Oakland Domestic Violence Attorney
Defending Clients Facing Domestic Violence Charges in Alameda County
Facing allegations of domestic violence in California can have severe consequences. Unfortunately, accusations can be made with minimal evidence following law enforcement's brief visit to the domestic scene. These allegations often arise from domestic disputes related to failing relationships, divorce, child custody battles, and other factors.
Once charges are filed, it can be challenging to have them dropped since domestic violence is considered a crime against the state and the alleged victim. This is where the assistance of an Oakland domestic violence attorney becomes crucial.
At Demetrius Costy Law, we specialize in representing clients charged with domestic violence. We understand the impact these charges can have on your future and reputation. Our firm has extensive experience representing family members and alleged victims of domestic violence in Oakland.
In many cases, individuals may wish to have the charges against their loved ones dropped, but the District Attorney may not comply with their wishes. However, legal options are available to regain control of the case, and we are here to provide the necessary guidance and support.
Facing domestic violence charges in California? Call Demetrius Costy Law today at (510) 254-3945 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our domestic violence lawyer in Oakland!
What is Domestic Violence in California?
In California, domestic violence is defined as abuse or threats of abuse committed against an intimate partner or family member. The California Penal Code Section 13700 defines domestic violence as any of the following acts between individuals who have a close relationship:
- Physical Abuse: Inflicting physical harm, injury, or physical force, such as hitting, punching, kicking, or pushing.
- Sexual Abuse: Engaging in non-consensual sexual acts or forcing sexual acts upon the victim without their consent.
- Emotional Abuse: Intentionally causing emotional distress through threats, humiliation, intimidation, or constant criticism.
- Psychological Abuse: Engaging in behaviors that undermine the victim's self-worth, manipulate or control their thoughts or actions, or isolate them from friends and family.
- Economic Abuse: Exerting control over financial resources, denying access to money, or preventing the victim from working or pursuing education.
- Stalking: Engaging in repeated harassing or threatening behaviors, such as following the victim, monitoring their activities, or making unwanted contact.
It is important to note that domestic violence laws in California apply to relationships involving spouses, former spouses, cohabitants, individuals in a dating relationship, parents of a child, or individuals related by blood or marriage. The severity of the offense and the relationship between the parties involved can influence the charges and potential penalties.
Types of Domestic Violence Crimes in California
California domestic violence crimes include:
- Corporal injury
- Domestic battery
- Child abuse
- Child endangerment
- Child neglect
- Elder abuse
- Criminal threats
- Stalking
- Damaging a telephone line
- Aggravated trespass
- Distributing revenge porn
- Posting harmful information about the victim
What are the Penalties for Domestic Violence in California?
In California, domestic violence is taken seriously, and the penalties for these offenses can vary depending on the case's specific circumstances, the offense's severity, and the defendant's criminal history. Here are the potential penalties for domestic violence in California:
Misdemeanor domestic violence penalties include:
- Up to one year in county jail
- Fines of up to $2,000
- Mandatory completion of a batterer's intervention program (BIP)
- Probation
- Restraining orders
Felony domestic violence penalties include:
- Imprisonment in state prison for up to four years
- Significant fines
- Mandatory completion of a batterer's intervention program (BIP)
- Probation
- Restraining orders
Domestic violence convictions can have other consequences beyond legal penalties, including the loss of firearm rights, mandatory counseling or anger management programs, mandatory participation in community service, and potential immigration consequences for non-U.S. citizens.
Contact Our Oakland Domestic Violence Lawyer Today
A domestic violence charge calls for the services of an experienced and committed criminal defense attorney whose sole goal will be to pursue your best interests. At Demetrius Costy Law, you can work with a proven trial lawyer who has handled thousands of cases throughout Alameda County and surrounding areas. With 20 years of criminal defense practice, our Oakland domestic violence defense attorney brings skill, dedication, and proven results to your case.
In light of the severe consequences you may be facing, we strongly urge you to contact Demetrius Costy Law as early as possible so that we can protect your legal rights and begin our thorough investigation into the charges brought against you. Demetrius has handled over 100 misdemeanor and felony domestic violence cases. He has had some of these charges dismissed before and during the trial.
Contact Demetrius Costy Law today to schedule a FREE consultation with our domestic violence attorney in Oakland!
