Domestic violence allegations
A domestic violence case can involve criminal charges, protective orders, and immediate disruption to home and family life. Each proceeding needs careful attention.
Understand the allegation.
Allegations can include battery, corporal injury, threats, or violations of an existing order. Civil restraining orders and criminal protective orders may proceed on different tracks.
Issues to examine
The relationship involved; the specific conduct alleged; recordings and messages; injury evidence; witness accounts; self-defense where supported; and the precise terms of any court order.
What may be at stake
Consequences may include custody, probation conditions, counseling, firearm restrictions, and limits on contact. Family or employment issues may also arise.
A practical next step
Read and follow every protective order, including any limits on indirect contact. A protected person’s invitation does not by itself change a court order. Keep all hearing notices and discuss overlapping proceedings with counsel.
Discuss your situation with Gravitas ↗California Judicial Council: criminal jury instructions ↗
General information, reviewed October 27, 2026. Charges, penalties, defenses, and eligibility depend on current law and the facts. These topics do not represent a promise of an outcome or an offer to accept every matter.