Criminal Defense Lawyer in San Mateo County

How We Defend You in San Mateo County

When you hire us, we provide immediate legal support and a clear plan for your case. Once you are under investigation or have been charged, the prosecution starts building its case against you. Our job is to get involved early to protect your rights and challenge the evidence at every step.

Getting Involved Early to Protect You

The first few days of a criminal case are very important. We act quickly to make sure you do not make common mistakes and that your rights are protected.

We help by:

• Advising you not to speak with law enforcement without a lawyer.

• Reviewing why you were stopped, searched, or arrested.

• Making sure your right to an attorney is respected.

• Finding any violations of your constitutional rights.

If the police collect evidence illegally, we can ask the court to throw it out. This can weaken the prosecution’s case and may lead to reduced charges or a dismissal.

Reviewing the Evidence

In California, the prosecution must prove you are guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. We carefully review all the evidence to see if it truly supports the charges.

Our legal review includes looking at:

• Police reports and body camera videos.

• Statements from witnesses.

• Forensic and digital evidence.

• Potential defenses based on the facts.

If the evidence is weak or does not prove the crime, we use that to negotiate for a better outcome, such as getting the charges reduced or dismissed.

Managing Your Case in Court

You should not have to face the court system alone. We handle all communications with the District Attorney’s office, manage court dates, and file all necessary legal documents. California’s legal process has strict deadlines, and we make sure nothing is missed.

We handle:

• All court appearances on your behalf when possible.

• Negotiations with the prosecutor for a fair result.

• Requests for alternatives to jail, like diversion programs.

• Preparation for hearings and trial.

If the prosecutor offers a plea deal, we will explain it to you in simple terms. We outline the risks and benefits so you can make an informed decision about your future.

Defending Against Common Charges in San Mateo County

Our firm represents clients facing many types of criminal charges. Each case has its own legal issues and defenses.

• DUI: Our DUI lawyers challenge the evidence in DUI cases, including breath or blood test results. We check if the police followed the correct procedures and if the testing equipment was accurate.

• Domestic Violence: These cases often rely on witness statements. We investigate the facts, identify defenses, and help you with any related restraining orders.

• Drug Crimes: The charges depend on the type and amount of drugs. We see if you are eligible for treatment programs instead of jail and argue for them when possible.

• Theft, Assault, and Other Crimes: Our California assault attorneys defend clients against both misdemeanors and felonies. We understand the penalties these charges carry and work to protect you from the most serious consequences.

Early Court Appearances and Release

If you were arrested, the court must take you before a judge within 48 hours, not counting weekends or holidays. At this first hearing, the judge will decide the release conditions. In some cases, bail is set based on the county schedule. In others, you may be released without having to pay bail.

We prepare for this hearing and present information to support the least restrictive release. This could include your employment history, family ties, or lack of a criminal record. Our goal is to help you stay home and continue your daily life while the case moves forward.

Reviewing the Evidence

After charges are filed, the prosecutor must give us all the evidence against you. This includes police reports, videos, lab results, and witness statements. We carefully review this evidence and explain what it shows and what it does not.

We will meet with you to go over:

• What the prosecutor must prove in order to convict you

• The strengths and weaknesses of the evidence

• Whether any searches, statements, or tests can be challenged

• Possible defense strategies based on your case

This is when we start to shape the direction of your case.

Strategy and Next Steps

After reviewing the evidence, we will discuss your goals and the options available. Some cases are best resolved through negotiations with the prosecutor. Others require motions or preparing for trial. We will never pressure you into a decision without fully explaining the risks and benefits.

For each court date, we will explain what will happen so you are prepared. You will know who will be there, what the judge may ask, and what outcomes are possible. We will make sure you are never left wondering what comes next.

Motions, Hearings, and Negotiations

Before trial, we can file motions to challenge evidence. For example, under California law, we can ask the court to suppress evidence if it was obtained through an unlawful search or seizure. If a motion is successful, it can make it harder for the prosecutor to prove their case.

At the same time, we may negotiate with the prosecutor for reduced charges or alternative resolutions. We will explain any offers you receive, including potential penalties like jail time, probation, and fines. You will have all the information you need to decide how to proceed.

Trial and Resolution

Most cases are resolved before trial, but preparing for trial strengthens our position during negotiations. If a trial is necessary, we will gather evidence, prepare witnesses, and present a strong defense to the judge or jury. The prosecutor must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

If your case ends with a plea or conviction, the penalties will depend on the charges. For example, a misdemeanor in California can result in up to 364 days in jail, fines, and probation. Felony penalties depend on the charge and your criminal record. We will present evidence to request the lowest possible penalty and explain any post-conviction options, like expungement.