California Domestic Violence Defense Lawyers

The LAW OFFICES OF LAWRENCE WOLF have been helping individuals charged with crimes for over 30 years. Mr. Wolf has both prosecuted and defended thousands of adults and juveniles charged with every type of felony and misdemeanor crime. Lawrence Wolf has been a pioneer in developing all forms of alternative sentencing such as house arrest and diversionary programs. He has established relationships with Judges and District Attorneys throughout Los Angeles, Orange and Ventura Counties.

The Law Offices of Lawrence Wolf has a long history of successfully handling the defense of clients charged with ALL domestic violence matters in California.

The California penal code defines abuse as “intentionally or recklessly causing or attempting to cause bodily injury, or placing another person in reasonable apprehension of imminent, serious bodily injury to himself, herself or another”. Domestic violence can refer to violence between spouses, partners, former partners or spouses, children, individuals involved in a dating relationship, or elder abuse.

Abuse does not need to occur within the “home” to be considered domestic violence. It can occur outside the home, at work, on the telephone, or even on the internet. There does not need to be any physical evidence of abuse in order to be charged with domestic violence. Verbal, emotional and psychological abuse can be just as serious as physical violence.

Law enforcement agencies in the State of California have the right and the responsibility to press charges against a person who has allegedly committed an act of domestic violence against another person. This means that the victim does not have to press charges.

Any one charged in California with domestic violence could be convicted of a felony and serve up to 4 years in prison. In addition, if the charge includes “interstate” abuse such as following the victim to another State after a restraining order has been issued, federal charges could also be brought against the abuser.

If you think you might be abusive, please ask yourself these questions:

1. Have I ever been told that my words or actions have hurt my partner?
2. Have I ever used force or threats to make my partner do something that he or she did not want to do?
3. Have I ever used force or threats to prevent my partner from doing something?
4. Has my partner complained that I control or dominate him or her in unwanted ways?
5. Have I withheld financial necessities in order to force my partner to behave in an unwanted way?

Answering yes to any of these questions does not mean you are a “bad” person but you should consider seeking help to correct the abusive behavior.

If you have been charged with domestic violence, the courts will take into account such information as, your “character”, community involvement, prior charges, current and prior counseling, when they consider your case. The judge may impose alternative sentencing to prison but it is imperative that you get competent legal representation.

All of the above crimes, either felony or misdemeanor, are very serious charges and can carry life changing consequences. If you or someone you know has been arrested, or is being investigated for a crime, you need advice from an experienced California domestic abuse defense lawyer. Protect your rights and your freedom….

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