Mario Tafur

I have built a career and a reputation by advocating for the rights of the accused. At Bulldog Law, my team and I have defended thousands of clients throughout the United States in various criminal cases across both state and federal courts, encompassing trials and appeals. Additionally, we manage personal injury and cryptocurrency cases.

My lawyers and I have been described as "bulldogs" for our tenacious and successful representation in legal proceedings. We vigorously defend our clients, fully aware of the high stakes and our potential to significantly impact their lives.

James E. Rogers College of Law, University of Arizona

J.D. (1998)

1995 - 1998

Northern Arizona University

B.A. (1994) | Philosophy

1990 - 1994

Attorney - Founder

Bulldog Law

Current

California State Bar  # 329899

member

Current

California

State Bar of California

• Free Consultation

Q. Will the mental health diversion program lift the protective order in a domestic abuse case?

May 29, 2025

A: The mental health diversion program and protective orders operate as separate legal mechanisms, and participation in diversion does not automatically result in the lifting of a protective order in domestic abuse cases. Protective orders are specifically issued by the court to ensure victim safety and remain in effect independently of any diversion program your partner may enter. However, California law does provide a pathway for modifying or terminating protective orders through a formal court petition that demonstrates good cause, which may include factors such as your expressed desire for modification, the defendant's documented progress in mental health treatment, and other relevant circumstances that have materially changed since the original order was issued.

Mental health diversion programs under California Penal Code Section 1001.36 typically span a maximum duration of two years, during which the defendant's treatment progress is closely monitored with regular court reporting requirements. Successful completion of the program may result in dismissal of the underlying criminal charges, but this outcome does not automatically affect the status of any existing protective order, which requires separate judicial consideration and action.

If you wish to resume communication with your partner, you must file a formal petition with the court requesting modification or termination of the protective order. The court will evaluate multiple factors including your current safety circumstances, the defendant's behavior and treatment compliance, whether substantial changes have occurred since the order's issuance, your stated reasons for seeking modification, and whether you have consulted with victim advocates or developed appropriate safety planning measures. This judicial review process ensures that any modification serves your best interests while maintaining necessary safety protections.

Bulldog Law has extensive experience handling domestic violence cases involving mental health diversion programs and protective order modifications throughout California. Our attorneys understand the nuanced relationship between these legal processes and can provide comprehensive guidance on timing, documentation requirements, and court procedures necessary for protective order modifications. Given your location in Anaheim, our Irvine Law Office would be most convenient for addressing your specific situation and providing personalized legal counsel.

The firm's approach emphasizes thorough case evaluation to determine the most appropriate timing for modification requests, ensuring that all necessary documentation of treatment progress and changed circumstances is properly presented to the court. This strategic approach maximizes the likelihood of achieving your desired outcome while maintaining appropriate safety considerations throughout the process.

As each case presents unique circumstances requiring individualized legal strategies, it is crucial to promptly seek assistance from a qualified law firm that can thoroughly evaluate your specific situation. ... Read More

Q. Need urgent legal help in CA for divorce, custody, and safety from abusive husband.

May 29, 2025

A: I understand you're facing an urgent domestic violence situation in Los Angeles County involving financial abuse, verbal threats, and safety concerns for you and your three children. California's Domestic Violence Prevention Act provides immediate protection through Domestic Violence Restraining Orders (DVRO) that address not only physical violence but also financial control and coercive behavior like you've described. You can file forms DV-100 and DV-110 at your local courthouse with no filing fees, and the Legal Self Help Center in Los Angeles County will assist with documentation.

As part of your DVRO petition, you can request a move-out order requiring your husband to leave the residence while granting you temporary exclusive use, and California courts consistently approve such orders when necessary for safety. Given the domestic violence circumstances, courts typically award temporary sole custody to the protected parent to shield children from ongoing abuse, and if there's immediate danger, law enforcement can help you obtain an Emergency Protective Order for instant protection until your court hearing.

Your existing documentation of financial abuse, verbal threats, and unsafe living conditions will be crucial evidence, as California courts recognize various forms of proof including written accounts and recordings to substantiate domestic violence claims. Given your expiring phone service, immediate courthouse filing is essential, and local domestic violence organizations can provide additional emergency resources and support.

Since each case requires tailored legal strategies for navigating family law and domestic violence proceedings, qualified representation is crucial for your situation. ... Read More

Q. Seeking strategy after spouse refuses divorce settlement terms, demands new conditions, and faces potential DV TRO trial.

April 28, 2025

A: To enforce the original terms, filing a motion to enforce the order is a primary strategy. This motion would compel compliance with specific obligations, such as the return of your belongings and the child’s passport. Alternatively, initiating contempt proceedings may be appropriate, as non-compliance with a clear and unambiguous court order, when the party has knowledge and ability to comply, warrants such action (Pretrial Injunctive Relief: Seeking and Enforcing a Temporary Restraining Order (CA)). Contempt requires proving willful disobedience, and the court will scrutinize the clarity of the order’s terms.

Regarding the spouse’s demand for a mutual non-CLETS agreement in lieu of the agreed four-year non-CLETS provision, you can argue that the original stipulation, as incorporated into the court order, remains binding. Their claim that the order is unenforceable is unlikely to succeed unless they can demonstrate legal grounds, such as fraud or lack of jurisdiction, which appears unsupported based on your description. For the impending DV TRO trial, preparation is critical. You should gather evidence to refute any allegations of domestic violence, as courts assess the credibility of claims and past acts of abuse when deciding whether to issue a TRO (Family Code Section 6309; Nicole G. v. Braithwaite, 49 Cal. App. 5th 990; In re Marriage of Davila & Mejia, 29 Cal. App. 5th 220). Proceeding with the trial while simultaneously enforcing the settlement terms may be necessary to protect your rights.

Given the tight deadline and complexity of these issues, Bulldog Law, with its extensive experience in family law and domestic violence matters, recommends pursuing a dual approach: filing a motion to enforce the order (and potentially contempt proceedings) while preparing a robust defense for the DV TRO trial. Prompt action is essential to meet court deadlines and safeguard your interests. ... Read More