It’s vital to contact an experienced San Diego defense attorney immediately if you have been arrested for domestic violence or charges are pending. Waiting for the process to unfold is the worst thing you can do, even if you haven’t been arrested.
Aggressive and knowledgeable lawyers can help you avoid charges by disputing claims and identifying false accusations. They can also lessen penalties by getting you the help you need through anger management courses or substance abuse programs.
Build your defense immediately
The race to clear your name is a sprint and not a marathon. Despite fines and jail time, domestic violence convictions can lead to devastating, and sometimes permanent, repercussions to your reputation. Charges usually lead to restraining orders keeping you away from your home and children.
However, many cases never get to an arraignment. That’s because experienced lawyers act quickly to assess charges, determining whether fabricated allegations, twisted facts or mitigated circumstances exist that offer a more reasonable explanation of the incident.
What type of evidence can exonerate me?
Domestic violence cases typically offer two widely different versions of what happened. When the police arrive, the accuser’s account is almost always given greater weight, and the accused is usually arrested. However, your attorney can identify evidence in your favor, such as:
- False allegations by a jealous or jilted spouse or partner
- Your partner looks to gain an advantage in a child custody dispute
- The accuser stands to benefit financially by gaining control of the residence and assets
- You were acting in self-defense against an abusive partner
- You were protecting your kids or others
- You were protecting pets or personal possessions
- The argument ended in unintended injuries
- Your partner has a history of abuse or mental illness
A former prosecutor’s approach to defense
Working with a San Diego defense attorney who used to prosecute domestic violence cases is a distinct advantage for clearing your name or reducing a conviction’s consequences. They understand that while prosecutors rightfully seek to punish actual abusers, defendants are often innocent, or mitigating circumstances are present.
Since the prosecution takes domestic violence extremely seriously and courts look to impose harsh penalties, having a lawyer who understands how these cases are built best positions you for mounting an aggressive defense. Starting that process as soon as possible is vital for your case and your future well-being and reputation.
