Matthew J Domestic Violence Law Blog

California interprets domestic violence as any case involving a family member, a spouse, past or present or anyone with whom you have had a dating relationship with.  As a Los Angeles Domestic Violence Attorney , I am often asked whether anger management classes are required if a person is convicted of a crime involving a person described above.  The answer is yes.  If an individua... Read More

Domestic Violence arrests in many counties continue to climb in 2009 to concerning heights for local law enforcement. So far in 2009, county and city police report an increase in domestic violence arrests.  What exactly has spiked the increase is up to interpretation, however it is clear that the numbers are up and the local authorities are concerned says Domestic Violence Lawyer Matthew ... Read More

Domestic violence is a class of offenses whose definition varies from state to state.  california has been somewhat progressive in how it treats domestic violence cases and how it directs the police and the Courts and what special treatment should be given to victims of these crimes.  California law defines domestic violence generally as abuse commited against an adult or emancipated minor who is a spouse, former spouse, cohabitant, former cohabitant or any person with whom the victim ... Read More

The short answer to this question is no.  In California, the criminal statutes differentiate between the crime of battery when the victim is a spouse compared to a non family member.  Normally an arrest for the crime of battery would carry a punishment of a small fine and probation.  However, when the offense involves a spouse the crime falls into the category of a domestic violence offense which carries with it increased penalties upon a conviction. 

The non-domest... Read More

The decision to drop charges in a domestic violence case rests solely with the district attorney.  Although the desire of a wife or spouse is relevant, it is not determinative.  A Domestic Violence Lawyer can help in persuading the prosecutor or district atttorney to dismiss the criminal case based on evidentiary problems and legal arguments.... Read More