A domestic violence allegation can flip your life upside down in a matter of hours. One call to law enforcement can lead to your arrest, removal from your home, and a restraining order that limits contact with your family.
Even before you’re formally charged, you may face public judgment, loss of employment, and custody complications. If you’ve been accused, you need a Palo Alto domestic violence lawyer who won’t rush to make a deal just to move your case along. At Silver Law Firm, we take the time to investigate every detail.
With over 37 years of combined experience in California criminal law and more than 10,000 clients served, we know what it takes to protect your rights and your future. As your Palo Alto criminal defense lawyer, we start by listening—and then we get to work.
What Qualifies as Domestic Violence in California?
California law defines domestic violence broadly. You can be charged with a domestic violence offense even if there was no visible injury or if the alleged victim doesn’t want to press charges. Under California Penal Code § 273.5, it is illegal to inflict corporal injury resulting in a traumatic condition on an intimate partner.
But even lesser conduct, such as pushing, grabbing, or threats, can result in serious charges. These charges commonly involve:
- Spouses or former spouses
- Dating or sexual partners
- Fiancés or cohabitants
- Co-parents
Domestic Violence Charges
Depending on the facts, charges may include:
- Domestic battery (Penal Code § 243(e)(1))
- Criminal threats
- Assault or aggravated assault
- False imprisonment
- Violation of a protective order
Even misdemeanor charges can carry jail time, fines, probation, and mandatory counseling. Regardless of the type of domestic violence charge in California, a conviction may also impact child custody, immigration status, and employment opportunities.
For a free legal consultation with a domestic violence lawyer serving Palo Alto, call (510) 995-0000
What to Expect From the Legal Process in Palo Alto
Most domestic violence cases in Palo Alto start with a 911 call. When police respond, they often make an arrest based on probable cause, even if both parties claim it was a misunderstanding. From there, the legal process moves fast with these steps:
- Booking and possible jail time: You may be held in custody until arraignment.
- Emergency protective order (EPO): Often issued on the spot, this bars contact with the alleged victim.
- Arraignment: This is the formal reading of the charges and entry of a plea.
- Pre-trial phase: This is when we do our deepest work—filing motions, negotiating with the prosecution, and reviewing the evidence.
- Trial or resolution: If no agreement is reached, your case goes to trial.
We never let our clients go through this process alone. We stay in constant communication, explaining every step and answering your questions quickly. We text, call, or email within hours and never more than a day.
Palo Alto Domestic Violence Lawyer Near Me (510) 995-0000
How a Domestic Violence Attorney in Palo Alto Can Build Your Defense
These cases are often full of nuance. Emotions run high. Stories change. Evidence is rarely straightforward. As a domestic violence attorney serving Palo Alto, we take a case-apart approach—no assumptions, no shortcuts.
Here’s how we protect your rights:
- We review bodycam footage to assess whether law enforcement followed proper protocol.
- We contact neighbors, family members, or others who can provide context.
- We examine medical records and photos for inconsistencies.
- We challenge protective orders that were issued without proper cause.
- We file motions to exclude statements or evidence obtained illegally.
Our goal is not just to poke holes in the prosecution’s case. It’s to construct a powerful defense backed by law, facts, and documentation. Whether that means challenging the credibility of witnesses, arguing for dismissal, or taking your case to trial, we are ready.
Click to contact our Palo Alto Criminal Defense Lawyers today
Why Choose a Palo Alto Domestic Violence Law Firm?
Not every attorney knows how to handle the delicate balance of domestic violence defense. These cases can require both tenacity and precision. At Silver Law Firm, criminal defense is all we do. As a Palo Alto domestic violence law firm, we’re known for filing strong, legally grounded motions early in the process—laying a foundation that helps us win cases before trial.
We do not rely on a single defense strategy for every case. Some clients need an assertive pre-trial posture to push for dismissal. Others benefit from strategic negotiation for reduced charges or alternative sentencing. Our work is tailored to your situation, always focused on the best possible outcome.
We’ve earned a reputation with courts and district attorneys for our preparation, professionalism, and persistence. We’re not interested in fast pleas or overpromising results. We’re here to deliver.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
What Makes Silver Law Firm Different?
When you work with Silver Law Firm, you can take advantage of many benefits, such as:
- We bring over 37 years of combined experience in California criminal law.
- We’ve served more than 10,000 clients.
- All attorneys focus exclusively on criminal defense.
- We’re known for responsiveness and transparency—calls and messages are answered promptly.
- We offer free consultations and a full explanation of your legal options.
- “Win It on Paper, the Rest Is Easy” is more than a phrase—it’s how we build your defense.
You deserve a defense team that takes your situation seriously, prepares thoroughly, and stays in communication from start to finish. That’s what we provide.
Get Legal Help Today
Domestic violence charges can threaten everything from your family and your freedom to your reputation. The right defense starts with a conversation. Contact Silver Law Firm today for a free phone consultation with a Palo Alto domestic violence attorney who understands what’s at stake.
We’ve been defending clients for over 30 years, and our results reflect our experience, our preparation, and our commitment. Let us bring that same level of care and tenacity to your case.
Call or text (510) 995-0000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form