In California, assaulting or threatening to assault someone with whom you're involved in an intimate relationship is a domestic violence crime. This type of crime usually comes with much harsher penalties than similar offenses against people who aren't in an intimate relationship with their victim, but the severity of those penalties can vary depending on whether the accused is a first-time or a repeat offender.

If you or someone you know has been accused of domestic violence for the first time, they're at a critical juncture in their lives and need a strong defense. Contact Sigal Law Group today to learn more about how our knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys can help.

Types of Domestic Violence Charges

Domestic violence refers to crimes that involve physical, emotional, and economic abuse between individuals involved in an intimate relationship, like current and former spouses, cohabitants, domestic partners, dating partners, and individuals who share a child. As such, there are a number of crimes that fall into domestic violence, including:

·      Spousal abuse

·      Child abuse

·      Child endangerment

·      Child neglect

·      Domestic battery

·      Elder abuse

·      Criminal threats

·      Intimidation

·      Stalking and cyberstalking

·      Violating a restraining or protective order

First Time Offenders

The primary difference between a first-time domestic violence offender and a repeat offender is the severity of the penalty imposed if the defendant is found guilty. In many cases, first-time offenders don't receive a significant jail or prison sentence unless the victim sustained substantial injuries.

For instance, a first-time offender who's found guilty of committing a domestic violence crime will likely receive probation. The court can impose conditions on that probation, including one or more of the following:

·      A 52-week domestic violence counseling course

·      a $500 fine

·      substance abuse counseling

·      anger management classes

·      community service hours

·      jail time

California Domestic Violence Defense for First-Time Offenders

If you're accused of domestic violence, you need a strong defense. Whether you've been accused before or this is the first time, a domestic violence accusation can negatively affect all aspects of your life. Working with a skilled criminal defense attorney at the Sigal Law Group will help you reach the best resolution in your case. Contact us today for help.