California Appellate Court Clarifies Rules of Evidence in Domestic Violence Custody Cases
In family law, few issues are more serious—or more complex—than allegations of domestic violence and child abuse. When these allegations arise, the court’s primary duty is to protect the child. A new decision from the California Court of Appeal, Marriage of M.P. and M.C. (2025), provides clarification on how courts address a child’s statements in… Read More »
Can the Court Issue a Domestic Violence Restraining Order Based on Conduct From Years Ago? Yes.
A Recent California Court Decision Allowing a Trial Court to Issue a Domestic Violence Restraining Order for Conduct Which Occurred Years Ago May Significantly Influence Child Custody Orders in California. Don’t Have Time? Watch the Short Video on This Important Topic On July 23, 2025 the California Appellate Court Published a Case Which Allows the… Read More »
Courts Generally Issue Temporary Restraining Orders Upon Allegations of Domestic Violence
Domestic Violence Allegations Generally Result in the California Courts Issuing Temporary Restraining Orders Pending a Hearing. A Permanent Restraining Order Issued After a Hearing Has Profound Effects on Child Custody Under California Law.. Navigating family law matters, particularly when dealing with divorce, paternity, child custody, and the complexities of domestic violence cases in both civil… Read More »
Secret Recordings Are Admissible When Used for Domestic Violence Restraining Orders
Recordings made by one party without the other party’s knowledge are admissable in court and cannot be excludabled under Penal Code Section 632(d) if intended to obtain evidence for a Domestic Violence Restraining Order (DVRO). Many people know that in California recordings made without the other party’s knowledge or consent are generally inadmissable in court…. Read More »
Learn About Obtaining Information For a Domestic Violence Case from the Adverse Party
As of January 1, 2024, the Civil Discovery Act does not apply to matters under the Domestic Violence Prevention Act (DVPA) absent a good cause showing. INTRODUCTION: The applicability of the Civil Discovery Act to DVPA matters was a point of contention. In cases of alleged Domestic Violence some litigants would seek discovery under the… Read More »
Accused of Domestic Violence in California? Take These Steps to Prepare
Here are some steps that a person accused of domestic violence in California should take prior to the hearing: Understand the charges: The first step is to understand the charges against you. You should know what you are being accused of and what the potential consequences are. You may face criminal charges and/or civil charges… Read More »