Newport Beach Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer

Criminal Defense Attorney Serving Clients throughout Orange County, California

Assault and battery are serious crimes in California. If these crimes are committed against a spouse, former spouse, domestic partner, dating partner, person you live with, or the parent of your child, California domestic violence laws make allegations of these crimes much more serious. Prosecutors will usually proceed with domestic violence cases even when the alleged victim does not want to press charges. Domestic abuse convictions, even for first-time offenders, may result in jail time.

If you or someone you know has been charged with domestic violence in Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, Irvine, or anywhere in Orange County, it is strongly urged that you contact the Newport Beach domestic violence defense attorney at the firm as soon as possible. It is important to have a skilled defense attorney involved at the outset to ensure that your rights are fully protected and to provide effective guidance and direction throughout the legal process. In addition, your Newport Beach domestic violence defense lawyer Scott Hughes can negotiate with prosecutors and judges to possibly have the charges against you reduced or, in some cases, dismissed entirely.

Domestic Violence Charges in California

False and wrong accusations of domestic violence may occur in the heat of the moment out of anger, jealousy, or during hostile breakups or divorces. Domestic violence laws make physical force or threats of harm in domestic situations unlawful. Once the police have been called into a domestic violence scene, it no longer becomes a matter between the couple involved but a criminal matter that will be turned over to a prosecutor, unless the accused person's defense attorney can persuade otherwise.

Penalties for domestic battery include fines up to $2,000 and jail terms of up to 1 year, probation, and restitution. Sexual battery may be punishable by prison sentences of 2, 3, or 4 years and fines up to $10,000.

By consulting with Newport Beach domestic violence defense lawyer Scott Hughes, you will be taking an important step in defending your case. Don't risk your freedom and future without the skilled representation he can provide.