Battery Defense Lawyer in Santa Ana

Criminal Defense Attorney for Battery Charges

Contacting a Santa Ana criminal defense lawyer is one of the most important steps you should take if you have been arrested for or accused of battery in the Santa Ana area. You may currently be at risk of facing criminal charges and serious penalties, such as imprisonment, fines and probation. An attorney can work to limit these penalties and help you avoid a conviction and the burden of living with a criminal record.

Battery is defined as intentionally, willfully and unlawfully using violent force upon another person. Even if the person is not injured, you may still face battery charges. All that is required is that you made some type of unwanted or forced physical contact with another person. If the offense is sexual in nature, it may be charged as sexual battery. If the offense is allegedly committed against a family member, spouse, or person you live with, you may face domestic violence charges.

Depending on whether a weapon is used, if the victim is injured, the defendant's criminal record and various other factors, battery may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony offense. Accordingly, a defendant may face a "strike" on his or her record if battery is charged as a felony. The specific penalties that may be imposed will vary, but following is a basic outline of the potential sentencing for battery in California:

• Misdemeanor battery - up to 6 months in county jail, a fine of up to $2,000, community service and informal probation for up to 3 years
• Felony battery - up to 2, 3 or 4 years in prison, formal probation, fines and court fees

Contact a Santa Ana Battery Attorney