Santa Barbara Domestic Violence Defense Attorney

Santa Barbara County Domestic Violence Lawyers with Over 40 Combined Years of Experience on Your Side

If you committed assault or battery or threatened a fiancé, spouse, cohabitant, partner, or the parent of your child, this is considered "domestic violence." California takes violent crimes charges seriously and usually a district attorney's office will continue prosecuting a case even if an accuser no longer wants to press charges. These charges also result in more severe penalties than simple assault and battery charges.

Sometimes, domestic violence accusations are simply misunderstandings. It may be the result of a false accusation or an attempt by the accuser to leverage an advantage during a divorce or child custody case. Whatever the circumstances, our Santa Barbara domestic violence lawyers at Appel & Morse can help you launch a thorough investigation into the details of your case. We use our former prosecutorial experience to fight for the best possible outcome, inside and outside of court.

Working with our firm comes with the following benefits:

• A free criminal consultation
• 40+ years of combined legal experience to your case
• Flexible appointment times, including weekend and evening appointment times
• Flat fees and payment plan options

Learn about your defense options during a no-cost criminal evaluation with our Santa Barbara domestic violence lawyer. Call 805-467-6060 today!

What the Prosecution Must Prove

In order to convict you, the prosecution must show that you willfully and intentionally inflicted (or threatened) a bodily injury, and that you inflicted the injury upon a current or former spouse, partner, girlfriend, someone with whom you have had a sexual relationship or a person with whom you have a child together.

What Penalties Will I Face If I Am Convicted in California?

A domestic violence charge is a "wobbler," which means it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. If your charge is classified as a felony, it will count as a strike under the California Three Strikes Law, which can lead to enhanced sentencing for any future cases.

A domestic violence conviction can result in:

• A minimum of 40 days in jail (even for a first-time misdemeanor)
• A 52-week domestic batterer's class
• Fines
• Community service

It is also likely that the victim will obtain a court order of protection against you. And a domestic violence conviction can have an adverse effect upon future employment and educational opportunities. If you would like to learn more about domestic violence charges and how a Santa Barbara criminal defense attorney can protect you, we encourage you to call our office and request a free criminal consultation with us today!

Understanding the Impact of Domestic Violence Charges

Facing domestic violence charges can be a daunting experience, not only due to the legal implications but also the emotional and social repercussions. It's essential to understand how these charges can affect various aspects of your life, including employment opportunities, relationships, and personal reputation.

At Appel & Morse, we believe that knowledge is power. Here are some critical factors to consider:

• Employment Consequences: Many employers conduct background checks, and a domestic violence charge can hinder job prospects or lead to termination.
• Child Custody Issues: Domestic violence allegations can significantly influence custody arrangements, potentially impacting your relationship with your children.
• Social Stigma: The societal perception of domestic violence can lead to strained relationships with friends and family, making it crucial to manage your defense effectively.
• Emotional Toll: The stress and anxiety associated with legal battles can affect mental health, making it vital to have a supportive legal team by your side.

Our experienced attorneys at Appel & Morse are dedicated to not only defending your rights but also helping you navigate the emotional challenges that come with domestic violence charges. We are committed to providing compassionate support while working tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.