Long Beach Lawyer
Domestic Violence Lawyer in Long Beach
The argument started small, with a raised voice in your Long Beach apartment. Then a door slammed too hard. Neighbors heard the noise and called the police. Within minutes, red and blue lights filled the hallway. Before you could process what was happening, officers separated you and your partner, asked tense questions, and one of you was led away in handcuffs.
For many in Long Beach, a domestic violence charge starts this way: a private argument becomes a legal matter. Your actions and words will impact your future. Whether the incident was a misunderstanding, a mistake made in the heat of the moment, or a false accusation, our experienced Long Beach domestic violence lawyer is here to support you and protect your rights every step of the way.
Domestic Violence Charges in Long Beach
Under California law, domestic violence (DV) involves abuse or threats of abuse between people who share a close or intimate relationship, including spouses, dating partners, co-parents, or household members.
Abuse under the law doesn’t always mean physical injury. It can include verbal threats, emotional harm, or conduct intended to control or intimidate. Because the definition is broad, police often arrest someone at the scene to defuse the situation, even when evidence is unclear or minimal.
Once a police report is filed, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office or Long Beach City Prosecutor decides whether to file charges. The alleged victim cannot drop the charges. Only the prosecution can. That’s why it’s critical to contact a Long Beach domestic violence attorney immediately after arrest or release.
Common Triggers for Domestic Violence Arrests
DV cases in Long Beach stem from many situations, some minor, others more serious. Common scenarios include:
- Arguments that turn physical. A shove, a thrown object, or a defensive gesture can be labeled as domestic battery, even without visible injuries.
- Verbal threats or heated exchanges. Words spoken in anger may be interpreted as threats, especially if witnesses or children were present.
- Disputes involving alcohol or stress. Many DV arrests occur after emotional or intoxicated arguments where intent is unclear.
- False accusations. Sometimes, one partner makes allegations during a breakup or custody dispute. These claims can still lead to arrest and prosecution.
- Mutual confrontations. When both parties are involved, officers must decide who was the primary aggressor, often relying on incomplete or conflicting statements.
Even a single misunderstanding can lead to handcuffs, booking, and a court date at the Long Beach Courthouse. Early legal representation helps to clarify what happened and prevents your words from being used against you later.
What Happens After a Domestic Violence Arrest
Most arrests follow a similar pattern: police respond to a call, separate the parties, and take statements. If they believe any physical contact or credible threat occurred, they will make an arrest even if both parties deny wanting charges filed.
After booking, you may be released on bail or your own recognizance. The court may immediately issue an emergency protective order (EPO). This order can prohibit contact with your partner, restrict your return to your home, or affect child custody temporarily.
Within a few days, you will have a formal arraignment at the Long Beach Courthouse, where you will enter a plea. Your attorney can start reviewing the evidence. At this stage, having a skilled Long Beach domestic violence defense lawyer is essential. Your lawyer will check if your rights were violated, if the police followed proper procedures, and if the evidence fits the legal definition of abuse.
Standard Domestic Violence Charges in California
Domestic violence is a broad category that includes multiple possible charges under California law. The most common include:
- Domestic battery—using force or physical contact against a spouse or partner, even without injury;
- Corporal injury to a spouse or cohabitant—causing a visible injury to an intimate partner, which can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony;
- Criminal threats—threatening to harm someone in a way that causes fear for their safety;
- Violating a restraining order—contacting a protected person despite a court order; and
- Child or elder abuse—physical, emotional, or neglect-related harm to vulnerable family members.
Each of these charges carries serious penalties, including jail time, fines, mandatory counseling, probation, and firearm restrictions. A conviction can result in a 10-year firearm ban, while felony cases lead to a lifetime ban.
Potential Penalties for Domestic Violence Convictions
The severity of penalties depends on the nature of the alleged offense and any prior convictions. For misdemeanors, sentences may include:
- Up to one year in county jail,
- Fines of up to $2,000,
- Completion of a 52-week batterer’s intervention program, and
- Probation terms with strict no-contact conditions.
Felony domestic violence can bring:
- Two to four years in state prison;
- Fines up to $6,000;
- Loss of firearm rights; and
- Long-term effects on custody, immigration, and employment.
The court also requires payment of restitution to the alleged victim and participation in mandatory counseling. Because these penalties affect more than your freedom, impacting your career, relationships, and future, your defense strategy must be deliberate and proactive.
Common Defenses to Domestic Violence Charges
Many domestic violence cases depend more on perception than on solid proof. Our Long Beach domestic violence law firm can challenge the prosecution’s version of events using several strategies:
- Self-defense or defense of others. You may have acted to protect yourself, your children, or someone else from harm.
- Lack of intent. Accidental or reflexive actions don’t meet the legal standard for willful harm.
- False accusation or exaggeration. Emotional conflicts, jealousy, or custody disputes often lead to exaggerated or fabricated claims.
- Insufficient evidence. When injuries are unverified or witness accounts conflict, prosecutors may struggle to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Unlawful police conduct. If officers violated your rights during arrest, statements, or evidence may be inadmissible.
Defending these cases requires precision and an understanding of both the emotional and procedural dynamics. At Esfandi Law Group, our defense approach begins with listening and understanding your story. We identify inconsistencies and develop a strategy that upholds truth and the law.
Why Choose Esfandi Law Group
Domestic violence cases require both compassion and courtroom strength. At Esfandi Law Group, we bring over 23 years of criminal defense experience to every case, combining strategic litigation with a human-centered approach.
What sets us apart is our team-based, results-driven approach to defense. We work collaboratively to uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, challenge evidence, and protect your rights at every hearing. We know how prosecutors think, how judges decide, and how to humanize your story in court.
Every case we handle focuses on protecting your freedom, reputation, and future.
Accused of Domestic Violence in Long Beach? Take Action Now
If you have been accused of domestic violence, acting quickly is essential. Early action can sometimes stop formal charges, affect bail decisions, or reduce the charges. The right attorneys for your domestic violence case will know how to move fast, file protective motions, and challenge the prosecution’s case before it becomes set.
Whether your case involves a misunderstanding, false claim, or act of self-defense, our mission is to fight for justice and help you rebuild with dignity. Contact Esfandi Law Group to schedule a confidential consultation with our Long Beach domestic battery lawyer today.
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