Domestic Violence

Welcome to the Law Office of Laguna Niguel Domestic Violence Attorney Harvey L. Decker. A lawyer dedicated to the practice of criminal defense since 1982, Attorney Harvey Decker is a seasoned trial attorney who has successfully defended numerous clients in domestic violence cases.

If you or a loved one has been charged with the commission of an offense under California’s Domestic Violence laws, contact Lawyer Harvey L. Decker III at (949) 365-7085 to make an appointment for a free consultation.

California Penal Code §273.5 governs domestic violence cases throughout the state. Under this code section, domestic violence charges may be brought against a party who inflicts harm against a family member, current or former spouse, the mother or father of their child, current or former partner, or a roommate. Depending on the circumstances, Domestic Violence charges may be filed as a misdemeanor or a felony.

Misdemeanor Domestic Violence in Laguna Niguel

If there have been no prior instances of domestic violence and the victim has sustained minor injuries (or no injuries), the District Attorney’s office will generally file misdemeanor charges. If convicted, Misdemeanor Domestic Violence offenses are punishable by the following:

• Up to One Year in County Jail

• Fines not to Exceed $6,000

• Community Service

• Informal Probation

• Restraining Order

• Mandatory One Year Counseling Class

Felony Domestic Violence in Laguna Niguel

If the victim has sustained serious injuries and there is a history of domestic violence between the parties, the D.A. will typically file Felony Domestic Charges which are punishable by:

• Up to Five Years in State Prison

• Formal Probation

• Restraining Order

• Community Service

• Mandatory One Year Counseling Class

• Possible Strike under Three Strikes Law

California imposes harsh sentences upon those convicted of domestic violence. As a result, it is imperative that you retain a skilled criminal defense lawyer to represent you and defend you against these charges. Failure to obtain an acquittal or reduce a charge from a felony to a misdemeanor could result in a strike being issued against you, and a potential subsequent mandatory sentence of 25 years to life in state prison under California’s harsh Three Strikes Law.

Laguna Niguel Criminal Defense Lawyer Harvey Decker has been a vigorous advocate fighting on behalf of criminal defendants for more than 30 years. Let us put our experience to work for you, and help you keep your freedom!

Contact the Law Office of Laguna Niguel Criminal Defense Attorney Harvey L. Decker at (949) 365-7085 for a free consultation and case analysis.