The language in recent case decisions indicates that courts recognize the danger inherent in domestic violence situations. The volatility of situations involving domestic violence make them particularly well suited for an application of the emergency circumstances doctrine, where law enforcement can enter your home without a warrant given that an emergency is taking place.
When officers respond to a 911 domestic abuse call, a judgment call may be required when making a determination of whether law enforcement is permitted to enter a residence. There is language in a recent court case suggesting the need for courts to respect the judgment of officers who feel they must enter a residence in a domestic violence situation.
Courts have afforded great latitude to an officer’s belief that warrantless entry was justified by “exigent” or “emergency” circumstances. An experienced criminal defense attorney may be able to argue that the officer lacked substantial reason to believe that one of the parties to the alleged dispute was in danger.
If you or someone you love is facing criminal charges in California, contact the experienced Southern California criminal defense attorneys at Wallin & Klarich today at 1-888-280-6839 or www.wklaw.com for a consultation of your case. We can help you.
