Santa Ana, CA
Santa Ana Domestic Violence Attorney
PC 273.5 Defense | Central Justice Center
Aggressive defense for domestic violence charges in Santa Ana. Corporal injury (PC 273.5), domestic battery (PC 243(e)(1)), restraining orders. Bilingual. 24/7 available.
Domestic Violence Charges in Santa Ana
Domestic violence allegations are prosecuted aggressively by the Orange County District Attorney. Cases from Santa Ana are heard at the Central Justice Center.
California Penal Codes We Defend
- PC 273.5 — Corporal Injury to Spouse/Cohabitant — Felony or misdemeanor. Requires a visible injury or traumatic condition.
- PC 243(e)(1) — Domestic Battery — Misdemeanor. No visible injury required.
- PC 422 — Criminal Threats — Often charged alongside domestic violence.
- PC 273.6 — Violation of Protective Order — Separate criminal charge.
Defenses to Domestic Violence Charges
- Self-defense — You used reasonable force to protect yourself from imminent harm.
- Accidental injury — The injury was not willful.
- False allegations — Motives may include custody disputes, divorce, or retaliation.
- Lack of evidence — Insufficient proof of traumatic condition or willful conduct.
Protective Orders and Restraining Orders
At arraignment, the court will typically issue a Criminal Protective Order (CPO) that may prohibit contact with the alleged victim, require you to move out of a shared residence, and restrict custody arrangements. An attorney can argue for less restrictive terms.
Why Bilingual Representation Matters
Many domestic violence cases in Santa Ana involve Spanish-speaking families. Steven A. Alexander is fluent in Spanish and understands the cultural dynamics that may be relevant to your defense.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is PC 273.5 in California?
Penal Code 273.5 criminalizes willfully inflicting corporal injury on a spouse, cohabitant, or parent of your child resulting in a traumatic condition. It is a "wobbler" that can be charged as a felony (2-4 years prison) or misdemeanor (up to 1 year jail).
What is the difference between PC 273.5 and PC 243(e)(1)?
PC 273.5 requires a visible injury or traumatic condition. PC 243(e)(1) (domestic battery) does not require injury—any harmful or offensive touching is enough. PC 243(e)(1) is always a misdemeanor.
Can domestic violence charges be dropped in Santa Ana?
The prosecutor decides whether to proceed, not the alleged victim. Even if the victim recants, the OC DA may proceed using other evidence. However, an experienced attorney can challenge evidence, raise defenses, or negotiate reduced charges.
What happens at a domestic violence arraignment in Santa Ana?
At arraignment at the Central Justice Center, you will be advised of charges, bail may be addressed, and a protective order will typically be issued. Having an attorney present is critical to argue for reasonable bail and protective order terms.
Related Resources
Facing Domestic Violence Charges in Santa Ana?
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