Punishments
In California there is no single domestic violence crime. Instead, domestic violence is a general term used to describe a variety of specific crimes. For example, domestic violence may refer to any of the following:
- Aggravated Battery
- Corporal Injury to Spouse
- Corporal Injury to Cohabitant
- Domestic Battery
- Child Abuse
- Stalking
- Domestic Violence Restraining Orders
- Elder Abuse
- Criminal Threat
- Family Violence and Firearms
- Terrorist Threat
- Malicious Damage to Phone Lines (in connection to domestic violence)
Each of these individual crimes have their own specific elements and punishments. Thus, the punishment for each individual crime will vary depending on such factors as:
- Whether or not injury was caused and, if so, the seriousness of the injuries
- The accused criminal record
Even with these variations, some generalizations can be made. For example, if convicted you will likely face a minimum 30 day sentence to be served in a county jail – even if it is your first misdemeanor conviction. Further, you will always be required to attend and successfully complete a 52 week long batterer’s education class.
In addition to these immediate consequences, it is also important to remember that a domestic violence conviction will have long-term consequences. For example, your conviction will go on your permanent criminal record. As a result, when you apply for a job or a scholarship, a background check will highlight your conviction. More so, in some circumstances a domestic violence conviction will place you on the California sex offender registry.
In order to mitigate these effects, it is essential that you seek the advice of an experienced California domestic violence defense attorney. The Law Offices of Jonathan I. Kelman specializes in defending California domestic violence charges. We combine our years of experience with an aggressive defense strategy in order to reduce or even dismiss the charges brought against you.
If you or a loved one is facing a domestic violence charge, seek the support of an attorney practicing only in criminal defense.
Remember, when your future is on the line, call the Law Offices of Jonathan I. Kelman at 310.286.1218 for your free initial consultation.