Weapons on School Grounds

California takes violence in schools seriously and generally has a zero-tolerance policy. This includes cases of carrying unauthorized weapons onto school grounds. If you are facing charges for carrying weapons on school grounds, one of your top priorities should be to seek the help of an expert criminal defense attorney. Having a criminal record will negatively impact your future employment and housing choices. An offense involving a combination of schools and weapons could potentially affect any academic goals you might have.

It will also have a drastic effect on how law enforcement treats you. Regardless of whether it’s a misdemeanor or felony, if a weapons offense is listed, law enforcement will use extra caution when interacting with you. That is why it is highly recommended you find a defense attorney who fully understands this statute. For a better understanding of this law, let’s take a look at how California defines it.

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California Penal Code 171b – Weapons in Public Buildings

Carrying restricted weapons into public buildings is against the law. These kinds of allegations are considered wobblers. This means you can face either a misdemeanor or felony consequences. A conviction on your criminal record can negatively impact your gun rights, immigration status, employment goals, academic pursuits, and housing opportunities.

Maintaining control of your future should be paramount when facing this offense. Finding the right criminal defense attorney could make all the difference.

Let’s take a closer look at how California defines this law and the potential long-term consequences a conviction can carry.

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California Penal Code 22210 – Batons

Batons are not common weapons usually carried around by civilians. There are usually two types of professionals that are generally permitted to carry batons – law enforcement and security guards. Facing charges for violating California’s baton laws should not be easily brushed off. This offense is not considered an infraction that carries simple consequences. If charged, you could face misdemeanor or felony punishments.

Attempting to face this offense without help can be overwhelming. One of the best things you can do is find an effective criminal defense attorney to fight on your behalf. With the right legal help, the charges could be reduced or dismissed.

For a deeper understanding of what this law entails, let’s take a look at how California defines it.

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California Penal Code 21810 – Brass Knuckles

Getting caught with prohibited weapons in California means you could face some long-term consequences. Examples of unlawful weapons include brass knuckles, billy clubs, and cane swords. These weapons are outlined in specific statutes and are considered “wobblers.” This means you can either face misdemeanor or felony penalties, depending on the details of your case.

Attempting to defend yourself against charges for possessing brass knuckles can be extremely difficult. It’s highly recommended you find a criminal defense lawyer who understands what is needed to successfully protect your rights.

To gain a more critical understanding of this statute, let’s take a look at how California defines it.

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California Penal Code 21310 – Carrying A Concealed Dirk or Dagger

Charges for carrying concealed dirks or daggers should not be taken lightly. A criminal record with any type of weapons offense on it will impact all future interactions with law enforcement. Furthermore, a conviction for this offense will show on a background check, which can affect future employment, higher-education goals, and housing opportunities.

It’s highly recommended you seek the assistance of a criminal defense attorney who understands how to fight these charges. Many weapons offenses are known as “wobbler” cases in California which means you could be facing either a misdemeanor or felony consequences.

To gain a deeper understanding of what this statute entails, let’s take a look at how California defines it.

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California Health and Safety Code section 11383 & 11383.5 – Possessing Materials for Manufacturing Controlled Substances (PCP and methamphetamines)

California has strict punishments for possessing controlled substances. The consequences of those offenses are enough to impact the rest of your life. So, as you can imagine charges for possessing materials for the manufacturing of controlled substances carry much steeper penalties than simple possession.

In addition to incarceration and fines, a criminal record with this offense on it will affect future employment options, academic pursuits, and housing opportunities. Attempting to fight the allegations alone can make anyone anxiety-ridden. Decrease the stress of the situation and find the help of a professional criminal defense attorney who knows how to defend your rights.

For a deeper understanding of this statute, let’s take a look at how California outlines possessing materials for manufacturing controlled substances.

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California Health and Safety Code section 11379.6 – Manufacturing Controlled Substances

Anyone involved in the supply, manufacture, or selling of illicit drugs, narcotics, or other controlled substances will face felony charges. The long-term consequences are strict due to the nature of this crime. When facing this type of drug offense it’s highly recommended you find a criminal defense attorney to fight on your behalf.

Attempting to defend yourself without effective legal counsel is extremely difficult, especially when you are facing maximum sentencing. Aside from these substances being categorically addictive, the manufacturing labs are also known to release pollutants into the environment. Methamphetamine labs, for instance, are susceptible to explosions due to the hazardous materials involved in making it.

To gain a more critical understanding of this statute, we must first take a look at how California defines the manufacturing of controlled substances.

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California’s Negligent Discharge of Firearm: Penal Code 246.3

Being safe and responsible with firearms has become more important as gun violence becomes prevalent in mainstream news. It’s no surprise negligence with firearms is taken seriously by law enforcement. Are you facing charges for negligence with firearms? This stain on your criminal record will have long-term, negative effects on your future, in some cases, … Read more

Sending Harmful Matter of Intent to Seduce a Minor: Penal Code 288.2

Any crimes committed against minors are taken seriously by legal authorities. If you are facing charges for sending harmful matter with the intent to seduce a minor, finding an aggressive criminal defense lawyer is highly recommended. Attempting to fight these allegations without effective legal counsel could leave you with unsatisfactory results. 

An experienced criminal defense attorney would know how to best defend you against such heinous accusations. For a deeper understanding of how California outlines sending harmful matter with the intent of seducing a minor, we must first look at how it’s defined.

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California’s False Representation of ID to a Police Officer: Penal Code 148.9

Have you falsely identified yourself with the police and now face legal repercussions? It is usually uncomfortable to be stopped, questioned, detained, or arrested by the police, no matter the circumstances. The act of talking to the police can make things difficult for some people who prefer their privacy, which includes anonymity from any authorities. This preference may lead them to give a false or fictitious name to police officers, thinking they are not doing anything wrong. As it stands, providing the wrong identification information to a police officer is a crime. 

To get a clearer understanding of this law, let’s take a look at how California defines it.

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California’s DUI w/ Drugs: Vehicle Code Section 23152(f)

Driving while you are under the influence of a drug(s) and/or alcohol is a serious Vehicle Code violation. A conviction could result in being stripped of future driving privileges. Having a conviction for driving under the influence of drugs will have a negative impact on jobs, housing, and higher education opportunities.

Maintaining control of your future can be difficult to do when facing such offenses. The help of a criminal defense lawyer who knows how to navigate California’s DUID laws will increase your chances for a more desirable outcome.

To gain a better understanding of what this law entails, let’s take a look at how California defines driving under the influence of drugs.

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Categories dui

Welfare Fraud

Welfare fraud, as defined by California law, is the fraudulent act of providing false or erroneous information to gain government benefits like Medi-Cal or food stamps to which one is not lawfully entitled. Welfare fraud can also occur when authorities or workers intentionally distribute or assign these benefits to ineligible individuals. If you or a … Read more

Child Neglect

Crimes involving children are taken seriously by the state. If any kind of abuse is suspected and reported, it would prompt an investigation. Allegations for child neglect fall under the umbrella of abuse and should not be ignored. The punishments for this offense can include jail time and steep fines. The consequences can have a … Read more

Assault on a Public Official

Assault laws are generally covered under Penal Code 240 and a conviction could result in large fines or county jail time. That said, assault or battery on a peace officer or other public official is considered a wobbler. A wobbler means one could face either a misdemeanor or felony penalties.

Allegations for assaulting a public official should not be treated lightly. A conviction will have a significant impact on your future. Having such a serious offense on one’s criminal record could affect future employment opportunities, housing choices and higher education goals. Seeking legal help from a skillful criminal defense lawyer is highly recommended

For an in-depth understanding of assault on a public official, we must first take a look at how California defines this crime.

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Assault w/ Caustic Chemical

Aggravated assault crimes are serious and such allegations should not be ignored. Assault with caustic chemicals is considered a particularly vicious crime that carries felony consequences.

This offense on your criminal record will have a significant impact on your future. It will result in limited academic pursuits, employment opportunities, and housing choices. Attempting to fight such charges alone can be difficult. It’s highly recommended you seek a criminal defense lawyer who understands the challenges behind fighting horrendous assault accusations. 

For a deeper understanding of assault with caustic chemicals, we must first look into how California defines it. 

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Residential Burglary (Strike offense) – DISMISSED

Client was charged with residential burglary.  Client allegedly vandalized and broke into a person’s house during a drunken night and fled the scene once law enforcement arrived.  Client was in medical school at the time and at grave risk of getting suspended from school and losing a lifelong passion of pursuing a career as a … Read more

Misdemeanor Domestic Violence – DISMISSED

Client was charged with spousal battery after the police were called for a domestic disturbance.  Client did not have any type of criminal history; client was at risk of losing security clearance from a profitable profession.  After extensive defense investigation, trial preparation, and negotiations with the prosecution, case was DISMISSED on the day of trial.

Misdemeanor Child Endangerment – DISMISSED

Client was charged with child endangerment.  School officials reported suspected child abuse on the alleged victim when they observed physical manifestations of abuse.  As mandatory reporters, school officials reported the suspected child abuse to law enforcement.  After thorough defense investigation and legal research, the court dismissed the case upon a successful motion filed on behalf … Read more

Felony Identity Theft- DISMISSED

Elderly client was charged with identity theft.  Prosecution was alleging that client stole others’ identities by fabricating the information on their driver’s licenses and using the information for fraudulent and theft-related purposes.  After careful and thorough defense investigation and case evaluation, it was discovered that the prosecution’s investigation made a significant error in establishing culpability … Read more

Felony Insurance Fraud and Probation Violation- Reinstated on probation after stayed prison sentence

Client was charged with felony insurance fraud.  Client was already on formal probation for a felony conviction; as a result of his previous felony conviction, there was prison time stayed if Client violated probation.  After extensive negotiations with the prosecution and presentation of a lengthy mitigation packet, case resolved for no prison time, no incarceration, … Read more

Embezzlement

There’s a long list of what is considered white-collar crimes in California. Examples of such crimes include bribery, blackmail or extortion, and tax fraud. Many people are under the misconception that these types of offenses typically involve large amounts of money and powerful executives or authoritative financial advisers who are abusing their privileges. 

The unfortunate truth is white-collar crimes can be filed against anyone. Embezzlement is included in the category of white-collar crime. This kind of offense involves a combination of committing fraud and theft. It was often thought to involve large sums of money or highly valuable items. Contrary to popular belief, embezzlement charges can involve any amount of money or type property. 

Attempting to face these offenses alone could be extremely challenging. That’s why it’s highly recommended you find a criminal defense lawyer who understands everything that is outlined under California’s embezzlement laws. 

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Battery with Serious Bodily Injury

A criminal record can be difficult to live with. Depending on the crimes committed, one could see a big impact on their employment opportunities, higher education goals, housing choices, and gun rights.

That being said, facing charges for battery with “serious bodily injury” is something you should not take lightly. The long-term damage alone is enough to get you thinking about finding a criminal defense attorney who can help.

Aside from the long-term consequences, violating this law could result in felony penalties. Finding an effective legal representative who can fight on your behalf would significantly increase your chances for the best possible outcome. To gain a better understanding of what this law entails, we must first look at how California defines it.

How does California define battery with “serious bodily injury”?

Aggravated battery, also known as “battery with serious bodily injury” is defined under California’s Penal Code 243(d). It states that when:

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Intimidating or Dissuading a Witness or Victim

Being charged with intimidation of or dissuading a witness and/or victim carries serious consequences. Finding a knowledgeable and effective criminal defense attorney is highly recommended when facing such an offense.

The repercussions include a stain on your criminal background history. This can follow you for the rest of your life, regardless of whether you face misdemeanor or felony penalties. In order to gain a deeper understanding of this crime, we must first look at how California defines it.

Defining intimidation of or dissuading a witness

California defines intimidating and/or dissuading a witness or a victim under Penal Code 136.1. Essentially, this statute outlines how it’s illegal to attempt to prevent or actually prevent a witness or victim from reporting or testifying about a crime.

There are some instances where you would not expect to be jeopardized by what you say. However, if all the criteria for committing this offense are present, you could be convicted nonetheless.

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Battery on a Peace Officer

Any harassment, battery, or assault exacted on a government official, such as a police officer, a federal official, or an officer of the courts is treated with zero tolerance. In other words, do not be surprised to face the harshest punishments if or when you expect to be convicted.

Getting charged with assault and battery, California Penal Code 242, is a difficult enough battle to face. For most simple battery cases, there are misdemeanor penalties. However, when certain aggravating factors are involved the case becomes a wobbler. This means the prosecution can decide to pursue felony charges. 

A battery offense on your permanent criminal record will have a significant impact on the rest of your life. It can have adverse effects on job prospects, higher education opportunities, housing, and gun rights. That said, facing the offense of battery on a peace officer, Penal Code 243(b)  and 243(c) without help can be extremely challenging. One of the best things to do is find a criminal defense lawyer who knows how to fight on your behalf.

Let’s take a closer look into how California defines what it means to commit a battery on a peace officer and the resulting consequences.

Defining California’s “Battery On A Peace Officer” Law

California defines battery on a peace/police officer under Penal Code 243(b) and 243(c). It outlines:

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Violating a Restraining Order

Being accused of violating a restraining order placed against you is a matter which should be taken seriously. Especially because the underlying facts and circumstances surrounding the restraining order are already severe enough. Restraining orders are typically filed in connection with domestic violence cases or similar cases of that nature.

It’s challenging to attempt to fight these offenses alone. The many facets surrounding this law are not commonly known. Getting the expert legal advice of a professional is very much recommended. Find a criminal defense attorney who is familiar with the details and potential consequences of breaking this law.

For a more critical understanding of this statute, we must first break it down through defining the terms.

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Negligent Discharge of a Firearm

Being safe and responsible with firearms has become more important as gun violence becomes prevalent in mainstream news. It’s no surprise negligence with firearms is taken seriously by law enforcement. Are you facing charges for negligence with firearms? This stain on your criminal record will have long-term, negative effects on your future, in some cases, possibly impacting your gun rights.

Let’s have a look at how California ultimately defines this law to gain a better understanding of what it entails.

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Check Fraud

Accusations of check fraud should be addressed as soon as possible. If convicted, you could face misdemeanor or felony consequences, which include thousands in fines and time in jail or prison. Having any type of criminal record would have long-term impacts on your future.

Without the advice of an expert, reality can seem daunting. It’s highly suggested you find the legal help necessary to maintain control of your future. One of the best things you can do now is to find a criminal defense lawyer who can help de-escalate and counter the charges.

The outline below conveniently provides a more in-depth look into check fraud and how the law characterizes it.

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Sexual Battery

Facing a heinous offense such as California’s sexual battery law is not something that should be taken lightly. Attempting to defend oneself against such allegations can be problematic without the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney.

This offense is a “wobbler,” which means it can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. Additional consequences may include taking classes, paying fines, and/or registering as a sex offender. Such punishments will have a lasting effect on the rest of your life.

Sexual battery laws includeseveral sections that address certain details of the offense. To further understand what this statute entails, we must first look at how California defines it.

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Setting Up a Meeting with a Minor for Lewd Purposes

This statute falls under California’s Sex Crimes and these kinds of offenses should never be taken lightly. Attempting to legally fight these charges without help can be a daunting task.

Facing possible charges for violating California’s PC 288.4, arrange a meeting with a minor for lewd purposes, is an extremely serious offense. A conviction could result in high fines and potential jail time.

Treating these charges seriously means retaining the legal expertise of a criminal defense lawyer. They are familiar with the legal statutes and penalties associated with PC 288.4 and know what it takes to defend against it.

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Automobile Insurance Fraud

California criminal fraud involving automobile insurance is referred to as automobile/vehicle insurance fraud. When contacted by one’s automobile insurer or by an automobile insurance or crash investigator regarding fraudulent claims, consider finding legal help. Facing these charges alone can be extremely difficult and should not be taken lightly.

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California Penal Code section 290(b) – Failure to Register as a Sex Offender

California sex crime laws cover a multitude of offenses ranging from minor infractions to felonies. With most sex offense statutes, one of the primary punishments is registering as a sex offender under California Penal Code section 290 (PC 290), sex offender registration law.

Violating any of the offenses that could lead to this requirement will have a lasting effect on your future. Failing to meet such requirements will only make future penalties harsher. Get the help you need by finding an aggressive criminal defense attorney to fight on your behalf.

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California’s Disorderly Conduct: Under the Influence in Public (Public Intoxication) Penal Code Section 647(f)

Public intoxication in California is a misdemeanor. Nonetheless, it is taken very seriously and something that will stay on your record for the rest of your life. Therefore, it is highly recommended you retain an experienced and highly qualified criminal defense attorney who can fight on your behalf. Definition of Public Intoxication California’s public intoxication … Read more

California’s Corporal Punishment or Injury of Child Law a.k.a. “Child Abuse” Penal Code Section 273d

The legal system in California treats accusations of child abuse with extreme seriousness. Allegations of child abuse set off an immediate and sweeping response. Law enforcement and child protective services investigate the allegations. If their investigation shows evidence of abuse, the prosecutor quickly takes the matter before the court. Prosecutors are known to aggressively prosecute … Read more

California’s Child Endangerment Law Penal Code Section 273a

Penal Code Section 273a(a) makes it illegal to do anything that puts a child’s life or welfare in danger. This law criminalizes knowingly placing a child in situations that threaten their health or safety. It encompasses various harmful behaviors, which include physical abuse, neglect, or exposing children to unjustifiable risks. Being guilty under PC 273a(a) … Read more

California’s Resisting an Executive Officer/Trying to Prevent an Executive Officer from Performing Duty Law Penal Code Section 69

Resisting an executive officer and/or trying to prevent an executive officer from performing duty in California is a “wobbler” and taken very seriously. A “wobbler” offense means the crime can be charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor. Therefore, it is highly recommended you retain an experienced and highly qualified criminal defense attorney who … Read more

California’s Arson Laws Penal Code Section 451 and 452

California’s Arson Laws Penal Code Section 451 and 452 Arson in California, depending on the charge, is either a felony or a misdemeanor, but is taken very seriously. Regardless of whether it is a felony or a misdemeanor consequence, this is something that will stay on your record for the rest of your life. Therefore, … Read more

Hit and Run

Accidents can happen in an instant, and a single mistake can put both your life and the lives of others at risk. Hit-and-run incidents are unfortunately common in California, despite the misconception that intoxicated drivers are solely responsible for these collisions. In reality, even sober drivers can be involved in hit-and-run incidents when they become … Read more

California’s Damaging Phone or Electrical Line Laws Penal Code 591

Definition of damaging phone or electrical lines California’s damaging a phone or electrical line law is defined under Penal Code 591. The statute makes it illegal to purposely and maliciously damage, obstruct, remove, disconnect, or otherwise injure wires, cables, or any equipment that is used for a telephone, cable, or electric service. What does it … Read more

Stalking

​California’s Stalking Laws What is considered stalking? Under California’s stalking laws Penal Code 646.9, it is a crime to constantly follow, harass, or threaten an individual to the extent that they fear for their own safety and/or the safety of their family members. What does it mean to violate California’s stalking laws? Put simply, violating … Read more

In The News

Anna Yum is a licensed practicing attorney in California and Illinois. She also regularly serves as a legal analyst on various news and media outlets including KUSI-San Diego, Fox 5 San Diego, San Diego’s U-T TV, NBC 7 San Diego, and KOGO 600 AM.

Anna graduated from Northwestern University, ranked #12 in the country, with a double major in International Studies and Communication Studies. Anna received her J.D. from the University of San Diego School of Law. While at law school, Anna served as a member of the nationally recognized Mock Trial team. Anna also served as a judicial extern for the Honorable Robert M. Takasugi, Senior Judge in the United States District Court for the Central District of California. Upon graduation, Anna received several awards recognizing her excellence in oral advocacy. Specifically, Anna was inducted into the Order of Barristers, which awards the best oral advocates in her graduating class. She also was only 1 of 4 students in her graduating class to receive the American Board of Trial Advocates Award.

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California Vehicle Code 14601.4 – Driving on a Suspended License Causing Injury

Facing charges for driving on a suspended license is consequential enough. The penalties only get worse if the act caused injury to another person. A conviction could lead to further restricted driving privileges with potential incarceration. The punishments can extend to other modes of your life, such as impacting current employment and future job prospects. Not to mention the loss of negotiating power when it comes to attaining future automobile insurance.

Avoid fighting these charges alone. Finding an expert criminal defense attorney to help fight on your behalf is one of the best choices you can make. It could mean the difference between standard and maximum penalties. For a detailed understanding of this statute, we must take a look at how California defines it.

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Evading a Peace Officer

Are you being accused of evading a peace officer and live in the greater San Diego area? You could be facing misdemeanor or felony charges depending on the severity of the situation. Trying to find the right San Diego criminal attorney can help you successfully defend against such serious charges. Below are some examples and explanations for criminal charges concerning California Vehicle Codes 2800.1 and 2800.2.

Under California Vehicle Code 2800.1, evading a peace officer means that while driving in your car, you willfully make attempts to flee from police officers who are pursuing you in a car or on a bicycle. The legal definition of this misdemeanor crime is willfully evading a uniformed peace officer or an officer’s car and with a specific intent to evade or flee from them. If you are being charged with this misdemeanor crime, finding the right San Diego criminal attorney is paramount.

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California Vehicle Code 14601(a) – Driving on a Suspended License

You risk future driving privileges by operating a motor vehicle while your driver’s license is suspended. A conviction for this offense could result in your license being suspended even longer, it could be revoked, and you would face fines and/or possible jail time. There are also long-term consequences associated with a poor driving record.

It’s highly recommended you find a criminal defense lawyer who is experienced in fighting these charges. An effective legal defense could potentially get maximum charges reduced depending on the circumstances of your case. For a thorough explanation of this statute, let’s take a look at how California defines driving on a suspended license.

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Corporal Injury on a Spouse or Co-Habitant: PC 273.5

If you have been or believe you are about to be charged with the crime of corporal injury on a spouse or co-habitant, you are facing potentially severe sentencing (including heavy fines and long prison/jail terms) and a permanent stain on your police record that can affect you for the rest of your life.

At the San Diego-based Law Offices of Anna R. Yum, we understand the magnitude of the allegations you are facing and have extensive legal knowledge and experience at defending corporal injury cases. Anna R. Yum has a long track record of winning cases just like yours and will fight tirelessly in your best interests if you select her as your criminal defense lawyer.

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Tips When Hiring Criminal Defense

Ask the attorney the extent of his/her work background 
and experience?

When hiring an attorney, you are hiring someone that 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 weary 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. 

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