Domestic Violence Defense Attorney in Modesto, California

In 2018, a total of 166,890 domestic violence-related calls were made to law enforcement in California—a rate of 6.3 calls per 1,000 adults ages 18-69. Facing a domestic violence charge is nothing to take lightly. A domestic violence conviction can have lasting effects on your life. That’s why it is important to hire an attorney to vigorously advocate for you.

From your personal relationships to your professional reputation, your entire future is at stake if you’ve been accused of domestic violence. You may be feeling completely overwhelmed and unsure of the path ahead. Attorney Ryan Roth understands, and he's here to take that burden off your shoulders as you strive to move forward. He’s the experienced criminal defense attorney you need on your side as you navigate this incredibly frustrating time. If you live in Stockton, Manteca, Merced, or anywhere else in California, reach out to Attorney Roth in Modesto.

Domestic Violence Charges in California

In the state of California, domestic violence is defined as abuse or threats of abuse when the person being abused and the abuser are or have been in an intimate relationship. This includes anyone who was married or were domestic partners, are dating or used to date, live or lived together, or have a child together. It also includes when the abused person and the abusive person are closely related by blood.

Abuse is defined as:

• Physically hurting or trying to hurt someone, intentionally or recklessly;

• Sexual assault;

• Making someone reasonably afraid that they or someone else are about to be seriously hurt (like threats or promises to harm someone); OR

• Behavior like harassing, stalking, threatening, or hitting someone; disturbing someone’s peace; or destroying someone’s personal property.

The law is meant to prevent any acts of abuse, including sexual abuse, as well as domestic violence. It also aims to give protection to the person being abused by forcing a separation between the two parties to allow for a resolution.

Consequences & Penalties

If you are convicted of a domestic violence charge, there are a variety of penalties you can face. These include:

• Jail time that ranges depending on the severity of the case

• Fines that range depending on the severity of the case

• Loss of firearms

• Anger management classes

• Loss of parenting privileges and custody rights if children are involved

• Deportation if there are any immigration issues at hand

The consequences range based on the severity of the circumstances surrounding the domestic violence incident. Whether or not this is your first domestic violence charge also has an effect on the penalty.

Possible Defenses

Being charged with a domestic violence offense does not mean that you will automatically get convicted and have it on your record. There are a few possible defenses in a domestic violence situation. If you were acting in self-defense, if you were falsely accused, or if there was lack of intent, you may be able to get your charge lessened. In this situation, speaking with your criminal defense attorney and explaining what happened can help your lawyer craft a legal strategy to protect your future and your freedom.