Los Angeles Domestic Violence Attorney

The State of California and Los Angeles County do not take the charge of Domestic Violence lightly. Many cases may seem minor or exaggerated at first, but if not handled swiftly and correctly, the consequences can become extremely serious.

A Domestic Violence Charge is Very Serious

A conviction for domestic violence can lead to the loss of your job, your children, and even your freedom. Penalties may include jail time, probation, and mandatory counseling for up to a year. You must act quickly to minimize the impact of these charges on your life.

If you have been charged with Domestic Violence, retain an experienced Domestic Violence Attorney immediately. Even a misdemeanor conviction carries mandatory jail time. This bears repeating: a domestic violence conviction can result in loss of child custody, employment termination, and possible deportation if you are not a U.S. citizen.

Domestic Violence is not a “Male-Only” Crime

This is a unisex crime. Whether you are male or female, a domestic violence conviction in California can create a legal presumption that you are unfit to be the primary custodian of your children. You could lose custody—even to a parent who is not the main caregiver. Protect your rights and family by hiring a qualified attorney to represent you.

Those Convicted of Domestic Violence Cannot Own a Firearm

Under federal law, anyone convicted of domestic violence is permanently prohibited from owning or carrying a firearm. For members of the military or law enforcement, this often marks the end of their career.

Those Convicted with a State License are in Trouble

Professionals in licensed fields—attorneys, doctors, pharmacists, contractors, hairstylists, and others—risk losing or being denied renewal of their licenses following a domestic violence conviction. A conviction is a BIG DEAL that can alter your career forever.

Law Enforcement Professionals – Get an Attorney!

The Omnibus Consolidated Appropriations Act of 1997 amended the Federal Gun Control Act of 1968 to prohibit firearm or ammunition possession by anyone convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence. Law enforcement officers and government officials are NOT EXEMPT from this law.

What is Domestic Violence?

In California, “domestic” and “violence” are broadly defined. Married couples, dating partners, same-sex couples, blood relatives (siblings, parents, cousins), and even roommates can be accused of domestic violence. Moreover, seemingly minor acts—pushing, pinching, or hair-pulling—are often treated as “violence” under the law.

Considering Pleading Guilty or “No Contest”?

DO NOT attempt to handle your case alone or plead guilty without consulting an attorney.

Pleading guilty just to “get it over with” is a mistake that will follow you for life. A domestic violence conviction becomes a permanent part of your criminal record. In California, prosecutors rarely reduce or dismiss such charges. Convictions usually include jail time and mandatory counseling lasting up to 48 weeks.

Unless your attorney can secure a dismissal or reduction, your case will go to trial—where experienced legal defense becomes essential.

Attorney Slaten will thoroughly analyze your case, review the evidence, and build a legal strategy to pursue the best possible outcome—whether through dismissal, charge reduction, or a strong trial defense.