Tag Archives: criminal lawyer

domestic violence defense lawyer huntington beach orange county

domestic violence defense lawyer huntington beach orange county

Domestic violence in California is a criminal offense that can be punishable by a fine, probation, jail time, or prison – depending on the severity of the charges brought against you. A domestic violence conviction can also have far-reaching consequences on your personal life, social life, and career. In this post, let us focus on three vital aspects of California’s domestic violence laws that you should know.

Domestic Violence in California Does Not Necessarily Have To Be Physical in Nature

You do not have to put your hands on your partner or family member to be accused of domestic violence. The law states that threats of violence can also be considered domestic violence as long as the other party has reason to believe you are about to hurt them.

Similarly, stalking, harassing, destroying personal property, or any other behavior or action that disturbs the other person’s peace can be considered domestic violence – even in the absence of physical violence. Therefore, do not take a domestic violence accusation lightly, even if no physical act was involved. Consult a skilled California defense lawyer immediately if you are charged or questioned.

Coercive Control is Also Considered a Form of Domestic Violence in California

In 2020, California’s Domestic Violence Prevention Act was expanded to include coercive control as a form of domestic abuse. Common examples of coercive control include:

  • Not allowing your partner to meet or contact their relatives, friends, coworkers, or acquaintances.
  • Preventing your partner – through intimidation or force – from engaging in activities they have a right to.
  • Monitoring or controlling your partner’s day-to-day activities.
  • Preventing your partner from handling their own finances and denying access to economic sources.
  • Depriving your partner of basic needs.

Victims of Domestic Violence in California Can Get a Restraining Order

Under California law, a victim of domestic violence has the right to obtain a restraining or protective order against the aggressor – even in the absence of physical violence or abuse.

Depending on the circumstances, the court might decide to impose a wide range of conditions, which might include:

  • Moving out of your home (if you and the victim live together)
  • Not contacting the victim
  • Not contacting your children
  • Not possessing a firearm

It should be noted that once a restraining order is issued against you, you must comply with the terms – no matter how unjustified you think they are. Aside from the fact that violation of a restraining order is an offense in and of itself, it can also strengthen the domestic violence case against you.

Facing Domestic Violence Charges in California? Let Our Experienced California Defense Lawyers Help You!

If you are facing domestic violence charges in California, the experienced lawyers at Paladin Legal Defenders can help you. Our lawyers have over 60 years of combined experience handling misdemeanor and felony domestic violence cases. We have the expertise and resources to get results that most others cannot.

To find out how we can help you, call our firm today at 714-536-9988 or contact us online and schedule a free and confidential consultation with an experienced California defense lawyer.

top dui lawyer huntington beach orange county

top dui lawyer huntington beach orange county

A DUI conviction in California can result in harsh penalties, like suspension of your drivers’ license, jail time and fines, and leave you with a criminal record. Based on this, if you are facing a DUI charge, it’s paramount to do everything in your capacity to protect your rights and your freedom. Here are four steps suggested by a DUI defense lawyer on what you should do after being charged with a DUI in California.

1. Do Not Share Any Information with the Law Enforcement Officer

You might have heard this several times before, but it bears repeating. Do not say anything to the police – at the time of your arrest or afterward. Regardless of what they tell you, you are not obligated to tell them anything, as you have the right to remain silent. Instead, let them know that you will only speak in the presence of a California DUI defense lawyer.

2. Submit to the Chemical Test When Asked

Under California’s implied consent law, it is mandatory for you to submit to a chemical test after a DUI arrest. Refusing to do so can result in harsher penalties, including suspension of your license for up to one year (if it is your first refusal) and longer jail time. Therefore, in most circumstances, it is prudent to submit to the test when asked to by a law enforcement officer.

3. Speak to a California DUI Defense Lawyer as Soon as Possible

The most important thing you need to do after being charged with a DUI in California is to contact a lawyer who specializes in DUI defense. A delay in hiring a lawyer could increase your chances of getting convicted, as it will give the prosecution sufficient time to build a strong case against you.

Moreover, without the guidance of a lawyer, you might unknowingly say or do something that could make things a lot worse for you. Clearly, hiring a skilled DUI defense lawyer should be your first priority – regardless of other factors.

4. Request an Administrative Hearing with Help from Your Lawyer

In California, once you are arrested for DUI, your driver’s license will be automatically suspended after a period of 30 days. To avoid the automatic suspension, you need to request what is called an administrative per se hearing with the DMV within 10 days of your arrest.

At the hearing, your lawyer will try to present a compelling case as to why your license should not be suspended. If you win, your license will not be suspended and you can keep driving unrestricted until your DUI charge is resolved. However, if your license does get suspended after the hearing, your lawyer may be able to guide you on how to get a restricted license, or otherwise be able to reinstate your driving privileges.

Choose the Right Criminal Defense Lawyer to Fight Your DUI Charges

At Paladin Legal Defenders, we have highly skilled attorneys with decades of experience in criminal defense. We can aggressively defend you against DUI charges and use the resources at our disposal to achieve the best outcome possible. Our legal team includes a former prosecutor and a former police officer, meaning we have the unique advantage of being able to anticipate the prosecution’s position and defend you accordingly.

To discuss your DUI case with an experienced California DUI defense lawyer, call us today at 714-536-9988 or contact us online and schedule a free consultation.

best experienced criminal defense lawyer huntington beach ca

best experienced criminal defense lawyer huntington beach ca

Everyone who is accused of a criminal offense will need a criminal defense attorney. It would be very difficult, if not impossible, to represent yourself. You should start this process as early as possible so that you have time to select the right attorney and plan your defense strategy properly.

The first thing you should do when selecting a criminal defense attorney is to determine whether or not they’re on your side. While some lawyers do focus more on one type of law over others, good ones can defend you against any charge, from speeding tickets to murder. That being said, make sure they focus on criminal law. This may seem like an elementary step, but many people throw money at any lawyer who’ll take their case. But you should never assume that just because they’re willing to take your case, they’ll do an effective job. Instead, pick a criminal defense law firm.

When looking for a criminal defense attorney in Huntington Beach, it’s important to choose one with whom you feel comfortable. This isn’t the time to be shy; if you don’t feel like sharing your problems with them, then you shouldn’t hire them. They need to know everything about the circumstances surrounding your case. Even something seemingly small could make all the difference in how they approach your case and determine an appropriate course of action. Make sure the attorney is willing to disclose enough information for you to make an informed decision about their services. Don’t hesitate to ask questions regarding fees either. This is a business, and you need to know what it’s going to cost you.

When discussing your case, tell your potential criminal defense attorney exactly how you feel about the charges and what led up to them. If they don’t listen or don’t seem interested in understanding both sides of the story, then they aren’t right for your case. It doesn’t matter if that person deserves it; you want someone willing to put forward their best effort on your behalf, even if they don’t like you personally.

Paladin Legal Defenders Gets Results

Whatever criminal case or charge you have, we are ready to help you. With years of experience and numerous cases won, Paladin Legal Defenders will provide you with the defense attorney that is right for you. We will give you the personal attention needed during these troubling times. Don’t hesitate to contact us, or you can call us at 714-536-9988.