faq

What is a Quasi-Criminal Matter?

A quasi-criminal matter is one where an individual has not been charged criminally pursuant to the penal code, but is facing an allegation in the family courts for either harassment, domestic violence, contempt, or a restraining order. Since the courts can issue permanent restraining orders for a number of years, it is taking away rights from an individual. As with a criminal matter, the party must be arraigned for a contempt matter.

Due to the nature of the aforementioned proceedings, a heightened degree of formality for the procedures must be adhered to at all times.

Our firm has prosecuted and defended all three of the possible matters heard in a family law court.

Prior Criminal Record

If you’ve had any prior criminal or misdemeanor convictions, The Law Office of André J. Ausseresses, APC works to minimize their impact on your case. We have experience in reducing the effects of prior convictions of our clients in regard to family law.

An individual’s prior criminal record can be used in a court proceeding if it is relevant. However, the statute indicates that charges over ten years old are irrelevant unless they are directly associated with the current act. As a general rule any criminal act over 10 years is not relevant. Also, any juvenile charges are normally inadmissible. Finally, all misdemeanors, unless directly related to the act, are inadmissible.

As a practical matter, one’s past criminal record is not as important as the current allegation. Finally, there are many technical aspects of entering evidence regarding one’s criminal record so that it is admissible.

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Helping you through family law matters such as divorce, domestic violence, legal guardianship, child support, child custody, visitation rights, alimony and more.
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This firm really cared. They gave me personal attention when I was going through my divorce. I found them to be very detailed and kept me informed every step of the way. The took away the edge of what was a trying and stressful time for me. A competent, compassionate, thorough, personal and a professional law firm.

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Chino Hills, CA

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Riverside, CA

They handled my case very well. They scoured through the details and supplied good communication so I always felt informed and clear about my position within the litigation. Each time we meet the staff was very informed and clear on the details of my case and goals for which I hired them.

Dale

Orange County, CA