Our firm guides and represents its clients through every stage of a divorce proceeding.
The attorneys at GAJP, P.C. also provide counsel to victims and families dealing with the fallout of past domestic violence or protecting themselves from future occurrences. We manage the domestic violence law section of our family law practice with an understanding of the complex emotions these cases place on our clients. Know that your safety, well-being, and other goals will always be on our minds when advocating for you in a matter of domestic violence.
How Does California Define Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence can refer to a broad range of intentionally harmful and unwanted activities that one person commits against another with whom they have a special relationship (e.g., a spouse or cohabitant). Some examples of activity that may constitute domestic violence include:
- Physical acts of abuse
- Unwanted touching
- Rape and other forms of sexual abuse
- Written, verbal, and other forms of threatened physical harm
- Damaging personal property
- Harassment and stalking either in person or through other channels (e.g., phone, online, social media, etc.)
California also does not limit the labeling of domestic violence to physical acts of abuse that cause visible injury to a victim. In other words, you don’t need to have physical evidence of cuts, bruises, or other marks to make a claim of domestic violence and receive protection under the law.
Who Can Be a Victim of Domestic Violence Under the Law?
You may have traditionally viewed domestic violence as only being between spouses or married couples. However, California does not have this narrow scope over the relationships that can be subject to domestic violence. Domestic violence law in the state accounts for an expanded range of romantic and other special relationships that can qualify.
- A spouse
- A fiancé(e)
- Romantic partners or former partners
- A family member
California Domestic Violence Law Gives Victims Options
Our firm realizes that each domestic violence case will present unique circumstances and concerns for the victim, accused party, and related persons (e.g., children, other family members, etc.). We are careful to take these individual concerns into consideration when making recommendations to victims about their legal options. We strongly believe in enhancing domestic violence victims’ safety and the safety of those close to them.
Obtain a Restraining Order Against an Abusive Partner or Spouse
A restraining order (also known as a protective order) is a court document that imposes a burden on a party accused of domestic violence or other unwanted activity to refrain from contacting the victim. Protective orders can be a useful tool for victims of domestic violence to deter further acts of violence committed against them because violations of the order can result in severe penalties.
Pursue Full Custody to Protect Your Children
When domestic violence happens within a relationship that includes shared children, custody issues can arise. Securing full custody and restricted visitation rights can be a necessary step to protect the safety of your children.
Are There Any Defenses to Domestic Violence?
Some domestic violence cases are clearer than others, and occasionally cases will involve acts committed by both parties. We help clients work through more complex cases where injuries from alleged domestic violence result from accidents or self-defense.
Speak with a Domestic Violence Lawyer at GAJP, P.C.
Our attorneys at GAJP, P.C. leverage their 25 years of combined experience to bring the firm’s clients throughout Northern California real, effective results with issues of domestic violence law. With offices in Roseville, San Francisco, Sacramento, Folsom, and Concord, we always welcome the opportunity to meet with prospective clients to discuss their needs and to see how our firm may be able to assist.
Schedule a consultation with one of our domestic violence lawyers today.
