Domestic Violence Lawyer Simi Valley, CA

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A domestic violence arrest in Simi Valley, CA, can turn your world upside down. You could lose your relationship, your career, and your freedom. It doesn't matter what brought you here. You need an expert Simi Valley, CA, criminal defense attorney to protect your rights.

Domestic violence is different from regular violent crimes because of the status of the alleged victim: If it was your spouse, dating partner, co-parent, or someone you used to date and/or live with, you can face special domestic violence charges like domestic battery or corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant.

Our domestic violence defense team will defend your rights and challenge the prosecution's narrative. We will listen to your story, build a defense around it, and keep you informed about updates to your case — and we're ready to get started today.

On this page:

• Charges that count as domestic violence in Simi Valley
• Important steps to take if you've been accused of domestic violence in Simi Valley, CA
• The post-arrest process for domestic violence
• The intersection between domestic violence, restraining orders, and custody cases
• Penalties, probation, and collateral consequences
• Special considerations for immigrants and non-citizens
• Diversion, reductions, and expungement
• What happens if the alleged victim won't testify
• Defense strategies
• What you can expect from your defense attorney
• What sets our lawyers apart
• Common questions

If you've been accused of a crime, you need to move ASAP. Talk to our criminal defense lawyers at (800) 755-5174 or contact us online at any time for a free, confidential consultation.

Reviewed by Attorney David S. Chesley, October 2026. California criminal defense since June 2005, SBN 236611.

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What Is a Domestic Violence Charge in Simi Valley?

California Penal Code § 13700 defines domestic violence as "abuse committed against 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 protective orders, Family Code § 6211 is the key statute to keep in mind. It also includes immediate family members and grandparents. That's why an argument with a family member can lead to a domestic violence restraining order even when it isn't charged as domestic battery.

There are three main elements the prosecution will attempt to prove in your Simi Valley, CA, domestic violence case:

• You made physical contact with the alleged victim, causing harm or offense (and, if charged under PC § 273.5, that the contact resulted in a "traumatic condition");
• You were not protecting yourself, nor another person; AND
• The alleged victim had a close/romantic relationship with you as defined in California Penal Code § 13700.

Domestic Battery

• Statute: PC § 243(e)(1)
• What it means: Touching a current or former spouse, dating partner, or cohabitant, or a coparent, in a hurtful way (including offensively — it doesn't matter whether or not any injury was caused.
• 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 line between the two charges is injury. A push that leaves no mark is typically charged as domestic battery, a misdemeanor. The same push that leaves a bruise, scratch, or swelling can be charged as corporal injury, a potential felony. Prosecutors also commonly file PC 273.5 when there's any allegation of choking or strangulation, even when marks are hard to see. That's one reason early investigation of the medical evidence matters.

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): Threatening to kill or seriously injure someone in a way that causes them reasonable, sustained fear. This can count as a strike if charged as a felony.
• Dissuading a Witness (PC § 136.1): Attemping to prevent a witness or alleged victim from informing the authorities about a crime or from testifying
• Damaging a Phone Line or Phone (PC §§ 591, 591.5): Cutting or disconnecting a phone line, or breaking a cell phone—in a domestic violence case, this could be allegedly keeping the supposed victim 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)): Using a weapon, or massive force, in an attack that could seriously hurt another person.
• Stalking (PC § 646.9): Stalking has two elements: First, following someone when you are not welcome to, and second, making a realistic threat that causes fear.
• Restraining Order Violations (PC § 273.6): Violating the terms of a court-issued protective or restraining order.
• Child Abuse (PC § 273d): Physically hurting a child, either completely unjustified or through excessive punishment.
• Elder Abuse (PC § 368): Abusing or neglecting someone 65 or older, or a dependent adult, such as an elderly parent.
• Sexual Battery (PC § 243.4): Touching an intimate part of another person against their will for sexual arousal, gratification, or abuse.
• Revenge Porn (PC § 647(j)(4)): Intentionally distributing private intimate images of someone without consent, knowing it will cause them serious emotional distress.

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How to Handle Domestic Violence Allegations in Simi Valley, 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:

1. Exercise your right to remain silent. That includes with friends, family and on social media.
2. Exercise your sixth amendment right to an attorney.
3. Request bail and/or release without bail.
4. If you were issued a restraining order, follow every rules.
5. Gather any evidence that is relevant to your case — don't delete anything, as you could be charged with obstruction of justice.
6. Don't hold back when speaking with your defense attorney — they need to know the full story.
7. Don't contact the alleged victim, even to apologize or to ask them to drop the case. That contact can violate a protective order and lead to a separate charge for dissuading a witness. If they reach out, talk to your lawyer before responding.

Mistakes can cost you your freedom, but following these steps can protect it. Call us today, whatever charges you're facing: (800) 755-5174.

Simi Valley's suburban neighborhoods and historical context near the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library create distinct patterns in domestic violence allegations, with many cases originating from disputes in family-heavy areas along Tapo Street. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley appear at the Simi Valley Courthouse on Los Angeles Avenue, applying strategies informed by Ventura County's specific legal landscape.

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What Happens After a Domestic Violence Arrest in Simi Valley, CA?

Domestic violence cases move fast. Here's what you need to be prepared for after police show up in Simi Valley, CA:

1. Arrest: Officers only need probable cause. In Simi Valley, CA, they can arrest for misdemeanor domestic violence without a warrant even if they didn't see the incident (PC § 836(d)). When both people claim they were attacked, officers are directed to identify the "dominant aggressor" rather than arrest both (PC § 13701).
2. Booking: This is standard for any arrest — your fingerprints and photograph are taken, then you'll be sent to jail.
3. Emergency Protective Order: In order to protect the alleged victim, police officers have the option to contact a judge after the arrest and request an emergency protective order. These can go into effect right away, forcing you out of your home and away from the supposed victim for up to 5 court days or 7 calendar days, whichever is sooner.
4. Interrogation: There aren't always interrogations, but you should be prepared for one. While you should be respectful, you should not answer any questions without a lawyer present.
5. Bail and Release: Bail may be available as a way for you to secure pretrial release. Many domestic violence charges mandate a bail hearing where your defense attorney can fight for your release, possibly even on your own recognizance.
6. Filing Decision and Arraignment: While you're in custody, the police report is sent to the district attorney's office for review. A prosecutor will evaluate the evidence for what they suspect occurred and what they think they'll be able to prove. If you're in custody, you must generally be arraigned within 48 hours, not counting Sundays and holidays (PC § 825). At arraignment you'll hear the charges and enter a plea, and the judge will usually issue a criminal protective order.
7. 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 Simi Valley, CA, domestic violence cases, you could be restricted from going home. Protective orders are commonly used against people alleged to have committed domestic violence, keeping the supposed offender away from the supposed victim and their home. Even in cases where the alleged victim reaches out to you, it's often illegal for you to respond or go to meet them.

Breaking a protective order, whatever the circumstances, can have a major, negative impact on your case. If the alleged victim does reach out to you, speak with your attorney before responding or going to meet them. They can advise you on the best way to move forward without hurting your chances in court.

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Domestic Violence, Restraining Orders, and Custody

Simi Valley, CA, domestic violence cases often overlap with restraining orders and custody disputes. Your actions now can affect your criminal case, your child custody rights, and your restraining order. Work with an attorney who has experience in all three arenas.

Types of Restraining Orders in Domestic Violence Cases

Restraining orders (also called protective orders) come in several types:

• Emergency Protective Orders: These are a short-term restraining order, lasting 5 court days or 7 calendar days (whichever comes first). They are typically administered after a domestic violence arrest, but the arrest is not required for the police officer to file for one.
• Criminal Protective Orders: California criminal protective orders are described in PC § 136.2. For domestic violence cases, they can last through the entire pretrial process and be extended for another 10 years after a conviction.
• Domestic Violence Restraining Orders (DVROs): It's difficult to fight a criminal protective order, but arguable even harder to fight a DVRO. These are filed in family court, not in criminal court, and are defined in Family Code § 6345. The key thing for you to be aware of is the initial hearing, which typically occurs about three weeks after the incident and initial filing. You may not be given notice of this order, making it even harder to fight. If granted, these orders can last up to 5 years on an initial run, and a further 5 years (or even lifetime) if renewed.

Domestic Violence Accusations and Custody Cases

Domestic violence findings can reshape a child custody case. Under Family Code § 3044, if a family court finds that a parent committed domestic violence against the other parent, the child, or the child's siblings within the past five years, the law presumes that giving that parent sole or joint custody is not in the child's best interest. No criminal conviction is required. A finding in family court, including one made when a DVRO is granted, can trigger the presumption.

You're fighting an uphill battle, but it's not impossible. The judge will weigh factors such as:

• Whether giving that parent custody is in the child's best interest
• 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
• The recency of the alleged incident

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Domestic Violence Penalties in Simi Valley, CA

Learn about the potential penalties that a domestic violence conviction in Simi Valley, CA, could result in (and similar charges).

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

*These incarceration ranges and fines can be increased by aggravating factors. 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. To get a full breakdown of the potential penalties in your case, talk to your Simi Valley, CA, domestic violence defense lawyer.

Domestic Violence Probation

It's common for domestic violence plea deals to result in probation, rather than jail time. Mandatory probation conditions are set in PC § 1203.097:

• A minimum period of 3 years
• The issuance of a restraining order in defense of the alleged victim
• Completion of a year-long batterer's intervention program
• If you can afford it, a $500 payment to domestic violence programs
• Community service
• Removal of any guns
• No new law violations

California's 2021 law capping most probation terms at one or two years (AB 1950) does not shorten domestic violence probation, because the domestic violence probation statute sets its own length.

Collateral Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction

Here are of the potential collateral consequences for a domestic violence conviction in Simi Valley:

• Loss of Second Amendment 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: The court can issue a criminal protective order lasting up to 10 years, and the alleged victim may also seek a DVRO.
• Employment and Licensing: You could lose your career while in jail and face new challenges looking for employment once you are released.
• Relationships and Reputation: If people find out about your conviction, they may not want to associate with you.

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Domestic Violence Charges and Immigration

For noncitizens, including green card holders, a domestic violence case can be more dangerous than the criminal penalties themselves. If either of the following are true, you could face deportation (INA § 237(a)(2)(E)):

• A conviction for a "crime of domestic violence" (a crime of violence against a current or former spouse, partner, co-parent or similar protected person)
• A judicial finding that you broke a protective order (regardless of whether or not you were convicted of a crime for it)

You could also face deportation or other immigration consequences if your conviction falls into the category of crimes involving moral turpitude. While some charges are typically treated more lightly than others (for example, domestic battery often results in less serious consequences than inflicting corporal injury), this is not guaranteed, and can depend on the specific facts surrounding your case.

If you're a noncitizen, you don't just need a criminal defense law firm. You need an immigration lawyer who can help you understand the potential impacts of these charges. Plea deals that seem appealing on the surface can have hidden immigration consequences — an attorney can help you make an informed choice.

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Diversion, Reductions, and Clearing Your Record

A domestic violence arrest doesn't have to end in a permanent conviction. Standard misdemeanor diversion under PC § 1001.95 is not available because the law expressly excludes domestic violence and stalking charges. But depending on your case, other options may include:

• Pre-Filing Intervention: If we can participate in a pre-filing investigation conference, we'll argue for charges to not be filed and/or be reduced.
• Mental Health Diversion (PC § 1001.36): Mental health diversion is an option if you have a qualifying mental health condition that contributed to your behavior. By participating in a treatment program, you can secure a dismissal of all charges.
• Military Diversion (PC § 1001.80): Veterans treatment courts are available for some misdemeanors when the alleged offender has a qualifying condition (like substance misuse), and does not present a threat to public safety.
• Reduction to a Misdemeanor (PC § 17(b)): Inflicting corporal injury can be charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor — your attorney can bargain for a reduction with the prosecutor, argue for misdemeanor status at sentencing, or petition for reduction after the completion of probation.
• Expungement (PC § 1203.4): While expungement does not perfectly restore your record, it can help with future employment applications.

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What if the Alleged Victim Doesn't Want to Testify?

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, their words can still be used against you:

• The state can move forward with the case regardless of the alleged victim's wishes. 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 record can be examined. Evidence Code § 1109 allows prosecutors to introduce evidence of other alleged acts of domestic violence, generally from the past 10 years.
• Your spouse may be forced to testify against you. Normally a spouse can refuse to testify against the other, but that privilege has an exception for crimes against the spouse (Evidence Code § 972(e)).
• Victims can't be jailed for refusing to testify. Under Evidence Code § 1219, a domestic violence victim who refuses to testify about the abuse can't be jailed for contempt.

Reaching out to the alleged victim is never a good idea, especially if there is a restraining order in place. If they reach out saying that they want to recant, tell your attorney ASAP. Your attorney can lawfully collect the recantation from the victim, file motions against other forms of evidence, and highlight any contradictions and/or inconsistencies.

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Defense Strategies Your Domestic Violence Attorney May Use

Your domestic violence lawyer will evaluate the specifics of your case and choose the defense that fits it best. Some cases are best defended by challenging how the evidence was gathered. Others may depend on an alibi that shows you weren't there at the time. And others concede that someone was hurt but dispute intent or who started it.

The following list goes over some popular defense strategies your Simi Valley domestic violence defense attorney may use:

• False Accusation: Some domestic violence charges arise from false accusations, often during a breakup or custody dispute. If the alleged victim's motives are in question, we will highlight that.
• Self-Defense or Defense of Others: You can lawfully use reasonable force to protect yourself or someone else from imminent harm.
• Dominant Aggressor: If there was a fight involving both parties, the case can come down to "who started it?" Your lawyer can look for evidence that you were the real victim.
• Lack of Intent or Accident: In some cases, the alleged offender accidentally hurt the alleged victim. This typically does not reach the bar of "domestic violence."
• No Traumatic Condition: If you're charged with inflicting corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant, a possible defense is that no injury occurred. This isn't as likely to result in a full dropping of charges, but can result in the reduction to misdemeanor domestic battery.
• 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 some cases, rather than building a proactive defense, our attorneys challenge the prosecution's evidence and show that they failed to provide proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
• Alibi: A solid alibi is an invaluable defensive tool — it will present an alternative narrative protecting you against the supposed wrongdoing.
• Constitutional Violations: When a procedural error occurred that goes against your rights, our team will argue for evidence to be thrown out and charges to be dropped.

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How the Law Offices of David S. Chesley Defends Domestic Violence Charges in Simi Valley, CA

Our team is available 24/7 to get started on your case. When you call, here's what you can expect:

1. Free Case Review: Before you make a decision, we offer a no-obligaction review of your case.
2. Bail 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.
3. Interview Management: If police want to question you, we'll handle that contact and advise you on how to respond.
4. Defense Investigation: Between discovery, 911 recordings, body-camera video, medical records and our own investigation, we'll learn every detail of your case.
5. Strategy Development: When we have all the evidence we need, we'll decide on a defense strategy that maximizes your chances of a positive outcome.
6. Pretrial Motions: Motions are a way for us to suppress evidence, challenge narratives, and even get charges dropped in some cases.
7. Plea Negotiations: Our firm can talk to the Simi Valley district attorney and explore plea deal options.
8. Trial Representation: Most cases end in a plea bargain, but you have the right to a trial — if you exercise it, we'll go to court with you.
9. Sentencing Advocacy and Appeals: We don't stop after the trial — if convicted, we'll advocate for a lower sentence and help you explore appeal options.

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Why Choose the Law Offices of David S. Chesley for Domestic Violence Defense in Simi Valley, CA

The Law Offices of David S. Chesley has offered California criminal defense since 2005, and is prepared for your Simi Valley, CA, domestic violence case. Our team includes former prosecutors who know how the state builds these cases, and where they tend to break down.

When you work with us, you're getting:

• Former prosecutors on our team with firsthand knowledge of how domestic violence cases are charged and negotiated.
• Combination criminal defense and Simi Valley 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 committing assault with a deadly weapon and domestic violence for hitting the alleged victim with a car. We examined the evidence of the injury, argued with the district attorney, and were able to secure a full dismissal of charges for our client.

Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

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Simi Valley, CA Domestic Violence FAQs

Will a first-time domestic violence conviction in Simi Valley, CA, result in jail time?

Not automatically. Many first-time misdemeanor domestic violence cases are resolved with probation rather than jail, especially when there was little or no injury and the accused has no record. If you are given probation, it will include several terms, including the following: a minimum of 36 months of probation, a 52-week batterer's intervention program, and a protective order. Always discuss your case with an attorney to find realistic plea deal options.

Is domestic violence a felony in Simi Valley, CA?

Whether or not a domestic violence conviction is a felony depends on the exact charge. 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 are also wobblers.

What is the difference between domestic battery and corporal injury?

Domestic battery (PC 243(e)(1)) includes any attempt to hurt or offend someone through touching, if that person is a current or former romantic partner. The attempt does not need to be successful. Corporal injury (PC 273.5) requires that the touching caused a "traumatic condition," meaning any wound or injury, however minor, including injury from strangulation. Because of that injury requirement, corporal injury is the more serious charge and can be filed as a felony.

Can the victim drop domestic violence charges in Simi Valley, CA?

No. Regardless of what the supposed victim wants, only the prosecutor can dismiss them. In Simi Valley, CA, that is the local District Attorney or, for many misdemeanors, possibly a city prosecutor. An alleged victim who recants or does not want the case to go forward can still help your defense, but that does not guarantee a dismissal.

Can I be arrested for domestic violence if there is no visible injury?

Yes. Police only need probable cause to believe a crime occurred, and domestic battery does not require any injury. California law also allows officers to make a warrantless arrest for misdemeanor domestic violence even if they did not see the incident happen..

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. According to 8 U.S. Code § 1227, noncitizens convicted of domestic violence, stalking, child abuse, and/or violation of a restraining order are eligible for deportation. The specific statute you plead to matters a great deal, so noncitizens should get immigration advice before accepting any plea.

Can I get diversion for a domestic violence charge in Simi Valley, CA?

Standard misdemeanor diversion under PC 1001.95 is not available for domestic violence charges. That said, depending on your background and circumstances, you might have other options. For example, PC 1001.80 provides current and former U.S. military personnel a diversion option for certain offenses (including some domestic violence charges), if they are suffering from specific, often service-related, challenges. If you complete diversion successfully, the charges are dismissed.

Can a domestic violence conviction be expunged in Simi Valley, 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.

Can I lose my firearm rights for a misdemeanor domestic violence conviction?

Very likely. Both the state of California and the federal government have legal bans in place for firearm ownership when someone has been convicted of domestic violence: In California, domestic battery convictions carry a 10-year firearm ban. Misdemeanor corporal injury convictions on or after January 1, 2019, and any felony convictions carry a lifetime ban in the state. For the federal government, any domestic violence conviction carries a lifetime firearms ban. Important Note: Always assume that federal law takes precedence over state law in these cases, as they are more restrictive. Domestic violence restraining orders and protective orders also require you to give up your firearms while they are in effect.

How long does a domestic violence case take in Simi Valley, 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've just been accused and arrested, you must generally be arraigned within 48 hours, not counting Sundays and holidays. Once you've been formally charged, your defense attorney will work with you to review the evidence, build a strategy, file motions, and negotiate with the prosecution. This takes up the bulk of the time your case is processing, and trials can extend them further.

Can a felony corporal injury charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?

Yes. Because inflicting corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant 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?

Strictly obey every condition, even if the alleged victim recants. Protective orders are a standard part of domestic violence cases, and even if the alleged victim reaches out to you, you can face consequences for breaking the conditions. Your defense lawyer can fight for the order to be lifted or modified to be a "peaceful contact" order.

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Talk to a Simi Valley, CA, Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer Now

It's normal to feel intimidated or overwhelmed when facing criminal charges, especially for domestic violence. But you don't have to face them alone. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley can help.

We also aid with the following legal services in Simi Valley, CA:

• Sex Crimes Lawyer
• Immigration Lawyer
• Drug Charges Lawyer
• Theft Lawyer
• Violent Crimes Lawyer
• DUI Lawyer
• Criminal Defense Lawyer

Contact an attorney at (800) 755-5174 or get in touch online to schedule a confidential case review with a domestic violence lawyer in Simi Valley, CA.