Domestic Violence

Domestic Battery: Under California Penal Code Section 243(e)(1), a defendant can be charged with domestic battery if they inflict force or violence on an intimate partner. The terms ‘force’ and ‘violence’ are used broadly under this state statute. A defendant does not need to cause a visible injury to their partner to be charged with domestic battery in California. A person could face domestic battery charges even if there was no physical contact. Domestic battery is a misdemeanor offense. It is punishable by a $2,000 financial penalty and up to one year in jail.

Corporal Injury to a Spouse or Inhabitant: Under California Penal Code Section 273.5(a), a defendant who inflicts a ‘corporal injury’ on a close family member or intimate partner may be charged with a felony offense. Many different types of injuries are covered by this statute. Any unlawful acts that cause a visible injury or pain to the other party could be covered by this domestic violence law. A conviction for domestic violence under Section 273.5(a) carries up to four years in prison.