Domestic violence cases are often complex and not straightforward. It’s recommended that you work with a qualified domestic violence attorney who can ensure your case is handled properly, advocate on your behalf, and give you a fair chance of a successful resolution. An experienced lawyer can help answer the question, “What makes a strong domestic violence case in California?”
When to Hire a Domestic Violence Lawyer
Domestic violence covers a wide range of behaviors perpetrated by someone against a former or current intimate partner, roommate, or family member. These behaviors include making threats, physical and emotional abuse, battery, stalking, harassment, sexual assault, and more, or a combination of these offenses.
California domestic violence laws permit victims to pursue a restraining order. A restraining order is a legal document that names the offender and holds them to terms that must be followed, or else they can be held in contempt of court and face serious domestic violence penalties.
If you have experienced some form of violence at home or at the hands of a partner, current or past, it may be worth considering obtaining a restraining order with the help of a qualified and experienced Santa Barbara domestic violence lawyer.
The most recent data reports that California law enforcement received more than 160,000 calls related to domestic violence in 2023. This is about 18 calls per hour. California police reported receiving over 128,000 calls in urban counties and over 24,000 calls in suburban counties.
Elements of a Strong Domestic Violence Case
If you have experienced domestic violence or are potentially in danger of experiencing domestic violence, you can pursue a restraining order. The courts take domestic violence very seriously. Victims must present enough compelling evidence to establish that such violence or threat of violence has taken place. The key to a strong domestic violence case is presenting sufficient evidence.
With the help of a capable attorney, these are some forms of evidence you should aim to collect in your domestic violence case:
- Physical evidence. Examples include photographs of property damage or bodily injuries, medical records from hospital visits or therapy sessions, and police reports related to past incidents.
- Digital proof. Evidence may include text messages, emails, or social media screenshots that speak to threatening or controlling behavior, abuse patterns, and instances of stalking or harassment.
- Witness testimonies. First-hand accounts from friends or family, or observations from professionals such as doctors and counselors, are effective witness testimonies.
- Financial documentation. Examples include bank statements of unauthorized withdrawals and credit records that show financial abuse.
Trust Drury Pullen Law to Handle Your Case
Drury Pullen Law, a family law and civil litigation practice, was established in 2004 by attorneys Jennifer E. Drury and Susanna V. Pullen. If you’re looking to hire a domestic violence lawyer, look no further than the professionals at Drury Pullen Law. Our team has years of experience successfully assisting clients and their families through litigation and legal disputes.
The legal venue where your domestic violence restraining order case may be processed can vary depending on where you live. The Santa Barbara Division courthouse is located at 1100 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. Cases closer to the Santa Maria area of the county may go through the city’s Division court, located at 312 Cook Street, Dept. 8, Santa Maria, CA 93455. Be sure to consult your domestic violence lawyer to find out where your case may be handled.
FAQs
Q: What Evidence Should Be Collected in a Domestic Violence Case?
A: The most effective way to build a strong domestic violence case when filing a restraining order is by making sure you collect sufficient evidence. You should gather any evidence that may be relevant and that helps illustrate the nature and extent of the domestic abuse or threat of abuse you have experienced.
This includes photographs of injuries or property damage, documentation of related medical visits, or proof of financial abuse, digital evidence of threatening messages, and witness testimonies.
Q: Who Is Eligible to File a Domestic Violence Restraining Order?
A: Any victim of domestic violence or a person in imminent danger of domestic violence can file a restraining order in the state of California. Domestic violence is a broad term for a range of threatening, disparaging, controlling, or violent behaviors.
Domestic violence must be between individuals who have an intimate or familial relationship. This includes current or former spouses or partners, current or former roommates, parents, children, siblings, coparents, and other relatives.
Q: How Do I Know if My Case Is a Strong Domestic Violence Case?
A: If you are wondering whether there may be enough evidence to support your request for a restraining order after experiencing threats or actual domestic violence, be sure to consult with an experienced lawyer.
A skilled domestic violence attorney can assess the details of your situation and let you know whether you may have a strong case based on what evidence you currently have available. A lawyer can also assist you in collecting proof and explain which evidence is most convincing.
Q: How Can a Domestic Violence Lawyer Help Me in California?
A: There are multiple benefits to working with a California domestic violence lawyer because they can significantly help your case. Your lawyer is there to effectively build a strong case on your behalf and present it to the court in a way that accurately and clearly depicts the facts. It can be overwhelming to handle the legal process on your own, so it’s helpful to have a legal professional who can gather evidence, provide support, and guide you through the steps.
Speak With a Santa Barbara Domestic Violence Lawyer
At Drury Pullen Law, our legal team is dedicated to helping you resolve any domestic violence issues you may be facing. With our help, you can protect yourself and secure a strong position for your future. Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation with a qualified and skilled family law professional. Our legal team can help you explore your options.