Getting charged with one domestic violence offense can lead to serious consequences but when you’re charged with subsequent offenses, the penalties can become more and more serious. In fact, this is true of most any crime in California – repeat offenders are likely to face more serious criminal consequences. However, this can also mean that a judge or jury is prejudiced against by simply knowing that you’ve been convicted of this crime in the past.

Regardless of the circumstances of your first conviction, or your second arrest, it’s essential that you work with a criminal defense attorney. At Law Office of Michael L. Fell, we can help you find the best possible way to defend yourself. We will fight tirelessly for your rights and fight aggressively for the best possible outcome. Call us today at (949) 585-9055 for a free legal consultation.

Potential penalties for a second offense conviction for domestic violence

According to the California Penal Code, a first offense of domestic violence can result in up to a year in jail and fines of up to $2,000. A second offense can result in even more jail time. A first charge of domestic violence that causes injury, which is often filed as a felony, can result in up to four years in prison and fines of as much as $6,000.

If you’re convicted of a second offense of domestic violence within seven years of the first conviction, you could be look at up to five years in prison and fines of as high as $10,000. Note that these examples relate to a situation in which the only charge is domestic violence. In reality, it’s often the case that domestic violence charges come with additional crimes. Remember too that if you are convicted of domestic violence that resulted in bodily harm, you could end up with a strike on your record. If you get three strikes, you’ll be spending 25 years to life in prison.

Why is it so important to fight this charge?

As you can see, the penalties of a second conviction are much more severe than the penalties for a first charge. Additionally, a second conviction often also results in the need to be restitution to the victim, to donate money to a domestic violence program, to take part in an anger management program, to be treated in a batterer’s treatment program, and give up your firearms.

Note as well that in order for you to get charged with a second offense, the alleged victim doesn’t have to be the same person. Note as well that if you’ve violated a restraining order when committing the alleged domestic violence that your criminal penalties and charges could be even higher.

This is a serious charge and it requires the help of an attorney who’s serious about providing the best possible defense for you. Contact Law Office of Michael L. Fell at (949) 585-9055 today for a free legal consultation. You are not in this alone – let us help.