California Deaths Highlight Domestic Violence Issues

Several domestic violence deaths in California last year that were concentrated in the Bay area put the social issue in the spotlight. A Petaluma schoolteacher was killed by her estranged husband in April 2012 who then killed himself. The day before the incident, another man killed his ex-girlfriend in a San Jose parking lot before killing himself. In March 2012, a Brentwood man shot his wife before killing himself with the same gun. In Gilroy, California one murder-suicide and a double murder-suicide occurred within five months, both committed by family members. As examples of domestic violence, these cases demonstrate the extremes.

Most domestic violence cases involve a lesser degree of violence, which can range from verbal abuse to stalking, threats of harm, intimidation, or control of finances to physical abuse in the form of hitting, punching, kicking, or other types of force. According to the California Partnership to End Domestic Violence, domestic violence as a behavior generally escalates over time. Often it is associated with the breakups of relationships, divorce, and child custody matters where emotions run high and often go out of control. The U.S. Justice Department has reported that one out of six women have experienced some form of domestic violence in their lifetime.

Domestic Violence Lawyer in Solano County, California

A domestic violence arrest and charge is a serious legal matter; penalties upon a conviction can be very harsh, including up to four years in a state prison and fines of up to $6,000. Many domestic violence crime accusations are the result of exaggerations, half-truths, and efforts to gain a legal advantage on the part of the accuser. Those facing such allegations should immediately retain the services of a qualified attorney in order to have a real chance at fair treatment throughout the criminal process.

The Maas Law Firm is a team of attorneys with 20 years of experience who focus their practice exclusively on criminal defense. That means that your case will be in the hands of a legal representative with an abundance of knowledge and practical skill at creating viable defense strategies in the court systems in your local area. The firm serves clients in the counties of Solano, Contra Costa, Napa, Yolo, and Sacramento. Contact the firm to speak with one of the legal team about your domestic violence charges or any other type of criminal case today.