Compassionate and Strategic Defense Against Domestic Violence Charges
Allegations of domestic violence can destroy your reputation, relationships, and rights. We build strong defenses to protect your name, freedom, and future.
You Deserve to Be Heard—and Defended
Strategic Defense for Charges Involving Family or Intimate Partner Violence
Being accused of domestic violence is a frightening and overwhelming experience. These charges can result in jail time, no-contact orders, loss of gun rights, job consequences, and long-lasting damage to your reputation—even before you’ve had your day in court. But remember: being accused is not the same as being guilty.
At Pedro L. Salim Law Firm, we defend individuals facing charges of domestic battery, stalking, harassment, threats, false imprisonment, and violations of protection orders. We know these cases are emotionally charged, legally complex, and often based on conflicting stories. That’s why we move fast to investigate what really happened, gather critical evidence, and protect your side of the story.
We also defend clients facing domestic violence allegations in the context of immigration, divorce, or custody cases—and we coordinate with our family-based immigration and deportation defense teams when appropriate.
Domestic Charges Can Be Fought and Won
Uncovering False Allegations, Misunderstandings, and Police Errors
Many domestic violence arrests result from 911 calls or heated arguments—not clear-cut criminal conduct. Law enforcement is often required to make an arrest if they suspect violence, even when both parties were involved or the accusation is exaggerated.
Our defense strategies include:
- Examining police reports and body cam footage for inconsistencies
- Highlighting lack of visible injuries or conflicting witness statements
- Challenging the credibility or motives of the accuser
- Demonstrating self-defense or mutual confrontation
- Exposing violations of your constitutional rights
- Seeking dismissal of charges when the alleged victim declines to cooperate
- Negotiating for pretrial diversion or counseling-based alternatives
We also help clients protect their jobs, housing, and child custody rights in the face of
protective orders, no-contact terms, or ongoing family court litigation.
Domestic Battery or Assault
We defend against claims of physical violence between spouses, partners, roommates, or family members, including cases with minimal or no injury.
Stalking and Harassment
If you’re accused of repeated unwanted contact or intimidation, we challenge the intent, timing, and evidence used to support the charge.
Violation of a Restraining or Protective Order
Whether contact was accidental or misinterpreted, we fight to prevent further penalties and explain what actually happened.
False Allegations of Abuse
In cases of divorce, custody battles, or immigration disputes, false claims of abuse may be used as leverage. We expose manipulation and defend your name.
We represent both those falsely accused and immigrants seeking protection from real abuse—providing balanced advocacy for truth and justice.

How Domestic Violence Charges Can Affect Your Life
Protecting Your Freedom, Your Record, and Your Reputation
A domestic violence conviction can have lasting consequences far beyond jail time. Even a misdemeanor can affect your ability to work, own a firearm, travel, or remain in the U.S. if you’re not a citizen. That’s why we take every accusation seriously—no matter how minor it may seem.
We help you:
- Avoid or remove unwanted restraining orders
- Keep your record clean through dismissal or diversion
- Protect your job, custody rights, and housing
- Maintain or restore your immigration status
- Address overlapping charges like drug possession, DUI, or theft
- Appeal or overturn a conviction through post-conviction relief
We understand the emotional toll these cases take—and we never lose sight of what’s at stake.
Domestic Violence Defense FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About Domestic Violence Cases
Can the alleged victim drop the charges?
Not always. Once charges are filed, prosecutors may pursue the case even if the alleged victim doesn’t want to proceed. We advocate for dismissal when cooperation is withdrawn.
Will I go to jail if convicted?
Jail time is possible—but not mandatory in every case. We fight for reduced penalties, probation, or non-jail alternatives like counseling or community service.
Can a domestic violence case affect my immigration status?
Yes. A conviction can lead to removal or denial of immigration benefits. We coordinate closely with immigration attorneys to protect your future.
How do protective orders work?
A judge may issue a no-contact or stay-away order after an arrest. We work to modify or dissolve these orders where appropriate and represent you at all hearings.
Can I own a firearm after a domestic violence conviction?
Typically no. Federal law prohibits gun ownership after a domestic violence conviction. We fight to avoid these restrictions through smart legal strategy.