Domestic violence is a serious problem in California and the United States. Whether you are facing charges of domestic violence or have experienced domestic violence from a family member, you need a Redondo Beach domestic violence lawyer to represent your interests and protect your rights during this challenging time.
Hire a Domestic Violence Lawyer
Domestic violence charges can have serious consequences during divorce proceedings and child support or custody battles. If you are facing charges or have been the victim of domestic violence, you should hire a domestic violence lawyer. The Board-Certified Family Law Specialists at Rombro & Manley LLP have over 65 years of combined experience in handling family law cases across California.
Domestic Violence in the United States
In early 2026, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Uniform Crime Reporting Program released a special report on domestic violence. The report focused on the crimes of murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault that happened between family members. The report found that incidents of violent crime classified as domestic violence increased from 25.6% in 2020 to 27.5% in 2024.
From 2020 to 2024, a total of 1,109,797 people were the victims of a domestic violence episode, and an additional 11,466 people were murdered during a domestic violence incident. Most victims of violence (74.5%) were women.
Throughout 2023 in California, law enforcement officers received over 160,000 calls for domestic violence-related incidents. This number represents 18 calls per hour, a decline from 2001, when officers received 23 calls per hour. Although the overall rate has decreased, more calls are for aggravated domestic violence. In 2013, only 6% of calls involved aggravated domestic violence, compared with 12.5% in 2023.
If you are facing domestic violence charges or have been the victim of domestic violence, the case should be handled at the Torrance Courthouse by the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Family law issues that could be affected by domestic violence laws, such as divorces, restraining orders, child custody, or child support, can also be handled at the Torrance Courthouse.
The Domestic Violence Arrest Process
A domestic violence arrest can be initiated in many ways. The person experiencing the violence could notify the police, or a bystander may hear or see something that they think justifies police intervention. Regardless of how officers are notified, once an arrest is made, the prosecutor’s office decides if the charges should be pursued.
After the initial arrest, you are taken to your local jail for booking. During booking, your personal information is recorded, along with your fingerprints and pictures. Within 48 hours, you should be seen by a judge to review the charges and set bail.
After the initial arrest, if there is sufficient evidence to warrant moving forward with the charges, some common mistakes could affect the ultimate outcome of the case. These include:
Violating any court-ordered conditions of release. If the judge sets conditions for your release, violating those conditions could result in your release being revoked. You could end up in jail, and you could receive new charges.
Contacting the victim. Even if it is not a specific condition of your release, it is always a good idea to minimize any contact you have with the alleged victim.
Limit who you talk to about your case. Talking to friends or family about your case could backfire if they decide to speak with the prosecution. Likewise, anything you post about the case on social media could be used against you.
FAQs About Redondo Beach, CA Domestic Violence Laws
Does a Victim of Domestic Violence Need a Lawyer?
Yes, if you have been the victim of domestic violence, you could benefit from having your own lawyer familiar with domestic violence cases. It is very common for police and prosecutors to be insensitive to the difficulties domestic violence survivors may face. When you have your own Redondo Beach domestic violence attorney, you have an advocate who is interested in upholding your rights. Your lawyer can represent your interests and minimize your contact with the accused.
Why Do Most Domestic Violence Cases Get Dismissed?
Most domestic violence cases get dismissed due to a lack of evidence. If there is little physical or direct evidence, the case could be dismissed if the victim is unwilling to cooperate with the investigation. If there is evidence that the accused acted in self-defense or both parties engaged in physical violence, the case could be dismissed.
What Qualifies as Domestic Violence in California?
In California, domestic violence includes several behaviors, such as intentionally or recklessly causing bodily harm to a family member or someone who lives in the same household, including sexual assault.
Threats of bodily harm can also be considered domestic violence. Actions that cause someone to fear immediate bodily harm are also considered domestic violence when they are against a family member or member of the household.
Are Domestic Violence Charges Eligible for Diversion Programs in California?
In California, domestic violence charges do not generally qualify for diversion programs unless the incident was the result of a mental health condition. If you are accused of domestic violence and have a qualifying mental health diagnosis, you could qualify for mental health diversion if your illness was a factor in the incident. Qualifying conditions include bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
How Does Domestic Violence Affect Divorce and Child Custody in California?
Allegations of domestic violence have several effects on divorce and child custody proceedings in California. When filing for divorce, if there is a history of domestic violence, the judge can issue a restraining order, and temporary assistance orders can be in place until the process is finalized. Parents with a history of domestic violence are very unlikely to receive any type of custody of minor children. A judge may award visitation, but it is likely to be supervised.
Contact a Redondo Domestic Violence Lawyer at Rombro & Manley LLP
Domestic violence charges can alter many family law matters. If you are facing accusations of domestic violence, an established law firm can review the facts of your case and determine an appropriate defense strategy. If you have experienced domestic violence, an attorney in Redondo Beach, CA can build a case for spousal support, child custody, or child support. Contact Rombro & Manley LLP today to arrange your initial consultation.
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