Murrieta Domestic Violence Defense

Domestic Violence

Free Consultation — (951) 400-4357

Domestic violence charges in California are taken extremely seriously by prosecutors and judges. Under California Penal Code Sections 243(e)(1) and 273.5, domestic violence can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the severity of the alleged injuries and the defendant's criminal history.

A domestic violence conviction can result in jail or prison time, mandatory batterer's intervention programs, restraining orders, loss of firearm rights, and significant impacts on child custody proceedings. These charges can also affect immigration status for non-citizens.

Attorney Cocis understands that domestic violence cases are often complicated by emotions, false accusations, and misunderstandings. He provides a thorough investigation of the facts, challenges unreliable evidence, and works to protect his clients' rights throughout the legal process.

If you have been arrested for domestic violence, it is critical that you do not violate any protective orders and that you contact an attorney immediately. Early intervention by an experienced defense attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Frequently Asked Questions About Domestic Violence

Common questions from clients facing domestic violence charges at the Southwest Justice Center in Murrieta, CA.

Absolutely. Domestic violence charges in California carry serious consequences including jail time, mandatory batterer's intervention programs, permanent restraining orders, loss of firearm rights, and impacts on child custody. At your arraignment at the Southwest Justice Center, the judge will set bail conditions and may issue a protective order that affects where you can live and whether you can see your children. Having Attorney Nic Cocis at your side from the very first hearing is critical to protecting your rights.

Violating a domestic violence restraining order (Penal Code 273.6) is a separate criminal offense that can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony. Penalties include up to one year in county jail for a misdemeanor violation, or up to three years in state prison for a felony violation. Even accidental or unintentional contact can be considered a violation. If you have a restraining order against you, contact Attorney Cocis immediately at (951) 400-4357 to understand your obligations and protect yourself from additional charges.

In California, the decision to prosecute a domestic violence case rests with the Riverside County District Attorney's office, not the alleged victim. Even if the victim recants or does not wish to press charges, the DA can and often will proceed with the case using other evidence such as 911 calls, police body camera footage, photographs of injuries, and witness statements. However, a victim's reluctance to cooperate can be a significant factor in building a strong defense. Contact Attorney Cocis for a free consultation.

Penal Code 243(e)(1) covers domestic battery — the willful and unlawful touching of a spouse, cohabitant, or dating partner. It is always a misdemeanor. Penal Code 273.5 covers corporal injury to a spouse or cohabitant — willfully inflicting physical injury that results in a traumatic condition. PC 273.5 is a 'wobbler' that can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony depending on the severity of the injury and the defendant's criminal history. Attorney Cocis can explain which charge you are facing and develop the strongest possible defense strategy.

Yes. Under California Family Code Section 3044, there is a rebuttable presumption that a parent convicted of domestic violence within the past five years should not receive sole or joint physical custody of a child. A conviction can also result in supervised visitation and affect your standing in family court proceedings. Because the stakes are so high, it is essential to mount an aggressive defense from the very beginning. Call Attorney Cocis at (951) 400-4357.

Southwest Justice Center courthouse in Murrieta, California

Your Case Belongs at the Southwest Justice Center.

Your Defense Belongs Here.

If you were arrested in Temecula, Murrieta, Menifee, Wildomar, Lake Elsinore, Winchester, or French Valley, your future will likely be decided at the Southwest Justice Center (SWJC) on Auld Road. In these courtrooms, local knowledge is the ultimate advantage. Since 1999, Nic Cocis has been a weekly fixture in the SWJC, appearing before the same judges and negotiating with the same Riverside County prosecutors for over 25+ years. We don't just know the law; we know the specific nuances, procedural quirks, and judicial tendencies of the Southwest District. Whether you are facing a felony or a misdemeanor, you need a firm that treats the Southwest Justice Center as its home turf.

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Southwest Riverside County Defense

Southwest Riverside County Domestic Violence Attorney

The Southwest Justice Center in Murrieta is the primary courthouse for domestic violence cases arising in Murrieta, Temecula, Wildomar, Menifee, and Lake Elsinore. Attorney Nic Cocis has defended these charges at the SWJC continuously since 1999 — making him one of the most experienced local criminal defense attorneys in Southwest Riverside County. His relationships with the court's judges and prosecutors provide clients with an informed, locally grounded defense strategy.

MurrietaTemeculaWildomarMenifeeLake Elsinore

Facing Domestic Violence Charges?

If you or a loved one has been charged, time is critical. Contact Attorney Nic Cocis today for a free case evaluation.

(951) 400-4357

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