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The Effect of a California Domestic Violence Conviction

By Neil Shous, Esq.

California?s laws against domestic violence are serious and comprehensive. But a conviction doesn?t just subject you to fines, community service and/or therapy, and potential incarceration. Because California defines domestic violence as a crime of moral turpitude (CIMT), a conviction actually exposes you to much more severe penalties. A crime of moral turpitude (CIMT) is one that involves either (1) dishonesty or fraud, or (2) reprehensible, anti-social behavior that harms or corrupts other people. California courts have held that domestic violence falls into this second category. As a result of being declared a crime of moral turpitude, a domestic violence conviction subjects you to impeachment, discipline by your employer (if you are a California state employee), discipline by the state if you hold a California professional license, and/or deportation (whether you are an illegal alien or even a lawful permanent resident)...continue to full post

Full post as published by California Criminal Defense Blog on September 28, 2010 (boomark / email).