Threats & Intimidation Charges

Defending Those Accused of Domestic Violence

In some cases, domestic violence may not directly refer to the use of force or violence by a defendant. In fact, in certain situations, a person can find themselves facing criminal charges relating to verbal communication that occurred between themselves and the alleged victim. According to §422.6 of the California Penal Code, it is considered a criminal offense to even use the threat of force to intimidate or interfere with a person who is within their constitutional rights. A criminal conviction of this can result in up to a year of imprisonment in a county jail, as well as a monetary fine ranging up to $5000.

Another thing to keep in mind is how these criminal charges can tie into charges of stalking and harassment which are defined under §649 of the California Penal Code. Per the law, it is illegal for a person to knowingly and willfully harass another person or make a threat against them that reasonably places them in fear of their life. Harassment is similar in that is involves alarming, annoying or terrorizing a person in a manner that causes considerable emotional distress.

The one thing that sets criminal charges of threats and intimidation apart is that they deal more with verbal threats than they do with direct force and violence - which is what is most commonly attributed to domestic abuse charges. Therefore, it could be deemed domestic violence even if you just get into a verbal spat with a spouse where you called them a name or if during the course of the argument, you raised your voice, broke an item or destroyed property. It could also be considered a threat to discuss taking the children away or to even talk about physical harm - regardless of whether or not the harm occurred.

Contacting a Los Angeles Domestic Violent Lawyer

If you have recently found yourself facing criminal charges relating to threats and intimidation, it is in your best interests to consult with a heavyweight Los Angeles criminal defense attorney from our firm as soon as possible. We know what is on the line with situations of this nature and we are prepared to go above and beyond in our efforts to helping our clients defend themselves against the possibility of conviction.

If you would like to discuss your case with a member of our team or would like to learn more about how we can help you protect your freedom, please do not hesitate to give us a call today.