REDWOOD CITY Domestic Violence ATTORNEY

Representing California Clients In Domestic Abuse Cases

I understand the emotional hardships associated with domestic violence. I have represented men and women facing serious charges of abuse and violence. Unfortunately, over my 30 years as a lawyer, I have seen many people falsely accused of domestic violence. Charges of domestic violence are often made in the “heat of the moment” or during divorce proceedings, only to be regretted later. I understand the situation and regularly handled dozens of these cases successfully.

I am a leading California criminal defense attorney with 30 years of experience. I understand the harsh consequences clients are facing due to criminal charges. I also understand the social stigma associated with spousal abuse and domestic violence. My law firm can provide an aggressive, effective defense against these devastating charges.

For a dedicated and experienced defense against domestic violence charges, contact me today to discuss your case and protect your future. Call (650) 832-9446 now for a consultation.

What Is Considered Domestic Violence in California?

In California, domestic violence encompasses a range of abusive behaviors carried out against a spouse, cohabitant, dating partner, or family member. These behaviors can be physical, emotional, or psychological, and include acts such as hitting, shoving, threatening, and stalking.

California law is broad in defining domestic violence, and a conviction does not necessarily require physical injury. Psychological abuse and coercive control can also be grounds for a domestic violence charge. As a seasoned domestic violence attorney in Redwood City, I am well-versed in the intricacies of these laws and can provide the defense you need if you are facing such accusations.

Penalties for Domestic Violence in Redwood City

The penalties for a domestic violence conviction in Redwood City and throughout California can be severe, especially considering the stigma attached to such charges. If you are charged with a first-time domestic violence charge in California, you might face:

• Misdemeanor Charges: For a first-time offense without serious injury, you could be charged with a misdemeanor, leading to up to one year in county jail, fines, and mandatory participation in a domestic batterers' program.
• Felony Charges: If the abuse resulted in significant bodily injury, you could be looking at a felony charge. Penalties for a felony include four years in state prison (or more depending on the severity of the injuries inflicted) and significant fines.
• Restraining Orders: You may also be subjected to protective orders restricting your ability to contact or approach the victim.
• Loss of Custody Rights: A domestic violence conviction can severely affect your child custody and visitation rights.
• Firearm Restrictions: Convicted individuals are typically prohibited from owning or possessing firearms.

These are just a few examples of the possible repercussions. Individuals who have previous convictions for domestic violence within the past seven years can face even harsher penalties, including a sentence of up to five years in state prison and fines of up to $10,000.

Given the complex nature of these cases, having an experienced Redwood City domestic violence lawyer is crucial to protecting your rights and future.

How Can a Domestic Violence Charge Affect Your Life?

Spousal abuse is a serious charge with harsh consequences. If you are accused of domestic violence or spousal abuse, you could be facing misdemeanor or even felony charges. A conviction can create difficult situations for you and your family. Besides a prison sentence, you could lose your:

• Career
• Visitation rights
• Child custody
• Home

At the Law Offices of Dean Johnson, my goal is to help you win your case, keep your freedom and keep your family together. I provide a unique strategic analysis for every case. With an office in Redwood City, I can provide vigorous defense to people in the San Mateo and Santa Clara areas as well.

What Are the Most Common Defenses Against Domestic Violence?

Being accused of domestic violence can be a harrowing experience, but it is important to remember that there are several defenses available. An experienced domestic violence attorney will scrutinize every aspect of your case, and then they will settle on a possible defense for your charges. Some of these possible defenses may include:

• Self-Defense: If you were protecting yourself or others from immediate harm, this could be a valid defense. Evidentiary support, such as eyewitness testimonies and physical evidence, is crucial in these cases.
• False Allegations: Unfortunately, individuals might be falsely accused out of spite, jealousy, or during contentious divorce or custody battles. A defense strategy here would involve investigating the motivations for the false accusations and finding inconsistencies and lack of evidence.
• Lack of Proof: The prosecution bears the burden of proving the charges beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is insufficient or ambiguous evidence against you, an experienced attorney can highlight these weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
• Accidental Harm: If the injury occurred accidentally and was not the result of intentional harm, this could serve as an important defense. Testimonies and accident reconstructions could support this defense.
• Constitutional Violations: Any violations of your constitutional rights during the arrest or investigation, such as unlawful searches and seizures or failure to read Miranda rights, can lead to dismissals or reductions in charges.

How Domestic Violence Lawyers Help

Domestic violence lawyers protect the rights and futures of those accused. They will will perform a thorough analysis of the evidence against you, identifying strengths and weaknesses in the prosecution's case. Based on this analysis, your attorney will develop a strong defense strategy tailored to the specifics of your case.

The legal system can be complex and intimidating. Your lawyer will guide you through each step, ensuring you understand your rights and options. As a skilled negotiator, your domestic violence attorney may be able to negotiate reduced charges or alternative sentencing that lessens the impact of domestic violence charges on your life.

Finally, if your case goes to trial, an experienced attorney will represent you vigorously, presenting evidence, cross-examining witnesses, and aiming for the best possible outcome.

Services Domestic Violence Lawyers Offer

Domestic violence attorneys offer a broad spectrum of services to ensure that their clients receive the most robust defense possible. These services include:

• Initial Consultations: Offering a private and confidential assessment of your case to understand the charges and possible defenses.
• Evidence Collection and Review: Gathering and meticulously examining all evidence, including police reports, medical records, and witness statements.
• Witness Preparation: Preparing clients and witnesses for court proceedings to ensure they provide clear and compelling testimony.
• Legal Research: Conducting in-depth research on relevant laws, past cases, and legal precedents that may benefit your defense.
• Filings and Motions: Drafting, filing, and arguing pre-trial motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or request bail adjustments.
• Negotiations: Engaging in plea bargaining to potentially reduce charges or seek alternative sentencing options.
• Court Representation: Vigorously defending clients in court, ensuring their rights are protected at every stage of the trial process.
• Post-Conviction Support: Assisting with post-conviction options such as appeals, expungements, or modifications of sentences.
• Counsel and Emotional Support: Providing guidance and emotional support throughout the legal process to help clients cope with the stress and uncertainty.
• Child Custody Advocacy: Working to protect clients' parental rights and child custody arrangements that could be affected by the charges.

These comprehensive services ensure that clients receive the highest level of legal support and representation, aimed at achieving the most favorable outcomes possible.

Contact Our Redwood City Domestic Violence Lawyer for a Free Consultation

Choosing the Law Offices of Dean Johnson to represent you when facing domestic violence charges ensures that you receive dedicated, expert legal support. With over 30 years of experience in criminal defense, I bring a deep understanding of the complexities and sensitivities surrounding domestic violence cases. My proven track record of successfully defending clients against both misdemeanor and felony charges speaks to my commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes. Trust the Law Offices of Dean Johnson to provide the unwavering support you need during this challenging time.

If you are looking for the best possible criminal defense representation, please call my law firm. I offer aggressive advocacy and unique strategic analysis. 

Call (650) 832-9446 for a free consultation, or reach out online.