Being accused of domestic violence can turn your life upside down. One accusation can lead to arrest, restraining orders, job loss, and damage to your reputation. These cases move quickly, and what you do next matters.
If you are in this position, you are probably overwhelmed. You might be asking: Should I get a lawyer for domestic violence? Will anyone believe my side of the story? Can I fix this before it’s too late? The right lawyer can protect your rights, challenge weak evidence, and help you avoid life-changing consequences.
At The Law Offices of Kerry L. Armstrong, APLC, we have defended people facing serious domestic violence charges throughout California. With over 100 criminal jury trials behind us, we know how to fight and protect your rights. If you are looking for experienced, nonjudgmental, and aggressive representation, we are ready to help.
Why You Should Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney
When you are facing domestic violence charges, the stakes are too high to go it alone. A criminal defense attorney understands the law, the courtroom process, and how to protect your rights at every stage. Without experienced legal guidance, you risk making mistakes that could lead to harsher penalties and lost opportunities.
Below are the top reasons why you should hire a domestic violence attorney.
1. A Defense Attorney Can Help You Understand the Charges
Criminal charges are intimidating, especially when you are unsure what to expect. A skilled domestic violence attorney will explain each stage of the process.
They will help you answer critical questions, such as:
- What does the prosecution have to prove?
- Will this case go to trial?
- What is the likelihood of a plea deal?
- What are the long-term effects of a conviction?
With guidance, you can make informed decisions. Without it, you risk missing deadlines, miscommunicating with law enforcement, or accepting a plea deal that is not in your best interest.
Our San Diego domestic violence attorneys walk clients through every detail of their cases and ensure they are never left in the dark.
2. A Domestic Violence Lawyer Can Help Gather and Preserve Critical Evidence
Domestic violence cases are often built on conflicting accounts. Some evidence may be difficult to find or disappear quickly if you do not act fast. That is where your attorney comes in.
If you hire a domestic violence attorney, they can help:
- Secure text messages, emails, and call logs;
- Obtain surveillance footage before it is deleted;
- Track down and interview witnesses;
- Collect social media posts that support your version of events; and
- Ensure medical records or injury photos are correctly documented.
Without this type of proactive investigation, key facts may be lost or never uncovered at all. A defense lawyer ensures your story is heard and your rights are protected throughout the evidence-gathering process.
3. A Domestic Violence Charge Can Affect Divorce, Custody, and Family Law Proceedings
Many domestic violence cases do not exist in a vacuum. If you are going through a divorce or custody dispute, a criminal charge can affect your:
- Parental rights,
- Visitation schedule,
- Housing arrangements, and
- Access to your children or home.
In some cases, accusers may use domestic violence allegations as a strategy to gain leverage in family court. While courts take abuse allegations seriously, false or exaggerated claims do occur, and they must be addressed promptly and effectively.
A strong defense in a criminal case can help prevent damaging outcomes that may later be used against you in divorce or custody matters. That’s why it is crucial to have a criminal defense attorney who understands how these issues intersect and can help you avoid mistakes that could carry over into other areas of your life.
4. The Consequences Are Severe and Far-Reaching
Even if your criminal case resolves without jail time, the long-term effects of a domestic violence conviction can be just as damaging. These consequences include:
- Employment consequences,
- Loss of gun rights,
- Immigration issues,
- Public embarrassment,
- Barriers to housing, and
- Strained relationships.
These consequences are often not explained to defendants upfront. A knowledgeable domestic violence lawyer will help you understand all of the potential impacts and work to minimize the damage to your life and future.
5. Family Law Attorneys may not be the Best for your Case
Family law attorneys are often skilled in some aspects of family law and domestic violence, and they often work tirelessly for their clients. However, the reality is that they do not always know about the intricacies of criminal law involving domestic violence.
When you hire a criminal defense domestic violence attorney, you are getting:
- Prompt communication and case updates,
- Thorough case review and preparation,
- A personalized legal defense tailored to your circumstances, and
- Someone skilled in the art of cross-examination.
- At The Law Offices of Kerry L. Armstrong, APLC, we understand that every domestic violence case is personal. We know the stress our clients are under, and we are here to offer a strategic legal defense and the day-to-day guidance needed to manage the fallout.
Speak with Our San Diego Domestic Violence Attorneys Today
If you are facing domestic violence allegations, the decisions you make right now could shape the rest of your life. You need a criminal defense lawyer who understands the law and is willing to fight for your freedom, reputation, and future.
At The Law Offices of Kerry L. Armstrong, APLC, our team has built a reputation for courtroom excellence and personalized representation. We never treat clients like case numbers, and we never back down from a challenge.
Our founding attorney, Kerry L. Armstrong, is certified in criminal law by the State Bar of California’s Board of Legal Specialization, a distinction held by only a small number of defense attorneys in San Diego County. He was also named one of the Top 50 San Diego Super Lawyers in 2025.
Contact The Law Offices of Kerry L. Armstrong, APLC, today for a free and completely confidential consultation. Let us explain your rights, evaluate your case, and start crafting a defense strategy tailored to your needs.
Kerry L. Armstrong
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