Domestic Violence Lawyers

Experienced Family Law / Domestic Violence Attorneys in Riverside

Serving Clients in Riverside

If you are experiencing domestic violence, you have legal options to protect yourself and your family.

Domestic violence doesn’t always look the way people expect. It can happen quietly, behind closed doors, and often escalates over time. If you’re dealing with abuse or threats from a spouse, partner, or family member, you may feel afraid, isolated, or unsure where to turn. What you’re experiencing matters, and you have legal options.

At Fontes Law Group, our Riverside domestic violence attorneys help individuals and families protect their safety and regain stability. We provide clear guidance, compassionate support, and decisive legal action when it’s needed most. Our team serves Riverside and surrounding communities, and we are bilingual in English and Spanish.

When a Domestic Violence Case Requires Court Action

While some family law matters can be resolved through agreement, domestic violence cases often require immediate and firm court involvement. When safety is at risk, threats continue, or protective orders are violated, taking decisive legal action becomes essential.

Fontes Law Group is prepared to advocate for you in court when protection is needed. Our attorneys act quickly to seek restraining orders, present evidence clearly, and address related issues such as custody, visitation, and housing. We bring careful preparation, clear communication, and a strong understanding of California domestic violence laws to every hearing, with one priority in mind, protecting you and helping you move forward safely.

Why Clients Choose Fontes Law Group

Experience. Compassion. Results.

At Fontes Law Group, we combine decades of legal experience with a client-first approach focused on safety and protection. Our family law attorneys understand how frightening and overwhelming domestic violence situations can be, and we guide clients through California’s legal process with clarity, compassion, and decisive advocacy when it matters most.

Families choose Fontes Law Group for domestic violence matters because we offer:

• Experience handling domestic violence restraining orders and related family law issues

• A bilingual legal team serving clients in both English and Spanish

• Office locations in Santa Ana and Riverside

• No fee for your initial consultation

• A trusted reputation supporting families across Southern California

Domestic Violence in Riverside County

Domestic violence remains a serious issue across California, including here in Riverside County.

According to statewide data from the California Department of Justice, tens of thousands of domestic violence incidents are reported each year, and many more go unreported due to fear or financial dependence.

Family courts in Riverside regularly handle cases involving restraining orders, child custody disputes connected to abuse, and emergency protective measures. Judges are trained to prioritize safety, especially when children are involved.

If you’re experiencing abuse, acting early can make a critical difference.

Understanding Domestic Violence Under California Law

California law defines domestic violence broadly. It includes not only physical harm, but also threats, harassment, stalking, intimidation, sexual abuse, and behaviors meant to control or isolate another person.

Under California Family Code § 6203, domestic violence is defined broadly and can apply to more relationships than many people realize.

It includes abuse committed against:

• A current or former spouse

• A current or former dating or intimate partner

• Someone you live with now or used to live with

• The other parent of your child

• A close family member, such as a parent, child, sibling, or in-law

The law recognizes that abuse can happen in many types of relationships, not just within marriage. If the person harming or threatening you falls into one of these categories, you may qualify for legal protection under California’s domestic violence laws.

Domestic Violence Restraining Orders in Riverside

One of the most important legal tools available is a Domestic Violence Restraining Order (DVRO).

A DVRO can:

• Order the abusive person to stay away from you, your home, and your workplace
• Prohibit contact by phone, text, email, or social media
• Grant temporary custody and visitation orders
• Require the restrained person to move out of a shared residence
• Restrict firearm possession

In urgent situations, the court may issue a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) quickly, often the same day, to provide immediate protection while a hearing is scheduled.

Our Riverside attorneys help clients prepare strong restraining order requests, gather evidence, and represent them in court hearings.

How Domestic Violence Impacts Child Custody and Support

When domestic violence is present, it directly affects family law decisions involving children.

Under California Family Code § 3044, there is a legal presumption that awarding custody to a parent who has committed domestic violence within the past five years is not in a child’s best interests. This presumption can influence:

• Custody arrangements
• Visitation schedules
• Supervised visitation requirements

Domestic violence can also affect child support and spousal support decisions, especially if abuse impacted a parent’s ability to work or maintain financial independence.

Protecting children is always the court’s priority, and we work to make sure safety concerns are clearly presented and addressed.

When Domestic Violence and Divorce Overlap

Domestic violence often arises during separation or divorce, when tensions are already high. In Riverside family law cases, courts can issue temporary orders to protect victims while divorce or custody matters are pending.

These orders may address:

• Exclusive use of the family home
• Temporary custody and visitation
• Financial support
• Communication restrictions

Having legal guidance during this time helps ensure your rights are protected while your safety remains the top concern.

What to Do If You Are Experiencing Domestic Violence

If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

If you are safe but need legal protection, speaking with a family law attorney can help you understand your options. Documenting incidents, saving messages, and seeking medical or counseling support can also strengthen your case.

You do not need to wait for violence to escalate to seek help. California law allows you to act before harm becomes more severe.

Speak With a Riverside Domestic Violence Attorney

If you or your children are facing abuse, threats, or intimidation, you do not have to handle it alone. Legal protection is available, and help can start today.

Fontes Law Group is here to support Riverside families with compassion, clarity, and decisive action. Contact us to schedule a confidential consultation and learn how we can help protect you and your future.

Helpful Resources

FAQs About Domestic Violence Cases