Charges rejected
Felony domestic violence arrest. The prosecutor declined to file charges at the arraignment.
2022Home / Domestic Violence Defense · Los Angeles
Domestic violence defense lawyer in Los Angeles.
A domestic violence arrest moves fast: a protective order can keep you out of your own home, and a conviction can cost you your firearm rights and require a year-long program. We step in immediately.
Common charges
- Domestic battery (Penal Code 243(e)(1)), a misdemeanor.
- Corporal injury to a spouse or partner (Penal Code 273.5), which can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony.
- Criminal threats, vandalism and violations of protective orders that often accompany these cases.
The prosecutor decides, not the accuser
Many people are surprised that a case does not end just because the other person no longer wants to press charges. In California the prosecutor decides whether to file and whether to continue. That is why early defense work matters: we gather evidence, witness statements and context before the charging decision whenever possible.
Recent result: a felony domestic violence arrest where the prosecutor declined to file charges at the arraignment. The client had acted in self-defense.
What a conviction can mean
Beyond jail or probation, a domestic violence conviction with probation generally requires completion of a 52-week batterer's intervention program, protective orders, and restrictions on owning firearms. It can also affect custody, immigration status and professional licenses. We look for outcomes that avoid a conviction where possible: rejection of charges, dismissal, or reduction to a lesser offense.
Protective orders
At the first court date the judge often issues a criminal protective order, which can bar contact with the other person or require you to stay away from the home. We can ask the court to modify those terms, for example to allow peaceful contact or co-parenting.
Available 24 hours: (310) 415-9499. We speak English and Farsi.
Case results
Recent results.
Selected outcomes from the firm’s closed matters.
Dismissed
Firearm discharge case dismissed after the client completed diversion. No conviction.
2023Dismissed
Criminal case against a commercial property owner and its company over a cannabis tenant. Dismissed as to both.
2022Dismissed
Property owner charged with building-permit violations tied to a tenant's dispensary. Case dismissed.
2025Funds returned
Cash seized in a raid aimed at a neighbor was returned to the client, who was never charged.
2023Results depend on the facts of each case. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Client details are withheld for privacy.
Common questions
Questions clients ask first.
General information about California law, not legal advice for your situation.
Can the alleged victim drop the charges?
No. They can tell the prosecutor what they want, but only the prosecutor can decide to dismiss. Their wishes can still influence the outcome.
Is domestic violence a felony in California?
It can be. Domestic battery is a misdemeanor; corporal injury under Penal Code 273.5 can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the injury and history.
Will I lose my right to own a gun?
A protective order and many domestic violence convictions restrict firearm ownership. This is one reason the outcome of the case matters so much.
Client reviews
5.0 stars on Google from 46 clients.
Very grateful to Mr. Manavi for representing me against a insurance company that was trying to deny me equitable payment in the repair of my childhood home after a negligent plumber. Mr. Manavi advocated fiercely, expertly, and strategically to secure a favorable outcome.
Saman had great attention to detail when it came to my case. … Not only was he accurate in the timeline I provided for my case but he was very clear in communicating his strategy and made me feel very comfortable with my case.
He was always available when I needed him and kept me informed throughout the entire process. He explained things clearly, but was also very understanding and easy to talk to, which made a stressful situation feel a lot more manageable.
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