20+ years of courtroom experience defending clients in Bakersfield. If you've been accused—especially falsely—you need a defense attorney who will fight to get your case dismissed. 📞 Call Now for a Confidential Consultation 📅 Request a Case Review
Why This Matters
A domestic violence charge can change your life overnight.
- Jail time
- Loss of gun rights
- A permanent criminal record
- Mandatory 52-week batterer's program
- Restraining orders affecting your family and home
Even an accusation alone can have serious consequences. What you think is just an argument can turn into something much more. Who knows what happened? A neighbor may hear raised voices and call the police. The police arrive and decide an argument ensued and so someone must be arrested for domestic violence. Domestic violence in California carries serious consequences when not addressed immediately. These consequences can be both civil and criminal. If you have been charged in Bakersfield with a domestic violence or related offense, it's imperative to contact a domestic violence defense attorney.
You have rights, and at Marten Law Firm, we are here to uphold your rights and defend any allegations made against you. Call us at (661) 336-9335 to schedule a FREE today.
Domestic Violence in California
Domestic violence describes a range of harm committed in the context of a domestic relationship, usually between spouses, intimate partners, or relatives, but in some jurisdictions, it can also include roommates or other members of the household. Examples of physical acts that can arise from domestic violence include punching, hitting, slapping, or shoving. However, it could extend to other patterns of abusive behavior, like threats of violence, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and financial abuse.
Our Approach to Domestic Violence Defense
At Martens Law Firm, we understand that not every accusation tells the full story.
Many cases involve:
- False allegations made during divorce or custody disputes
- Situations where the alleged victim does not want to press charges
- Misunderstandings or exaggerated claims
- Self-defense situations
We don't just process cases — we fight them.
Our goal is simple:
Avoid convictions and protect your future.
We aggressively pursue:
- Case dismissals
- Reduction of charges
- Diversion options (when appropriate)
- Suppression of unlawfully obtained evidence
We carefully analyze:
- Police reports
- Body cam footage
- Witness statements
- Motive to fabricate
Defenses to Domestic Violence Allegations in California
A person can defend against a domestic violence charge in California. However, the specific defenses available to a defendant will depend on the circumstances of their case.
Some common defenses include:
-
Self-defense or defense of others, where reasonable force was used to prevent an attack
-
Lack of evidence, if the prosecution fails to present enough evidence to prove each element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt
-
False allegations, where the victim has lied about what happened
-
Accident, where the defendant unintentionally caused the injury
A conviction for a domestic violence offense can have a long-lasting impact on many aspects of a defendant's personal life, including their personal relationships, parenting, and employment. It is always in your best interests to, at a minimum, consult with a domestic violence defense lawyer about any allegations.
When the Alleged Victim Doesn't Want to Testify
In many domestic violence cases, the alleged victim later decides they do not want to testify.
We know how to:
- Navigate these situations strategically
- Challenge the prosecution's evidence
- Prevent unreliable statements from being used against you
You still have options—even if charges have already been filed.
Why Choose Martens Law Firm
- 20+ years of criminal defense experience
- Over 100 jury trials handled
- Never worked for the prosecution
- Local experience in Kern County courts
- Personalized, aggressive defense
You are not just another case file.
Types of Domestic Violence Cases We Handle
- Penal Code 273.5 (Corporal Injury)
- Penal Code 243(e)(1) (Domestic Battery)
- Criminal Protective Orders
- Violations of Restraining Orders
- Related assault or battery charges
What To Do If You've Been Accused
- Do not speak to police without an attorney
- Do not contact the alleged victim (can worsen your case)
- Preserve any evidence (texts, emails, photos)
- Call an experienced defense attorney immediately
Don't wait. Early intervention can make the difference.
📞 Call Martens Law Firm Today 📍 Serving Bakersfield and all of Kern County Schedule Your Confidential Consultation Now
