California domestic abuse laws apply to every type of couple - the individuals can be straight or gay, married, cohabitating, divorced, or have dated at any time. DV charges can even be brought against an individual in an ongoing intimate relationship.

It's particularly wise to consider a plea bargains when the prosecution has a solid case and the odds of prevailing at trial are low. However, a skilled California D.V. criminal defense attorney will only consider a plea bargain that's truly a good deal for the defendant - one that includes an opportunity to plead guilty to reduced charges and/or includes alternative sentencing that minimizes or eliminates jail time.

California domestic abuse cases can be resolved with plea bargains that involve admitting responsibility in exchange for a lesser charge and/or negotiated punishment. The punishment may include alternative sentencing that is designed to both help the offender and prevent future episodes of domestic abuse.

There are many sentencing alternatives available in California intimate partner abuse cases - electronic monitoring, residential treatment or informal diversion may all be substituted for jail time. Most alternative sentences are credited against a jail sentence on a day-for-day basis.

Electronic monitoring is another term for house arrest - the offender must remain in his or her home except to attend court hearings, education classes, and other essential travel. The confinement is monitored with an ankle bracelet that transmits information to a monitor inside the offender's home. Any violation of the terms of house arrest or attempts to tamper with the device will be reported to authorities.

Residential treatment can be a particularly beneficial plea-bargaining tool, especially in cases involving alcohol or drug use. Treatment programs range in duration from as few as 30 days to a year or longer. While in treatment, the offender will learn strategies to avoid future domestic violence incidents and acquire tools to address any substance abuse issues that may exist.

Sometimes the court can be persuaded to consider informal diversion in California intimate partner abuse cases. Although jail is mandated in some DV convictions, in reality judges have a great deal of latitude in imposing sentences. A judge can opt to sentence a domestic violence offender to treatment or another form of alternative sentencing in lieu of jail.

In cases involving alcohol and/or drug use, a knowledgeable Substance Abuse Expert may be a crucial addition to the criminal defense team when negotiating a plea bargain. The expert can conduct a thorough evaluation of the accused offender to determine whether he or she has a problem with alcohol or drugs.

Plea bargains are extraordinarily complicated negotiations that require an experienced domestic violence criminal defense lawyer to secure the best deal for the accused offender. In cases involving alcohol or drug use, a respected Substance Abuse Expert can be an invaluable addition to the defense team. A California attorney who focuses on DV defense may be able to negotiate a plea bargain to a lesser charge, and help the accused offender stay out of jail.