When your freedom, your job, your relationships and your future are at stake, I will do everything possible to keep you out of jail and help you to seek a second chance.
Skilled Defense Against Violent Crime Charges
A violent crime charge can jeopardize your freedom and place your future at risk. The serious nature of a violent crime charge makes it essential to have a skilled and experienced defense attorney who can protect your rights and your interests. The Law Office of Thomas F. McKenna in Walnut Creek, California, offers exceptional representation to those accused of violent crimes.
When you are facing an accusation of domestic violence or any other violent offense, you may be worried about jail time, a criminal record, and how a conviction could affect your job and your family. I take the time to explain the charges, potential consequences, and the steps in the Contra Costa County criminal court process so you know what to expect at each stage. By carefully reviewing the evidence, challenging weaknesses in the prosecution's case, and advising you about realistic options, I work to put you in the strongest position possible from the beginning of your case.
Contact the Law Office of Thomas F. McKenna today at (925) 744-8404 to get started on your defense with an experienced violent crimes attorney.
Understanding Domestic Violence Cases In Walnut Creek
Domestic violence cases in Walnut Creek often move quickly from a 911 call to an arrest, and the person accused may be removed from the home under a protective order before having a chance to explain their side. Even a misdemeanor allegation can affect immigration status, professional licenses, and family law matters that may already be pending in Contra Costa County courts. When you meet with me, I explain how the criminal case interacts with restraining orders, child custody disputes, and any parallel cases so you can make informed choices about what to say, where to live, and how to comply with court orders while still protecting your future.
Someone searching for a domestic violence lawyer Walnut Creek residents can rely on is usually trying to understand whether they should fight the charges at trial, negotiate a plea, or seek a resolution that focuses on counseling rather than punishment. I walk you through the possible paths in your case, including how evidence such as 911 recordings, medical reports, and witness statements may look to a judge or jury in Martinez. By discussing your goals and concerns in detail, we can identify strategies that balance your legal risks with your personal priorities, such as staying employed, preserving important relationships, and avoiding long-term consequences whenever possible.
What Is Spousal Battery?
The offensive or harmful, willful and unlawful touching of an intimate partner is known in California as domestic battery/spousal battery. The defendant can be convicted even if the victim sustained no physical harm from the altercation. What really matters is the use of force or violence against the person targeted.
In the Walnut Creek area, these cases are usually filed in the Contra Costa County Superior Court and often arise out of arguments that suddenly escalate. A domestic battery allegation can lead to emergency protective orders, stay-away conditions, and stressful court appearances that affect where you can live and who you can see. I help clients understand how a spousal battery case fits within California's domestic violence laws, including how prior convictions, visible injuries, or the presence of children may increase the potential penalties and collateral consequences.
Is There a Legal Defense Against Spousal Battery Charges?
Defendants have several strategies to defend themselves against charges of spousal or domestic battery. These defenses include:
- Claiming the incident did not involve an intimate partner,
- Claiming the defendant did not act willfully,
- Claiming some sort of police misconduct, and
- Claiming self-defense.
Every case turns on its specific facts, so I carefully examine police reports, recordings, witness statements, and any prior incidents to evaluate which defenses may apply. In some situations, the alleged victim may have a motive to exaggerate or minimize what happened, and other times the evidence may show that both parties used force during the argument. By understanding how prosecutors in Contra Costa County typically approach these cases, I can advise you about the strengths and risks of going to trial versus pursuing a negotiated outcome.
Effective Representation with Excellent Results
As a criminal trial attorney, I have over 30 years of trial experience in cases ranging from DUI/drunk driving and domestic violence to murder. I use my experience and familiarity with the Contra Costa County criminal justice system to help clients achieve the best possible results. Examples of the kinds of cases I handle include:
Homicide charges ranging from manslaughter to murder
- Felony assault charges, such as assault with a deadly weapon, assault with great bodily harm, attempted murder, or repeat offender assault and battery
- Felony or misdemeanor domestic violence charges
- California three strikes offenses
- Juvenile offenses involving violence, ranging from possession of a weapon at school to aggravated assault or homicide
Kidnapping, carjacking, armed robbery or mayhem - Weapons offenses involving concealed firearms, possession of a gun by a convicted felon, or possession of a gun in a motor vehicle
Who you choose for your lawyer will make all the difference in your case. My extensive experience and strategic judgment from the early stages of a criminal case can give you a significant advantage in defending against a violent felony assault charge.
Accused Of Committing A Violent Crime In Walnut Creek?
For a free consultation to learn about your options for defending against domestic violence charges, murder charges, and any crime in between, contact the Law Office of Thomas F. McKenna online or call 925-744-8404.
If you are looking for a domestic violence attorney Walnut Creek residents can turn to for guidance, I encourage you to reach out as soon as possible after an arrest or even a police investigation. Early involvement allows me to communicate with the district attorney's office, help you comply with release conditions, and start gathering evidence while memories are still fresh. Whether your case arises out of an incident in Walnut Creek, Concord, Martinez, or elsewhere in Contra Costa County, I will work with you to develop a defense strategy that reflects both the legal issues and your long-term goals.
Call (925) 744-8404 today to set up a consultation, or contact us online to learn more. Our attorneys are ready to help.
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This firm is the best in the Bay Area.
“Thomas F. Mckenna is more than a criminal justice Lawyer, he and his staff are attentive, timely, caring, and get the results you want.”
Shelly S. -
They showed that they care and are responsible throughout the process.
“Tom and his team were very pleasant to deal with.”
Andy H. -
One of the best lawyers in the Bay Area!
“He will get you the best deal and even NO time at all!”
D.G.
