What is Domestic Violence? Domestic violence refers to abuse that is physical, sexual, and/or psychological in nature. Incidents of domestic violence usually take place within a family setting and can happen between spouses, boyfriends, girlfriends, siblings, and other close family members. Domestic abuse behaviors may include sexual assault, physical assault, verbal threats, harassment, stalking, or manipulation.
The Crime of Domestic Violence If a person engages in threatening or physically abusive behaviors within a family setting, he/she can be charged with domestic violence. In most cases, domestic violence is classified as a misdemeanor. However, charges may be amplified if the person being charged has:
- caused injury to a minor
- sexually assaulted the victim
- sexually assaulted a minor
- caused the victim bodily harm
- prior domestic violence convictions
- prior criminal convictions
Domestic Violence Penalties The consequences for domestic violence are very serious. Individuals convicted of domestic violence face harsh legal ramifications like imprisonment, heavy fines, probation, rehabilitation, counseling, and community service. Furthermore, if you are convicted of a domestic violence offense, you may be prohibited from making contact with the victim, or entering their home.
Orange County Domestic Violence Attorney Have you been charged with domestic violence in Orange County? If you answered yes, it is important that you start to plan your case and review your legal options with a professional domestic violence attorney. Without representation from a qualified lawyer, you stand little chance of avoiding conviction.
The Law Offices of Virginia L. Landry has successfully handled a vast array of domestic violence cases in Orange County, Irvine, and surrounding areas. As a defense attorney with years of experience, Virginia L. Landry can provide you with the advice and aggressive representation you need to obtain a winning outcome.