Penal Code Section 243(e)(1) makes it a crime to commit a battery against a spouse, cohabitant, parent, former spouse, fiance(e), or girlfriend/boyfriend. This type of battery is punishable by up to one year in county jail and/or up to a $2,000 fine. If probation is granted, a person who is convicted of this type of battery is required to participate in a year long batterer's treatment program and may include having to make payments of up to $5,000 to a battered women's shelter, payments to the victim ("victim restitution") and mandatory jail time if there is a prior conviction for battery upon a spouse/cohabitant.

If you have been arrested for/charged with committing a domestic violence crime such as battery upon a spouse or cohabitant in California, you should contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer at the Law Offices of Al F. Amer. As a former prosecutor, I bring extensive trial experience and insight into the courtroom giving my clients a great advantage in their defense. If you are accused of any violent crime, you may be facing serious charges with potentially serious consequences, so please do not hesitate to contact us to talk to an experienced criminal defense lawyer for a free consultation.

The Law Offices of Al F. Amer has offices in Los Angeles and Orange County and an experienced criminal defense lawyer who will defend clients accused of violent crimes such as battery upon a spouse or cohabitant. Contact us online or call us at 714-432-6408.