What Is the OC Domestic Violence Criminal Process?

A domestic violence case in Orange County goes through a complex criminal justice process. The steps involved can include an arrest, charges being filed, a trial, and sentencing.

Below is an outline of the OC domestic violence process:

• Report made: A domestic violence case is triggered when someone reports an alleged incident to the police. An officer will be sent to the scene, where they will ask the alleged victim and offender questions and record their observations. They may take pictures of the scene, including any injuries the alleged victim sustained or property that was damaged. The officer may also confiscate any weapons used during the offense. Depending on the situation, the officer might also ask a judge to issue an emergency protective order (EPO). The alleged victim can later seek a temporary restraining order, which lasts longer than an EPO.
• Arrest: If the officer has probable cause to believe that the alleged offender committed the domestic violence offense, they can arrest the individual. Otherwise, law enforcement officials will investigate further and make an arrest after a warrant is issued.
• Police custody: After the defendant is arrested, they will be taken to jail. They can be released on bail with the court ordering certain conditions, such as attending a batterer's intervention program or adhering to a stay-away order. The alleged victim can also request an increase in the bail amount, which the judge may grant if they feel that the victim is in danger of further harm by the alleged offender.
• Charges filed: Law enforcement officials will hand over their report to the Orange County District Attorney's Office. There, a prosecutor will review the facts of the case to determine whether to file charges. As mentioned before, the DA may choose to pursue the crime as a misdemeanor or felony.
• Arraignment: Once charges are filed, the alleged offender – referred to as a defendant – will be scheduled for their first court appearance, called an arraignment. If the defendant is in police custody, the arraignment will happen within 48 to 72 hours of their arrest; otherwise, it may be set for a couple of weeks out. During the arraignment, the judge will inform the defendant of the charges against them and ask if they plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest. A guilty or no contest plea will lead to sentencing, whereas a not guilty plea leads to further proceedings.
• Pre-trial conference (misdemeanors): During the pre-trial conference, the defendant, their Orange County domestic violence lawyer, and the DA will discuss the case. They may attempt to settle the matter before trial.
• Preliminary hearing (felonies): At a preliminary hearing, the judge will decide whether the DA has enough evidence to prosecute. The victim may be called on to testify.
• Trial: If the domestic violence case is not settled through negotiations, it will go to trial. The prosecutor must prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt to get a conviction.
• Sentencing: If the defendant is convicted of domestic violence in Orange County, they will be sentenced. The penalties they could face include, but are not limited to:
  • Prison or jail time
  • Completion of a 1-year batterer's intervention program
  • 3 years of probation, with conditions such as
    • Not contacting the victim
    • Receiving substance abuse counseling
    • Submitting to drug or alcohol testing
    • Surrendering and not purchasing or acquiring any weapons

The above provides a brief overview of the stages of a domestic violence case, and our Orange County domestic violence attorneys at the Law Offices of Randy Collins can discuss the process with you further. We will ensure that you understand what's involved in resolving your case and avenues we can pursue to seek an optimal outcome.

Can the Victim Drop an OC Domestic Violence Charge?

The victim cannot drop domestic violence charges. The decision of whether to move forward with the case rests solely on the prosecutor. Although the victim may make their desires known, the DA can prosecute even without their cooperation.

Thus, if you have been accused of domestic violence in Orange County, do not try to resolve your case by discussing the matter with the alleged victim. Doing so will not lead to the desired result, and you could end up facing additional criminal charges.

Before making any decisions concerning your case, speak with our Orange County domestic violence attorney. We can give you the advice and guidance you need. We will also identify and pursue solutions to have the matter settled outside of trial.

Reach Out to a Skilled OC Domestic Violence Lawyer

Domestic violence charges in OC are serious. You need a staunch defender on your side to attack the allegations against you. At the Law Offices of Randy Collins, our Orange County domestic violence lawyer will stand up for you in and out of court.

To retain the services of a skilled domestic violence attorney in Orange County, call our defense firm at (844) 807-8180 or submit an online contact form today.