DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ATTORNEY IN VENTURA

Understanding Domestic Violence Laws in California

Domestic violence is a serious offense, and, unfortunately, very common within close intimate relationships and families. Domestic violence allegations have a major impact on how child custody and visitation orders are determined. In the event you (and/or your child) were a victim of such abuse, you will want to ensure that you are awarded sole custody of your child. We are here to help you make this happen.

Child abuse:

• Under California Penal Code Section 273d, this is defined as, the infliction of cruel or inhuman corporal punishment or injury on a child.

Battery on a spouse or cohabitant:

• You commit the crime of domestic battery if you inflict force or violence on your current or former spouse or current or former cohabitant on purpose.

Corporal injury to a spouse or cohabitant:

• A corporal injury is an injury that could result in a traumatic condition.

If you are a victim of domestic violence, we understand that you are going through a hard time. Let our attorneys provide you with the legal support and advice you need during this time. Contact us today for immediate assistance!

What to Do if You Are a Victim of Domestic Abuse

You do not have to live with abuse. If you or your child needs protection from your spouse or domestic partner, contact a domestic violence shelter in Ventura, California and get in touch with our experienced lawyers today. We will provide you with compassionate counsel and promise to walk you through every step of the process.

What to Do If You Were Wrongly Accused of Domestic Violence

Domestic violence allegations are taken very seriously. If your spouse or partner has wrongly accused you of this type of abuse, you need to hire a lawyer as soon as possible. Without this support, you could lose custody of your child. Our attorneys have extensive experience working through false allegation cases and are happy to get started on your case.

What Happens if My Spouse Is Convicted of Domestic Violence?

Your spouse may face criminal penalties if he/she is convicted of domestic violence. These penalties might include jail time, fees, probation, mandatory domestic violence counseling, and the issuance of a protective order. The judge will look to see if your spouse committed abuse against you or your child in the last five years before determining custody and visitation rights.

The court will base this decision on the following criteria:

• If it is proven that it is in the child’s best interests for the perpetrator to have custody
• If the perpetrator has completed the necessary parenting classes and domestic violence counseling
• Whether the perpetrator is on probation or parole and if he/she has been compliant
• Whether the perpetrator has committed additional acts of domestic violence
• Whether the perpetrator is restrained by a protective order

Support Resources for Domestic Violence Victims in Ventura County

• Ventura County Crisis Team: 1-866-998-2243 (available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
• Law Enforcement and Medical Emergencies: 911
• Interface Children & Family Services: 1-800-636-6738 (services include a family violence response team, a safe haven emergency shelter, a safe journey transitional shelter, and a women’s support group)
• 2-1-1 Ventura County Information & Referral: Call 2-1-1
• Project Connecting with my Peers: Educating women about the early signs of depression, Oxnard: (805) 483-1166; Santa Paula / Fillmore: (818) 427-5444
• The National Domestic Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week)