San Diego Attorneys Defending Clients Charged With Criminal Threats And Domestic Violence
Last updated on April 21, 2025
Domestic disputes are messy. A simple argument between spouses can lead to rash words and actions. When neighbors call the police, those angry statements can result in criminal threats charges. At Premier Domestic Violence Law Group, we’ve helped numerous clients through these difficult situations.
Understanding Criminal Threats Law
No other charge in criminal law spans such a wide spectrum – from potentially baseless allegations to extremely serious crimes – as criminal threats. Criminal threats, defined under California Penal Code Section 422, extend beyond domestic abuse scenarios. This law applies when someone “willfully threatens to commit a crime which will result in death or great bodily injury to another person.” While often associated with domestic disputes, this statute covers threats made in various contexts.
The fact-specific nature of these charges demands experienced legal representation. Based on the specific circumstances, criminal threat cases can result in:
- Felony strike offenses carrying up to three years in prison
- Misdemeanor violations with lesser penalties
- Cases that may be dismissed entirely due to lack of evidence
These variations demonstrate why experienced legal representation is crucial for anyone facing such charges. For a defense strategy backed by real courtroom experience, reach out to Premier Domestic Violence Law Group online. We’ve developed proven approaches through years of handling criminal threats and domestic dispute cases.
Common Misconceptions About Criminal Threats
Not every heated statement qualifies as a criminal threat. For example, conditional statements like “I’ll hurt you if you’re cheating” may not constitute a violation of PC 422 when examined in context. We regularly handle cases where emotional statements made during arguments don’t rise to the level of criminal conduct.
Why Prosecutors Pursue These Charges
Prosecutors often file criminal threat charges alongside other domestic abuse allegations to gain leverage in plea negotiations. As former prosecutors ourselves, we understand these tactics and use this knowledge to protect our clients’ interests.
What Must Prosecutors Prove?
To secure a conviction for criminal threats, prosecutors must demonstrate beyond reasonable doubt that:
- The threat was made willfully
- It specifically indicated death or great bodily injury
- The accused intended the statement to be taken as a threat
- The threat caused reasonable fear in the victim
Having served nearly a decade as a prosecutor in the domestic violence protection unit, our founding lawyer knows exactly how these cases work from both sides. We use this knowledge and experience to build strong defenses for our clients.
Our Proactive Defense Approach
Since 2003, we have been developing comprehensive defense strategies that include:
- Creating detailed mitigation packets
- Recommending preventive measures like anger management classes
- Pursuing early dismissal when possible
- Ensuring your side of the story is heard
This strategic approach often leads to improved outcomes for our clients.
Tell Us Your Side Of The Story
As your legal team, we believe in hearing your complete story before developing a defense strategy. Every domestic dispute has multiple perspectives, and we’re here to protect your rights and future.
Contact Premier Domestic Violence Law Group today at 619-752-3702 for a free consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney in San Diego.
