When people think of domestic violence, they often think of a single type of crime: A man hitting a woman. This is far from accurate. The truth is that domestic violence can affect both men and women and both men and women can be perpetrators. It is also true that there are many other charges that fall under the umbrella term of domestic violence. Read on to learn more and then contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 if you have been accused of committing any type of domestic violence.
Corporal Injury on a Spouse (or Cohabitant)
When a person willfully harms their spouse or another intimate partner (this includes an ex-spouse or ex-boy/girlfriend, or the parent of their child) and causes visible injury this can be considered corporal injury on a spouse. It can be severe and include broken bones and the victim going into a coma, or it could be as simple as a mild bruise or swelling.
Depending on the specifics of the case, it can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony – it largely depends on how serious the injury was. Convictions can come with fines of as much as $6,000 and/or time in prison of up to four years.
Domestic Battery
One way some people describe this charge is by comparing it to corporal injury on a spouse – it is essentially a lesser version of that charge. It is always a misdemeanor that involves someone unlawfully touching or striking another person in a way that is construed as violent. The main difference here is that there is no need for physical evidence of an injury – the perpetrator need only have used force or violence.
Child Abuse
A charge of child abuse involves committing physical violence against a minor that results in an injury. This can range from serious, life-threatening harm down to a parent punishing their child. While California law does allow a parent to spank their child, if there is any mark left then it is considered abuse by the state. Child abuse can be a felony or misdemeanor and can result in as long as six years in prison.
Child Endangerment and Child Neglect
Child endangerment and child neglect both fall under the umbrella of domestic violence and both can be charged even when a child was not physically struck. Endangerment refers to allowing a child who is under your care to be injured or put into a situation where they could be injured. As you can see, this is a very vague definition. Neglect refers to refusing to provide necessary care to a child under your care.
If you have been charged with any of these offenses then you need a qualified criminal defense attorney. You have found that person in Chambers Law Firm. Call our offices now at 714-760-4088 to request a free case evaluation.
