Domestic Violence

California Domestic Violence and Assault Charges

When a fight breaks out between friends, families, or strangers, the situation can quickly become chaotic. Someone usually ends up getting arrested if the police are called. The attorneys at Hartnett, Smith & Associates in Redwood City, California have experience in handling assault and domestic violence cases on behalf of our clients.

Disputes between divorcing couples who are arguing over custody or support-related matters can result in accusations of domestic violence. Many times, a call to the police is made to give one parent an advantage in custody or visitation disputes. By having their spouse arrested on a domestic violence charge, they are trying to show the divorce courts that their spouse has a propensity for violence.

At Hartnett, Smith & Associates, we recognize that some charges of assault or domestic violence were the result of either self-defense or the defense of others in a gang fight or bar fight. You have a right to use reasonable force to defend yourself or someone you feel is in danger. Our job is to prove that to law enforcement and the prosecution in seeking dismissal of the charges or an acquittal at trial.

Whether your case involves domestic violence or assault with a deadly weapon, we will review all documentation related to your case, looking for flaws in the prosecution's case. This means analyzing police reports and witness statements with great attention to detail. If there is strong evidence that you were merely defending yourself in a fight or your spouse’s allegations are not valid, we will use that evidence to attempt to get the charges dismissed or secure an acquittal in court.

Domestic violence and assault charges are serious. We are lawyers that do not shy away from a courtroom trial.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact us.