Usually refers to the use of physical force against a cohabitant. Commonly known as battery on someone with whom the defendant has or had a domestic relationship. Domestic Violence does not need to be only physical, however. Threats and intimidation directed toward your significant other, also come under the definition of Domestic Violence or “DV” as it is commonly referred to by the Los Angeles Courts. It often does not matter who was the person who summoned the police.  Often times the police departments in the Los Angeles County area arrest the one that called them in the first place.  Likewise, arrests are made with even the most minor visible injuries or no injuries at all.

Cases are usually filed as misdemeanors under Penal Code section 243(e) if there are no injuries.  If there are injuries, however, cases are usually filed under Penal Code section 273.5 as either misdemeanors or felonies.

The consequences of a conviction for Domestic Violence are harsh. Such punishment may include incarceration, community labor, extensive anger management and domestic violence classes and fines.