. A domestic violence lawyer is valuable in establishing the facts of the case and challenging the prosecution’s assertions.
With the right attorney, you can get the best possible outcome for your case. At the Alec Rose Law Office, you can depend on years of experience and expertise to guide you through the legal process and help you fight your charges. Call today for a free consultation. I proudly serve clients in Los Angeles and surrounding counties, including Orange, San Bernardino, Santa Barbara, Ventura, and San Diego, California.
Domestic Violence Laws in California
California Penal Code 273.5 states that,
Any person who willfully inflicts injury resulting in a traumatic condition upon a victim is guilty of a felony, and upon conviction shall be punished by imprisonment in state prison for two, three, or four years, or in a county jail for not more than one year, or by a fine of up to six thousand dollars ($6,000), or by both that fine and imprisonment.”
California law makes it illegal to injure a family member, spouse, or cohabitant in an act of domestic violence. Any violation of the law may result in the following penalties:
Up to four years in a state prison
Mandatory domestic violence class
Fine of up to $6,000
Probation
Community Service
Keep in mind, these are minimum sentences. If the act of violence results in serious injury, death, or property damage, you may face more severe penalties.
What to Look for in a Criminal Defense Attorney
Having an experienced attorney on your side to defend your charges is crucial. Finding the right attorney is just as important. Here are some things to look for:
Experience with Domestic Violence Cases in California
Attorneys often focus on specific practice areas based on their interests, education, and experience with cases in the state where they are licensed. When choosing a lawyer for your case, make sure you hire an attorney who has experience with domestic violence cases in the state of California.
An experienced attorney understands the nuances of the state’s legal system, how prosecutors pursue defendants, and how to develop a proper defense against the prosecution. They know what evidence to look for and how to use the facts of the case in your favor. An experienced attorney also knows how to negotiate a plea bargain and lower your sentence, if necessary.
Gives Clients Personal Attention
Unfortunately, larger law firms often process clients quickly. They tend to focus on quantity rather than quality. A smaller firm can give their clients individualized attention and treat each case according to its unique circumstances.
Make sure the attorney you choose can give you their personal attention and is committed to listening to your opinion and serving your best interests. Many small firms will take a smaller caseload so that they are able to spend more time and focus on their clients.
Is an Active Member of the Legal Community
Being an active and respected member of the legal community in which they serve should be a good indicator that an attorney has a solid and successful reputation. For example, they may have served on the board of local Bar Associations or legal groups. They may also be mentors in their field for new attorneys and be referenced in articles and interviews as an expert in their field.
Additional Qualities
There are other intangible yet highly valuable qualities that you should look for in a skilled and reputable criminal defense lawyer including someone who:
Is justice-oriented and passionate about fighting for clients facing criminal charges
Values transparency and honesty and doesn’t just tell you what you want to hear
Is a sensible and skilled strategist
Contact the Alec Rose Law Office Today
Don’t fight your charges alone. If you need legal assistance from a domestic violence lawyer in California, then contact the Alec Rose Law Office. I will help you formulate the right legal strategy and guide you through your case. Call me today and get a free case review. I represent clients throughout Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Ventura, San Diego, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties.