Domestic violence is a very serious charge with severe legal and social consequences. If you are arrested for domestic violence, your mind is likely reeling and emotions are probably riding high. The things you do immediately following your arrest could have a profound effect on the future of your case. We put together this quick guide to help you handle the situation as well as possible.
Stay Calm
The first thing to do whenever you are interacting with the police is to stay calm. Tensions will almost certainly be running hot, so it is vital that you allow yourself to calm down. Treat the police and your partner with respect and abide by any orders from the police immediately. At this point, the situation is out of your control, and the best thing you can do is make sure everything goes smoothly.
Don’t Talk to the Police
When you are interacting with the police, you are only legally required to give them identifying information. Any other information is protected under the Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution. Supplying the police with additional information can only hurt your case, so politely decline to provide further information until you have a lawyer present. Now is not the time to plead your case or accept a deal, as the police are not there to help you.
What if my Partner Wants to Drop the Charges?
In California, even if your partner wants to drop the charges against you, it can actually be very difficult to do. That’s because once charges have been filed, you can still be prosecuted on behalf of the state regardless of your partner’s wishes. Whether or not the state will agree to drop the charges hinges largely on how strong they feel their evidence against you is.
Get a Criminal Defense Attorney
If you have been arrested for domestic violence, it is vital that you obtain a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. An attorney with an in-depth understanding of domestic violence laws can help you best defend your rights and reputation in court and in public. The Law Offices of Brian A. Newman helps Southern California residents dealing with domestic violence charges obtain the best outcomes possible with compassion and understanding. If you need legal advice, call our offices at (424) 275-4014 to set up a free initial consultation.
