How to Handle a Domestic Violence Arrest During the Holidays

The holiday season is supposed to be a time of celebration, family gatherings, and goodwill — but for many families across Los Angeles and Glendale, it can also become a time of heightened stress, emotional tension, and conflict. Unfortunately, this leads to a noticeable rise in domestic violence arrests between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day.

If you or a loved one is arrested for domestic violence during the holidays, understanding what happens next — and what to do immediately — is critical. At KN Law Firm, we know how overwhelming this situation feels, especially during a time that’s meant for rest and connection. Below is a complete guide on how to handle a domestic violence arrest during the holiday season and how to protect your freedom and reputation.

Why Domestic Violence Arrests Increase During the Holidays

Police departments across California regularly report a spike in domestic violence calls in November, December, and early January. A few common factors include:

1. Increased Alcohol Consumption

Holiday parties, family dinners, and social gatherings often involve heavy drinking — and alcohol can escalate arguments or misunderstandings.

2. Financial Pressures

Gift-buying, travel expenses, and year-end bills make the holidays one of the most stressful financial periods of the year.

3. Family Conflicts

Old tensions may resurface when families gather. Even minor disagreements can escalate quickly.

4. Emotional Triggers

The holidays can intensify loneliness, depression, or frustration — especially after relationship issues, job loss, or personal struggles.

These elements combine to create a perfect storm where domestic arguments can quickly lead to police involvement.

What Happens Immediately After a Domestic Violence Arrest

A domestic violence arrest in Los Angeles or Glendale follows strict California procedures. Even if the alleged victim does not want charges, officers often must make an arrest under California’s mandatory arrest policies.

You May Be Removed From Your Home

Police commonly separate the parties and take one person into custody, even when the situation is misunderstood or both sides were equally involved.

A Protective Order Is Automatically Issued

This can:

• Force you to leave your home
• Prevent any contact with the alleged victim
• Limit communication with your children
• Affect your holiday visitation or plans

Violating a protective order can lead to immediate jail time.

You will need to attend a court hearing

Even during the holidays, court schedules move quickly. Missing this hearing can result in a warrant.

What You SHOULD Do After a Holiday Domestic Violence Arrest

The holidays are busy — but in a domestic violence case, timing can determine the entire outcome. Here’s what to do right away:

1. Contact a Domestic Violence Lawyer Immediately

This is the single most important step.

During the holidays, district attorneys review cases quickly.
If your lawyer contacts them early, charges may be reduced, delayed, or prevented entirely.

KN Law Firm has successfully stopped criminal filings before they ever reach court — especially when evidence is weak or the incident was a misunderstanding.

2. Follow All Court and Protection Orders

Even if you disagree with the allegations or need to return home for the holidays, obey the order until your attorney modifies it.

Your lawyer may request:

• A “peaceful contact” order
• Permission to return home
• Parenting or holiday exceptions

But violating the order on your own will hurt your case.

3. Document What Happened

Write down everything:

• Who was present
• What was said
• Whether alcohol was involved
• Any witnesses
• Any injuries or lack of injuries

Holiday gatherings often have witnesses who can help clear your name.

4. Save Relevant Messages

Texts, social media messages, and call logs can often disprove allegations. Do not delete anything.

5. Avoid discussing the incident publicly

No social media posts. No arguing via text. No apologizing in writing. These messages can be used against you.

What You Should NOT Do After a Holiday Arrest

❌ Don’t contact the alleged victim without permission

Even a friendly message or apology can be a criminal violation.

❌ Don’t return home until your lawyer clears it

Police may be called again, and you may be charged with violating the protective order.

❌ Don’t assume the case will go away

Holiday domestic violence cases are aggressively prosecuted in Los Angeles County.

How KN Law Firm Can Help During the Holiday Season

At KN Law Firm, we understand how disruptive and frightening a holiday domestic violence arrest can be. Our attorneys act immediately to:

• Challenge the allegations
• Prevent charges from being filed
• Request modifications to protective orders
• Protect child visitation and holiday plans
• Negotiate reduction or dismissal of charges
• Build strong defenses based on evidence

Our team is available 24/7, even during weekends and holidays — because arrests don’t wait for a convenient time.

Need More Guidance? Read Our Related Article

For more clarity on age-related consent issues, read our high-ranking article:
“Can 17 and 18 Date in California? Understanding Legal Boundaries and Penalties.”

Contact KN Law Firm Today

If you or someone you care about was arrested during the holidays, do not wait. Early legal intervention can change the entire outcome of your case.

📞 Call KN Law Firm 24/7: (888) 950-0011
📍 Glendale & Los Angeles – Serving all surrounding Southern California cities
💼 Free & confidential consultations

KN Law Firm – Protecting your rights, your family, and your future.