San Bernardino Domestic Violence Defense Lawyers

Because our society takes domestic violence (also known as family violence, domestic abuse or spousal battery) so seriously, California law defines it very broadly. State domestic violence laws protect both men and women from physical violence and unwanted assaults by a current or ex-spouse, current or ex-romantic partner, anyone you’re living with and anyone with whom you have a child. They also pile on harsh penalties, which include time in jail or prison, probation, anger management classes and restrictions on your right to use a gun. With these kinds of penalties on the table, it pays to get help from an experienced, aggressive San Bernardino domestic violence defense attorney.

Wallin & Klarich can help. With more than 30 years of experience as San Bernardino criminal defense lawyers, we’ve successfully defended hundreds of clients accused of domestic violence. We understand that an accusation can’t be proven on the basis of gender or accusations alone, no matter how the police might have reacted. We know there are two sides to every story, and we’ll work hard to uncover the and prove whole truth. Our goal is always to minimize or eliminate the disproportionately harsh consequences of a domestic violence conviction.

Defenses and Penalties for Domestic Abuse in San Bernardino

Under California law, domestic violence is a "wobbler," which means it can be a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the circumstances. Which one you’re charged with is ultimately up to the prosecutor, but you’re most likely to be charged with a misdemeanor unless there was a visible serious injury or you have a past record of similar charges. Misdemeanor domestic violence is punishable by up to a year in jail; felony domestic violence is punished by several years in state prison.

Unfortunately, the penalties don’t end at the courthouse door. You also face an entire year of anger management classes and years of state-mandated restrictions on your right to own a firearm. Defendants involved in family court or civil matters often find that a domestic violence conviction makes those cases much harder to win. And when your charge is a felony, you’re facing all of the severe consequences of a felony charge: Limited job prospects, loss of your right to vote and the threat of being convicted under California’s three strikes law.

Experienced Family Violence Defense Attorneys

Wallin & Klarich has a good record of successful defenses against domestic violence charges. In many cases, domestic violence comes down to the credibility of the two people involved -- and not all witnesses are credible. Some have a history of drug or alcohol abuse, past lies or mental health issues. In troubled relationships, one person may lie for emotional reasons, to get control over common property or for an advantage in a child custody fight. And sometimes the case is just a misunderstanding that was taken too far by law enforcement. Our aggressive San Bernardino domestic violence lawyers will look thoroughly into the history and background of your case to find these and other defenses.

At Wallin & Klarich, we approach each case with the belief that we could easily be defending one of our own family members. After more than 30 years of defending domestic violence and related crimes throughout Southern California, we understand the stress and turmoil a domestic violence charge can cause in our clients’ lives. That’s why we’re committed to always being available when our clients call: seven days a week, 24 hours a day and 365 days a year. To schedule a free evaluation of your case, contact Wallin & Klarich today by filling out our confidential online consultation form or call 1-877-385-4948. We promise to be there when you call.

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