Criminal Lawyer Stockton, CA
Do you need a criminal lawyer Stockton CA? Skilled attorneys from the Law Office of Rebecca Feigelson could help. Call now to schedule a consultation.
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Dealing With Criminal Charges in Stockton, CA
If you are facing criminal charges in Stockton, the outcome may be quite severe if you fail to take the necessary defensive steps. Many crimes carry heavy penalties for criminal convictions, and any error in your defense may result in lengthy prison sentences and expensive fines.
Obtaining legal counsel from a Stockton criminal lawyer could be a crucial first step. Stockton, a city and the county seat of San Joaquin County, is considered to have a high crime rate. The Stockton Police Department and the San Joaquin Sheriff’s Office are used to dealing with criminal offenses and are adept at trying to get people talking as much as possible. That’s why it’s crucial to retain an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as you find out you are facing a criminal charge.
The criminal justice system is complex, and it is generally not a good idea to try to go up against state prosecutors on your own. Seek a free consultation with an experienced California criminal lawyer. They could advise you about the severity of the charges against you and the right course for your defense.
What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
Criminal defense lawyers play a vital role in a criminal trial. Primarily, they stand before a California court to defend a person accused of a criminal offense. Defense attorneys use their knowledge of California criminal law and the facts and evidence in the case to defend clients and negotiate a reduced sentence with prosecutors.
Representation by a professional with legal knowledge of criminal law assures your legal rights are protected, and you have someone with your best interest in mind to guide you through the court proceedings.
How the Criminal Defense Law Process Works
Here is the step-by-step process that criminal defense practice lawyers go through in defending their clients.
Client Interview
When a client contacts a criminal defense law office, a lawyer will get their initial background and the pertinent facts in the case. During the initial interview, the defense lawyer tries to get as much detail as possible to determine the severity of the crime. This process helps them determine whether to provide defense services to the person charged with a crime.
If they take the case, the attorney has a duty to keep their clients up to date on the progress and findings throughout the process.
Arraignment Hearing
A criminal defense lawyer should attend the arraignment hearing with their client to make their plea of guilt or innocence to the judge. They can present reasons for the judge to set a reasonable bail.
Case Investigation
Criminal defense lawyers do not rely solely on the answers provided by their clients in preparing their defense for an optimal outcome. They investigate the facts to uncover legal avenues that may lead to having the case dismissed or the defendant’s acquittal. They will undertake the following:
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Gather evidence
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Obtain police or medical service reports
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Identify any witnesses
Defense lawyers have the right to review the case built by the prosecuting attorney before it is submitted to the judge and jury. This initial review offers an excellent opportunity to find the weaknesses and strengths of the opposing attorney’s case and build a rebuttal to their claims.
Analysis of Evidence
The defense attorney team will examine the evidence to determine if it was properly obtained, stored, and handled. The prosecuting attorney will vet the witness list to determine if they are reliable witnesses. Even the most minor error or hint of impropriety could turn the case in favor of the defense attorney.
Negotiation of Plea Bargain
In addition to preparing a defense for trial, a criminal defense attorney should be a skilled negotiator. They could effectively present convincing reasons that the prosecuting attorney should accept a plea deal in exchange for a reduced sentence and other favorable conditions.
Jury Selection Process
Criminal defense lawyers also take part in the jury selection process. They may demand that a juror be removed for cause if they suspect the juror is biased against the defendant.
Representation at Trial
The trial is an essential role of the defense lawyer as they fight for the acquittal of their client. In calling their witnesses and cross-examining the prosecution’s witnesses, a lawyer attempts to convince the jury that the prosecution failed to establish proof of the defendant’s guilt in the crime.
Law Office of Rebecca Feigelson’s Practice Areas
The Law Office of Rebecca Feigelson helps clients with a variety of criminal law offenses, including the following:
DUI
It is a crime under California law to drive under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or another related substance that impairs the driver.
Misdemeanor Crimes
Misdemeanor crimes are criminal law violations that could include traffic offenses, minor drug offenses, domestic violence, shoplifting or petty theft, or simple assault that did not involve serious personal injury. Misdemeanor crimes often carry a lesser fine and jail term than more serious crimes.
Felony Crimes
Felony cases are serious crimes that may result in a sentence of more than 12 months upon conviction. Examples of felony crimes include:
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Fraud
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Robbery
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Homicide
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Securities fraud
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Sex crimes
Aggravated assault involving severe personal injury is also a felony in California.
Criminal Record Expungement
Criminal defense lawyers in Stockton also handle related practice areas, such as expungement cases. Expungement is the process of sealing arrest, conviction, and other criminal records from the public view. Stockton, CA, lawyers can advise you whether your case can be expunged.
Probation Violations
A person who has been released from prison on parole is guilty of probation violation if they break the terms of the probation. Such a violator will be sent to jail to serve the rest of their sentence and may be given additional time.
You can learn how our attorneys can assist you with your case by getting in touch with our law firm.
How an Experienced Stockton Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help You
Accusations of a criminal offense can be a very stressful experience, and a conviction can have a long-term impact on your life. That’s why professional assistance is crucial.
In addition to investigating and researching criminal defense cases, our Stockton criminal defense lawyers prepare an effective defense strategy and provide aggressive representation to negotiate a plea agreement or defend your case in court.
Our criminal defense attorneys will take the time to understand your situation, explain the charges against you, and present your options in your criminal case.
Get started on your defense today by contacting the Law Offices of Rebecca Feigelson for a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to a few of the legal questions criminal defense lawyers are most commonly asked.
Should I Talk to the Police Officer if I am Arrested?
If you are arrested, remaining silent is one of your rights. It is important to exercise this right because it prevents you from saying things that could incriminate you.
Do I Have the Right to Know Why I Am Being Charged?
Once arrested, you have the right to know the charges and the crime that led to your arrest.
What Is the First Thing I Should Do if I Am Arrested in Stockton, CA?
Many people find comfort in hiring a criminal defense lawyer as one of their first steps. Contacting a Stockton criminal law attorney from the Law Offices of Rebecca Feigelson helps protect your rights and build a solid defense for your case.
