Battery Attorney in Newport Beach

Trust Former Prosecutors for a Strong Defense in Orange County

If you are facing a battery charge in Newport Beach, choosing experienced legal counsel can make all the difference for your future. At Corrigan Welbourn Stokke, APLC, our seasoned team of former prosecutors brings more than 100 years of combined legal experience to your defense.

Securing the right battery lawyer in Newport Beach is crucial when a criminal accusation could impact your career, family, and freedom. Local authorities in Newport Beach handle battery cases with determination, so your defense demands attention to detail from the very beginning. 

Our approach at Corrigan Welbourn Stokke, APLC is always to move quickly, identify the strongest available defense, and challenge the prosecution’s case at every step. Whether the best path forward involves advocating for a dismissal, negotiating for charge reductions, or preparing for trial, our deep familiarity with Orange County legal nuances gives you the edge from day one.

Secure a powerful defense by contacting a dedicated battery attorney in Newport Beach at Corrigan Welbourn Stokke, APLC. Call us at (949) 251-0330 or reach out online to schedule your free consultation now.

Understanding California's Battery Laws

The legal definition of battery in California, under Penal Code § 242, is a "willful and unlawful use of force or violence upon the person of another." A Newport Beach battery lawyer knows that this definition is much broader than what most people understand. It does not require a visible injury, and even the slightest unwanted physical contact can be considered battery.

Battery can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, and a skilled battery attorney in Newport Beach will know how to fight to get the charges reduced or dismissed.

• Simple Battery (Penal Code § 242 PC): This is a misdemeanor that involves any willful and unlawful physical contact on another person. The contact does not need to be violent or forceful; a push, a shove, or even spitting on someone can be considered simple battery if it is done in a harmful or offensive manner. A conviction for simple battery is punishable by up to six months in county jail, a fine of up to $2,000, or both.
• Aggravated Battery (Penal Code § 243(d) PC): This is a "wobbler" offense, meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. A battery charge is elevated to aggravated battery when the victim suffers a "serious bodily injury." A serious bodily injury is defined as a significant impairment of a person's physical condition, such as a broken bone, a concussion, or a wound requiring stitches. As a felony, a conviction can lead to a state prison sentence of two, three, or four years.
• Domestic Battery (Penal Code § 243(e)(1) PC): This is a misdemeanor offense that involves battery against a current or former spouse, fiancé, cohabitant, or parent of a child. Unlike other battery charges, it does not require a visible injury to the victim. It is a serious charge that can have a significant impact on your rights and future.

It is important to understand the key difference between battery and assault. Assault (Penal Code § 240 PC) is the attempt to commit a battery, or the threat of violence that causes another person to fear for their safety. Battery is the actual unwanted physical contact. A person can be charged with assault and battery, or either one individually.

Key Elements the Prosecution Must Prove

For the prosecution to secure a conviction, they must prove every element of the specific battery charge beyond a reasonable doubt. We will focus our defense on creating reasonable doubt for each of these elements.

• Willful Act: The prosecution must prove that the touching was willful and not accidental. If the physical contact was a result of an accident, we will present evidence to show that you did not intend to make contact with the other person.
• Harmful or Offensive Touching: The prosecution must prove that the physical contact was harmful or offensive. This is often subjective, and we will argue that the contact was not intended to be offensive or that it was the result of a misunderstanding.
• No Consent: The prosecution must prove that the alleged victim did not consent to the physical contact. For certain activities, like contact sports, it is implied that a person consents to a certain amount of physical contact. We can argue that the alleged victim consented to the contact and that it was a part of a normal activity.
• Serious Bodily Injury (for Aggravated Battery): If you are charged with aggravated battery, the prosecution must prove that the victim suffered a "serious bodily injury." We will challenge the medical evidence and argue that the injury was not serious enough to warrant an aggravated battery charge.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of a Battery Conviction

A conviction for battery in California carries severe penalties, and the consequences can affect your life for years to come.

• Jail Time: A misdemeanor conviction can lead to up to six months in county jail, while a felony conviction can result in a state prison sentence of up to four years.
• Fines: You may face significant fines, restitution to the victim for medical bills and other costs, and other court-ordered fees.
• Probation: A judge may sentence you to a period of probation, which can include mandatory anger management classes, community service, and other strict conditions.
• Loss of Rights: A felony conviction for aggravated battery will result in the loss of your right to own or possess a firearm.
• Professional Licensing: A conviction can jeopardize professional licenses and make it difficult to find a job, especially in fields that require a background check.

We will fight to have your charges dismissed or reduced, and if a conviction is unavoidable, we will advocate for the most lenient sentence possible.

The California Criminal Defense Process

The legal process for a battery charge can be complex, and a single misstep can have serious consequences. Our firm will guide you through every stage, ensuring your rights are protected and that you are prepared for every hearing.

1. Arrest and Initial Appearance: If you are arrested, it is critical that you exercise your right to remain silent and contact a battery attorney in Newport Beach immediately. We are available 24/7 to provide immediate legal counsel.
2. Arraignment: This is your first court appearance, where the charges are formally read and you enter a plea. We will be there to advise you and begin building your defense.
3. Discovery: We will obtain and meticulously review all the evidence the prosecution has, including police reports, witness statements, and any video or audio recordings. We will also conduct our own independent investigation.
4. Pre-Trial Motions: We will file motions to suppress evidence if we believe it was obtained through an illegal search or seizure.
5. Plea Negotiations: Throughout the process, we will negotiate with the prosecutor to secure the best possible plea deal, which could involve a reduction of charges or a plea to a lesser offense.
6. Trial: If a plea agreement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to trial. We have extensive trial experience and will present a compelling defense to a judge or jury.

Our Comprehensive Approach to Battery Defense

At Corrigan Welbourn Stokke, APLC, we believe that an aggressive and strategic defense is the only way to fight a battery charge. 

As a dedicated Newport Beach battery lawyer, we will:

• Argue Self-Defense: Self-defense is a powerful defense to a battery charge. We will present evidence to show that you reasonably believed you were in imminent danger of bodily harm and that you used reasonable force to protect yourself.
• Dispute Intent: We will argue that the physical contact was an accident or that you lacked the criminal intent to commit battery. We will gather evidence to support your claim, such as surveillance footage or witness testimony.
• Challenge the Evidence: We will scrutinize the prosecution's evidence, including witness testimony and any forensic analysis. We will look for inconsistencies, procedural errors, or any other weaknesses that could cast doubt on their claims.
• Negotiate for a Reduction in Charges: As former prosecutors, we know how to negotiate effectively. We will work to have your felony charge reduced to a misdemeanor or a lesser offense, which can significantly lessen the penalties and help you avoid a permanent criminal record.

Why Choose Our Battery Attorneys in Newport Beach? Unmatched Legal Experience & Personalized Approach

Every person who turns to us for help deserves direct, ongoing access to a dedicated attorney—not a handoff to less-experienced support staff. Our small, focused team structure means your case receives personal communication, transparency, and the full benefit of a truly collaborative defense strategy shaped by attorneys who have worked both sides of the courtroom in Newport Beach battery cases.

When you trust our team, you benefit from decades of local courtroom knowledge. This in-depth perspective helps us recognize opportunities for reduced charges or identify flaws in the prosecution’s case that others may overlook. At Corrigan Welbourn Stokke, APLC, clear communication builds trust—keeping you engaged and empowered is the foundation for success in any battery case in Newport Beach.

At Corrigan Welbourn Stokke, APLC, our clients receive more than experienced legal counsel. We offer:

• Decades of prosecutorial & criminal defense background: We know local prosecution strategies and how to counter them effectively, giving you an edge.
• Direct contact with founding attorneys: You'll always communicate directly with accomplished attorneys who are deeply invested in your case—not junior staff.
• Small firm dedication with large firm resources: Our boutique size ensures focused service, while our team’s broad knowledge means we handle even the most complex battery defense matters.
• In-depth Newport Beach insight: We understand how local values, enforcement trends, and courtroom procedures affect outcomes, allowing us to tailor a local defense strategy for each client.

Contact Our Battery Lawyers in Newport Beach for Answers & Relief

If you or a loved one faces accusations of battery in Newport Beach, prompt, reliable support can make a critical difference. We offer direct access to our founding attorneys, collaborative legal strategy, and unmatched knowledge of the Orange County legal system, so you feel supported from the initial call to final resolution. 

We’re available 24/7 for urgent needs—helping you regain clarity and ensuring your voice is heard throughout the process.

Contact Corrigan Welbourn Stokke, APLC at (949) 251-0330 for a free, confidential consultation and let our experienced battery attorneys guide you every step of the way.