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Experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys
Domestic violence in California takes many forms including spousal abuse, family violence, and intimate partner violence. If you face domestic violence charges in California, one of the best steps that you can take is to obtain the assistance of an experienced attorney who can help you either avoid or reduce charges.
California Domestic Violence Laws
California defines domestic violence as any violent criminal act that is committed against an intimate partner. An intimate partner can include:
- Anyone that a person has ever dated
- A cohabitant or former cohabitant
- The parent of a person’s child
- A spouse or former spouse
Domestic violence can be charged as either:
- Corporal injury to a spouse. Under Penal Code 273.5, a traumatic condition that is mental, physical, or emotional is inflicted on the victim. This harm must be the result of a physical act. This offense can be classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony.
- Domestic battery. Under Penal Code 243(e)(1), only the use of force or violence is required instead of a physical act against a victim. This offense is classified as a misdemeanor.
How California Classifies Domestic Abuse
California classifies domestic violence as either a felony or a misdemeanor. A person convicted of felony domestic violence can face up to 4 years in state prison, while someone convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence faces up to a year in jail. How the case is charged depends on one’s criminal history and the extent of the injuries involved.
Given the severity of these penalties, it is often a good idea to obtain the services of a skilled defense attorney who can immediately begin to create a strategy to minimize the consequences.
Contact a Rancho Cucamonga Defense Lawyer Today
Being convicted of domestic violence is often life-changing. To increase your chances of avoiding these complications or reduce the charges altogether, speak with an experienced defense attorney. Contact Amicus Legal Group today to schedule a free case evaluation.
Rancho Cucamonga restraining orders
If a restraining order was issued against you, it is a good idea to speak with a knowledgeable attorney who can inform you about how you should respond. This is because violations of a restraining order can land you in jail even if the person who obtained the order initiated the contact. These orders often require people to leave their homes and, in some situations, even restrict people from seeing their children or family.
We review the facts and build your strategy
Fortunately, we have helped a number of people who have had restraining orders filed against them. We understand how restraining orders work and remain dedicated to protecting our client’s rights. We will review the facts of your case and help you build the strongest strategy possible.
Client Testimonials
John-Paul is a superb attorney. He was my mentor when I was in law school, and now as an attorney I still go to him for advice on complex cases. When my brother required representation I referred him to John-Paul. That is how highly I think of JP as an attorney. I would highly recommend him to anyone who needs representation.
Kit Westbrook
Mr. Serrao worked on my DUI charge earlier this year and all I can say is WOW! Not only did he keep me updated with the case but his knowledge of the process helped calm my nerves, which was very important to me. He showed care for me as a client and I can’t thank him enough. I would recommend him to anyone in need of a quality criminal defense attorney.
Derrick J.
John-Paul is an extremely effective criminal defense attorney. The one thing that makes him stand out from other defense attorneys is that he talks to his clients to learn the circumstances surrounding their incident and then he makes a forceful and articulate argument in defense of his clients. I recommend my clients to John-Paul when they are in need of a criminal defense attorney because I know he will stand up for them.
Stephen Rinka
Occasionally you meet another attorney who is so impressive both personally and professionally that you want to be affiliated with them in any way you can both personally and professionally. That is how I feel about John-Paul. I not only consider him one of the finest attorneys I know, but I now proudly call him my friend. He is among the very best.
David Booth
John-Paul is well known in our community as a smart and effective criminal defense lawyer who is sensitive to his clients’ situations and responsive to their needs. I refer my clients to him with confidence when they need help with the criminal justice system.
Lawrence Brock
John-Paul took my civil case when no one else would because other lawyers didn’t have confidence in my daughter who has special needs to testify, if needed. John-Paul won her case against the school district without a jury because he cared about my child, believed she was honest and deserved justice. He still doesn’t mind taking my calls whenever I have a question regarding her case.
Dionne L.
Attorney John Paul-Serrao helped us to win our case against the insurance company after we were involved in a traffic accident where our car was rear ended, we tried to handle it ourselves with the insurance company and they did not want to cooperate with us, so we hired Mr. Serrao and he was able to get us a settlement above with the insurance company was willing to pay. I would highly recommend him.
Lupe G.
I had the pleasure of working a very large scale drug case with Mr. Serrao, representing co-defendants. Mr. Serrao was a pleasure to work with. Highly skilled and very aggressive in his advocacy on his client’s behalf. I highly recommend Mr. Serrao for anyone looking for a criminal defense attorney.
Babak Farahan
