Former Prosecutor
FIGHTING FOR YOU
Award Winning Criminal Lawyers
Why Choose Us?
- Relentless Defense to Protect Your Future.
- Custom Legal Strategy for Maximum Impact.
- Proven Track Record of Winning Cases.
Top-Rated San Diego Criminal Attorney
Facing criminal charges in San Diego can be overwhelming and life-changing. Whether it’s a misdemeanor, felony, or DUI offense, the consequences may include fines, a criminal record, or even jail time. By choosing the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum, you partner with a former prosecutor who delivers exceptional and aggressive legal representation. At our firm, we are dedicated to protecting the future and freedom of those accused of a crime, offering the strongest possible defense.
If you’ve been arrested or charged with a crime, it’s important to act quickly. The Law Offices of Anna R. Yum offers experienced and aggressive criminal defense backed by a former prosecutor’s insight. With a track record of success and a client-focused approach, the firm provides strong legal advocacy in even the most challenging cases. Call (619) 493-2864 today to schedule a free consultation and start building a defense strategy tailored to your needs.
The Best Criminal Defense Services for San Diego
Former Prosecutor
As a former prosecutor, Ms. Yum has the experience and knowledge to know how the government works and thinks. Many San Diego criminal attorneys sit around and try to guess what’s going on in the prosecutor’s mind, but Ms. Yum has actually been there.
As a former deputy district attorney, Ms. Yum prosecuted cases just like yours. She received a wide range of trial experience when she was specifically assigned to various units at the DA’s office including: domestic violence, sex crimes and child abuse, misdemeanors (i.e. DUI, petty thefts, etc.), grand theft auto, general felonies, criminal street gangs, and many more. This type of background provides Ms. Yum with a unique advantage when it comes to negotiations, whether it’s resolving a probation case instead of prison or getting charges dismissed altogether.
Most importantly, Ms. Yum’s prior experience as a former prosecutor gives her team a unique advantage when it comes to spotting and attacking the prosecution’s weak points in the courtroom. Winning a fight becomes much easier when you know all of the ins and outs of your opponent’s strategy. Because Ms. Yum was a prosecutor, she has insight that most criminal attorneys can only dream of.
Start Winning by Taking Action Now
Right now, as you’re reading this, the prosecution could very well be setting up their plan of attack. Every second you’re not taking action is another second the other side has to plot and formulate a strategy to try and get you convicted. Rather than waiting until your first court date, like most defense attorneys, the fight for your freedom starts from our very first consultation with you.
Our firm will fight to give you the best defense possible, but ultimately, the maker or breaker of your own freedom is YOU!
YOU are the only person who can get up and get moving, and take the first and most important step: contacting a highly successful, aggressive, and experienced criminal defense firm.
Take the First Step in Winning Back Your Freedom, Right Now!
As a former prosecutor and veteran San Diego criminal defense lawyer, Anna Yum and her excellent team take pride in trying to get ahead of the train before it gets going. We pride ourselves on being proactive, not reactive. We pride ourselves on formulating an aggressive defense, winning strategies, and investigation on your behalf. The longer you delay in hiring a criminal defense attorney, the more time you’re giving the government to plan its attack.
The time for waiting is over. The time for action is now.
Let’s take the fight to the prosecution and make sure we do our best to fight for your future and freedom. Ready for a free consultation? Call us right now by dialing (619) 233-4433.
Personalization
Anna Yum works tirelessly on behalf of her clients, and she offers a personalization that most attorneys cannot, do not, or will not offer. For instance, if you work with Ms. Yum, then you are working with her alone. Here at the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum, your case will not be passed on to a paralegal or law clerk. Ms. Yum personally handles all of her cases, and she establishes a trusting relationship with all of her clients. Here are some of her excellent reviews from clients who praise her work product, work ethic, responsiveness, and winning results.
Client Testimonials
One of the most important aspects in choosing to hire a criminal defense attorney is to do your background research and due diligence. Research is key in assessing the attorney’s education, trial experience, number of years of experience, and whether there are any state bar complaints. Perhaps one of the most significant factors in conducting your research is to assess whether an attorney is willing to fight for you and go to trial if necessary.
Ms. Yum is an aggressive trial attorney with an outstanding track record who is committed to fighting for her clients. Another significant aspect of choosing the right criminal defense attorney is to assess former client testimonials and reviews. Anna Yum has an impeccable rating on both Google and 10.0 rating on Avvo with respect to clients who have worked with her. We invite you to read her numerous reviews here. You will see that Ms. Yum is tireless in aggressively representing her clients and that she achieves exceptional results. Why is this important? Because results matter, especially when it comes to defending your freedom and fighting for your life.
Questions for Your Defense Attorney
When an individual first consults a defense lawyer, at any stage of the criminal justice process, he or she should ask questions of that lawyer, such as:
- How many cases like mine have you handled, and what were the outcomes?
- What do the charges against me mean?
- What are the possible outcomes for my case?
- What is the process for my case like, and how long will it take?
- Can I discuss this matter with my family members or friends? What if I already did?
- What is a good defense going to cost me? How can I pay?
- What are my potential defenses?
- How much investigation of my case is necessary, and what will it cost?
- Do you have some guidelines about what I should and shouldn’t do regarding my criminal case?
At Every Stage of the Criminal Law Process
Anna R. Yum provides detailed and knowledgeable answers to these questions and to all other queries relevant to an individual’s circumstances. She is also adept at stepping into a criminal case at any stage of the process, such as at:
- Pre-arrest questioning by a law enforcement agency (local, state or federal)
- Arrest
- Booking
- Bail or release on the accused’s own “recognizance”
- Arraignment
- Bail review
- Case disposition conference
- Preliminary hearing
- Arraignment in trial court
- Pretrial readiness conference
- Motion hearings
- Trial
- Post-trial motions
- Appeal
Tips When Hiring a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Ask the Attorney About the Extent of His/Her Work Background and Experience
When hiring an attorney, you are hiring someone whom you can entrust your case with and someone who is qualified to aggressively defend your rights. Many attorneys will open their private practice right out of law school without absorbing the invaluable experience that comes from working at either a District Attorney’s Office or the Public Defender’s Office.
Although many of these attorneys may be qualified in their own right, you want to seek an attorney who has cultivated his/her trial skills before opening up their own private practice. Prosecutors and public defenders spend their time in the courtroom on a daily basis. They are exposed to various types of cases, and they handle a wide range of criminal matters. An attorney who has gained such experience before going into private practice is at an advantage. He/she has gained training and experience in the rules of evidence, the Penal Code, the Vehicle Code, the Health and Safety Code, etc.
How Many Jury Trials Has He or She Engaged In
Ask the attorney how many jury trials he/she has conducted or engaged in. This is a CRUCIAL issue. Many attorneys advertise that they are trial lawyers when they have not in fact completed a jury trial or they have only engaged in a bench trial or two. You should be wary of an attorney who has not taken any cases to jury trial. This should send a red flag because these types of attorneys are only interested in settling a case and not necessarily fighting for you or for your case. Depending on the circumstances, it is not always wise to push a case to trial if it is against your best interest. However, if you have valid defenses and you would like to fight your case, then you need to hire an attorney who is going to fight for you. You need an attorney who is not afraid to go to trial and who is confident and skilled in his/her courtroom abilities.
Be Cautious of Lawyers Who Promise You That They’ll Get You Off
You’ve been charged with a crime, and you panic. You want to find an attorney who will help you fight for your rights and prepare a valid defense. You meet with an attorney who promises that he/she can get you off without even reading any of the arrest reports, without looking at all of the discovery, without talking to the prosecutor about the case. Be very cautious of these types of assurances or empty promises.
Any attorney who tells you that he/she can get you off without considering the evidence that the prosecuting office has against you is not being truthful and forthright with you. It’s common sense. How can an attorney make such a promise without reviewing the discovery? How can an attorney promise you that you will get off when he/she cannot predict the future? Be very cautious of attorneys who make you promises and guarantees. Too often than not, clients complain about empty promises.
How Much Experience as a Criminal Lawyer Does He/She Have? What Portion of Their Practice Is Devoted to Criminal Law?
Oftentimes, when people are charged with a crime, they turn to friends and family to see if they know of any lawyers. It is enticing to ask a family friend who happens to be a lawyer to handle your criminal case. The only problem is that the family friend practices an area of law that is completely different than criminal law. Although it seems convenient to ask your family friend for a favor, your best bet is to hire an attorney who handles criminal defense work. The best analogy to consider is that concerning your health. Let’s say that you need to get heart surgery, but you decide to have your family doctor perform the actual surgery. You would not feel comfortable with that idea. Similarly, a criminal defense lawyer who only practices criminal defense will be more knowledgeable of the statutes, the negotiation process, the legal procedure, and what it takes to prepare for trial.
Will the Attorney Handle Your Case or Will He Hand It Off to a Paralegal or Law Clerk?
When you consult with an attorney, make sure to ask him/her whether your case will be handled by the actual attorney or whether it will be handed off to a junior attorney, paralegal, law clerk, or secretary. This is very important because often times, attorneys will quote you at a price but they will not explain to you whether your case will be handled by another person. Let’s say you develop a rapport with the attorney, and you hired that attorney because you wanted him/her to take your case. A couple of months later, you come to realize that the attorney you hired to represent you is not dealing with your case at all. Instead, it’s being handled by a law clerk or a junior attorney. The problem arises when you thought you were paying for certain representation, but your case is not being handled with the attention that you deserve.
What Are the Fees?
When meeting with an attorney for the first time, look for attorneys who will not charge you an initial consultation. It is during the initial consultation that you will have an opportunity to assess the attorney and to determine if he/she is someone that you can trust. This is your time to tell your side of the story. Pay attention to whether the attorney seems interested in your case or whether he/she is only interested in payment. When it comes time to talk about pricing, ask the attorney what rate he/she charge. Does he charge a flat fee? Does he charge on an hourly basis? Ask whether the attorney charges additional fees in the event that motions need to be filed on your behalf. Some attorneys charge a flat fee but neglect to tell you that you will have to pay more for motions, travel (i.e., gas or lodging), and interviewing witnesses. Also, remember to ask whether the attorney offers payment plans. You can determine whether the attorney is willing to work with you and your budget.
Is the Attorney a Member of Any Professional or County Bar Associations?
Find out whether the attorney belongs to any professional or county bar associations. An attorney’s involvement with respect to professional or county bar associations reflects the attorney’s commitment to their area of law and the overall legal community. Some notable associations include the San Diego County Bar Association, the San Diego Criminal Defense Bar Association, and the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.
Can You Trust the Attorney?
This is quite possibly the most important question to ask yourself when deciding whether to hire a particular attorney. At the end of the day, you want to be able to trust the attorney to fight for your best interests. When you speak to attorneys, ask yourself whether they are merely trying to lure you to retain their services by quoting you at the lowest, inexpensive rate. Do they seem more like used car salesmen as opposed to competent and honest attorneys? You want to hire an attorney who is sincere, honest, and easy to communicate with.
Get Experienced Legal Help from the Law Offices of Anna R. Yum
When your freedom, future, and reputation are on the line, choosing the right defense attorney matters. The Law Offices of Anna R. Yum brings proven skill, courtroom experience, and personalized attention to every case. Whether you are facing DUI charges, drug offenses, or serious felonies, the firm is committed to protecting your rights and securing the best possible outcome.
Call (619) 493-2864 today to speak with a trusted San Diego criminal attorney and schedule your free consultation.
What Our Clients Say:
Anna is awesome! She is prompt and does what she says she will. Do your part and she will amaze you. Found Anna online with good reviews and very glad I chose her to be my lawyer. Anna helped me to get rid of charges that would otherwise limit my life and now I am able to live with less worries. Thanks Anna!
Derek F.
San Diego
I hired Ana to protect myself from a procedural arrest in which I was innocent. Needless to say that she addressed every question and concern that I had and made this process very easy. She’s an honest professional who treats clients with dignity and respect vice a number. Highly recommended to anyone needing a lawyer that cares and can follow up to give you a peace of mind. Great job Ana!
Jennifer S. San Diego
I referred Anna to a friend of mine who was facing several charges of felony related to child abuse. Anna fought the case excellently and got most of the charges dropped, reduced the rest to misdemeanor and obtained a very favorable outcome. Her knowledge of the system, familiarity with the judges and DAs helped immensely. If you are ever in need of criminal defense, don’t look elsewhere. Just hire Anna.
James T. San Diego
I hired Anna as my attorney for a DUI, and she was not only extremely helpful and informative, but she also was sensitive to the shameful and upsetting experience that goes along with being arrested and charged with a DUI. I would highly recommend her to anyone looking for a strong defense attorney.
Nancy W. San Diego
Since the very first time I spoke to Anna I knew she was the Lawyer I needed to handle my driving under the influence incident. Having a busy schedule with school and work, I was calm knowing Anna was handling my case. She also made this experience less painful in which I did not have to do any community service. Thank you!
Bill E. San Diego
Recent Case Results
Child Molestation/Sexual Assault against a Minor Child Jury Trial- NOT GUILTY ON
ALL COUNTS
Client was prosecuted for sexual assault against a minor/child molestation. If convicted, Client would face life-altering consequences including life in prison and lifetime registration as a sex offender. Our client was a productive member of society, had extensive family and community support, and a loving parent of young children. Client understood the risks involved in going to trial and the potential outcome of life in prison if convicted. Client was also facing permanent consequences that could change his life along with that of his family. Despite these risks, Client was unwavering in his assertion of innocence and refused to take any plea bargains. After an intense and hard-fought battle during a lengthy trial, the jury found our client NOT GUILTY of all counts of sexual assault of a minor child. The jury deliberated for less than two hours before reaching a unanimous decision in favor of our client. Client was able to keep his career and family, sustained no prison time, and no lifetime sex registration. After the acquittal, our client was able to reunite and heal with family having been separated for over a year.
Sexual Assault and Sexual Battery Jury Trial- CASE DISMISSED
Client was criminally prosecuted for sexual assault and sexual battery. If convicted, client would have to face mandatory sex registration, along with jail time and other harmful consequences which could affect his career, livelihood, and clean record. Client vehemently denied the accusations, and we went to trial to fight the charges. After a rigorous and highly contentious trial, the entire case was dismissed. Client was able to keep his career, and he sustained zero jail time, zero sex registration, and no additional consequences.
Felony Domestic Violence Case- CASE DISMISSED
Client was a long-serving member in the military with an impeccable record. He was prosecuted for several serious felony domestic violence charges including corporal injury to his spouse, assault with force likely to produce great bodily injury, false imprisonment by force and/or violence, etc. After extensive defense investigation and exploring all potential legal defenses including applicable motions, case was dismissed.
Sexual Assault and Sexual Battery Jury Trial- CASE DISMISSED
Client was criminally prosecuted for sexual assault and sexual battery. If convicted, client would have to face mandatory sex registration, along with jail time and other harmful consequences which could affect his career, livelihood, and clean record. Client vehemently denied the accusations, and we went to trial to fight the charges. After a rigorous and highly contentious trial, the entire case was dismissed. Client was able to keep his career, and he sustained zero jail time, zero sex registration, and no additional consequences.
Civil Harassment Temporary Restraining Order Trial- CASE DISMISSED
Client was facing a civil harassment temporary restraining order in which the Petitioner alleged that he pulled out a gun on him at a children’s birthday party among other serious allegations. After defending against these highly contested allegations during a difficult trial, the court ruled in our client’s favor and the entire case was dismissed.
Misdemeanor DUI Case- CASE DISMISSED
Client was a commercial truck driver who was charged with driving under the influence (DUI). His career and livelihood were on the line in the event that he was convicted of a DUI. We explored all legal options including the filing of a suppression motion contesting the validity of the police stop. At the motion and after rigorous cross-examination, the court granted our suppression motion and the case was dismissed. Client was able to keep his commercial driver’s license and not incur any type of conviction or driver’s license suspension.
Misdemeanor DUI Case with .25% Blood Alcohol Level- WET RECKLESS
Client was charged with DUI, and it was alleged that his blood alcohol level was .25% at the time of driving which is more than 3 times the legal limit of .08%. Client was facing serious immigration consequences if convicted of a DUI. After thorough defense investigation, working hand in hand with immigration counsel, and preparing excellent mitigation on our client’s behalf, case was resolved for a lesser offense, wet reckless. Client was able to remain in the country without facing deportation or other harmful immigration consequences.
Juvenile Criminal Case- CASE DISMISSED
Our firm represented a juvenile client who was criminally prosecuted in juvenile court for serious charges including assault with a deadly weapon. It was alleged that he threw a glass at an employee of a restaurant resulting in significant injuries. After a contested hearing, our firm was able to get the entire case dismissed.
Felony Assault with a Deadly Weapon with Strike Prior- NO JAIL OR PRISON TIME
Client was facing serious felony charges including assault with a deadly weapon and felon in possession of a firearm. Client had a lengthy criminal history including serious and/or violent felonies, but he had made some significant improvements in his life since then. He worked his way up and became a hard-working business owner. Client was also a single father with a young child and engaged to be married. The complaining witness was a former employee who claimed that client had confronted her with a firearm and made alleged threats. There was video evidence in the case. The offer from the government was years in state prison. If convicted, Client would have lost his livelihood and ability to support his family. After ongoing negotiations with the prosecution, and extensive defense investigation, our firm was able to keep our client out of prison or jail. He sustained zero jail or prison time, and our firm was also able to get the assault with a deadly weapon charge dismissed. Client was able to keep his business, and continue to support his family.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ 1: What constitutes domestic violence in California?
Answer:
In California, domestic violence is defined as abuse or threats of abuse when the victim and the accused have a close relationship. This includes spouses, former spouses, cohabitants, individuals in a dating relationship, and those who share a child. Abuse can be physical, emotional, psychological, or sexual. It includes actions like hitting, kicking, shoving, threatening, stalking, or harassing.
FAQ 2: What are the penalties for a domestic violence conviction in California?
Answer:
The penalties for a domestic violence conviction in California can vary depending on the severity of the offense and whether it is charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. Penalties may include:
- Misdemeanor Domestic Violence: Up to one year in county jail, fines up to $2,000, mandatory attendance in a batterer’s intervention program, and possible restraining orders.
- Felony Domestic Violence: Two to four years in state prison, larger fines, mandatory completion of a batterer’s intervention program, and possible restraining orders. Additionally, a conviction can lead to probation, community service, and restrictions on firearm ownership.
FAQ 3: Can domestic violence charges be dropped if the victim does not want to press charges?
Answer:
In California, domestic violence charges are prosecuted by the state, not by the victim. This means that even if the victim does not want to press charges, the prosecution can still proceed with the case. The decision to drop charges lies with the prosecutor, who may choose to continue with the case based on the available evidence and the severity of the alleged abuse.
FAQ 4: What should I do if I have been falsely accused of domestic violence in San Diego?
Answer:
If you have been falsely accused of domestic violence in San Diego, it is crucial to take the following steps:
- Contact an Attorney: Seek immediate legal representation from an experienced criminal defense attorney who specializes in domestic violence cases.
- Avoid Contact with the Accuser: Comply with any restraining orders and avoid contacting the accuser to prevent any further allegations.
- Gather Evidence: Collect any evidence that supports your innocence, such as text messages, emails, witness statements, and any other relevant documentation.
- Follow Legal Advice: Adhere to your attorney’s guidance throughout the legal process to build a strong defense.
FAQ 5: How can a domestic violence conviction affect my custody rights in California?
Answer:
A domestic violence conviction can significantly impact your custody rights in California. Family courts consider the best interests of the child when determining custody arrangements, and a history of domestic violence is a critical factor. A conviction may result in:
- Loss of Custody: The court may award sole custody to the non-offending parent, with the convicted parent receiving limited or supervised visitation rights.
- Restraining Orders: The court may issue restraining orders that restrict your contact with the other parent and the children.
- Mandatory Counseling: You may be required to complete anger management or parenting classes before being considered for custody or visitation rights.
It is essential to work with an attorney to address these issues and present evidence of your ability to provide a safe and stable environment for your children.
If you hire an aggressive and experienced domestic violence attorney to conduct an extensive investigation and build your best legal defense, then it may be possible to block criminal charges before they are even filed by the prosecution. Of course, for this defense to work you need to contact Attorney Yum right away—before the prosecution decides to file domestic violence charges against you.
- Domestic Battery PC 243(e)(1)
- Corporal Injury on a Spouse PC 273.5
- Criminal Threats PC 422
- Aggravated Trespass PC 601
- Vandalism PC 594
FAQ 1: What constitutes a DUI in California?
Answer:
In California, you can be charged with driving under the influence (DUI) if you are found to be operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher for drivers 21 and over. For drivers under 21, the legal limit is 0.01%, and for commercial drivers, it is 0.04%. Additionally, you can be charged with a DUI if you are impaired by drugs, whether prescription, over-the-counter, or illegal substances.
FAQ 2: What are the penalties for a first-time DUI offense in California?
Answer:
A first-time DUI offense in California typically carries the following penalties:
- Fines ranging from $390 to $1,000, plus additional penalty assessments.
- A possible jail sentence of up to six months.
- A driver’s license suspension for six months.
- Completion of a DUI education program (three to nine months, depending on BAC level).
- Possible installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) for a specified period.
- Probation for three to five years.
FAQ 3: Can I refuse a breathalyzer test if I’m pulled over for suspicion of DUI in San Diego?
Answer:
Under California’s implied consent law, if you are lawfully arrested for a DUI, you are required to submit to a chemical test to determine your BAC. Refusing a breathalyzer test can lead to immediate consequences, including a one-year suspension of your driver’s license, mandatory jail time, additional fines, and potentially harsher penalties if convicted of a DUI. It is generally advised to comply with the chemical test, as a refusal can complicate your defense.
FAQ 4: What happens if I am arrested for a DUI and my BAC is above 0.15%?
Answer:
If you are arrested for a DUI in California and your BAC is above 0.15%, you may face enhanced penalties due to the high BAC level. These can include:
- Longer mandatory DUI education programs.
- Increased fines and longer jail sentences.
- A longer period for installing an ignition interlock device (IID).
- Stricter probation terms and conditions.
- The court may also consider your high BAC level as an aggravating factor when determining your sentence.
FAQ 5: How can a DUI conviction affect my car insurance in California?
Answer:
A DUI conviction in California can significantly impact your car insurance. After a DUI, your insurance company may consider you a high-risk driver, leading to substantially higher premiums. In some cases, your insurer may cancel your policy altogether. Additionally, you will need to file an SR-22 form to reinstate your license, which is a certificate of financial responsibility that guarantees you carry the state’s minimum required insurance. This requirement typically lasts for three years following a DUI conviction.
Many DUI lawyers will tell you that your case cannot be won. This is not necessarily true. The conduct of the officer, the legality of your arrest, field sobriety tests, proper functioning test equipment, and correct handling of your evidence are just a few of the issues that can be raised during your DUI defense by your San Diego criminal attorney.
FAQ 1: What constitutes a felony in California?
Answer:
A felony in California is a serious crime that is punishable by more than one year in state prison or, in some cases, by death. Felonies include a wide range of offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, burglary, grand theft, arson, and certain drug offenses. These crimes are more severe than misdemeanors and carry harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences, larger fines, and more significant long-term consequences.
FAQ 2: What are the penalties for a felony conviction in California?
Answer:
The penalties for a felony conviction in California vary depending on the specific crime, the circumstances of the case, and the defendant’s criminal history. Penalties can include:
- State Prison Time: Felony convictions typically result in sentences ranging from one year to life in prison.
- Fines: Significant fines that can range from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars.
- Probation: Formal probation with strict conditions may be imposed instead of or in addition to prison time.
- Restitution: Payment to victims for losses or damages caused by the felony. Other Consequences: Felony convictions can also result in the loss of certain civil rights, such as the right to vote, own firearms, or hold certain professional licenses.
FAQ 3: Can a felony charge be reduced to a misdemeanor in San Diego?
Answer:
Yes, certain felony charges can be reduced to misdemeanors in San Diego through a process called “wobbler offenses.” Wobbler offenses are crimes that can be charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the circumstances and the discretion of the prosecutor. After a conviction, your attorney can file a motion to reduce the felony to a misdemeanor under California Penal Code Section 17(b). Factors that may influence the reduction include the nature of the offense, your criminal history, and your behavior during probation.
FAQ 4: What should I do if I am arrested for a felony in San Diego?
Answer:
If you are arrested for a felony in San Diego, it is crucial to take the following steps:
- Remain Silent: Exercise your right to remain silent and avoid discussing your case with law enforcement or anyone else without an attorney present.
- Request an Attorney: Immediately request to speak with a criminal defense attorney who specializes in felony cases.
- Do Not Resist Arrest: Comply with the officers’ instructions to avoid additional charges.
- Document Details: Take note of the arresting officers’ names, badge numbers, and the circumstances surrounding your arrest, as this information can be helpful to your attorney.
- Follow Legal Advice: Adhere to your attorney’s guidance throughout the legal process to build a strong defense and protect your rights.
FAQ 5: How can a felony conviction affect my future in California?
Answer:
A felony conviction in California can have long-lasting and far-reaching consequences beyond the immediate penalties. These can include:
- Employment: Difficulty finding employment due to background checks revealing the felony conviction.
- Housing: Challenges in securing rental housing, as many landlords conduct background checks.
- Civil Rights: Loss of certain civil rights, such as the right to vote (while incarcerated), serve on a jury, and own or possess firearms.
- Professional Licenses: Loss of or ineligibility for certain professional licenses and certifications.
- Reputation: Stigmatization and damage to your personal and professional reputation.
To mitigate these impacts, it is essential to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and explore options such as expungement or record sealing where applicable.
Restraining order law in California is complex. Having a knowledgeable and skilled San Diego Criminal Attorney working on your behalf is one of the best steps you can take.
Drug charges in San Diego can result in the government seizing your property, a prison sentence, fines, or all of the above. Anna Yum has over 10 years handling drug charges.
