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Understanding Domestic Violence: Types and Implications in California

April 4, 2024 / / 0 Comments

Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that affects many men and women across the world. According to CDPH, one in five women and one in seven men have reported facing domestic violence. However, it is defined as a pattern of abusive behavior, and it takes various forms. In this month’s blog, we will take a closer look at this important topic, its legal implications, and the resources available for victims.

Defining Domestic Violence in California

While it often goes unreported, it is important to understand what domestic violence is, as well as why you may need to act. California law defines domestic violence as any form of abuse committed between individuals who have a close relationship, such as spouses or former spouses, cohabitants, individuals in a dating relationship, or parents and their children. This includes threatening to use force against him or her or any physical force that requires a restraining order.

Related: Learn more about restraining orders in California here.

Domestic Violence Penalties in California

In California, penalties for domestic violence typically vary between misdemeanor and felony charges, making them what’s known as “wobbler” offenses. The decision on whether to classify the crime as a misdemeanor or felony is based on factors such as the individual’s prior criminal record and the extent of the victim’s injuries.

Types of Domestic Violence in California:

1. Physical Abuse:

This includes hitting, punching, kicking, slapping, choking, or any form of physical harm inflicted on the victim. Bruises, broken bones, and other injuries are common outcomes of physical abuse.

2. Emotional or Psychological Abuse:

This type of abuse is often less visible but equally damaging. It includes verbal threats, insults, humiliation, manipulation, and isolation from friends and family.

3. Sexual Abuse:

Sexual abuse involves forced or coerced sexual acts, including rape, unwanted touching, and sexual degradation. These are also all harassment, and you have the right to get a restraining order to avoid any arguments.

Related: Learn more about how to deal with ex-spouse harassment here.

4. Financial Abuse:

Financial abuse occurs when the abuser controls the victim’s finances, restricts access to money, or sabotages their employment or financial stability. This can leave victims financially dependent and unable to leave the abusive relationship.

5. Digital Abuse:

With the rise of technology, digital abuse has become increasingly common. Examples of digital abuse includes: revenge porn, sexually harassing a partner online, controlling a partner’s social media accounts, requiring that a partner keep their phone with them at all time to respond to calls and texts, and using technology to monitor the other person’s actions both on and offline.

Conclusion

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, you don’t have to face it alone. Family Law Richard E. Young & Associates is here to provide compassionate support and expert legal guidance through this challenging time. Our experienced team understands the complexities of domestic abuse cases and is committed to advocating fiercely for your rights and safety. We offer a safe and confidential environment where you can discuss your situation without judgment. Don’t wait any longer to seek help – contact us today at (949) 951-9529 to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards reclaiming your life.


A Guide to Restraining Orders in California

March 7, 2024 / / 0 Comments

Navigating the complexities of restraining orders can be a challenging and overwhelming process, especially when dealing with issues of safety and protection. In California, restraining orders are legal tools designed to provide individuals with protection from harassment, abuse, or threats from another party. Understanding the different types of restraining orders available and the legal procedures involved is crucial for those seeking legal protection in times of distress. In this blog post, we will provide a comprehensive guide to restraining orders in California to help shed light on this important legal aspect.

The Different Types of Restraining Orders

In California, there are various types of restraining orders, each serving specific purposes and providing different levels of protection. Understanding the nuances of these different types of restraining orders and their legal requirements is essential for victims.

  1. Domestic Violence: This restraining order is sought by an individual who has been subjected to abuse, threats, or harassment by a current or former intimate partner or family member. It aims to protect victims of domestic violence and their children from further harm, requiring the abuser to stay away from the victim and cease all forms of contact.
  2. Civil Harassment: This restraining order is used in cases where an individual is being harassed, stalked, or abused by someone who is not related to them. It provides protection against non-intimate partners, neighbors, acquaintances, or strangers who pose a threat to the victim’s safety or well-being.
  3. Elder Abuse: This is designed to protect elderly individuals (65 or older) or dependent adults from abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, or any form of mistreatment. It is crucial in safeguarding vulnerable older adults from harm and ensuring their safety and well-being.
  4. Workplace Violence: This restraining order is sought in cases where an individual poses a threat or danger to others in a work environment. It protects employees, employers, or other personnel from potential acts of violence, harassment, or intimidation in the workplace.
  5. Gun Violence: A gun violence restraining order is issued when law enforcement has reason to believe that an individual poses a risk of harming themselves or others with a firearm. This legal measure restricts the individual from purchasing or possessing a gun for a specified period. However, it does not have the authority to mandate the individual to stay away from someone.
  6. School Violence: This restraining order protects students, teachers, or school staff from threats, harassment, or violence within an educational setting.

Related: “4 Benefits of Getting a Restraining Order”

Conclusion

When faced with the need for a restraining order in California, it is crucial to seek legal guidance and support from experienced professionals who can navigate the legal system effectively. At Family Law Richard E. Young & Associates in Lake Forest, CA, our team of dedicated attorneys specializes in family law matters, including restraining orders and legal protections. Visit our website at richardeyoungattorney.net or call us at (949) 951-9529 to schedule a consultation and explore your legal options. Let us help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of obtaining the legal protection you need.

How to Deal With an Ex-Spouse Harassment

March 10, 2023 / / 0 Comments

The relationship between ex-spouses is tricky and often hard to manage. While some are ready to move on from past relationships, others are so mired in anger and other negative feelings that they can’t let go, especially during a divorce. The law knows this and offers some ways of legally dealing with harassment if your ex-partner keeps harassing or intimidating you. The following are some ways to help you deal with this.

What is Harassment?

Harassment is any unwanted behavior that can cause physical and mental damage. Harassment comes in many forms, from verbal abuse to stalking to physical abuse. These are all harassment as per Californian harassment laws. If you are a victim of harassment, contact the police or your domestic violence attorney to decide what actions you may be able to take.

Should You Retaliate?

The first step in dealing with a harassing ex-spouse is to always take the high road and never get back at them. This will just make things worse, and you might even share culpability with them if the problem reaches the court. Instead, document the harassment and get a restraining order to avoid any arguments or discussions that could escalate the situation.

Related: Learn more about the benefits of getting a restraining order here.

Empower Yourself with Options

If your ex-spouse’s harassment continues and the restraining order doesn’t do the trick, go for other options. As additional protection, inform some trusted friends about the situation and seek legal assistance if your ex-partner is still trying to bait you into an interaction. Legal action can provide you with legal protection from further harassment and ensure that your ex-spouse faces legal consequences for their behavior.

Related: learn more about how and when to file a complaint for domestic violence here.

Reach Out To Local Support and Resources

Dealing with a harassing ex-spouse is indeed a troubling time, but it doesn’t mean it’s impossible to remain emotionally safe. You can reach out to a support group for people who are going through a divorce, as they can offer you practical advice and emotional support. Many local resources can be found here.

Rely on Family Law Richard E. Young & Associates

Family Law Richard E. Young & Associates has a history of helping clients protect themselves through harassment cases. We are well-versed in domestic violence laws and will get your rights back by any means. Contact our law firm today at (949) 951-9529 or visit our website for more information.

Filing a Complaint for Domestic Violence: Step by Step

October 21, 2022 / / 0 Comments

Domestic violence is punishable by law, whether a man or a woman is targeted, and whether it’s physical, psychological, or sexual. This concerns violence committed between married and unmarried couples. However, whatever your situation, you must not remain without reaction if you are a victim, and you have to start acting to regain your reputation and rights. In this month’s blog, we’ve compiled the main steps to take in order to get your desired outcome.

Understand Domestic Violence Laws

Fights between couples are common. However, not all domestic disputes can turn violent and abusive. On the other hand, if you were seriously abused or physically harmed, or even your significant other starts throwing things, start acting without second thoughts. These are all abuses as per California domestic violence laws. Gather as much evidence as possible to support your complaint file. For instance: photographs, audio and video recordings, testimonials, medical opinions, etc.

Report to the Police

When you first meet with the police, they will write up a strong report. The report will be written based on the evidence you’ve gathered and accompanied by basic information like the date and location of the case and a summary of what happened. Nevertheless, the police will ask you more questions and will ask you for details about what happened. So be prepared and be honest!

Be Accompanied by a Specialized Lawyer and Level with Them

The recent famous trial between Johnny Depp and Amber Heard is a case in point on how important choosing a specialized lawyer can benefit you. Choosing an experienced and specialized lawyer is a critical step to give you every chance of being well-advised and defended. He or she will provide all the answers to the questions you have and, if necessary, will represent you in court and accompany you throughout the proceedings.

Related: Learn more about why you need a domestic violence attorney here.

Conclusion

Violence between significant others is one of the most delicate cases because of the closeness and attachment between the perpetrator and the victim. The victim may find themselves confronted with ambivalent feelings, but still, domestic violence is a big no-no in any case.

If you live in Orange County, CA, and need the help of an expert domestic violence lawyer, seek out Family Law Richard E. Young & Associates. We are well-versed with California laws and will get your rights back by any means. Contact our firm today at (949) 951-9529.

The 5 Types of Restraining Orders in California

March 12, 2018 / / 0 Comments

Everyone should be afforded the most basic right of safety in their day to day routine. Unfortunately, strenuous relationships with personal or professional acquaintances can often leave many feeling like that very safety is in jeopardy. In the face of that uncertainty, restraining orders help protect you and your loved ones from those you feel to be a threat.

Of course, when it comes to securing a restraining order, knowing which ones are made available to you can help you better protect what matters most. Read on for a brief rundown of the different restraining orders California has to offer and find an attorney with experience with those kinds of cases.

Domestic Violence Restraining Orders

Like the name implies, domestic restraining orders are reserved for victims of abuse in the home. For a relationship to be eligible for this variety of restraining order, both parties need to either be in a domestic relationship or be closely related. Some examples of these kinds of relationships include:

● Married couples
● Divorced couples
● Both current and former dating couples
● Couples with children

Contrary to popular belief, roommates aren’t eligible for a domestic restraining order.

Workplace Restraining Orders

Reserved for troublesome relationships in the workplace, employers are tasked with securing workplace restraining orders for employees they feel have their safety threatened. Whether the relationship has spurred threats, harassment, stalking, or physical violence, this restraining order is geared to address the issue.

Civil Harassment Restraining Orders

Conversely related to the domestic violence restraining order, civil harassment orders are reserved for relationships that don’t fall into the prior category. Relationships such as neighbors, friends, and family are all eligible for these sorts of restraining orders.

Dependent Abuse Restraining Orders

Abused victims over the age of 65 or those above 18 with mental or physical disabilities can be eligible for a dependent abuse restraining order if they are being physical or mentally abused. In cases like these, “abuse” can mean a variety of things including neglect, abandonment, financial abuse, or even deprivation of care from a designated caregiver.

Emergency Protective Restraining Order

In special scenarios where a victim feels like they are at immediate risk of harm or abuse, they can place a request with their local law enforcement authorities for an emergency protective restraining order. These orders a typically short and very limited in duration and must be regularly extended until a more iron-clad restraining order can be secured.

Conclusion

When it comes to your protection and safety, knowing what options are made available to you is essential. Always stay informed about the different kinds of restraining orders made available to you in California and leave both you and your loved ones’ safety in capable hands.

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