Obama Signs New Violence Against Women Act

In March of this year, President Obama signed the reauthorized and updated Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) which had lapsed in 2011 after being blocked in Congress. The new VAWA includes protections against domestic violence and sexual assault for all victims, including gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender individuals. The law also allows tribal authorities for Native Americans to prosecute non-Native Americans who commit domestic violence crimes on tribal lands. The VAWA authorizes hundreds of millions in federal funds for domestic violence programs, adds new regulations regarding domestic violence against women on college campuses, and protects undocumented immigrants against stalking.

In California, Section 243 of the Penal Code defines simple battery in domestic situations, which involves even the most minimal amount of force. An individual can be charged with this offense in the event of any unwanted physical contact, no matter how slight. Therefore, even without a visible trace of any injury, one party can accuse another of a domestic battery misdemeanor. Those convicted of misdemeanor domestic battery may be punished with up to a year in a county jail, fines of up to $2,000, and up to three years of informal probation along with the completion of a court-ordered domestic batterer's program. In cases where applicable, defendants may be required to pay for the repair of any damaged property or for any medical expenses incurred by victims.

Legal Representation Against Domestic Violence Allegations in the Inland Empire

Those accused of domestic violence crimes in the Inland Empire, including Riverside, San Bernardino, Fontana, and Rancho Cucamonga can get help from the Law Offices of Ty Martinez. The attorneys at the firm are devoted to the legal field of domestic violence criminal defense and have considerable experience in handling such cases in the local courts. Because of their excellent legal work and proven results, the firm has been recognized with the 2012 Avvo Client Choice Award.

You can get the competent legal advice you need following any domestic violence arrest from a firm dedicated to helping you resolve the matter in the most favorable and efficient manner possible. Contact the firm to speak to one of the attorneys about your arrest and charges in a free case consultation at your earliest convenience.