Domestic Violence Defense Attorney | Orange County

Act Fast: Domestic Violence Charges Require Immediate Action

Domestic violence (DV) charges are life-altering. A conviction can result in jail, restraining orders, loss of custody, and a permanent criminal record. Even being accused carries a heavy social stigma, job loss, and restricted access to your own home and children.

At Wallin & Klarich, we know time is critical. That’s why we provide immediate case evaluations 24/7—so you can start building your defense before charges are even filed.

Call now for a free consultation: (714) 730-5300

What is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence refers to abuse—whether physical, verbal, or emotional—committed against a person close to the defendant. According to California Penal Code §273.5 and §243(e)(1), this includes:

• Spouses or ex-spouses
• Dating partners or former partners
• Cohabitants or roommates
• Fiancé(e)s
• Co-parents of a child
• Immediate family members

Forms of abuse can include:

• Physical harm
• Threats of harm
• Stalking
• Property destruction
• Intimidation and emotional abuse

Domestic Violence Crimes We Defend

Wallin & Klarich has over 40 years of experience defending clients against a wide range of DV-related charges. Below are the most common charges and what you could be facing:

PC §273.5 – Infliction of Corporal Injury on a Spouse

• Charge: Felony or misdemeanor
• Penalties:
• 2–4 years in state prison (felony)
• Up to 1 year in county jail (misdemeanor)
• Up to $6,000 in fines
• Applies to: Spouses, cohabitants, dating partners, or co-parents
• Defense strategies: Self-defense, accidental injury, lack of intent, false accusation

PC §243(e)(1) – Domestic Battery

• Charge: Misdemeanor
• Penalties:
• Up to 1 year in county jail
• Fine of up to $2,000
• Defense strategies: No injury occurred, mutual confrontation, lack of credible witness

Other Related Charges We Defend

• PC §422 – Criminal Threats
• PC §646.9 – Stalking
• PC §236 – False Imprisonment
• PC §273a – Child Endangerment
• PC §273.6 – Restraining Order Violations

Each charge carries different penalties, but all can damage your freedom, rights, and future.

Penalties & Long-Term Consequences of a DV Conviction

Convictions can result in:

• Jail or prison time
• Restraining orders limiting home access and child visitation
• Loss of gun rights (federal and state)
• Permanent criminal record visible on background checks
• Immigration consequences
• Job termination and loss of professional licenses

Defense Strategies That Work

With over four decades of proven results, Wallin & Klarich uses advanced strategies tailored to your unique case. Common defenses include:

Self-Defense

You have the legal right to defend yourself if you are threatened. We’ll seek evidence of the accuser’s aggression, witness statements, or prior violent behavior.

False Allegations

Custody battles, jealousy, or revenge can all lead to false DV claims. We will expose inconsistencies in the accuser’s story and any motives for lying.

Accidental Contact

If the alleged harm was unintentional (e.g., breaking up a fight), we will present eyewitness accounts and context to prove no criminal intent.

Alibi / Mistaken Identity

We’ll work with investigators to present a credible alibi, surveillance footage, or communication logs showing you weren’t at the scene.

Every case is different. That’s why we start with a detailed, confidential consultation to craft the strongest possible defense.

What Happens After a DV Arrest in California?

Wallin & Klarich can step in immediately—even before charges are formally filed.

Here’s what to expect:

1. Police report and arrest
2. Booking and possible bail
3. Arraignment (formal reading of charges)
4. Protective or restraining orders
5. Pre-trial hearings
6. Trial or plea negotiations

We help at every stage, with the goal of getting your case dismissed early or charges reduced.

Why Hire Wallin & Klarich for Your DV Defense?

Former Prosecutors on Your Side

We understand how prosecutors think—because we were prosecutors. That gives us insight into weaknesses in the case against you.

Track Record of Success

Hundreds of DV cases dismissed, charges reduced, or resolved through favorable plea deals. Read our testimonials or ask us for case examples.

24/7 Communication

We keep clients fully informed. You’ll never feel lost or ignored—we’re available by phone, email, and live chat around the clock.

Recognized Excellence

• 40+ Years of Criminal Defense
• Rated by Super Lawyers and Avvo
• Featured in major legal publications

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can charges be dropped if the victim doesn’t press them?
No. Only the District Attorney can drop charges once filed, regardless of the victim’s wishes.

Will a DV arrest appear on a background check?
Yes, even without a conviction, unless sealed or expunged.

Can I see my kids if there’s a restraining order?
Not unless the court permits it. We can fight to modify or remove restrictions.

What if I live with the alleged victim?
You may be forced to move out temporarily. We can petition to change this.

What is the best way to beat domestic violence charges?
By acting early, finding holes in the evidence, and using strategic negotiation and trial tactics.

Take Action Before Charges Destroy Your Future

Cases are won in the courtroom, but made in the office. At Wallin & Klarich, we believe that communication and transparency are vital to a successful case. With all the paperwork and legal jargon, we have found that when persons hire other law firms it is common for clients to get lost in the legal process and only have a vague idea of what is going on in their case. We believe this is very unfair to the client. By keeping an open line of communication with our clients and walking side-by-side through all the steps of the case, we have found that our clients are better informed about what is going on in their case and often receive a better outcome when communication is kept at the forefront of our efforts. 

Give us a call at (714) 730-5300 and let’s begin communicating on how we can achieve a successful outcome in your case.