Relationships are inherently complex, especially for partners or spouses who live together and spend the majority of their time under one roof. Arguments are a natural occurrence between domestic partners, spouses, and close family members, and they typically resolve with time and a willingness from both parties to work it out and move forward. However, some disputes can escalate into tense, emotional battles, with either party saying or doing things they do not mean. Unfortunately, a momentary loss of control can trigger lasting and serious legal consequences, including potential domestic violence charges. In the Palmdale and Lancaster areas of Los Angeles County, domestic violence cases typically start with a call to law enforcement to report a loud verbal or possibly physical argument between spouses, dating partners, or a cohabitating couple. From there, the responding officers look for evidence of abuse, and they are obligated to make an arrest if they find probable cause to do so. Whether you are facing a first time domestic violence charge in California or you have found yourself in this intimidating situation before, you deserve high-quality and effective legal representation to ensure that your rights are protected at every stage of the criminal justice process.
With over 35 years of experience, FORMER DEPUTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY and certified criminal law specialist David M. Wallin has the skills and expertise necessary to fight aggressively for a fair and favorable outcome. We have a team of four exceptional attorneys, one of which is also a FORMER DEPUTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY. Schedule a FREE CONSULTATION with the Law Offices of David M. Wallin today to get started. In the meantime, it’s worth understanding a bit more about how domestic violence cases usually unfold in Palmdale, Lancaster, and the greater Los Angeles County area and the steps you can take to maximize your chances of securing the best possible outcome given the specific circumstances of your case.
What Happens When You Get Arrested For Domestic Violence?
First, it’s important to understand what the California domestic violence arrest policy means for those accused of a domestic violence-related offense in Los Angeles County. According to the 2022 guidelines from the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training, “Officers should make an arrest when there is probable cause that a felony has been committed.” In other words, if a law enforcement officer responds to a report of a domestic disturbance, they must survey the scene and look for evidence that an act of domestic abuse has taken place. For instance, if the officer finds signs that the accused has committed a domestic violence-related felony (i.e., inflicting a corporal injury resulting in a traumatic condition, spousal rape, criminal threats, or a similarly sersious offense), the officer is obligated to make an arrest. These same guidelines also read, “Officers may make an arrest when there is probable cause to believe that a misdemeanor has occurred in their presence.” This means that an officer who has reason to believe that they have witnessed acts or signs of domestic abuse (even if these amount to misdemeanor offenses) can still make an arrest at the scene. Mandatory arrests for domestic violence crimes can be disorienting and overwhelming for those accused of these offenses, so it’s worth contacting a FORMER DEPUTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY and certified criminal law specialist as soon as possible to ensure that your legal rights remain intact. Schedule your FREE CONSULTATION with our office today. PAYMENT PLANS ARE OFFERED, so get in touch at your earliest convenience.
What to Do If You Get Arrested For Domestic Violence in Palmdale, Lancaster, or Los Angeles County
Since domestic disputes are inherently private, most incidents of alleged domestic violence come down to one party’s words against the other’s. A domestic violence arrest may be based on a serious misunderstanding, which can be particularly frustrating and tempting to explain to the arresting officer. Unfortunately, trying to “explain the situation” or “clear up any misunderstandings” can end up doing the opposite—law enforcement can use any words you say to build a case against you later on. Instead of putting your future and freedom more at risk, it’s essential that you refrain from speaking about the incident with law enforcement without legal counsel present. Moreover, avoid discussing the incident with the alleged victim, as any attempts to contact this person may be used by the prosecution to illustrate your intent to intimidate or harass them—even if this is patently untrue. Although you should cooperate with law enforcement during your arrest, you may invoke your constitutional rights to remain silent and to contact an attorney. Once you and your skilled and experienced Palmdale criminal defense lawyer have discussed the details of your situation, you can identify the most strategic approach to address the domestic violence charges. PAYMENT PLANS ARE OFFERED and we provide a FREE CONSULTATION to those who contact us. Schedule an appointment today!
Can You Get Arrested For Domestic Violence in California?
Like most states, California takes domestic violence crimes seriously. Convictions for domestic violence-related offenses can be severe and lasting, including costly fines, potential jail time, court-mandated participation in anger management or counseling programs, and more. Even after you have completed the terms of your sentence, having a domestic violence arrest and/or conviction on your record can limit your employment and housing opportunities for years to come. If you are a parent, a domestic violence arrest or conviction can jeopardize your custodial rights as well. Now is not the time to leave your future in the hands of fate—contact Palmdale and Lancaster’s go-to criminal defense law firm to secure the high-quality and top-tier legal representation you need to move forward. Schedule your FREE CONSULTATION today.
You and Your Future Deserve the Best
At the Law Offices of David M. Wallin, we believe that every individual deserves high-quality legal defense services that are customized to suit their specific needs and circumstances. With over 35 years of experience, FORMER DEPUTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY and certified criminal law specialist David M. Wallin has the skills and expertise necessary to fight aggressively for a fair and favorable outcome. We have a team of four exceptional attorneys, one of which is also a FORMER DEPUTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY. If you are facing criminal charges in Palmdale, Lancaster, or the greater Los Angeles County area, call (661) 267-1313 to schedule your FREE CONSULTATION today.