Orange County Domestic Violence Divorce Lawyer

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Understanding Domestic Violence in California

In California, domestic violence isn't limited to physical harm. It includes a wide range of behaviors intended to control or intimidate a partner or family member. This can include:

• Physical violence (hitting, slapping, pushing)

• Threats of harm

• Stalking or harassment

• Emotional or verbal abuse

• Controlling finances or access to basic needs

• Isolating you from family or support systems

Under California Penal Code § 273.5, it is a crime to willfully inflict injury on a spouse, cohabitant, or parent of your child. But even if there hasn't been a physical injury, the law recognizes emotional and psychological abuse as legitimate grounds for protection and legal action.

In a domestic violence divorce case, these elements aren't just background—they become central to the legal process. Whether it's obtaining emergency protective orders, modifying custody arrangements, or securing fair spousal support, the presence of domestic violence shifts how the court will handle your case.

How Domestic Violence Affects Divorce in Orange County

Divorces involving domestic violence carry added layers of complexity. Your attorney must balance immediate safety concerns with long-term legal strategy. In California, the courts take domestic violence seriously—especially when children are involved.

Here are some of the key ways domestic violence can influence divorce proceedings:

Child Custody and Visitation

The courts prioritize the best interests of the child. If one parent has a history of abuse, especially recent abuse or a pattern of control, the court may limit or deny custody. In many cases, visitation—if allowed at all—will be supervised.

Family Code § 3044 establishes a presumption that giving custody to a parent who has committed domestic violence is not in the best interest of the child. However, this presumption can be overcome with sufficient evidence and legal argument—another reason to have experienced legal representation.

Spousal Support

Domestic violence also impacts decisions around spousal support. An abusive spouse may be required to pay more, and in some cases, the victimized spouse may not be required to pay support to an abuser, even in a higher-earning household.

Division of Property

In California, property division follows community property rules. However, the court can consider evidence of domestic violence when dividing assets, particularly if abuse impacted financial decisions, caused damages, or created economic disparity.

Legal Protections: Restraining Orders in California

One of the first steps many clients take is securing a Domestic Violence Restraining Order (DVRO). If you feel unsafe, this order can offer immediate and lasting protection.

There are different types of restraining orders available:

• Emergency Protective Order (EPO) – Typically issued by law enforcement, lasts 5-7 days.

• Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) – Issued by a judge for up to 21 days until a hearing.

• Permanent Restraining Order – Issued after a court hearing and can last up to 5 years.

You don't have to go through this process alone. A domestic violence attorney can help you complete forms such as DV-100 and DV-110, gather evidence, represent you at hearings, and ensure the order covers your specific needs—such as protecting children or preventing the abuser from contacting you at work.

Why It's Critical to Choose the Right Domestic Violence Divorce Attorney

In domestic violence divorce cases, your lawyer must do more than file paperwork. They need to understand your experience, prioritize your safety, and move quickly.

William “Bill” London, a founding partner at Kimura London & White LLP, focuses his practice on family law and mediation services. Fluent in Mandarin and known for his integrity and loyalty, Mr. London brings both cultural sensitivity and legal precision to his work.

Mr. London is a member of Lawyers of Distinction, and has successfully advised high-profile clients in multi-million dollar matters. Clients turn to him not only for results, but because they trust him. When you're navigating one of the hardest moments of your life, that trust is essential.

Kimura London & White LLP is an award-winning firm and has been recognized on the Inc. 5,000 list, with features in Forbes and Fortune. But accolades aside, our commitment is simple: we fight for you.

What You Can Do Now: Building a Case and Protecting Your Future

If you're preparing to leave an abusive relationship, documentation matters. Here's how you can begin to build your case:

The sooner you involve a domestic violence attorney, the sooner they can help preserve and present this evidence effectively.

Safety First: Planning for the Transition

You may feel overwhelmed, afraid, or unsure of where to begin. That's normal.

Local resources like Laura's House, WTLC, and YWCA of Orange County provide emergency shelter, counseling, and transitional support. You may also qualify for relocation assistance, emergency financial support, or counseling services through local agencies.

We often advise clients not to notify their spouse of their intention to file until after a restraining order is in place and a safety plan is developed. Every case is different. What matters most is that you're supported by professionals who understand how to keep you safe.

The Long-Term Picture

Securing your immediate safety is the first step—but not the last.

A qualified Orange County domestic violence divorce lawyer will also help you secure long-term solutions. This might include:

• Ongoing restraining orders

• Court-mandated therapy for the abuser

• Adjusted custody orders as children grow

• Financial arrangements that allow you to rebuild your life

Every decision made now will shape the future for you and your children. With the right team behind you, it is possible to create a safe, stable, and empowering future.

You Deserve to Be Safe. You Deserve to Be Heard.

If you've experienced abuse in your marriage and are ready to take the next step, contact a domestic violence divorce lawyer who will take your concerns seriously and act immediately.

At Kimura London & White LLP, we understand the urgency and emotional toll of domestic violence divorce cases. We take the time to listen, guide, and protect—every step of the way.

Call us today for a confidential consultation. We're here to help you reclaim your life.