Domestic Violence Can Be Terrifying. You May Be Afraid, but I Am Not.
Attorney Lenita Skoretz

As a California domestic violence attorney at the family law practice of Lenita Skoretz , I understand both the legal issues and the emotional issues surrounding domestic violence, spousal abuse, and child abuse. For ten years, I have been representing clients-both men and women-who have been abused by a spouse or partner; I provide personal support and assertive courtroom representation to ensure my clients' safety.

If you have been a victim of domestic violence:
Domestic violence is the fault of an unhealthy person who is trying to control the life of his or her partner or child-it is not YOUR fault. Abuse can be physical, verbal, sexual, or psychological. Whatever the form, its damaging effect is to rob you of control over your own life.

In is my mission to help people who have suffered from domestic violence to regain control of their lives. I empower my clients through information and meaningful participation in making decisions and taking legal action in their own defense. I understand this can be hard, but I've helped people break free from as many as 20 years of victimization. Call me at (909)435-0732, toll free 1(866)417-5074, or contact me through this website. I can help you.

The process begins with a restraining order.

A restraining order, or order of protection, helps prevent the abusive person from living in your home or coming near you and/or your child. There are no court fees to get a restraining order. I can help you file, or you can do so yourself.

Once papers are filed there will be an emergency hearing. The judge will make a decision based solely on the paperwork you have submitted. When a restraining order is granted, it gives you exclusive use of the home, and the abusive person must move out and stay at least 100 yards away from you and/or your children at all times.

A second hearing will be held within 21 days. You must attend that second hearing to tell the judge if you want the restraining order to continue. The person you have charged with abuse will also be present and may have a defense lawyer. Even if you filed the restraining order yourself the first time, you should have an attorney at the second hearing to present your side of the case and to challenge the opposing case. Contact me to help prepare the strongest case possible while providing a supportive and encouraging presence.

I can also help you accomplish a divorce, when and if you choose to take that action after you become free of your abuser.

If you have been falsely accused of abuse:
I understand that things may not always be as they seem. I have represented many spouses falsely accused of domestic violence, spousal abuse, or child abuse by a partner who wanted them out of the house or who wanted to deny them visitation with or custody of a child. These cases require the strongest possible legal representation. I act immediately and decisively to protect my client's rights.

Contact me as soon as a temporary restraining order has been filed. I will immediately begin an investigation of your case in preparation for the permanent order of protection hearing in 21 days.

Too often, I see men who plead no contest to spousal abuse because they have no money and they want to get out of jail, or because they do not speak English and do not fully understand what is going to happen.

DO NOT plead guilty without first speaking to a lawyer. If you have been convicted of family violence, you will not be able to get custody of your children in family court.

Contact me to review the child abuse or spousal abuse charges against you and to help you retain your rights.

Attorney Lenita Skoretz provides legal counsel to individuals and families in Redlands and Riverside counties in California, including the cities of Redlands, San Bernardino, Yucaipa, Fontana, Loma Linda, and Riverside.