What Is Intimate Partner Violence in California?

Posted on: January 11th, 2022 by Dod Law

While domestic violence is typically defined as violence between a husband and wife, intimate partner violence can occur between any two people in an intimate relationship. The term intimate partner violence acknowledges that violence in a relationship can happen regardless of gender, sexual orientation, or marital status. However, in California, intimate partner violence falls under the legal umbrella of domestic violence.

Types of Intimate Partner Violence Cases in California

Domestic or intimate partner violence does not necessarily need to be physical in nature. Refer to the list below for some common types of intimate partner domestic violence cases in California.

Domestic Battery

Domestic battery is an extremely common domestic violence charge in California. It is defined as the purposeful and unlawful touching of an intimate partner. No injuries need to be sustained for an action to be defined as domestic battery, as it is simply unwanted and unlawful physical contact.

Corporeal Injury to Spouse

A more severe charge than domestic battery, a corporeal or bodily injury to a spouse, is defined by willfully inflicting a traumatic condition or injury on an intimate partner. Regardless of the name, you do not need to be married to the offender for them to be charged, as it applies to all intimate partners. The severity of the charge is often determined by the severity of the injury inflicted.

Criminal Threats

Criminal threats are defined as purposefully threatening death or harm to a current or former partner, their current or former partner, or anyone that they have ever had an intimate relationship with. These threats can be verbal, electronic, or in writing.

Stalking

Stalking is described as the willful following or harassment of another person or making credible threats against them. Stalking can happen between ex-partners where one may feel like they still have access to their ex-partner’s life after a breakup.

Phone Call Harassment

In California, it is a crime to make repeated phone calls to harass or threaten another person. This harassment also applies to obscene or threatening calls, text messages, or emails. Obscene language is defined as offensive language or violates general standards of basic decency.

Talk to an Experienced California Domestic Violence Lawyer

Domestic and intimate partner violence cases are serious, and these accusations should be handled with the utmost care by an experienced domestic violence attorney. If you are accused of domestic violence, you could potentially face severe penalties and consequences that will impact your future and reputation.

Those convicted of domestic violence charges could lose their right to own firearms and could even be kept away from their families or partner through restraining orders. An experienced attorney like Attorney Dod of Dod Law can help you understand the charges you may be facing. Attorney Dod has over 17 years of experience helping those accused of crimes present solid defenses to protect their livelihoods in California. Call us at (619) 814-5110 or fill out our online contact form today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney.