Victims of Domestic Violence

Orange County Family Attorney

The surge in spousal abuse and domestic violence cases in recent years can be largely attributed to improved identification and diagnosis by doctors, counselors, and attorneys. Domestic or family violence is also increasingly becoming an issue in divorce.

If an accusation of domestic violence arises in connection with your divorce, it’s important to seek advice from a lawyer as soon as possible. A misstep can result not only in adverse consequences in your divorce case, but also in criminal prosecution and jail.

If you are a victim of spousal violence, you can seek two types of restraining orders. The first is a temporary restraining order that is good for twenty-one days. During that twenty-one day period, the court sets a hearing at which you can ask for a restraining order that lasts one, two, or three years.

Protecting Your Family in Orange County

Whether you have been accused of domestic violence, or whether you are the abused spouse, it’s important to understand that there are definite legal standards as to what constitutes domestic violence in California. There are also legitimate defenses. An experienced Orange County divorce lawyer with experience in domestic violence situations can explain these to you to help you understand your rights and options in this matter.

In many of the domestic violence cases I have litigated, the same set of events has been viewed by the two parties in vastly different ways. What one party views as a legitimate response to a situation is seen by the other as a threat to one’s health and safety. What begins as a dispute over domestic violence often ends up as a factual dispute as to what occurred. As a certified family law attorney, I have the knowledge and experience to represent your interests in a domestic violence case. I offer a free initial consultation and am ready to help you.