Domestic Violence Lawyers in Sacramento, CA
As former police officers, we know exactly how cases are built — and how they fall apart.
"Unquestionably the best defense trial attorney in the Sacramento area. His record speaks for itself!"
EXPERIENCE MATTERS
Undefeated Record in Jury Trial 4 Years in a Row
Over 70 Jury Trials and Thousands of Cases Handled for Our Clients
Case Dismissed
Client was charged with five serious felonies, including attempted murder, and was facing life in prison.
Charges Dropped
Client was arrested for embezzling from her employer. All charges dropped.
Charges Dismissed
Client arrested for their 2nd offense DUI. All charges were dismissed, no DMV or criminal consequences.
What Constitutes Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence refers to violent acts committed against a family member, spouse, romantic partner, a child, parent. However, the family member does not necessarily have to live in the same household. Anybody in a romantic relationship can be a victim, whether the parties involved are married, living together, or simply dating. Same-sex and heterosexual couples are equally at risk for a domestic violence accusation.
Understanding Domestic Abuse Arrests & Your Rights
Domestic violence arrests are typically made when a neighbor or bystander makes a call to the police. These charges can also be used as leverage in family law proceedings. It is important that your Sacramento domestic violence attorney takes the time to investigate your unique situation in order to build an aggressive case that protects your rights.
What's the Difference Between Assault & Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence is often defined as a separate crime from assault and battery. This means that someone who physically harmed their child or partner may be charged with domestic violence.
The Charges Will Vary Based On:
- The victim's injuries
- If a restraining order was violated
- If a minor was present
The sentences for crimes of this nature can be harsh. Jail time, restraining orders, mandatory counseling, and more may be required and can permanently affect your reputation.
Serving Sacramento and Surrounding Areas
Our criminal defense practice serves clients throughout:
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Sacramento
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Stockton
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Sacramento County
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Placer County
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Northern California
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Roseville
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Antioch
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Concord
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El Dorado County
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Yolo County
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Solano County
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San Joaquin County
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Sutter County
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Yuba County
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Vacaville
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Fairfield
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Elk Grove
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Folsom
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Citrus Heights
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Rancho Cordova
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Fair Oaks
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Carmichael
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Arden-Arcade
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Modesto
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Davis
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Woodland
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West Sacramento
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Auburn
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Rocklin
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Lincoln
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Granite Bay
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El Dorado Hills
Protect Your Rights with an Experienced California Domestic Violence Attorney
Statute of Limitations for Filing Domestic Violence Charges in CA
The statute of limitations for domestic violence charges in California is three years.
Accused of Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence often results from emotional situations. If you're facing charges, let the our team at the Law Office of Jonathan Gonzales help you win your case. These types of cases can be complex, but there are defenses that can be used to clear your name of any charges.
Sacramento domestic violence lawyer Jonathan Gonzales was undefeated in 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019 for jury trials and has experience with thousands of cases, including those involving felony domestic violence. In one case, the client was facing four felony domestic violence charges. The day before trial, all felonies were dismissed. The client pleaded to a misdemeanor and served no jail time.
Can You be Charged with Domestic Violence Without Proof?
It is possible to be charged with domestic violence without physical proof. The alleged victim can claim verbal and emotional abuse, as well as provide witness testimony, diary entries, phone recordings, videos, records of missed work or school due to injuries.
Prosecuting attorneys can utilize a wide breadth of creative means to product evidence in cases when physical injuries are not visible. This is another reason retaining experienced legal counsel when fighting domestic violence charges is crucial.
Contact Our Sacramento Criminal Defense Team
Don't face criminal charges alone. Our experienced attorneys are ready to protect your rights and fight for your future.
We Don’t Just Defend. We Deconstruct the Prosecution’s Case
Reasons to Choose Gonzales Law Office
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
In California, domestic violence includes abuse or threats of abuse against an intimate partner (such as a spouse, dating partner, cohabitant, or parent of a shared child). Abuse can be physical, emotional, sexual, or financial, and it doesn’t require causing physical injury—threatening or controlling behavior can also qualify under California Family Code § 6203.
Penalties depend on the specific charge, but common offenses include misdemeanor domestic battery (Penal Code § 243(e)(1)) punishable by up to a year in county jail and/or fines, or felony corporal injury to a spouse or cohabitant (Penal Code § 273.5) which can carry up to four years in state prison. Additional consequences often include mandatory counseling, restraining orders, and loss of firearm rights.
No, victims cannot drop charges themselves. Once police make an arrest, the case is in the hands of the district attorney, who decides whether to pursue or dismiss charges. Even if a victim recants or asks not to prosecute, the DA can continue with the case if there’s enough evidence.
Former Police Officer Lends Insight to Your Case
As a former Police Officer, Attorney Gonzales has valuable insight into how cases are handled and how charges are pursued, giving you an advantage at trial. He also understands how law enforcement can make mistakes, which could benefit your defense.
Sacramento criminal defense lawyer Gonzales, will investigate your case, collect evidence, and create a strong defense strategy to either get your entire case dismissed or your charges/penalties significantly reduced.
In fact, he has maintained an undefeated track record as a criminal defense lawyer at trial for the last three years by providing his clients with aggressive and personalized legal solutions. If you are facing criminal charges, our defense attorney in Sacramento can effectively advocate for your future.
