DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CHARGES IN COSTA MESA? PUT MY EXPERIENCE ON YOUR SIDE

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE LAWYER IN COSTA MESA, CALIFORNIA

Domestic violence cases in Costa Mesa often begin with a single 911 call. Costa Mesa Police Department officers arrive, separate the people involved, and often make an arrest within minutes. Once that happens, the case can move quickly. Protective orders, bail, and court dates follow, and the accused person may suddenly be barred from their own home.

I defend people accused of domestic violence in Costa Mesa and throughout Orange County. My Santa Ana and Fountain Valley offices are close by.

Who Counts as a Domestic Partner

California's domestic violence laws apply to more relationships than many people realize. They include current and former spouses, registered domestic partners, people who live together or used to, people who are dating or used to date, and people who share a child. If the relationship falls outside these categories, the charge may be simple assault or battery instead. Those charges carry different consequences.

Where Costa Mesa Domestic Violence Cases Are Heard

Misdemeanor domestic violence cases from Costa Mesa are typically heard at the Harbor Justice Center in Newport Beach. Felony cases may be heard at the Central Justice Center in Santa Ana.

Restraining Orders

There are several types of protective orders in a domestic violence case:

Emergency protective orders, issued at the scene and lasting up to seven days
Criminal protective orders, issued by the criminal court while the case is pending or as part of a sentence
Domestic violence restraining orders, requested by the alleged victim in family court

Each one can affect where you live, who you can contact, and whether you can own firearms. I help clients understand and comply with these orders, and I ask the court to modify them when appropriate.

Building Your Defense

I investigate every case thoroughly. I review the 911 call, body camera footage, photos, medical records, and messages between the parties. I look for inconsistencies in the accuser's statements and evidence of self-defense or false accusations. As a former LAPD officer, I know what a complete domestic violence investigation should look like, and I know how to expose a rushed one.

Talk to a Costa Mesa Domestic Violence Lawyer

If you have been arrested or charged with domestic violence in Costa Mesa, do not wait to get help. The sooner I am involved, the more I can do to protect your rights and build your defense. Call McCready Law Group at (714) 785-9978 or send me a message to schedule a consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What relationships are covered by domestic violence laws?

They cover spouses, former spouses, registered partners, cohabitants, former cohabitants, dating partners, former dating partners, and people who share a child.

What is the difference between a criminal protective order and a restraining order?

A criminal protective order is issued by the judge in your criminal case. A domestic violence restraining order is requested by the alleged victim in family or civil court. Both can restrict contact and firearm ownership.

Can I own a gun if I am charged with domestic violence?

While a protective order is in effect, you generally must surrender your firearms. A conviction can bring a longer state or federal ban.

Other Areas I Serve

I also represent clients arrested or charged with domestic violence in these nearby cities:

Also Serving Costa Mesa

See all service areas or learn more about my domestic violence defense practice.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE LAWYER SERVING COSTA MESA

At McCready Law Group, I fight for people arrested or charged with domestic violence in Costa Mesa and throughout Orange County. I bring eight years of experience as a Los Angeles Police Department officer to every case, and I give each client honest advice and personal attention. Call (714) 785-9978 to discuss your case.