Compassionate Legal Support in Domestic Violence Cases
Dealing with domestic violence issues creates one of the most complex and frightening challenges a person can face. I am domestic violence attorney Teresa Beyers, and I founded The Law Offices of Teresa A. Beyers in 2003, serving clients in the greater Los Angeles area. For over 20 years, I have helped individuals going through complex family law matters.
When domestic violence is a factor, an experienced domestic violence lawyer is essential to protect your rights and your children’s well-being. I can address issues such as protective orders, child custody and divorce. I empathetically represent both victims seeking protection and those who are unfairly or wrongly accused.
What Can Lead To Domestic Violence Charges?
These devastating family law charges arise when someone causes harm or threatens the safety of a family member, household member or intimate partner. California law defines several actions and behaviors that constitute domestic violence, including:
- Causing or attempting to cause physical injury
- Sexual assault
- Putting a person in reasonable fear of serious bodily harm
- Stalking, continually telephoning or following someone
- Threatening physical violence
- Destroying the personal property of the other party
- Conduct that destroys someone’s mental or emotional calm, including coercive control
If someone close to you subjects you to these terrifying acts, I can help you pursue legal options like protective orders. Conversely, if you have been wrongfully accused, I will aggressively defend your rights.
Types Of California Protective Orders
Often called restraining orders, these legally binding court orders are designed to protect people from abuse or threats of abuse. The type of order you seek or are defending against depends on your relationship with the other person. These orders include:
- Emergency protective orders: Police officers can request an EPO when they respond to a domestic violence incident. This order is short-term, typically lasting about one week.
- Temporary restraining orders: After filing a request with the court, a judge may grant a TRO without the other party present. This order remains in effect until a full court hearing.
- Permanent restraining orders: After a court hearing at which both parties present evidence, a judge may issue a PRO lasting up to five years, which may be renewed for an additional period or permanently.
As a domestic violence lawyer, I have extensive knowledge of Los Angeles family courts, having sought and opposed such orders for more than two decades. My experience can help protect victims seeking safety or safeguard the rights of those accused.
Advocating For Petitioners Seeking Safety
If you or your children face domestic violence, obtaining a protective order is critical for your safety. I will compassionately guide you through the process of filing for restraining orders.
I can help you gather the necessary evidence and clearly articulate your case to the court. As your domestic violence attorney, I am ready to steadfastly advocate for your safety and peace of mind during the hearing process.
Defending Against Unfair Protective Orders
Being served with a protective order can feel devastating, especially if the allegations are untrue or exaggerated. I focus on meticulously examining the facts and challenging the evidence presented against you.
I work diligently to protect your reputation, your future and your ability to maintain access to your children and fair child support arrangements.
How Can Domestic Violence Affect Child Custody, Visitation And Support?
A finding of domestic violence against a parent perpetrated within the previous five years significantly impacts their eligibility for sole or joint legal or physical custody of their children. California law prioritizes the safety and welfare of the child above all else.
When the court issues a protective order or finds that a parent committed domestic violence, the law creates a “rebuttable presumption” against sole or joint custody, as defined in the California Family Code, which can directly limit the perpetrator’s custodial time-share, which in turn is a key variable in calculating mandatory child support orders under the statewide guideline.
What Proof Do I Need For A Restraining Order In California?
To obtain a restraining order after a hearing, you must provide the court with evidence that meets the “preponderance of the evidence” standard, meaning it is more likely than not that the abuse occurred. This is different than proof “beyond a reasonable doubt,” as in a criminal case.
Evidence can include your own testimony describing the abuse, police reports, photographs of injuries or damaged property, medical records, threatening emails or texts, and testimony from witnesses. I can help you organize and present the strongest evidence possible.
Get Compassionate Assistance Now
At The Law Offices of Teresa A. Beyers, I focus exclusively on family law matters and understand the immense turmoil caused by domestic violence. Since founding my firm in 2003, I have skillfully protected my clients’ rights and the safety of their children.
If you are in immediate danger, call 911. Or, schedule a free initial phone consultation to discuss your concerns and develop a strategy tailored to your situation. Call my firm today at 213-933-6681 or contact us via our online form.