April 7, 2017, In Family Law
Earlier this month, a California judge handed down a five-year sentence for a man who stood accused of domestic violence.
The defendant, who offered pleas of no contest to charges including felony domestic violence and felony criminal threats, in addition to a number of misdemeanor domestic violence counts, was also charged with violating an existing domestic violence order. He also admitted to a prior strike conviction involving possession of an unlawful firearm with gang enhancement.
According to court records, the violence began two years ago in 2015, when the defendant allegedly punched a woman repeatedly in the head while she was operating a vehicle with the couple’s infant child in the backseat. The defendant continued to assault the woman when they returned home, even while she was holding the small child.
Additionally, over the course of the next several months, the defendant repeatedly violated an existing criminal protective order, issued by the court, by showing up at the woman’s residence. Court records also indicated that, in 2016, the defendant forced his way into the woman’s home before assaulting her in front of her children. Later that year, he returned to kick down the woman’s door and threaten her when she threatened to notify police.
Domestic Violence Laws
The state of California defines domestic violence in Los Angeles as any abuse, or threat of abuse, between people of a certain, often intimate, relationship. Though this typically involves spouses, domestic partners, parents and children, it can also involve people who are residing together, or those who are dating or previously dated.
When it comes down to it, domestic violence refers to scenarios where the victim and the abuser are closely related, whether it is through a blood bond or marriage.
Under current state law in California, there are several actions and/or behaviors that qualify as domestic abuse.
These include:
- Intentionally or recklessly harming an individual
- Attempting to intentionally harm an individual
- Sexual assault
- Threatening someone, or creating the unreasonable fear that they or another will be severely hurt
- Actions like stalking, threatening, harassing, hitting, disturbing the peace or the destruction of property
More often than not, domestic violence in Los Angeles, CA involves some degree of physical abuse. However, it’s important to clarify that abuse does not have to be physical in nature in order to qualify as domestic violence. Many instances of domestic violence can also involve verbal abuse, in addition to psychological and emotional trauma.
Finding a Qualified Attorney
If you or someone you love are dealing with domestic violence, or the threat of domestic violence, it’s important for you to know that you are not alone and that there are legal resources available to you during this difficult time.
That’s where the compassionate, skilled attorneys at WHITMARSH FAMILY LAW, PC come in. Our law office in in Los Angeles, CA is dedicated to family law-related issues, including cases involving domestic violence or the threat of domestic abuse. We understand that dealing with these types of cases is never easy, especially when it involves the threat of physical harm. That’s why our team is committed to working with you to assess your case and quickly determine what protective measures may be available. If necessary, our Los Angeles divorce attorneys also have the experience and legal knowledge necessary to argue your case in a court of law.
Do not delay – our Family attorney law firm in Los Angeles is prepared to stand by and support you as you navigate this difficult time. To schedule a complimentary initial consultation to explore your legal options with our firm, contact WHITMARSH FAMILY LAW, PC at (310) 552-3505.
