Lompoc Restraining Orders Attorney

57+ Years of Combined Experience

Protecting Your Rights and Freedom in Lompoc Restraining Order Cases

Being served with a restraining order in Lompoc can feel like your rights and reputation are being destroyed—but you’re not alone, and you have options. Whether you’re dealing with domestic violence restraining orders (DVRO) filed by spouses or partners, civil harassment restraining orders from neighbors or acquaintances, workplace violence restraining orders threatening your employment at Vandenberg Space Force Base, elder abuse restraining orders, gun violence restraining orders seeking to confiscate your firearms, violations of existing restraining orders resulting in criminal charges, false allegations used as weapons in custody battles or contentious divorces, or need to obtain restraining orders protecting yourself or family members from abuse, understanding California’s restraining order system is the first step toward protecting your freedom, your reputation, your custody rights, and your ability to work at Vandenberg and live in Lompoc’s close-knit community where restraining orders can permanently damage reputations and destroy careers if not defended aggressively.

At Central Coast Criminal Defense, we’ve helped Lompoc residents defend against restraining orders and obtain protective orders since 2010. We know the Santa Barbara County courts, the judges at Lompoc Superior Court on North H Street who hear restraining order matters, the family law dynamics affecting custody and visitation disputes, and—most importantly—we know how to fight for results that protect what matters most: defeating false or exaggerated restraining order requests through compelling evidence and testimony, preventing restraining orders that would destroy your employment at Vandenberg Space Force Base requiring clean records, protecting your custody and visitation rights with children when restraining orders are weaponized in family court, defending against restraining order violation charges, and preserving your reputation in Lompoc’s close-knit community where restraining orders create social stigma and professional consequences even when allegations are false or greatly exaggerated by petitioners seeking tactical advantages in divorces or disputes.

What Are Restraining Orders in California?

Restraining orders (also called protective orders) are court orders prohibiting individuals from specific conduct toward protected parties including no contact, staying away from residences and workplaces, and surrendering firearms. California has several types of restraining orders with different requirements and procedures: Domestic Violence Restraining Orders (DVRO) under Family Code 6200 protecting spouses, former spouses, cohabitants, dating partners, parents of shared children, and certain family members from abuse, Civil Harassment Restraining Orders under Code of Civil Procedure 527.6 protecting individuals from harassment, stalking, threats, or violence by neighbors, roommates, acquaintances, or strangers with no domestic relationship, Workplace Violence Restraining Orders under CCP 527.8 allowing employers to obtain orders protecting employees from violence or threats at workplaces, Elder or Dependent Adult Abuse Restraining Orders under Welfare and Institutions Code 15657.03 protecting individuals 65 or older or dependent adults from abuse, and Gun Violence Restraining Orders under Penal Code 18100 allowing family members or law enforcement to petition for firearm removal from individuals posing danger. Each type has different standards: DVROs require showing abuse including physical violence, threats, sexual abuse, harassment, stalking, destruction of property, or disturbing peace; civil harassment orders require showing harassment defined as unlawful violence, credible threats, or course of conduct seriously alarming or harassing with no legitimate purpose; workplace orders require showing violence or threats at work; elder abuse orders require showing physical abuse, neglect, financial abuse, or abandonment of elderly victims; and gun violence orders require showing danger to self or others justifying firearm removal.

In Lompoc and throughout Santa Barbara County, restraining orders are issued through two-stage process beginning with temporary restraining orders (TROs) granted ex parte (without respondent present) based solely on petitioner’s written declarations and lasting 15-21 days until hearing, followed by restraining order hearings at Lompoc Superior Court on North H Street where both parties present evidence and testimony with judges deciding whether to issue permanent restraining orders lasting up to five years. Common restraining order situations in Lompoc include domestic violence restraining orders filed by spouses or dating partners during divorces or separations claiming abuse to gain custody advantages, civil harassment orders filed by neighbors disputing property boundaries or noise complaints in Lompoc neighborhoods, workplace violence orders sought by Vandenberg Space Force Base or Federal Correctional Complex employers when employees make threats or engage in concerning behavior, restraining orders filed by ex-girlfriends or ex-boyfriends after relationship breakups claiming harassment from continued contact attempts, restraining orders used tactically in child custody disputes to portray other parent as dangerous limiting visitation rights, and false or exaggerated allegations by individuals seeking to remove respondents from shared Lompoc residences or gain leverage in legal disputes. The restraining order process involves petitioners filing requests with supporting declarations describing alleged abuse or harassment, judges reviewing petitions and issuing temporary restraining orders if allegations justify immediate protection, service of TROs on respondents by law enforcement or process servers, restraining order hearings where both sides present evidence, and final orders if judges find by preponderance of evidence that abuse or harassment occurred justifying continued protection.

What many people served with restraining orders in Lompoc don’t understand is that these orders carry devastating consequences beyond just no-contact requirements including prohibition from possessing firearms requiring immediate surrender of all guns to law enforcement or licensed dealers, loss of child custody and visitation rights when orders protect children, relocation from shared residences leaving defendants homeless in Lompoc’s tight housing market, employment termination from Vandenberg Space Force Base or Federal Correctional Complex when restraining orders appear on background checks or security clearance reviews, immigration consequences for non-citizens when restraining orders are considered crimes involving moral turpitude or domestic violence triggering deportation, criminal charges for violations when defendants violate stay-away or no-contact terms, public record of restraining orders appearing on background checks damaging employment prospects and reputation in Lompoc’s close-knit community, and tactical disadvantages in family court where restraining orders create presumptions against respondents in custody evaluations. Additionally, many restraining order petitions involve false allegations, greatly exaggerated claims where minor arguments or mutual disputes are characterized as abuse, retaliation for relationship breakups or rejection, tactical weapons in custody battles where parents manufacture abuse claims to gain sole custody, or situations where petitioners were aggressors or mutual combatants but file orders first portraying themselves as victims. Without aggressive representation that challenges false allegations through testimony and evidence, presents defense witnesses contradicting petitioner claims, cross-examines petitioners exposing inconsistencies and motivations, and demonstrates to judges that abuse or harassment didn’t occur or doesn’t justify restraining orders, you risk permanent orders that destroy custody rights, employment at Vandenberg, firearm rights, and reputation based on false or exaggerated allegations that should never result in court-issued restrictions on freedom and rights in Lompoc community.

  • Legal Definition: Restraining orders are court orders prohibiting respondents from contacting protected parties, staying away from residences and workplaces, and possessing firearms, issued through two-stage process with temporary restraining orders (TROs) granted ex parte lasting 15-21 days followed by hearings at Lompoc Superior Court where judges issue permanent orders lasting up to five years if abuse, harassment, or threats proven by preponderance of evidence, with different types including DVROs for domestic relationships, civil harassment orders for non-domestic situations, workplace violence orders, elder abuse orders, and gun violence restraining orders.
  • Why It’s Devastating: Restraining orders result in immediate firearm surrender and permanent prohibition from gun possession, loss of child custody and visitation rights when orders protect children, forced relocation from shared Lompoc residences, employment termination from Vandenberg Space Force Base and Federal Correctional Complex when orders appear on background checks, immigration consequences including deportation for non-citizens, criminal charges for violations, public records damaging employment prospects and reputation in Lompoc’s close-knit community, and tactical disadvantages in family court custody battles where orders create presumptions against respondents.
  • Common Situations: Domestic violence restraining orders filed during divorces or separations by spouses claiming abuse to gain custody advantages in family court, civil harassment orders from neighbors disputing property or noise in Lompoc neighborhoods, workplace violence orders from Vandenberg Space Force Base or Federal Correctional Complex when employees make threats, orders filed by ex-partners after breakups claiming harassment from contact attempts, tactical use in custody disputes to portray other parent as dangerous, and false or exaggerated allegations seeking to remove respondents from shared residences or gain leverage in disputes.

Critical: If served with temporary restraining order, you have 15-21 days until hearing to prepare defense. Do not contact petitioner or violate TRO terms—violations result in criminal charges. Call +1 (805) 621-7181 immediately for emergency restraining order defense.

Restraining Order Matters We Handle in Lompoc

We defend clients against restraining orders and help petitioners obtain protective orders in Lompoc, Santa Barbara County, and surrounding areas. Here are the matters we handle:

Defending Against Domestic Violence Restraining Orders (DVRO)

  • Spousal DVRO Defense
    Defending against restraining orders filed by current or former spouses during divorces or separations | Strategy: Challenge false allegations, demonstrate mutual combat or self-defense, expose tactical motivations for custody advantages
  • Dating Partner DVRO Defense
    Defending against orders filed by ex-girlfriends or ex-boyfriends claiming abuse after relationship breakups | Defense: Show relationship conflicts don’t constitute abuse, demonstrate petitioner exaggerates or fabricates allegations
  • Cohabitant DVRO Defense
    Defending against orders filed by former cohabitants or roommates in Lompoc shared housing | Approach: Prove no qualifying domestic relationship, contest abuse allegations, show civil dispute not domestic violence
  • Parent of Child DVRO Defense
    Defending against orders filed by other parent seeking custody advantages through abuse allegations | Critical: Protect custody and visitation rights, expose false allegations tactical weapon in family court

Defending Against Civil Harassment Restraining Orders

  • Neighbor Dispute Orders
    Defending against harassment orders filed by Lompoc neighbors disputing property boundaries, noise, or conflicts | Defense: Show no harassment occurred, demonstrate legitimate reasons for contact, prove petitioner is aggressor
  • Stalking Allegations
    Defending against orders claiming stalking behavior or unwanted following | Strategy: Demonstrate innocent explanations for presence, challenge credibility of stalking claims, show no course of conduct
  • Online Harassment Claims
    Defending against orders alleging cyber harassment, threatening messages, or social media abuse | Defense: Challenge attribution of messages, demonstrate free speech protections, show no credible threats
  • Acquaintance Disputes
    Defending against orders filed by acquaintances, former friends, or community members after conflicts | Approach: Show isolated incidents don’t constitute harassment course of conduct, demonstrate context negates claims

Workplace Violence Restraining Orders

  • Vandenberg Employment Orders
    Defending against workplace violence orders sought by Vandenberg Space Force Base employers claiming threats or violence | Consequences: Immediate employment termination, security clearance loss, defend to preserve Vandenberg career
  • Federal Correctional Complex Orders
    Defending against orders filed by Federal Correctional Complex Lompoc alleging employee threats | Strategy: Challenge workplace conduct characterizations, demonstrate miscommunications not threats, protect federal employment
  • Private Employer Orders
    Defending against orders sought by Lompoc businesses claiming employee violence or threats | Defense: Contest employer allegations, demonstrate wrongful termination motivations, show no workplace violence

Elder and Dependent Adult Abuse Orders

  • Elder Abuse Order Defense
    Defending against orders alleging abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation of elderly family members | Defense: Challenge abuse allegations, demonstrate proper care provided, show family disputes not abuse
  • Financial Abuse Allegations
    Defending against orders claiming improper handling of elderly relatives’ finances or assets | Strategy: Document proper financial management, demonstrate authorization for transactions, challenge exploitation claims

Gun Violence Restraining Orders (GVRO)

  • GVRO Defense
    Defending against gun violence restraining orders seeking firearm confiscation based on danger allegations | Critical: Immediate firearm surrender required, challenge danger claims, demonstrate no threat to self or others
  • Law Enforcement GVRO
    Defending against orders filed by police claiming individuals pose danger justifying firearm removal | Defense: Contest law enforcement characterizations, challenge evidence of dangerousness, protect Second Amendment rights
  • Family Member GVRO
    Defending against orders filed by family members seeking firearm confiscation | Strategy: Demonstrate family conflicts not danger, challenge petitioner motivations, restore firearm rights

Restraining Order Violation Defense

  • Criminal Violation Charges (PC 273.6)
    Defending against criminal charges for violating restraining order terms including no-contact or stay-away provisions | Penalties: Up to 1 year jail for misdemeanor, 3 years prison for felony with priors, aggressive defense essential
  • Accidental Contact Violations
    Defending violations where contact was unintentional, unavoidable, or initiated by protected party | Defense: Demonstrate lack of willful violation, show protected party initiated contact, prove innocent encounter
  • Technical Violations
    Defending minor or technical violations of restraining order terms | Strategy: Minimize severity, demonstrate no danger to protected party, negotiate reduced charges or dismissals
  • False Violation Allegations
    Defending against fabricated violation claims by protected parties seeking additional leverage | Defense: Challenge credibility, demonstrate alibi, prove violations didn’t occur through evidence and witnesses

Modifications and Terminations

  • Restraining Order Modifications
    Petitioning to modify restraining order terms to allow child visitation, workplace proximity, or other necessary contact | Process: Demonstrate changed circumstances, show modification serves children’s best interests, negotiate with petitioners
  • Early Termination of Orders
    Seeking dismissal of restraining orders before expiration when no longer necessary | Strategy: Show no ongoing danger, demonstrate rehabilitation or changed circumstances, obtain petitioner agreement
  • Firearm Rights Restoration
    Petitioning to restore firearm rights after restraining orders expire or are dismissed | Relief: File petitions demonstrating no danger, challenge continuing firearm prohibitions, restore Second Amendment rights

Obtaining Restraining Orders for Clients

  • Domestic Violence Protection
    Obtaining DVROs protecting clients and children from abusive spouses or partners in Lompoc | Process: Document abuse, file comprehensive petitions, present compelling testimony at hearings, secure protective orders
  • Stalking Protection
    Obtaining civil harassment orders protecting clients from stalkers, harassers, or threatening individuals | Strategy: Document harassment course of conduct, demonstrate credible threats, obtain stay-away orders
  • Workplace Protection
    Assisting Vandenberg or Lompoc employer clients in obtaining workplace violence orders protecting employees | Approach: Document workplace threats or violence, demonstrate danger to employees, secure protective orders

Served with restraining order in Lompoc? You have 15-21 days to prepare defense before hearing. False allegations can destroy custody rights and Vandenberg employment. Call +1 (805) 621-7181 immediately for emergency restraining order defense.

What’s at Stake: Consequences of Restraining Orders

Restraining orders don’t just require staying away—they destroy your rights, your custody, and your reputation permanently. Here’s what you could be facing:

Immediate Rights Loss

  • Immediate firearm surrender and permanent prohibition from gun possession for five years minimum
  • Loss of child custody and supervised visitation only when orders protect children
  • Forced relocation from shared Lompoc residences leaving respondents homeless
  • Prohibition from contact with children, family members, or shared social circles
  • Stay-away orders from workplaces, schools, children’s activities preventing normal life
  • Criminal charges for any violations of restraining order terms

Career and Reputation Destruction

  • Employment termination from Vandenberg Space Force Base when orders appear on security clearance reviews
  • Loss of federal employment at Federal Correctional Complex Lompoc
  • Professional license consequences for healthcare, education, law enforcement careers
  • Public records appearing on background checks damaging employment prospects
  • Immigration consequences including deportation for non-citizens with domestic violence orders
  • Social stigma in Lompoc’s close-knit community branding respondents as abusers
  • Permanent tactical disadvantages in family court custody battles

⚠️ Your custody rights, Vandenberg employment, and firearms are at stake immediately. Restraining order hearings occur in 15-21 days. Call now for emergency restraining order defense before permanent orders issue.

Why Hiring an Attorney for Restraining Orders Is Essential

Exposing False Allegations Through Cross-Examination

Many restraining order petitions filed in Lompoc involve false allegations, greatly exaggerated claims, or tactical misuse of protective order system to gain advantages in custody battles, divorces, or personal disputes—and aggressive cross-examination at restraining order hearings exposes these false claims preventing unjust permanent orders. We challenge false allegations by conducting thorough cross-examination of petitioners at Lompoc Superior Court hearings exposing inconsistencies between written declarations and testimony, questioning petitioners about motivations including pending custody disputes, divorces, or property conflicts that explain tactical filing of restraining orders, demonstrating through questioning that alleged abuse incidents never occurred or were mutual conflicts not one-sided abuse, revealing petitioner was aggressor or instigator while portraying self as victim, challenging credibility when petitioners embellish or fabricate allegations under oath, and exposing lack of corroborating evidence when abuse claims aren’t supported by police reports, medical records, photographs, or witness testimony. At restraining order hearings, judges base decisions on credibility assessments after hearing both parties testify—and without skilled cross-examination exposing false allegations, contradictions, and tactical motivations, petitioners’ one-sided stories in declarations are accepted as truth resulting in permanent orders based on fabricated or exaggerated abuse claims that should never justify court-imposed restrictions on freedom, custody rights, and Second Amendment rights in Lompoc community.

Protecting Child Custody and Visitation Rights

Domestic violence restraining orders that protect children result in immediate loss of custody and supervised visitation only for respondents—making restraining order defense critical to protecting parental rights when orders are used as tactical weapons in custody disputes. We protect custody rights by demonstrating to judges at restraining order hearings that abuse allegations are false or exaggerated attempts to gain sole custody advantages, presenting evidence that respondents are loving, non-abusive parents with strong bonds to children, challenging inclusion of children as protected parties when no abuse toward children occurred or is alleged, arguing that supervised visitation is unnecessary when no danger to children exists, negotiating restraining order terms allowing continued parenting time and co-parenting communication about children, and coordinating restraining order defense with family court custody proceedings to prevent tactical abuse of protective order system. When restraining orders protect children, family court judges in custody cases are heavily influenced by existence of orders creating presumptions that respondents are dangerous parents unsuitable for custody—but successfully defending against restraining orders at initial hearings prevents these presumptions from arising and preserves equal custody rights. Many parents facing restraining orders in Lompoc are falsely accused by other parents seeking to monopolize custody and eliminate co-parenting, and without aggressive representation exposing these false allegations and protecting custody rights, respondents lose meaningful relationships with children based on fabricated abuse claims used as tactical weapons in family court battles.

Preserving Vandenberg Security Clearances and Federal Employment

Restraining orders, particularly domestic violence restraining orders, appear on background checks and security clearance reviews resulting in immediate termination from Vandenberg Space Force Base contractor and civilian positions, loss of security clearances, and disqualification from federal employment at Federal Correctional Complex Lompoc. We protect Vandenberg and federal employment by fighting aggressively at restraining order hearings to prevent issuance of permanent orders that would appear on background checks, demonstrating to employers and security clearance adjudicators that temporary restraining orders are based on false allegations being contested at hearings, securing dismissals of restraining order petitions through compelling defense preventing any orders from issuing, negotiating civil harassment orders rather than domestic violence orders when possible because civil orders have less severe employment consequences, and presenting evidence to Department of Defense or federal employers that restraining order allegations are false and being vigorously defended. For Lompoc residents working at Vandenberg Space Force Base where security clearances require demonstrating trustworthiness and sound judgment, or Federal Correctional Complex where federal employment is contingent on clean backgrounds, restraining orders—even if based on false allegations—can result in immediate termination and loss of livelihoods supporting families. Without aggressive representation defeating restraining orders or minimizing their severity, these employment consequences occur regardless of whether allegations are true, destroying careers and economic stability in community where Vandenberg and federal employment opportunities are primary sources of quality jobs and benefits for thousands of families.

Local Experience at Lompoc Superior Court Makes Difference

Restraining order hearings at Lompoc Superior Court on North H Street require understanding which judges are skeptical of false allegations versus those who routinely grant orders based on petitioners’ claims, how to effectively cross-examine petitioners exposing tactical motivations and inconsistencies, what evidence judges find persuasive in determining whether abuse or harassment occurred, and how to present defense testimony and witnesses credibly. We’ve defended hundreds of restraining order hearings at Lompoc Superior Court, know the judges who handle these matters and their approaches to evaluating credibility and evidence, understand effective cross-examination techniques that expose false allegations without appearing aggressive or unsympathetic, can prepare compelling respondent testimony presenting defenses clearly and credibly, and know how to present evidence including text messages, emails, witnesses, and police reports contradicting petitioner claims. We also understand restraining order dynamics in Lompoc including tactical use in custody disputes where parents file orders to gain advantages in family court, neighbor conflicts arising from property disputes in Lompoc neighborhoods, and domestic violence allegations in relationships where mutual combat or self-defense occurred but one party files order first portraying other as sole aggressor. Understanding these local dynamics and how to effectively present defenses at Lompoc Superior Court makes difference between permanent restraining orders destroying custody, employment, and reputation versus successful defense defeating false allegations and preserving rights in close-knit community.

How Central Coast Criminal Defense Fights Restraining Orders

Since 2010, we’ve defended Lompoc residents against restraining orders with a proven approach:

  1. Immediate Case Assessment and Response
    We immediately review temporary restraining order documents and petitioner’s declarations identifying false allegations, exaggerations, and inconsistencies, assess tactical motivations including pending custody disputes, divorces, or conflicts explaining why orders were filed, identify defense strategies including challenging abuse claims, demonstrating mutual combat or self-defense, or exposing petitioner as aggressor, determine urgent issues including child custody impacts, firearm surrender requirements, and employment consequences at Vandenberg Space Force Base, and prepare comprehensive response strategies for restraining order hearings within 15-21 day timeframe.
  2. Evidence Gathering
    We obtain all evidence supporting defense including text messages, emails, and communications between parties contradicting abuse allegations, police reports showing mutual combat, respondent as victim, or no arrests despite petitioner claims, medical records when petitioner claims injuries that don’t exist or occurred differently, witness statements from family, friends, neighbors, or coworkers contradicting petitioner’s abuse claims, photographs or videos disproving petitioner allegations or showing respondent injuries when self-defense occurred, social media posts by petitioner contradicting claims of fear or abuse, and documentary evidence exposing tactical timing of restraining order filings coordinated with custody or divorce proceedings.
  3. Preparing Respondent Testimony
    We prepare respondents to testify effectively at Lompoc Superior Court hearings explaining what actually happened during alleged incidents demonstrating no abuse occurred, presenting respondent’s version of events credibly and calmly without appearing angry or aggressive, addressing each allegation in petitioner’s declaration with specific factual rebuttals, demonstrating through testimony that conflicts were mutual or respondent acted in self-defense, explaining context of relationship and petitioner’s motivations for filing false allegations, and presenting respondent as credible, non-threatening individual who doesn’t pose danger to petitioner.
  4. Cross-Examination of Petitioner
    We conduct aggressive cross-examination at restraining order hearings exposing inconsistencies between petitioner’s written declarations and testimony, questioning petitioner about tactical motivations including custody disputes, property conflicts, or revenge for relationship breakup, demonstrating through questioning that alleged abuse incidents never occurred or were greatly exaggerated, revealing petitioner initiated conflicts, was aggressor, or engaged in mutual combat not one-sided abuse, challenging lack of corroborating evidence when serious abuse allegations aren’t supported by police reports, medical records, or witnesses, and damaging petitioner credibility through exposure of false statements or exaggerations under oath.
  5. Presenting Defense Witnesses
    We present witnesses at hearings contradicting petitioner allegations including family members, friends, or neighbors who witnessed alleged incidents testifying no abuse occurred or petitioner was aggressor, coworkers or employers from Vandenberg Space Force Base or Lompoc businesses vouching for respondent’s character and non-violent nature, children (when appropriate) describing non-abusive relationship with respondent parent, expert witnesses including psychologists or domestic violence experts when necessary explaining mutual combat dynamics or false allegations in custody disputes, and character witnesses testifying about respondent’s reputation for peacefulness and non-violence in Lompoc community.
  6. Legal Arguments
    We present comprehensive legal arguments to judges at Lompoc Superior Court explaining why restraining orders should not issue including arguing petitioner hasn’t met burden of proof by preponderance of evidence that abuse or harassment occurred, demonstrating alleged conduct doesn’t meet legal definitions of abuse, harassment, stalking, or threats under California law, arguing restraining orders are tactical weapons in custody or divorce disputes not legitimate protection from abuse, showing First Amendment protections when allegations involve protected speech not true threats, presenting self-defense or necessity justifications for respondent’s conduct, and arguing less restrictive alternatives like mutual stay-away orders more appropriate than one-sided restraining orders.
  7. Negotiating Dismissals or Favorable Terms
    We negotiate with petitioners and their attorneys before or during hearings to secure voluntary dismissals of restraining order petitions when petitioners recognize allegations won’t be proven or were exaggerated, mutual stay-away agreements where both parties agree to avoid contact rather than one-sided restraining orders creating tactical advantages, modifications of temporary restraining order terms allowing child visitation, workplace proximity at Vandenberg, or necessary communications, and stipulated orders with specific limited terms less restrictive than blanket restraining orders petitioners originally sought.
  8. Protecting Custody Rights
    When restraining orders threaten child custody we coordinate restraining order defense with family court custody proceedings ensuring consistent strategies across cases, challenge inclusion of children as protected parties when no abuse toward children occurred, argue for continued parenting time and co-parenting communication about children, demonstrate respondent is loving non-abusive parent deserving equal custody, and prevent restraining orders from creating presumptions against respondent in custody evaluations and family court decisions.
  9. Vandenberg and Federal Employment Protection
    For clients working at Vandenberg Space Force Base or Federal Correctional Complex we fight aggressively to prevent restraining orders that would appear on background checks and security clearance reviews, communicate with employers explaining temporary orders are based on false allegations being contested, secure dismissals preventing any permanent orders from issuing and appearing on employment records, present evidence to security clearance adjudicators that allegations are false and vigorously defended, and minimize employment consequences by negotiating civil harassment orders rather than domestic violence orders when possible because they have less severe impact on security clearances and federal employment.

Our Lompoc restraining order defense practice is built on successfully defeating false allegations at hearings. We’ve secured complete dismissals of restraining order petitions by exposing false allegations through cross-examination and compelling defense evidence, prevented domestic violence restraining orders by demonstrating mutual combat or self-defense rather than one-sided abuse, protected child custody and visitation rights by excluding children from restraining orders or negotiating parenting time provisions, preserved Vandenberg Space Force Base employment by defeating orders that would have appeared on security clearance reviews, negotiated mutual stay-away agreements or limited restraining orders instead of blanket prohibitions petitioners sought, defended successfully against restraining order violations by demonstrating accidental contact or false allegations, obtained modifications allowing workplace proximity at Vandenberg or necessary communications about children, and helped countless Lompoc residents defeat false or exaggerated restraining order allegations that would have destroyed custody rights, employment at Vandenberg and Federal Correctional Complex, firearm rights, and reputations in close-knit community. We understand that restraining orders are frequently misused as tactical weapons in custody disputes, divorce proceedings, and personal conflicts where petitioners seek advantages by portraying opponents as dangerous abusers—and we fight aggressively through cross-examination, defense testimony, and evidence to expose these false allegations, protect respondents’ rights, and prevent unjust restraining orders from issuing based on fabricated or exaggerated claims that don’t justify court-imposed restrictions on freedom, parental rights, and Second Amendment rights in Lompoc community where false allegations can permanently damage reputations and destroy lives if not defended properly with compelling evidence and aggressive advocacy.

When false restraining order allegations threaten your custody, your Vandenberg employment, and your reputation, you need more than just legal representation—you need an advocate who knows Lompoc Superior Court and fights aggressively through cross-examination. That’s exactly what you get with Central Coast Criminal Defense.

Get Your Free Consultation Today

Don’t wait if served with restraining order. You have only 15-21 days until hearing to prepare defense. False allegations can destroy custody rights, Vandenberg employment, and firearms. Call now for immediate restraining order defense consultation.

Free Case Evaluation

Kit Westbrook and his team are extremely competent, skilled and compassionate lawyers. As an attorney practicing in a different area of the law, I have referred several cases to their office over the years. I know I can always trust the Central Coast Criminal Defense team to provide top-notch representation of clients in need.

Derek Waldron

I don’t even know where I begin with how grateful I am for Central Coast Criminal Defense, specifically Kit and Adrienne. From the moment we first spoke on the phone to when I got the call that they got my case dismissed I truly felt the dedication and support from Kit and Adrienne. Possibly the best part of this experience for me was feeling that these two genuinely cared about me as an individual and believed in my story. I do not have enough great things to say about this firm! They were hard-working, prompt, informative, and affordable! I HIGHLY recommend them to anyone in need of an attorney.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart Kit and Adrienne!!

Hannah Clingerman

I recommend Adrienne Haddad & CCCD to anyone in need of representation in a criminal case. I hired this firm to represent a family member facing a new charge, 2 probation violations & a CPO. The odds were stacked, but Adrienne knocked it out of the park. Our entire family is so grateful 🙏 Worth every penny!

Ashley DiNapoli

Very very satisfied with Adrienne! She has helped out my case more than I could imagine.They make situations very efficient and affordable to anyone in desperate need. My recommendation to anybody who has a tricky DUI situation would to give her a call!

Jose Campoverde

I wanted to hire an attorney to win a court case. After much research, I found Kit Westbrook. I liked his reviews and the help that he has provided in many different situations. After I hired him, he worked his hardest to help me. It did not take long, maybe a week, for him to change the outcome of of my situation. Kit has done for me, something a majority of lawyers would not be able to do. My future will be better because of him. I’m glad he is in this profession and highly recommend him. Also, if you are concerned about money, his prices at Cccd are very affordable.

Kieffer Taylor

I want to let anyone know who needs a criminal attorney on the Central Coast this is the firm to hire. I was in a tough spot arrested for domestic violence when all I did was defend myself against an alcoholic wife who was physically abusing me. Luckily, I took pictures of my injuries and gave them to Kit and Adrienne. These two attorneys are supremely knowledgeable in criminal law and are tenacious for the rights of their clients. Believe me, they will fight for you and never give up. They know the court system here from top to bottom. My case was dismissed. Kit and Adrienne, thank you from the bottom of my heart for all your help

Michael Cody

We are so thankful we chose Central Coast Criminal Defense to represent our son! His case was complicated and took a lot of patience and time to complete. The fees were very reasonable compared to other attorneys. The team went above and beyond what is normally expected including ultimately getting the charges dismissed. Billy and Jamie were awesome and very patient with us while we worked through this process together. Having never been through anything like this as a family they always kept us informed even during the Pandemic. We cannot express how grateful we are to them for all of their hard work!

Paul Lee

In a time of uncertainty and great need, I was fortunate to meet Kit from Central Coast Criminal Defense. After explaining my situation, he explained to me what our options were and how he recommended proceeding. He was always understanding and supportive throughout this entire process. I couldn’t be more grateful for Kit’s knowledge and help. I would recommend Kit and his team to anybody looking for help.

Jason Varley

Adrienne Haddad is the best. I was able to get the legal assistance in a professional and timely manner.

I would highly recommend Central Coast Criminal Defense.

Pale Rider

I contacted CCCD the morning after receiving a DUI. They immediately got to work, and we’re able to save my license from being suspended. During a time when my options appeared limited and the likelihood of a satisfactory resolution seemed almost impossible, Adrienne Haddad was especially helpful to me. Not only was she able to defend me from an unjust accusation, her calm and empathetic demeanor always helped me remain hopeful. I am eternally grateful for her service and I recommend her for legal defense.

Positive
Responsiveness, Quality, Professionalism, Value

Andrea D

I am very pleased with my outcome the staff here are very friendly. Also I want to thank Adrienne for handling my case. Also to James and Kit, You’re awesome .I have refereed friends to this law firm. As a first time dealing with lawyers, It was a good experience. They have Great comminication and were there for me every step of the way and accommodating to my financial situation. So Thank you :)!!!!!!

R3con R3con

I was in need of a consultation regarding a review of court documents for an issue from 20 years ago. I found Central Coast Criminal Defense online and contacted them based on their great reviews. After ringing the firm, I was quickly transferred to attorney Kit Westbrook, who was not only knowledgeable about the legal system, but gave me sound advice about my situation moving forward. Kit immediately reviewed my documents and contacted me right away. I highly recommend this firm to anyone in need of professional legal services.

Rich L

Our first contact with CCCD was with Kit Westbrook. He fully explained the representation they can provide in my son’s situation and was genuinely sympathetic with the stress and anxiety of being charged with a DUI. After explaining their team structure, my son was very fortunate to have been represented by Adrienne Haddad at CCCD. She established an excellent working relationship with me and my son, she communicated very timely and clearly in setting expectations and was highly responsive to calls and emails from us. As a client, we appreciate that level of service and attention. Adrienne is very knowledgeable and experienced in matters of criminal law. The court’s judgement in my son’s case was exactly as she had explained and anticipated in his particular situation. I also want to say that I appreciate that there was no scope creep in their fees…i.e. we paid only what we were originally told. I highly recommend CCCD for anyone needing defense counsel. Thank you Adrienne and Kit.

Victoria Santos

Having lived on the Central Coast since 1979, I can say with complete confidence that Central Coast Criminal Defense represents the best legal defense team in this area. Call them. Kit and Cody literally provided the finest counsel you could ask for and resolved my dilemma to my satisfaction. For your loved ones–or yourself–get in touch with them if you need legal defense. Call them NOW. This paralegal team treated my case with great care and myself and family with dignity at all times. Communication–whether by telephone, email, or in person–was always clear, straightforward, and structured to meet my needs. This team got to know me and my case intimately from the very beginning, and acted with great speed to resolve the situation. Cody Christiansen, my defense attorney, met my legal needs every step of the way. Cody did everything possible to make sure I was secure and safe, leaving no stone untouched in his defense strategy. It was greatly reassuring to partner with a truly professional attorney. Cody acted with intense energy from the moment I met him. This is an attorney who won’t let up for a single moment in service to his client. From my first contact with Central Coast Criminal Defense all the way up to my case dismissal and afterwards, this team was there to support me. Young or old, this is the team you NEED to have representing your interests with professionalism and integrity. They are the real deal.

Alexander Chakshiri

Kit and the whole team at Central Coast Criminal Defense were top-notch experts when it came to the specifics of my charge. I called Kit and was shortly thereafter presented with defense options. Kit went right to work. Thankfully, do to the competent and aggressive counsel by the legal team at Central, my case was dismissed. If you ever run into the unfortunate necessity of having to hire a criminal attorney, I highly recommend Kit and the entire team at Central Coast Criminal Defense. Thanks again.

James Childress

Not enough good things I can say about this law practice from top to bottom. From my first call, the head lawyer was just so good at setting my mind at ease. My assigned lawyer and the support staff continued to be responsive, stress reducing and at the end of the day, utterly effective. Case dismissed! I couldn’t have asked for a better outcome. Needless to say, highly recommend, though hope I never need them again! 😉

Brad Altfest

I needed a criminal defense attorney. I found CCC and they were able to clearly instruct me on the best strategy, and they accomplished everything they said they would.

Cody perfectly handled my situation completely. I felt at ease and that I was in good hands throughout the ordeal. Before Hiring him, I felt the system was completly against me & there wasn’t anything I could do about it… it was scary.
In court, both the judge and the DA treated him with respect. I was very pleased with how well he navagated my case through the court.

Also– I experienced an unexpected hiccup a year down the road and went back to them with this new development… I was totally broke– they helped me again because they felt it was the right thing to do. And again they were able to accomplish what would have been impossible for me to do on my own.

I am very happy I hired them, as the entire team is knowledgable, supportive and agressivly fought for me.

I highly recommend you bring your situation to them & let them give you the best defense possible.

Melvin Kryger

Cody Christianson and his staff provided me with top notch service. My nephew, Jr, was in a bind because the attorney he had hired was doing a poor job of representing him, so we decided to drop that attorney and call Cody. The difference was like night and day. Cody took the case on short notice, with limited amount of time and won. Cody battled for us and we’re grateful to him for everything he did. I would highly recommend him to anyone. I won’t go anywhere else. Thanks guys!!

Steve M

Central Coast Criminal Defense is a reputable and professional entity that assisted me in a very difficult time. The legal ramifications of errant choices can be overwhelming at best. Much appreciation is given to the attorneys who provided consultation and stood up for our family in court. The law is impossible for the lay citizen to navigate. I will be forever grateful for Kit Westbrook and his skill, knowledge, and support. I would recommend him for any legal need you may have. He will solve the problem in the best way possible.

David Becar

Kit Westbrook and Central Coast Criminal Defense provided the best legal representation I could have asked for. Kit was very understanding and made sure to communicate with me frequently while resolving the case. He is incredibly knowledgable and showed genuine kindness towards me during a difficult time. He made the case process much easier and exemplifies everything you hope for in an attorney. Trustworthiness and dependability, thats what you get from Kit and CCCD.

Robin Ruddell

I was charged with DUI so I hired the team at Central Coast Criminal Defense. Although the odds were not on my favor and every piece of evidence was against me, my Attorney, Adrienne Haddad was able to have my DUI reduced to a reckless driving. If I could give them more than 5 stars I would do it.

Sam Damon

I just got a call from Adrienne Haddad at Central Coast Criminal Defense… I hired her to represent me in a charge that I felt was completely unwarranted and I needed help to get it dismissed off my record. I met with her and knew right away she was the attorney I wanted representing me. I was very surprised that the retainer fee was affordable and she was willing to let me make payments. I never even had to step foot into a court room. She did about 5 times for me which saved me from having to take time off work and drive almost 2 hours to each court date. She always called me right after and filled me in on how it went. Just like she did today, and let me know she got it dropped and there will be no record of it. I cant imagine how badly it could have gone if I didnt have her on my side. So Thank you Adrienne! Hopefully I wont ever need an attorney again but if I do I know who I’m calling!!!

Amber Ligon

We have no words to express our gratitude for the incredible work that my criminal attorney did for our father’s case, especially at a time when our options appeared limited. He went above and beyond to get the situation resolved. Hands down the best attorney and law firm!

Clark Murphy

Kit and Adrian were able to give me peace of mind and were very professional. They were able to get my case dismissed before my arraignment. I appreciate them and everything they did for me. Thank you Kit and Adrian!

M M

A few weeks ago, I needed help and had many specific questions. Kit Westbrook took time out of his busy day not only to call me back, but to answer my ALL of my questions. Mr. Westbrook was straight forward, very professional and polite. I would recommend him to anyone who is in need of legal help. Thank you Mr. Westbrook for all of your help.
Respectfully,
Grace Weddle

Positive
Professionalism

Gracie Weddle

Needing a good lawyer is not something we deal with on a daily basis, so when I had a need for one I read reviews from other people. The reviews for CCCD were good so I gave them a call. I was not disappointed . Our case was dealt with in a professional manner and at no time did we feel we were just another case number. Thank you thank you Jimmie for a job well done. I highly recommended CCCD.

Debi Johnson

If you find yourself in need of a great lawyer and a team of legal advisors to help guide you through a difficult and confusing legal system and get you the best possible outcome, then I highly recommend CCCD. This is exactly what Kit and Cody did for my family. Thanks to all the previous great reviews of CCCD for leading me to them.

Teresa J

Without saying to much on my case. I contacted central coast criminals defense for some legal help and “KIT”who represented me was professional, honest and experienced on my case. I highly Recommend this company to anyone who needs a professional lawyer with a friendly caring staff. Thanks kit…

Renee Macias

I am so happy to have found my criminal lawyer and his firm. He was amazing in court and I was glad I had him by my side during the most stressful time of my life. In the end, I wouldn’t have to serve any jail time and would be able to continue with my life, all thanks to my lawyer and this law office!

Paulina Komza

I had a relatively minor legal matter, but Kit was able to successfully advocate the DA on my behalf so no charge was pressed and I simply had to take 2 classes. Kit is effective and will do whatever necessary to make his clients feel they were treated well.

David L

I couldn’t be any happier with Central Coast Criminal Defense. Adrienne was very helpful on explaining and representing me. From now on I’m recommending Central Coast Criminal Defense to any one who needs a lawyer! Thank you Adrienne for all your hard work.

Jose Albarran

I called in regarding advice on a court issue. I had Mr. Kit Westbrook on the phone after nearly no wait time. He reviewed my circumstances and got back to me within an hour with all the information I needed. Super friendly, professional and empathetic. Fantastic!

Micah

I just wanted to write a quick review to CCCD to thank them for going about and beyond to help me with a my legal matter. Adrienne Haddad was super professional and handled my issue quickly and without any headaches. Thank you again for helping me get the best outcome that was possible!!

JIMMY CRUTCHFIELD

Anyone with legal issue should definitely use this law office. My DUI attorney and his team are always available to answer questions, very professional and on point. Highly recommended!

Anna Gratel

This awesome attorney Kit was Truly a man who goes over and beyond to help people. My wife and I are Very thankful for his help and I am Very confident and grateful in expressing my humble feelings about him. This is the Man

josh cruz

Very pleased with my experience with CCCD and specifically Adrienne. Great outcome and pleasure to work with throughout the process.

Chris Rooney

The outcome can never be guaranteed when working with the judicial system. The affordable rates to fit my budget without compromising the quality of service I received, I have and will continue to recommend to others.

Evelynne Griffith

Kit and his crew were amazing. They were there when I needed help and have continued to guide me through a very tough time. Their fees are on par with the services provided and well worth the investment.

Brian Roberts

i was happy with my experience Kit and his team are honest hard working attorneys i would highly recommend them to anyone.

Daniel Costa

I have the highest regard for Kit Westbrook. He has integrity and knows how to navigate through a difficult situation. He is responsive to client needs because he really cares.

Sheri Becar

I was very pleased with the help I received here. Adrienne was very helpful. I had a lot of legal questions and she was very easy to get ahold of. Had very informative answers and I would recommend her to anyone

Melanie Garay

I was visiting friends & family in California and needed some legal help all while I was in Michigan. I called these guys and they helped me out big time, great organization, great people, would use their services again.

Ali Kasra

Kit was great! Helped me with my case in SLO county and made me feel less stress.

Stacy Myers

Loved all of the staff at CCCD, especially Ms. Haddad. Impeccable work! Great outcome! Affordable price!

Martha Stromberg

sincere and honest man you can trust his experience and expect the best outcome possible …thanks Cody ….

Don Laucella

Adrian and Kit really care about their clients and will go the extra mile to help them.

Carlos Leyva

Thank you Adriana you are always very helpful.

K Mabry

Very nice people.

Richard

Atty Kit just saved us from a 1 point driving record conviction, unnecessary attorney’s fees, and certain increased premiums on my young daughter’s car insurance rates.

We were mistakenly under the impression that if she took an illegal left turn (there was poorly posted and confusing signage) citation to court, and lost, that she’d still have the option for traffic school. And we we have been trying for weeks to retain an attorney to represent her, or to get feedback. We even turned to the free bar assn legal referral service who also could not get any help for her. Turns out most attorneys will only take cases involving misdemeanor or felony charges…

Today, we had the fortune of calling Central Coast Criminal Defense and were surprisingly patched through to Atty Kit.

Within 5 minutes at no cost to us – Atty Kit listened to the details and counseled us to save the attorneys fees and for her to go directly to traffic school because the odds are likely that the police officer will appear in court and that the judge will hold up the police officer’s reasoning for the citation.

Once convicted, my daughter would have (i) a guilty verdict with no chance of traffic school (traffic school is off the table when you take a ticket all the way through to trial); (ii) a point on her record; (iii) a guaranteed increase on insurance costs; (iv) a hefty court fine, and, (v) incurred the cost of his attorney fees.

Super appreciate Atty Kit and his office’s business model of screening calls with the opportunity for a quick free consultation. No other attorneys we spoke to boiled it down for us like this and we were very much on the wrong track.

I wish all attorneys were like this, felt like ‘old school’ lawyering!

Stacy Merrill

News and Blogs

  • 12
    Jul

    San Luis Obispo Felony DUI Cases

    The vast majority of DUI cases in California and likewise in San Luis Obispo are misdemeanor cases. Your typical DUI will be charged as a misdemeanor by the San Luis

    July 12, 2023

  • 12
    Jul

    San Luis Obispo DUI Refusal Cases

    In Section 23612, the California Vehicle Code states:

    “(a) (1) (A) A person who drives a motor vehicle is deemed to
    have given his or her consent to chemical testing

    July 12, 2023

  • 12
    Jul

    San Luis Obispo Proposition 47 Attorney

    New Law, Proposition 47, Will Have a Big Impact in San Luis Obispo Courts by Reducing Some Common Felonies to Misdemeanors.

    Proposition 47 is a powerful new State law in

    July 12, 2023

VIEW ALL BLOGS

Legal Professionals are Standing By

We have a team of legal professionals standing by, waiting to provide you with a free case evaluation, give us a call! We’re looking forward to helping you.

+1 (805) 621-7181 Free Case Evaluation
+1 (805) 621-7181
Call Now / Free Case Evaluation