Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney explaining California gun laws after a domestic violence conviction

Restoring Gun Rights After a Domestic Violence Conviction in California

How California Gun Laws Affect Domestic Violence Offenders California law imposes strict firearm restrictions on individuals convicted of domestic violence. Under Penal Code §29805, anyone convicted of a domestic violence offense faces a lifetime ban on owning, possessing, or purchasing firearms. This prohibition is in line with both state and federal laws, reflecting California’s commitment […]
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Los Angeles attorney discussing self-defense in domestic violence case

Claiming Self-Defense in a Domestic Violence Case

Understanding Self-Defense Under California Law Facing domestic violence charges in California can be overwhelming, but understanding the legal basis of self-defense is essential in building a strong defense. Under California Penal Code 198.5, individuals are legally permitted to use reasonable force to protect themselves if they believe they are in imminent danger of physical harm. […]
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California Penal Code § 243(e)(1) PC – Domestic Battery

Does Corporal Injury (273.5 PC) Require Visible Injury for a Conviction?

California Penal Code 273.5(a) addresses the crime of “corporal injury to a spouse or cohabitant,” a serious domestic violence offense that can result in severe legal consequences. This law criminalizes the willful infliction of physical injury that leads to a “traumatic condition” on individuals such as a spouse, cohabitant, or the parent of the accused’s […]
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Can I Be Charged with a Crime If I Injure or Kill Someone in Self-Defense?

  Self-defense is a fundamental legal right in California, allowing individuals to protect themselves from imminent harm. However, the use of force in self-defense must meet specific legal criteria to avoid criminal charges. Understanding these nuances is crucial, as improper use of force or misinterpretation of the law can lead to serious legal consequences. The […]
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The California Wobbler Offense Explained: Charges, Reductions, and Expungements

In California, a ‘wobbler’ offense is uniquely flexible within the criminal justice system, characterized by its ability to be charged and punished either as a felony or a misdemeanor. The distinction between these two levels of charges typically depends on the specifics of the case, including the severity of the offense, the circumstances surrounding the […]
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Plea Deals for Domestic Violence

Navigating Domestic Violence Charges: The Victim’s Role

Victims play a critical role in the process of handling domestic violence charges. Their initial report often starts the legal response. Law enforcement then steps in to investigate the claims. Victims’ statements provide valuable insights that guide the early stages of prosecution. However, a common misunderstanding exists about the victim’s power to “drop” charges. Once […]
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What to Expect During a Criminal Trial in Los Angeles

Defendant’s Right to Have a Lawyer In California, every criminal defendant has the right to legal representation. This right is guaranteed by the Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. If a defendant cannot afford a lawyer, the court will appoint one. This is known as a public defender. Defendants can also choose to hire a […]
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Understanding the Difference Between Restraining Orders and Protective Orders in California

In California, people often use “Restraining Orders” and “Protective Orders” interchangeably, but understanding their specific applications and legal implications is crucial. Both orders, which are judicial decrees, aim to protect individuals from unwanted behaviors like stalking, harassment, threats, or physical abuse. The court directs these orders at specific individuals, named in the orders, to stop […]
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California DUI arrest process

Violating a Restraining Order: California Penal Code Section 273.6 PC

Violating a Restraining Order Violating a restraining or protective order is a serious offense under California Penal Code 273.6. This crime occurs when an individual intentionally and knowingly disobeys a court-issued protective or restraining order. Such orders, including temporary restraining orders (TROs) in civil cases and protective orders in criminal court, are designed to safeguard […]
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California Penal Code § 243(e)(1) PC – Domestic Battery

California Penal Code 243(e)(1) PC – Domestic Battery

What is Domestic Battery? Under California Penal Code Section 243(e)(1), domestic battery is a misdemeanor offense that involves the use of force against an intimate partner. This charge is commonly applied in cases of spousal abuse, cohabitant altercations, or other domestic violence conflicts. Key Elements of Domestic Battery: Willful and Harmful Touching: The defendant must […]
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Evidence in California Criminal Trials

Violating a Court Order | California Penal Code 166 PC

Definition and Elements of the Crime Under California Penal Code Section 166 PC, various behaviors are classified as contempt of court. This includes disruptive conduct during court proceedings, refusal to comply as a witness, and notably, the intentional violation of a Court Order. This statute is particularly relevant in cases involving Protective Orders, Restraining Orders, […]
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Juvenile Process for Domestic Violence in California

Domestic violence is a significant issue that doesn’t spare any age group, including minors. In California, the rise in domestic violence cases among juveniles has led to a more focused response from the legal system. When minors are involved in such incidents, they face a legal process that can lead to either misdemeanor or felony […]
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California Domestic Violence Defense - Corporal Injury to Spouse

An Insight into Domestic Violence: Understanding Penal Code 273.5(a) and Corporal Injury to Spouse

Facing Corporal Injury Charges Under Penal Code 273.5(a) in California Domestic violence charges in California carry serious legal consequences, especially if you’re facing accusations under Penal Code 273.5(a) for corporal injury to a spouse or cohabitant. If convicted, you could face jail time, steep fines, and a lasting criminal record, all of which could negatively […]
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Assault and Strangulation Charges: The Legal Storm Surrounding Kevin Porter Jr.

In the early morning hours of  Monday, September 11, 2023 a disturbing incident unfolded at a Manhattan hotel in New York City, leading to the arrest and charging of Houston Rockets guard Kevin Porter Jr. The allegations against him include assault and strangulation, and the incident involved his girlfriend, former WNBA player Kysre Gondrezick. Let’s […]
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From the Field to the Courtroom: The Julio Urias Domestic Violence Arrest

The Los Angeles Dodgers‘ pitcher, Julio Urias was arrested and charged with a felony domestic violence. The incident took place after a Major League Soccer match in Los Angeles and has sparked discussions about domestic violence, its legal consequences, and the policies in place to address such cases in California. Julio Urias Arrested On Felony […]
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Brad Pitt Under Investigation for Child Abuse

On September 22, 2016, it was reported by TMZ.com that Brad Pitt is being investigated by the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services (“DCFS“) for child abuse. TMZ revealed that Brad Pitt allegedly “got wasted” on a private plane and “went wild, screaming and getting physical with the kids.” Witnesses claimed once the […]
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Ray McDonald Arrested Twice In Three Days

Ray McDonald, who was released in December of 2014 by the San Francisco 49ers, was arrested again for violating a restraining order. The former NFL Defensive player signed a free agent contract in March with the Chicago Bears. He was arrested in May for domestic violence and child endangerment. This led to McDonald’s release by the Bears who had been hopeful […]
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If Ray Rice was not a famous NFL player would anyone care?

In February of 2014, NFL player Ray Rice of the Baltimore Ravens, and his fiancee Janay Plamer,  were arrested in Atlantic City. The arrest was the result of a “simple domestic assault” which took place between Rice and Palmer. At the time Rice’s attorney said the incident was nothing more than a misunderstanding. On February 19th […]
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