Articles Tagged with self-defense

pexels-odonata-wellnesscenter-226166-300x206People tend to think of domestic violence in simplistic, one-way terms. There is an abuser, and there is a victim–and that is the case in many situations. But in reality, many abusive relationships are mutually abusive–that is, both parties are physically violent with each other. Multiple studies have revealed that up to 60 percent of relationships in which domestic violence occurs are mutually abusive. When both parties allege abuse, from a legal standpoint, the situation gets very complicated very quickly—especially during the arrest and investigation process.

So the question is, how does California deal with such cases? What happens when you and your partner accuse each other of domestic violence? Let’s explore the concept of mutual abuse in California, how it impacts the legal process, and what one can expect when faced with such accusations.

Understanding Mutual Abuse

Arrested-After-Retaliating_against-DV-Abuser-300x225It seems like the epitome of cruel irony. You’ve been a victim of domestic violence by your partner for a while—perhaps even for years. Perhaps you’ve even reported it from time to time, but the problem persists. Finally…you’ve had enough. In a moment of stress, you “snap” and fight back against your abuser—only to find that now, thanks to California’s strict domestic violence laws, you’re the one who is placed under arrest!

How did this happen? How did the victim suddenly become the accused? More importantly, what happens now? Will you now go to jail while your abuser goes free? This is no doubt a complex situation, so let’s unpack it and see what we can learn.

Domestic Violence or Self-Defense?

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