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California defines domestic violence to cover more than physical injury and more relationships than a spousal one.  Under Family Code § 6211, domestic violence includes abuse committed: Abuse can include physical violence (like hitting), threats, harassment, stalking, and any behavior that disturbs another person’s peace. This definition is broad and encompasses many types of…

In California, a domestic violence charge can be filed as a misdemeanor or a felony. Several of the state’s most common domestic violence statutes are “wobblers,” meaning prosecutors have discretion to charge them either way.  When a wobbler is involved, prosecutors weigh several factors in deciding how to charge the case, including: The misdemeanor-versus-felony…

A California Child Protective Services investigation will often reach an initial determination within 30 days, although the process may take longer depending on the allegations and evidence. When an in-person investigation occurs, the social worker generally must decide within 30 calendar days after the first face-to-face contact or removal whether services are necessary, a…