Domestic Violence Lawyer in the San Fernando Valley

California takes domestic violence charges seriously. So should you. A conviction can land you in jail, saddled with hefty fines, and affect relationships with your children and family. Simply an allegation — even if the charges get dismissed or you are acquitted — can cause long-lasting damage to your reputation. Building a solid criminal defense strategy is crucial as you pursue the best possible resolution for your case.

The legal process moves quickly, and without strong representation, you may be at a disadvantage. If you need a domestic violence lawyer in the San Fernando Valley, contact The Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling for a free consultation.

What is Domestic Violence Under California Law?

Domestic violence laws in California cover crimes involving abuse or threats of abuse between people in specific relationships. Under Penal Code Section 13700, it includes purposely or recklessly causing — or attempting to cause — bodily harm upon a spouse, former spouse, cohabitant, former cohabitant, or someone with whom the accused shares a child or dating relationship.

Abuse also includes creating a reasonable fear of an imminent serious injury. While most domestic violence cases involve physical abuse or sexual abuse, emotional or psychological abuse is a consideration in court proceedings involving restraining orders.

Common domestic violence crimes in California include:

• Corporal injury to a spouse or cohabitant (PC 273.5)
• Domestic battery (PC 243(e)(1)).
• Aggravated trespass (PC 601)
• Stalking (PC 646.9)
• Protective order violations (PC 273.6)
• Posting “revenge porn” (PC 647(j)(4))
• Child abuse (PC 273(d))
• Elder abuse (PC 368)
• Making criminal threats (PC 422)
• False imprisonment (PC 236)

Officers often arrest based on visible injury or if an alleged victim’s statements express fear, even with limited or conflicting evidence. This means innocent people can be charged with domestic abuse due to misinterpretation, exaggeration, or false claims.

Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction

A domestic violence conviction can carry severe penalties. Punishments vary based on whether the offense is a misdemeanor or felony, whether the accused has a history of prior convictions, and other factors. For example, misdemeanor domestic battery can result in up to one year in county jail, fines up to $2,000, probation with a 52-week batterer’s treatment program, community service, and restitution.

For felony corporal injury, potential penalties include two to four years in state prison, fines of up to $6,000, and mandatory counseling. Longer prison terms, increased fines, subsequent convictions, or aggravating factors such as inflicting serious bodily injury or the use of a deadly weapon, may increase penalties for convicted offenders.

Domestic violence convictions also come with collateral consequences beyond the criminal penalties, such as loss of firearm rights, immigration issues, professional license and employment risks, and impacts on custody or visitation. Protective orders may limit access to your home, affect child custody, or restrict you from specific areas, with violations resulting in additional criminal charges.

The stakes are high when you’re accused of a domestic violence offense, and facing these charges without strong legal representation can jeopardize your future. Reach out to an experienced San Fernando domestic violence defense lawyer before making any statements to investigators.

Why You Need a Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer in the San Fernando Valley

Facing domestic violence charges requires deep knowledge of California criminal law, court procedures, and the ability to challenge the prosecution’s evidence. At the Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling, Attorney Justin E. Sterling brings over two decades of criminal trial experience to his practice, having tried more than 70 jury trials to verdict across California.

Our San Fernando Valley law firm combines aggressive criminal representation with personalized attention. Justin Sterling personally handles each case, working with in-house investigators — many of whom are former senior law enforcement professionals — to uncover evidence to supplement your defense. Close relationships with local courts and agencies enhance our strategy.

Our track record includes numerous cases of acquittals, dismissals, plea deals, and reduced charges. In one notable domestic violence case, we secured a not-guilty verdict for a man facing nine years in prison for multiple counts of felony domestic violence and assault with a shotgun. * Whether we’re handling misdemeanor cases or representing someone accused of a felony domestic violence offense, our legal team works to uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and identify effective strategies tailored to each client.

Defense Strategies for Domestic Violence Charges

Every domestic violence case is unique, and your defense must be based on the specific facts and evidence. Common defenses include:

Self-Defense

Self-defense may apply to your domestic violence case if you were protecting yourself or another person from imminent harm. California law permits reasonable force in such situations, and if the alleged victim was the aggressor, you may not be guilty. We gather evidence, such as photographs, medical records, witness statements, and text messages, to support this defense.

False Accusations

False accusations are common, often arising from anger, jealousy, revenge, or family disputes. We investigate motives, prior inconsistent statements, and evidence that contradicts the claims. Insufficient evidence is another strong defense.

Insufficient Evidence

The prosecution must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt, and weak or inconsistent evidence can be challenged for dismissal. In some cases, we negotiate with the prosecution to reduce charges or pursue alternatives like diversion programs.

At all times, our goal is the best possible outcome, whether through a not guilty verdict, reduced charges, or case dismissal.

What to Do If You’re Arrested for Domestic Violence

Knowing what to do after a domestic violence arrest is crucial to protect your rights. You should:

• Remain calm – Do not argue with officers or resist arrest.
• Exercise your right to remain silent – Do not make any statements to the police without an attorney present. Anything you say can and will be used against you, even if you believe you are simply explaining your side of the story.
• Do not contact the alleged victim – Violating a civil protection order or attempting to contact the victim can result in additional charges and will be used against you in court.
• Follow all court orders and bail conditions strictly – This demonstrates your respect for the criminal justice system.
• Document everything you can remember about the incident – Include the events leading up to the arrest, any injuries you sustained, and the names of any witnesses.
• Contact an experienced domestic violence defense attorney immediately – The sooner a criminal lawyer can begin working on your case, the faster they can start building your defense.

Don’t Wait — Contact a Domestic Violence Lawyer in the San Fernando Valley Now

Domestic violence charges can destroy your life, but you do not have to face them alone. At the Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling, we have the experience, resources, and commitment to fight for you.

 Contact us today for a free consultation.

*Past results do not guarantee the same outcomes. Every case is fact-specific.