MODESTO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ATTORNEY

Experienced Defense Against Domestic Violence Charges in Modesto, California

If you have been accused of or charged with domestic violence, it is vital to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. A conviction for a domestic violence offense in Modesto or anywhere in California can result in incarceration, the loss of important rights, severe damage to your reputation, and long-lasting harm to your future.

At the Law Offices of Richard A. Meyer, we dedicate ourselves to helping those facing domestic violence charges protect their legal rights. Our domestic violence attorney in Modesto brings over 21 years of experience and has guided countless clients through the complex criminal justice system to confront even the most challenging charges.

When you hire the Law Offices of Richard A. Meyer, you can be confident that your domestic violence case is handled meticulously. We have deep experience with all types of domestic violence allegations, including:

• Physical abuse
• Emotional abuse
• Financial abuse
• Stalking and harassment

Call (209) 529-1112 or contact us online to request a free and confidential consultation with a domestic violence lawyer in Modesto.

California Domestic Violence Laws 

In California, domestic violence is not a single crime but a category of offenses defined by the relationship between the accused and the alleged victim. The law distinguishes between a crime that causes injury and one that involves force without injury. The outcome of your case hinges on which statute the prosecution files.

The majority of domestic violence charges in California are filed under two primary Penal Codes:

• Penal Code § 273.5 PC – Corporal Injury to a Spouse or Cohabitant:
  • This is the more serious charge and is filed when the accused willfully inflicts corporal injury resulting in a traumatic condition upon an intimate partner.
  • Traumatic condition is defined broadly and includes even minor injuries like a bruise, swelling, or a scratch. It does not have to be a severe injury.
  • This offense is a "wobbler," meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the severity of the injury and your criminal history.
• Penal Code § 243(e)(1) PC – Domestic Battery:
  • This is a misdemeanor charge and is filed when the accused commits a simple battery (any willful and unlawful use of force or violence) against an intimate partner.
  • Crucially, this statute does not require a visible injury for charges to be filed. The slightest offensive or harmful touching is enough.

The law applies when the alleged victim is a current or former spouse, cohabitant, fiancé, parent of your child, or someone you have a dating relationship with. Regardless of the charge, working with a seasoned domestic violence lawyer in Modesto is essential to understanding the nuances of your specific situation.

Types of Domestic Violence Cases We Handle

Our firm represents clients facing a broad spectrum of domestic violence charges in Modesto, including these common scenarios:

If you have been charged with domestic violence, do not delay in speaking with a criminal defense attorney. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your circumstances and provide valuable legal advice tailored to your case.

Legal Penalties for Domestic Violence in California

The legal consequences of a domestic violence conviction in California depend on the charge’s severity and your personal circumstances.

Misdemeanor Domestic Battery (Penal Code 243(e)(1)):

• Up to one year in county jail
• Fines up to $2,000
• Summary probation for up to three years
• Completion of a 52-week batterer's intervention program

Felony Domestic Violence (Penal Code 273.5):

• Imprisonment from two to four years
• Fines up to $6,000
• Formal probation, which may involve counseling and community service

Domestic violence charges can be prosecuted as either misdemeanors or felonies depending on factors like the level of injury, whether a weapon was used, and the accused’s prior criminal record. Even first-time offenders in Modesto face the prospect of jail time and heavy fines, as both state and local courts take these allegations seriously. 

In many cases, a conviction can result in loss of child custody, loss of access to firearms, job repercussions, immigration consequences for non-citizens, and lasting reputational harm. As your domestic violence attorneys in Modesto, we help you understand these risks and take comprehensive steps to protect your future at every opportunity.

Protective Orders & Their Impact in Modesto

When a domestic violence case is filed in Stanislaus County, courts may issue a protective order—either temporary or permanent—against the accused. 

These protective orders can take several forms:

• Emergency Protective Orders (EPOs) – Ordered immediately by law enforcement and typically lasting up to 7 days
• Temporary Restraining Orders (TROs) – Valid for up to 25 days until a more comprehensive court hearing
• Permanent Restraining Orders – Can last up to five years, restricting contact with the alleged victim and affecting where you may live

Violating a restraining order brings its own criminal penalties and immediate legal consequences. Working closely with a knowledgeable domestic violence lawyer in Modesto can help you stay in compliance and protect your rights as you respond to these serious allegations.

Our Comprehensive Approach to Domestic Violence Defense

The Law Offices of Richard A. Meyer offers a defense strategy built on accessibility, experience, and aggressive advocacy. When you hire us, you get a dedicated Modesto domestic violence attorney who is focused on mitigating the damage and securing the best possible outcome.

Our strategy pillars:

• Challenging the Alleged Injury: For PC 273.5 cases, we often argue that the injury was not caused by a willful act, or that the traumatic condition existed prior to the incident or resulted from an accident.
• Self-Defense and Defense of Others: In many domestic violence cases, the accused was simply defending themselves from the alleged victim. We gather evidence to support this affirmative defense, including testimony and a careful review of the location.
• False Accusations and Recantation: We understand that accusations are often made in the heat of a moment, or fabricated for strategic advantage in family court. We investigate the victim's motive, financial interests, and history of inconsistency. While the prosecutor may proceed without the victim's cooperation, an experienced domestic violence lawyer in Modesto uses the recantation or reluctance to undermine the State's case.
• Cultural and Language Barriers: We offer affordable and bilingual services because we understand that misunderstandings, fear, and police communication can be severely distorted by language barriers. We ensure all evidence and client communication is perfectly clear and accurately represented.

Protecting Your Rights & Safety with a Domestic Violence Attorney in Modesto

Domestic violence cases are often emotionally challenging and legally complex, but with the right domestic violence lawyer in Modesto, you can safeguard your rights and future. At the Law Offices of Richard A. Meyer, we are driven by a commitment to compassionate counsel and powerful legal advocacy. Whether defending against charges or supporting those seeking protection, our client-focused approach addresses every unique detail of your situation.

When you work with our Modesto domestic violence attorneys, you benefit from:

• Personalized guidance and client support
• Assertive advocacy in every legal proceeding
• Consistent communication and honest answers
• An unwavering focus on protecting your future and reputation

If you, your family member, or someone you know is facing a domestic violence situation in Modesto, don’t wait to get help. Your safety, legal rights, and peace of mind are our top priorities—schedule a free, confidential consultation with our domestic violence attorney in Modesto today.

Contact Our Domestic Violence Attorney in Modesto Today

The criminal justice system can be overwhelming and confusing when facing domestic violence charges. You need an experienced domestic violence attorney in Modesto who understands how to navigate the courts and protect your rights through every phase of the process. At the Law Offices of Richard A. Meyer, our Modesto-based defense lawyer delivers strategic, aggressive, and personalized representation for every client.

For immediate assistance, call (209) 529-1112 or contact us online to speak with a domestic violence attorney in Modesto.

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