A domestic violence arrest in Norwalk, CA, can turn your world upside down. You could lose your relationship, your career, and your freedom. It doesn't matter how it happened. You need an expert Norwalk, CA, criminal defense attorney to protect your rights.
Domestic violence means abuse or attempted abuse against a spouse, partner, co-parent, or someone you've dated or lived with. In Norwalk, CA, it's usually charged as domestic battery or corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant, and the penalties range from probation and a year-long class to years in state prison.
Our domestic violence defense team is ready to help with your case. We offer free case reviews, and our phone lines are available 24/7.
Just Arrested? Take These Steps:
- Invoke your right to remain silent.
- Contact us (you can reach us by phone around the clock): (800) 755-5174.
- Avoid contact with the alleged victim and do not discuss your case publicly.
On this page:
- What counts as domestic violence, and the charges that come with it
- Important steps to take if you've been accused of domestic violence in Norwalk, CA
- What to expect if you're arrested for domestic violence
- The intersection between domestic violence, restraining orders, and custody cases
- Domestic violence and related consequences in Norwalk
- Immigration consequences for noncitizens
- Different diversion options that you may want to explore
- What happens if the alleged victim won't testify
- Powerful defensive tactics
- How our attorneys handle domestic violence cases
- Why our law firm is ready to be your domestic violence defense attorney
- Frequently asked questions
If you've been accused of a crime, get help now. Call our criminal defense lawyers at (800) 755-5174 or use our contact form today for a free, confidential consultation.
Reviewed by Attorney David S. Chesley, October 2026. California criminal defense since June 2005, SBN 236611.
What Does a Domestic Violence Accusation Mean in Norwalk, CA?
If you're accused of a domestic violence charge in Norwalk, you should review California Penal Code § 13700. This sets who can count as a domestic violence victim in California: "an adult or a minor who is a spouse, former spouse, cohabitant, former cohabitant, or person with whom the suspect has had a child or is having or has had a dating or engagement relationship."
Family law uses different criteria than criminal law. For restraining orders, Family Code § 6211 is the key statute to keep in mind. It also includes immediate family members and grandparents. This means that a domestic violence restraining order has different standards than a domestic violence criminal conviction.
Domestic violence charges hinge on the prosecution's ability to prove these three things:
- You intentionally and aggressively touched the alleged victim (and, if charged under PC § 273.5, that the touching caused a "traumatic condition");
- You were not protecting yourself, nor another person; AND
- The alleged victim False into a protected individual category as described in California Penal Code § 13700.
Domestic Battery
- Statute: PC § 243(e)(1)
- What it means: Willfully using force or violence against a current or former partner. Even the slightest offensive touch counts, and no injury is required.
- Misdemeanor or Felony: Misdemeanor
Inflicting Corporal Injury on a Spouse or Cohabitant
- Statute: PC § 273.5
- What it means: Willfully inflicting an injury on a current or former partner that results in a "traumatic condition": any wound or internal or external injury, minor or serious, including injury from strangulation or suffocation.
- Misdemeanor or Felony: Wobbler—could be a misdemeanor or a felony
The Key Distinction: Was There an Injury?
The presence of an injury is the difference between domestic battery and corporal injury charges — because of this, many corporal injury cases involve extensive review of medical records, where your Norwalk defense attorney can challenge the presence and/or extend of the injury.
Charges Often Filed Alongside Domestic Violence
In addition to a domestic violence charge, you could face any of the below related violent crime charges:
- Criminal Threats (PC § 422): Telling or displaying that you intend to hurt someone else, whether or not you actually do. If convicted as a felony, this falls under California's three strikes law.
- Dissuading a Witness (PC § 136.1): Trying to stop someone from reporting a crime, cooperating with police, or testifying, including asking an alleged victim to "drop the charges."
- Damaging a Phone Line or Phone (PC §§ 591, 591.5): Cutting or disconnecting a phone line, or taking away a cell phone to keep someone from calling for help.
- False Imprisonment (PC § 236): Restricting someone's ability to leave a location, and/or unlawfully restraining them against their will.
- Assault With a Deadly Weapon or Force Likely to Cause Great Bodily Injury (PC § 245(a)): An assault with an object or with force likely to cause serious injury.
- Stalking (PC § 646.9): Making a person afraid of you by following them and threatening them.
- Restraining Order Violations (PC § 273.6): Acting in violation of a restraining order issued by the court.
- Child Abuse (PC § 273d): Willfully inflicting cruel or excessive physical punishment or injury on a child, sometimes charged when a child is hurt during a domestic incident.
- Elder Abuse (PC § 368): Either hurting an elderly person/dependent adult, leaving them in a harmful situation, or committing fraud against them.
- Sexual Battery (PC § 243.4): Whether for sexual gratification, arousal, or abuse, touching another person's intimates when you were not allowed to.
- Revenge Porn (PC § 647(j)(4)): Trying to hurt another person emotionally by sharing nude, sexual, or otherwise intimate pictures of them, when intended to be private, without their permission.
What to Do if You've Been Accused of Domestic Violence in Norwalk, CA
What you do now can make all the difference for your future. Don't miss any of the below steps if you want to maximize your chances of a positive outcome:
- Do not answer any questions or discuss your case with anyone.
- Request an attorney.
- Request bail and/or release without bail.
- Follow every term of any emergency or criminal protective order.
- Gather any evidence that is relevant to your case — don't delete anything, as you could be charged with obstruction of justice.
- Tell your defense attorney the full story. The conversation is confidential.
- Stay away from the alleged victim — it's never a good idea to reach out, especially if there is a protective order in place.
Mistakes can cost you your freedom, but following these steps can protect it. Our domestic violence defense attorneys are ready for your call, day and night: (800) 755-5174.
Norwalk's working-class neighborhoods and high-density housing near the Norwalk Civic Center create distinct patterns in domestic violence allegations, with many cases originating from disputes in apartment complexes along Imperial Highway. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley appear at the Norwalk Courthouse on Civic Center Drive, applying strategies informed by Los Angeles County's specific legal landscape.
What Happens After a Domestic Violence Arrest in Norwalk, CA?
It's normal to be scared or overwhelmed after police take you into custody. Here's what typically happens after police show up in Norwalk, CA:
- Arrest: After a domestic violence call, an officer who arrives on scene will evaluate the situation and can make an arrest based on probable cause. This does not mean they have to have witnessed the alleged attack — they can make an arrest just for suspecting that an attack took place (PC § 836(d)).
- Booking: This is standard for any arrest — your fingerprints and photograph are taken, then you'll be sent to jail.
- Emergency Protective Order: Officers can request an emergency protective order from an on-call judge, often the same night. It can order you to stay away from the alleged victim and move out of the home for up to 5 court days or 7 calendar days, whichever comes first.
- Police Interview: Police may try to question you in custody. While you should be respectful, you should not answer any questions without a lawyer present.
- Bail and Release: Many domestic violence charges mandate that there is a bail hearing before you are released. Your attorney can argue for your release at that hearing.
- Filing Decision and Arraignment: While the police make an arrest, they aren't the ones that charge you. The decision on what to charge rests with the prosecutor. PC § 825 sets timing guidelines for arraignments in California: Outside of exceptional circumstances, the prosecution is required to formally charge you in an arraignment within 48 hours, excluding Sundays and holidays. In addition to hearing the charges, it's common for judges to issue a protective order against you in domestic violence arraignments.
- Pretrial Stage: Your attorney reviews discovery, investigates, files motions, and negotiates with the prosecutor while preparing for trial.
Are You Allowed to Go Home After a Domestic Violence Arrest?
In many Norwalk, CA, domestic violence cases, not right away. The restraining orders often filed in domestic violence cases can keep you out of a shared dwelling while the case is pending. That's true even if the alleged victim wants you back. Violating the order, whatever the circumstances, can ultimately hurt your case. Instead of taking the risk by visiting the alleged victim in violation of your order, you should ask your defense attorney about options like a "peaceful contact" order that would lighten the restrictions.
Domestic Violence, Restraining Orders, and Custody
A domestic violence accusation in Norwalk, CA, isn't just a criminal charge. The intersection between the criminal case, restraining order, and custody battle is difficult for anyone to handle, but the right defense attorney will guide you through all of them.
Types of Restraining Orders in Domestic Violence Cases
There are three main types of Restraining orders that you need to be aware of:
- Emergency Protective Orders: Requested by police from an on-call judge right after an incident. No arrest is required. They last up to 5 court days or 7 calendar days, whichever comes first, giving the alleged victim time to request a longer order.
- Criminal Protective Orders: Issued by the criminal court, usually at arraignment and at the prosecutor's request. They last while the case is pending, and after a domestic violence conviction the judge can issue one for up to 10 years (PC § 136.2).
- Domestic Violence Restraining Orders (DVROs): Requested by the alleged victim in family court. A temporary order can be issued the same day without notice to you and lasts until a hearing, usually within about three weeks. After the hearing, a DVRO can last up to 5 years and can be renewed for another 5 years or permanently (Family Code § 6345).
Domestic Violence Accusations and Custody Cases
It doesn't matter if you weren't convicted. Under Family Code § 3044, family court can make its own determination if a parent committed domestic violence, and issue custody findings as a result. Family court uses a wider definition of domestic violence, including harming:
- The other parent,
- The child, or
- The child's siblings.
In particular, you need to watch out for situations where a DVRO was granted — this can be the deciding factor.
These cases are challenging, but there are things you can do to position yourself for success. The court will weigh factors such as:
- What they think will be the best environment for the child
- Completion of a batterer's intervention program
- Completion of alcohol or drug counseling, if appropriate
- Completion of a parenting class
- Compliance with probation and any protective orders
- How long ago the incident supposedly happened
Domestic Violence Penalties in Norwalk, CA
The table below shows the potential sentences for domestic violence and commonly related charges in Norwalk, CA.
| Offense | Statute | Misdemeanor / Felony | Jail / Prison Time* | Fines* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Domestic Battery | PC § 243(e)(1) | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year in county jail | Up to $2,000 |
| Corporal Injury on a Spouse or Cohabitant | PC § 273.5 | Wobbler | Misdemeanor: up to 1 year Felony: 2, 3, or 4 years (2, 4, or 5 years with a qualifying prior within 7 years) | Up to $6,000 (up to $10,000 with a qualifying prior) |
| Dissuading a Witness | PC § 136.1 | Wobbler (felony is a strike) | Misdemeanor: up to 1 year Felony: 16 months, 2, or 3 years (2, 3, or 4 years if aggravated) | Misdemeanor: up to $1,000 Felony: up to $10,000 |
| Criminal Threats | PC § 422 | Wobbler (felony is a strike) | Misdemeanor: up to 1 year Felony: 16 months, 2, or 3 years | Misdemeanor: up to $1,000 Felony: up to $10,000 |
| Stalking | PC § 646.9 | Wobbler | Misdemeanor: up to 1 year Felony: 16 months, 2, or 3 years (longer if a restraining order was in place or with prior convictions) | Up to $1,000 |
| Restraining Order Violation | PC § 273.6 | Misdemeanor (wobbler for certain repeat violations) | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 (up to $2,000 if someone was injured) |
| False Imprisonment | PC §§ 236, 237 | Wobbler | Misdemeanor: up to 1 year Felony: 16 months, 2, or 3 years | Misdemeanor: up to $1,000 Felony: up to $10,000 |
| Assault With a Deadly Weapon / Force Likely to Cause GBI | PC § 245(a) | Wobbler | Misdemeanor: up to 1 year Felony: 2, 3, or 4 years | Up to $10,000 |
| Sexual Battery | PC § 243.4 | Wobbler | Misdemeanor: up to 6 months Felony: 2, 3, or 4 years | Misdemeanor: up to $2,000 Felony: up to $10,000 |
| Revenge Porn | PC § 647(j)(4) | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 |
| Child Abuse | PC § 273d | Wobbler | Misdemeanor: up to 1 year Felony: 2, 4, or 6 years | Up to $6,000 |
| Elder Abuse | PC § 368(b) | Wobbler | Misdemeanor: up to 1 year Felony: 2, 3, or 4 years | Misdemeanor: up to $6,000 Felony: up to $10,000 |
*Please note that some penalties can be enhanced by aggravating circumstances and criminal records. For example, causing great bodily injury in a domestic violence incident adds 3, 4, or 5 years and makes the offense a strike, and sexual battery convictions require sex offender registration. Always consult with your Norwalk, CA, domestic violence attorney to understand the possible penalties for your case.
Domestic Violence Probation
Many domestic violence convictions end in probation instead of jail, but PC § 1203.097 sets mandatory terms, including:
- 36 months or more of probation
- The issuance of a restraining order in defense of the alleged victim
- Completion of a year-long batterer's intervention program
- Generally, a $500 payment to domestic violence programs is required, but the court can waive it in cases where the alleged offender cannot pay
- Community service
- Removal of firearms
- No new law violations
Collateral Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction
On top of the criminal penalties, a domestic violence conviction in Norwalk, CA, can lead to:
- Loss of Firearm Rights: A conviction of either domestic battery or corporal injury leads to a loss of firearms rights. Misdemeanor domestic battery convictions are a permanent federal ban and a 10-year California ban. Misdemeanor corporal injury convictions on or after January 1, 2019, and any felony convictions result in a lifetime ban.
- Immigration Consequences: You could face removal, denial of a green card, and/or rejection of citizenship applications. See the immigration section below.
- Custody: Family court will not look favorably upon your conviction.
- Long-Term Protective Orders: If the court and/or alleged victim choose to pursue restraining orders, you could be subject to them for years, or even permanently.
- Employment and Licensing: If a conviction appears in background checks, it can become a hurdle to future job applications.
- Relationships and Reputation: A conviction can strain your current relationship and follow you socially and professionally.
Domestic Violence Charges and Immigration
Even just an accusation of domestic violence can be seriously damaging for non-U.S. citizens, if a restraining order was issued. Under federal immigration law (INA § 237(a)(2)(E)), two things can make a noncitizen deportable:
- A conviction for a crime of domestic violence, as defined in U.S. federal law
- Violention of a DVRO or similar protection order, if found by the court
Several domestic violence and related criminal convictions count as "crimes involving moral turpitude," which are particularly problematic for immigrants. The exact statute and the facts in the record of conviction matter. Federal courts have generally treated a PC 243(e)(1) domestic battery conviction as less damaging for immigration purposes than a PC 273.5 conviction, but the analysis depends on the specific case.
If you're an immigrant facing domestic violence charges, the first plea offer you receive probably won't be the best outcome for your case. A reputable Norwalk, CA, immigration attorney can help you evaluate the potential legal consequences of a deal, negotiate for a more favorable one, and fight against deportation.
Diversion, Reductions, and Clearing Your Record
Domestic violence charges require specialized strategies to lessen the impact on your criminal record. Standard misdemeanor diversion via PC § 1001.95 is not an option, so instead, our lawyers can help you explore the following:
- Pre-Filing Intervention: Before charges are filed, your attorney can present evidence to the prosecutor and argue that the case shouldn't be filed at all, or should be filed as a lesser charge.
- Mental Health Diversion (PC § 1001.36): While not available to everyone, mental health diversion can be a powerful option resulting in the dismissal of all charges. Typically, your criminal case is put on hold for up to 1 year (for misdemeanors) or 2 years (for felonies) while you undergo treatment.
- Military Diversion (PC § 1001.80): Current and former service members charged with a misdemeanor may qualify if they suffer from service-related PTSD, traumatic brain injury, sexual trauma, substance abuse or mental health problems.
- Reduction to a Misdemeanor (PC § 17(b)): This specifically applies for felony corporal injury cases — a reduction to a misdemeanor helps you avoid some of the most serious consequences of a conviction.
- Expungement (PC § 1203.4): Expungement is a chance to clear your public record of the conviction, and is often a major help for moving forward with your career — but it does not restore firearm rights, and the conviction can still be used against you in immigration court.
What if the Alleged Victim Recants?
Your case may have started with the alleged victim calling the police and making a report against you in the heat of the moment. If emotions cooled down, they may realize they made a mistake and ask to take back their accusations. When this happens, it is a major benefit to the defense, you're still facing an uphill battle:
- The district attorney decides when to drop the case, not the supposed victim. If they can, they'll build a case against you using other evidence besides the alleged victim's testimony. Your defense attorney can challenge the constitutional viability of any related evidence they attempt to use.
- Your history may be used against you. California Evidence Code § 1109 sets special conditions which allow prosecutors to use evidence from old domestic violence cases in the current case (generally going back up to 10 years).
- They can compel your spouse to testify. While your spouse typically can refuse to testify against you in criminal court, Evidence Code § 972(e) makes an exception for domestic violence cases.
Important Note: NEVER reach out to the alleged victim in your domestic violence case. This could be construed as intimidation, regardless of your intentions. If they do want to recant, tell your defense lawyer, who can help take their statement. Your attorney can lawfully inform the court that the supposed victim is recanting, file motions against other forms of evidence, and highlight any contradictions and/or inconsistencies.
Defense Strategies Your Domestic Violence Attorney May Use
Your defense team knows that every case is unique, and your defense should be, too. Some cases are best defended using procedural errors, like pointing out rights violations. Others may depend on an alibi that shows you weren't there at the time. Still others may be built around intent, if the alleged victim was hurt accidentally.
Here is a breakdown of some common strategies and when they are applicable:
- False Accusation: If you're in the middle of a complicated breakup, emotions are running high, and your partner might make a false accusation. We investigate the accuser's motives and challenge their credibility.
- Self-Defense or Defense of Others: If you were acting to protect yourself, that can be a valid defense against domestic violence charges.
- Dominant Aggressor: Related to self-defense, if you fought back and both of you ended up injured, your attorney can argue that the other party was the dominant aggressor.
- Lack of Intent or Accident: Both domestic battery and corporal injury require a willful act. Accidental contact, like bumping someone while trying to leave, is not domestic violence.
- No Traumatic Condition: For a PC 273.5 charge, the prosecutor must prove the touching caused an injury. Where an injury is minimal, unexplained, or existed beforehand, that can mean a reduction to misdemeanor battery or a dismissal.
- Alleged Victim Recants: While the alleged victim cannot drop the criminal charges, their recantation can prove valuable as a part of your defense.
- Reasonable Doubt: In the eyes of the law, you are guilty until proven innocent. If the prosecution fails to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, your defense attorney should highlight this.
- Alibi: A solid alibi is an invaluable defensive tool — it will present an alternative narrative protecting you against the supposed wrongdoing.
- Constitutional Violations: If the prosecution's case hinges on evidence that was collected illegally, we will challenge it, file motions to suppress it, and argue for charges to be dismissed entirely.
How the Law Offices of David S. Chesley Defends Domestic Violence Charges
When you call the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, our domestic violence defense team gets to work right away. Here's how the process works:
- Initial Consult: Before building your defense, we offer a free review of the charges against you.
- Release and Protective Orders: We work to get you released and, where appropriate, ask the court to modify protective orders so you can return home or see your children.
- Defense Against Interrogations: Don't try to face a police interrogation alone — we will stand by your side and advise you on how to respond.
- Defense Investigation: Our team will listen to your story and look for any additional evidence.
- Strategy Development: Your defense should be specific to your circumstances, not a cookie-cutter tactic.
- Pretrial Motions: While the trial is pending, we'll file motions that protect your rights and fight against misconduct.
- Plea Negotiations: Our firm can talk to the Norwalk district attorney and explore plea deal options.
- Trial Representation: If your case goes to trial, we'll present your defense to the judge and jury.
- Sentencing Advocacy and Appeals: Nobody wants their case to end in a conviction, but trials don't always go according to plan. If convicted, we're available to help you advocate for a lower sentence and file appeals.
Why Choose the Law Offices of David S. Chesley for Domestic Violence Defense in Norwalk, CA
The Law Offices of David S. Chesley has defended Norwalk, CA, residents against domestic violence charges since 2005. We've been judges, prosecutors, and police officers, and we know where common weaknesses are in the state's cases.
When you work with us, you're getting:
- Former prosecutors on our team who know the ins and outs of domestic violence charges from the prosecution's perspective.
- Local courtroom experience in Norwalk, CA court and with the county's domestic violence procedures, protective orders and probation requirements.
- Combination criminal defense and Norwalk immigration services, so that you can get tailored advice on how your charges will affect your immigration status.
- Available 24/7, so that you can get a hold of our team around the clock.
- Results for clients. Our former clients can attest to our dedication to protecting their rights.
In a previous case, our client was accused of violating a domestic violence restraining order for visiting his wife's residence when he was not supposed to. We negotiated a plea that kept him out of jail.
Every case is unique — examples used above are not necessarily representative of future case results.
Norwalk, CA Domestic Violence FAQs
Will I go to jail for a first-time domestic violence offense in Norwalk, CA?
Not automatically. Probation is a common outcome for first-time offenders when there was no major injury. Jail is still possible, and a conviction usually comes with mandatory domestic violence probation terms: at least 36 months of probation, a 52-week batterer's intervention program, and a protective order. To maximize your chances of avoiding jail, be sure to work with an experienced defense attorney.
Is domestic violence a felony in Norwalk, CA?
That depends on what the Norwalk prosecutor chooses to charge in your case. While domestic battery can only be charged as a misdemeanor, inflicting corporal injury could be either a misdemeanor or a felony. Related charges such as criminal threats, stalking, and dissuading a witness can also be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony.
What is the difference between domestic battery (PC 243(e)(1)) and corporal injury (PC 273.5)?
Domestic battery (PC 243(e)(1)) includes an intentional, nonconsensual form of physical contact that hurts or offends a current or former romantic partner. It does not matter whether or not an injury was caused. Corporal injury (PC 273.5) is different in that the touching resulted in a traumatic injury, such as a bruise. It is also different in that it can be charged as a felony, at the prosecutor's discretion.
Can the victim drop domestic violence charges in Norwalk, CA?
No. Even if the alleged victim recants, only the prosecutor can drop the charges. While it's helpful to have the alleged victim change their mind, this is only a part of a successful defense.
Can police arrest me for domestic violence if nobody is hurt?
Yes. Probable cause for a domestic violence arrest can include the alleged victim's story or signs of violence (like property damage) besides an injury — it does not require a visible injury. Visible injuries often count as probable cause, but Norwalk police officers look at the whole picture, not just cuts and bruises.
Am I allowed to go home after release from a domestic violence arrest?
Often not right away. Police commonly obtain an emergency protective order, and the criminal court usually issues a criminal protective order at arraignment that can require you to stay away from the alleged victim and the shared home. Violating either order is a separate crime, even if the alleged victim invites you back. Your attorney can ask the judge to modify the order, for example, to allow peaceful contact.
Will a domestic violence charge affect my immigration status?
It can. Under federal immigration law, a conviction for a "crime of domestic violence" and a court finding that you violated certain terms of a protective order are both separate grounds for deportation, and some domestic violence offenses are also treated as crimes involving moral turpitude. Because of these wide-reaching ramifications, you should always consult with an immigration attorney before accepting any plea offer.
What diversion options are available for a domestic violence charge in Norwalk, CA?
In California, many misdemeanor charges qualify for diversion (where instead of going to jail, the accused individual fulfils special requirements before having the case dismissed) under PC 1001.95, but domestic violence is an exception. These types of charges are specifically excluded from PC 1001.95. However, some defendants may qualify for mental health diversion under PC 1001.36, and current or former service members charged with a misdemeanor may qualify for military diversion under PC 1001.80. These can be great options for eligible individuals, who can avoid a domestic violence conviction on their record.
Can a domestic violence conviction be expunged in Norwalk, CA?
Usually, yes. Generally, you need to fit the following criteria:
- You did not serve a jail sentence (e.g., you were granted probation).
- You have completed all probation requirements.
- You have no pending criminal charges or warrants.
- You have not previously been convicted of a serious offense that bars you from expungement.
Expungement is a popular option because it can reduce your prior conviction's impact on your future career and housing. It does not restore firearm rights, however.
Will a domestic violence conviction take away my gun rights?
Most likely, you will lose your firearm rights. A misdemeanor domestic battery conviction carries a 10-year California firearm ban and a lifetime federal ban. A misdemeanor PC 273.5 conviction on or after January 1, 2019, carries a lifetime ban under California law, and any felony conviction is a lifetime ban. These are separate from any restraining order restrictions, which often ban firearm possession for their duration.
How long does a domestic violence case take in Norwalk, CA?
The actual timeline depends on the specifics of your case — a general range is from a few months to a year or more. If you are in custody, the state has 48 hours to either charge you with a crime or release you (excluding Sundays and holidays). After that, the pretrial phase of discovery, investigation, motions, and plea negotiations usually takes several months, and cases that go to trial take longer.
Can a felony pc 273.5 charge be reduced to a misdemeanor in Norwalk?
Yes. Because PC 273.5 is a wobbler, the state can charge it as either a misdemeanor or a felony. Your defense attorney can also advocate for reducing the charge, both with the prosecutor and with the judge.
What if I'm served with a restraining order while my criminal case is pending?
Always obey the protective order, even if the alleged victim contacts you. It's common for domestic violence charges to be accompanied with an emergency protective order, then later a domestic violence restraining order, and a violation can bring new charges and hurt your criminal case. These orders can be challenged, though — the right defense attorney can help you make your case in court.
Reach Out to Your Norwalk, CA, Domestic Violence Lawyer Right Away
Right now, you need to make a decision that can affect the rest of your life. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley is here to help guide you at every step of the process.
Our firm can also assist you with the following legal services in Norwalk, CA:
- Sex Crimes Lawyer
- Immigration Lawyer
- Drug Charges Lawyer
- Theft Lawyer
- Violent Crimes Lawyer
- DUI Lawyer
- Criminal Defense Lawyer
Call one of our team members at (800) 755-5174 or reach out online to plan a free consultation with a domestic violence lawyer in Norwalk, CA.
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