{"id":22744,"date":"2023-07-26T14:07:29","date_gmt":"2023-07-26T14:07:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.monderlaw.com\/\/?p=22744"},"modified":"2023-07-26T14:07:29","modified_gmt":"2023-07-26T14:07:29","slug":"how-stop-expunge-domestic-violence-process-case","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.monderlaw.com\/news\/how-stop-expunge-domestic-violence-process-case\/","title":{"rendered":"California DV Process: Can It Be Stopped?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-22748\" src=\"https:\/\/www.monderlaw.com\/\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/domestic-violence-lawyer-san-diego-ca.jpg\" alt=\"domestic violence lawyer san diego ca\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.monderlaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/domestic-violence-lawyer-san-diego-ca.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.monderlaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/domestic-violence-lawyer-san-diego-ca-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.monderlaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/domestic-violence-lawyer-san-diego-ca-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/>Facing domestic violence charges is a daunting prospect. Being accused of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.monderlaw.com\/\/news\/how-long-jail-time-domestic-violence-california\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">this crime can have serious consequences<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> on one\u2019s personal and professional life, which is why many individuals in California wonder if it is possible to have their DV case dismissed or expunged from the records.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, the answer to this question is never as simple as \u201cyes\u201d or \u201cno\u201d. The complexities of the DV legal process are extensive, with the centerpiece being the prosecuting attorney, rather than the alleged victim.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For these reasons, it is imperative to seek professional guidance from an experienced domestic violence lawyer in San Diego, CA, as their expertise in the matter may prove crucial to protecting your rights and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.monderlaw.com\/\/domestic-violence\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ensuring the best possible outcome<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for your case.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can a domestic violence case be dismissed in California?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Having domestic violence allegations dismissed is very difficult in California for several reasons:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The crime is taken extremely seriously by the court and district attorney, leading to strict enforcement of rules and procedures;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prosecutors, the police, and the court typically err on the side of caution, rather than risking allowing the abuser back on the streets;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The vast majority of prosecutors have a \u201cno drop\u201d policy when it comes to DV cases.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With these factors in mind, it might seem that all cards are stacked against the accused. Fortunately, the situation is far from finite, and \u201cbeing accused\u201d doesn\u2019t equal \u201cbeing convicted\u201d. While each case is unique, there are indeed situations where dismissal may be possible.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Understanding the grounds for dismissal<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A domestic violence case may be dismissed due to:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Lack of Sufficient Evidence<\/strong>: If the prosecution fails to gather enough evidence to prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt, they may choose to drop the case, or the court may choose to dismiss it.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>False Accusation<\/strong>s: If it can be demonstrated that the allegations are false or based on misunderstandings, it may lead to the case being dismissed.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Inconsistent statements<\/strong>: When the witnesses\u2019 or alleged victim\u2019s statements are inconsistent\/conflicting, they don\u2019t match the injuries, or change at some point during the process, they\u2019re introducing \u201c<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ce9.uscourts.gov\/jury-instructions\/node\/338\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">reasonable doubt<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201d into the case, making it difficult to prove the charges.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Constitutional Rights Violations<\/strong>: If evidence was obtained unlawfully, such as through an illegal search and seizure, it may be deemed inadmissible, potentially leading to case dismissal. The same may apply if your constitutional rights were violated in other ways, such as the police not having probable cause for an arrest.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Finally, it must be noted that there are some instances that make allegations different to prove, but they don\u2019t call for an automatic dismissal:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lack of visible injuries;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lack of independent witnesses.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Even if these two criteria are unmet, the prosecution will typically choose to proceed with the case.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can you get a DV expunged in California?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Individuals convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence may be eligible for expungement if they successfully completed their probation period, including all court-ordered programs and requirements.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, do note that this only applies to misdemeanor cases. The court cannot grant an expungement if:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The defendant is currently on probation for a different offense. However, it is possible to file a motion to terminate probation early, if the plea is based on compelling enough circumstances;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The defendant is convicted of a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.monderlaw.com\/\/news\/what-constitutes-domestic-violence-case-california\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">felony domestic violence offense<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. In this instance, they would first need to have charges reduced from felony to misdemeanor, in order to be eligible for expungement;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The defendant is facing allegations of violent crime against a minor. In these cases, they might face legal restrictions preventing them from expunging the conviction at any stage.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can a victim drop charges in California?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is a common misconception that the victim has the power to drop the DV charges. In California, the decision to pursue or dismiss the case lies primarily with the prosecuting attorney, not the victim.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Their decision is based on various factors, including the available evidence, witness statements, and the seriousness of the alleged offense. This means that, while the victim&#8217;s input is considered, it is not the sole determining factor for dropping the charges.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prosecutors may take the victim&#8217;s wishes into account, but their primary duty remains to protect the community and uphold the law. Therefore, even if the victim wishes to drop the charges, the prosecution can choose to proceed if they believe there is sufficient evidence to secure a conviction.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Where can I find a reputable domestic violence lawyer in San Diego, CA &amp; near me?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you or someone you know is facing domestic violence charges, and require expert legal guidance and support, turning to Monder Criminal Lawyer Group is the prime choice. We understand <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.monderlaw.com\/\/news\/what-three-strike-phoenix-act-piquis-law-california-domestic-violence\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">the complexity of DV cases<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and have years of experience navigating the convoluted waters of San Diego\u2019s justice system.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Our veteran attorneys will work tirelessly to explore options for dismissal, expungement, or other outcomes that will reflect favorably on your future. Reach out to us today and ensure the support of the most aggressive and ethical legal team anywhere from<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/North_City,_San_Diego\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> North City<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to San Ysidro.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Facing domestic violence charges is a daunting prospect. Being accused of this crime can have serious consequences on one\u2019s personal and professional life, which is why many individuals in California wonder if it is possible to have their DV case dismissed or expunged from the records. However, the answer to this question is never as [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":22748,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-22744","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v26.1.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Stopping DV Charges | Domestic Violence Attorney in San Diego<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Despite California\u2019s strict laws, it is possible to have a domestic violence case dismissed or charges expunged. 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