Los Angeles Self-Defense Attorney
Arrested after defending yourself? You need an experienced California self-defense attorney who can protect your freedom and fight for your rights. Don’t face the legal system alone—contact us today for a confidential consultation.
What is Self-Defense means in California law?
In California, self-defense is the legal right to use reasonable force to protect yourself or others from imminent harm. To qualify, you must reasonably believe you or someone else is in immediate danger, and your response must be proportional to the threat.
California law does not always require you to retreat if you are lawfully present and acting in self-defense. Acting quickly and correctly is critical, so having an experienced California self-defense attorney can help protect your rights and build a strong defense.
Being arrested after defending yourself can turn your life upside down in an instant. You may be confused, angry, or scared—especially if you genuinely believed you were acting to protect yourself or someone else. Unfortunately, California law enforcement and prosecutors do not automatically accept self-defense claims.
A knowledgeable California self-defense attorney can step in immediately, protect your rights, and begin building a strong defense aimed at reducing or dismissing the charges against you.
Accused of a Crime After Acting in Self-Defense?
Many people believe that self-defense is obvious and will “explain itself.” In reality, police officers often arrive after the incident and rely on limited evidence, emotional witness statements, or visible injuries when deciding who to arrest.
Even when you are the victim, you may still be charged with a serious crime. Prosecutors may claim that your response was excessive, unnecessary, or not legally justified. Without proper legal guidance, these accusations can quickly escalate into long-term legal consequences.
Why Self-Defense Charges Require an Experienced California Attorney
Self-defense cases require far more than a basic criminal defense. They demand a deep understanding of how California courts interpret intent, fear, and reasonable force.
An experienced California self-defense lawyer does not simply react to charges—they proactively shape the narrative of what truly happened. This includes identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, preserving favorable evidence, and ensuring your version of events is clearly and legally presented.
When Self-Defense Is Legally Justified Under California Law
Self-defense may be legally justified if you:
- Reasonably believed you were in immediate danger of bodily harm
- Believed force was necessary to prevent that harm
- Used force proportional to the threat you faced
Proving these elements requires evidence, legal argument, and often expert testimony.
Self-Defense Cases We Handle Throughout California
We represent clients across California facing criminal charges related to self-defense, including complex and high-stakes cases.
Assault & Battery Self-Defense Claims
Many assault and battery cases arise from situations where our clients were protecting themselves from physical harm. We work to show that the force used was lawful and justified under the circumstances.
Domestic Violence Self-Defense Situations
Domestic disputes are emotionally charged and often result in wrongful arrests. We defend individuals who acted in self-defense but were falsely accused or misrepresented in police reports.
Self-Defense Involving Firearms or Weapons
Cases involving firearms or other weapons receive heightened scrutiny. We carefully analyze the facts, firearm laws, and use-of-force standards to build a strong defense.
Stand Your Ground and Duty to Retreat Considerations in California
While California does not have a formal Stand Your Ground statute, individuals are not required to retreat when lawfully present. We explain how this applies to your specific case.
False Accusations Following a Self-Defense Incident
In some cases, the true aggressor attempts to shift blame. We aggressively challenge false allegations and protect our clients from unjust prosecution.
Decades of Experience Defending Self-Defense Claims in California
Our firm has successfully represented individuals charged after acting in self-defense across California courts. We understand how prosecutors think and how judges evaluate self-defense arguments.
Every case is approached with careful preparation, strategic planning, and the goal of achieving the best possible outcome—whether that means dismissal, charge reduction, or acquittal.
Why Clients Trust us:
Choosing the right Los Angeles Criminal Attorney can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
- Extensive Experience in California Courts
- Personalized Defense Strategies
- Aggressive Protection of Your Rights
- Private and Confidential Consultations
Work with expert lawyers
Unlike many law offices that assign client cases to young associates, attorney Ardalon Fakhimi will personally handle all significant aspects of your Underage DUI case from start to finish, including all settlement discussions, negotiations, and the trial. He will personally answer all of your questions and navigate you through every stage of your case. We never use inexperienced associates who are just learning the practice of DUI law and criminal law. Similarly, we are NOT a high volume law office. Rather, we emphasize a very personalized attorney-client relationship where our clients are in continuous contact with their DUI and criminal lawyer; not their lawyer’s assistant. Finally, we are a detail-oriented law office that meticulously strategizes every case. That means no stone remains unturned during the course of our representation and through the final disposition of your case.
We serve clients from Sherman Oaks, Van Nuys, Torrance, for Domestic Violence, Petty Thefts, DUI Under-21 Cases.
What Our Clients Say
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifies as self-defense in California?
Self-defense applies when a reasonable person would believe force was necessary to prevent immediate harm.
Can I still be charged if I acted in self-defense?
Yes. Many individuals with valid self-defense claims are still arrested and charged.
Does California have Stand Your Ground laws?
California does not require retreat if you are lawfully present and acting in self-defense.
What if someone was seriously injured or killed?
Self-defense may still apply, but these cases are legally complex and require immediate representation.
Speak With a California Self-Defense Attorney Today
The earlier you involve an attorney, the stronger your defense can be. Waiting can result in lost evidence and missed opportunities to protect your rights.
Contact a California Criminal Defense Center today to discuss your situation and learn how we can help safeguard your freedom and future.