It’s a common scenario for someone facing domestic violence charges in California: Suddenly, you are also being charged with “dissuading a witness” under California Penal Code 136.1. These are serious charges that can result in a felony conviction in same cases. It is...
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Domestic Violence
Witness tampering in DV cases
When can asking a friend to help be charged as “witness tampering”? The most common response for most people when facing a problem is to call a friend. Sometimes this call is just for someone to talk to and someone to sympathize with your situation. Other times this...
How might a broken phone lead to domestic violence charges?
When arguments become heated, you may find yourself gesturing more forcefully. Even if you do not intend to, it can be easy to knock items over accidentally or act with more force than you intended. If you damage your partner’s phone in the process, however, that...
How might a domestic violence conviction impact child custody?
The decision to divorce can be stressful for everyone involved. However, if tempers flare and you find yourself accused of domestic violence as a result, you may find yourself facing new challenges in addition to the stress of divorce. In fact, a domestic violence...
What happens if an alleged victim does not want to testify?
Many domestic violence charges center on the testimony of an alleged victim. However, in some cases that person does not want to appear in court to testify. If your accuser refuses to appear in court, what impact might that have on the domestic violence charges you...
3 precautions to consider when accused of domestic violence
When household conflict leads to domestic violence charges, it can feel overwhelming. You may wonder whether these charges will impact your career, your rights or your freedom. You may even feel as though you face these questions alone. However, you can take steps to...
When can a person’s words be considered domestic violence?
During a fight, it can be easy to say hurtful things. A person may throw insults, dig into sensitive subjects or say things that they don’t really mean. When, though, are harsh words enough to lead to a domestic violence charge? Domestic violence charges require more...
Is it possible to get a domestic violence charge dropped?
If you face accusations of domestic violence, you may believe the worst will happen. It is important to keep in mind, however, that these charges are only one step in the legal process, and the prosecution may choose to drop them before a case goes to trial. Why might...
Can veterans with mental health struggles avoid a domestic violence conviction?
Serving in the United States armed forces often leaves those who served with significant emotional struggles or challenging injuries. For servicemembers and veterans struggling with their mental health, the strain that they experience could lead to stress and strain...
How accurate are eyewitness accounts?
Domestic violence charges are often built on reports of what occurred in private. As a result, a decision made in the heat of the moment or the report of a well-meaning bystander could lead to charges even if other evidence does not paint a clear picture of what...