Facing domestic violence charges can be life-changing, especially in California, where the penalties are severe. At KN Law Firm, based in Glendale, California, and serving Los Angeles and surrounding cities, we understand how crucial it is to mount an effective defense. One of the most powerful defenses is self-defense, which can help mitigate or even dismiss domestic violence charges entirely. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys are available 24/7 to provide free consultations and assist you in building a strong case. Call us at (888) 950-0011.

What is Self-Defense?

Self-defense is a legal strategy used when the accused had a reasonable belief that they or someone else was in immediate danger of physical harm. California law allows individuals to defend themselves, their property, or another person, but the response must be proportionate to the threat.

In domestic violence cases, self-defense is frequently claimed when:

The accused was acting to protect themselves from being harmed by the other party.
The accused used reasonable force to stop an imminent threat.
The threat was immediate, and there were no other alternatives to avoid the danger.

For this defense to hold, you must show that your actions were necessary and not excessive in light of the circumstances.

Elements of a Successful Self-Defense Claim

Imminent Threat: You must have been under the belief that you were in immediate danger of being harmed.
Reasonable Force: The force you used must be proportionate to the perceived threat. Excessive force can weaken your defense.
No Aggressor Role: You should not have instigated the violence, though exceptions exist when withdrawing from a situation and then being pursued.

FAQs

1. What qualifies as self-defense in a domestic violence case?

Self-defense applies when you reasonably believe that you are in immediate danger of being harmed. The force used must be proportionate to the threat. You are allowed to protect yourself or others, as long as your actions are not excessive.

2. Can I claim self-defense if I hit my partner first?

Generally, self-defense requires that you did not initiate the violence. However, if you started the altercation but then tried to withdraw and were pursued, you may still claim self-defense.

3. How can I prove self-defense in my case?

Your defense attorney will help collect evidence, including witness testimony, medical reports, and surveillance footage, to show that you acted in self-defense. It is crucial to provide a detailed account of the incident as soon as possible.

How KN Law Firm Can Help You

At KN Law Firm, our attorneys will closely examine every detail of your case to identify if self-defense is a viable option. We understand that domestic violence accusations are often complex, with emotions running high, and false accusations may arise. Here’s how we can assist:

Collecting Evidence: We will gather all available evidence, including witness testimony, medical records, and police reports, to establish that you were defending yourself.
Expert Testimony: Our firm has access to experts who can testify about the nature of the injuries and whether they align with a self-defense claim.
Aggressive Representation: Our team has years of experience in defending clients accused of domestic violence. We will challenge the prosecution’s narrative and work to prove your innocence.

Contact KN Law Firm for a Free Consultation

If you’re facing domestic violence charges and believe self-defense is applicable to your case, KN Law Firm is here to help. We serve Glendale, Los Angeles, and the surrounding areas, and are committed to protecting your rights and ensuring the best possible outcome for your case. Call us today at (888) 950-0011 for a free consultation. We are available 24/7 to discuss your case and provide expert legal advice.

Don’t let domestic violence charges ruin your future—fight back with a solid defense strategy..