Criminal Threats Defense Attorney in Murrieta, CA

Facing Criminal Threats Charges in Riverside County?

Allegations of criminal threats in Murrieta and throughout Riverside County are taken seriously and can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges under California law. A conviction may result in jail or prison time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. These cases often arise from heated arguments, misunderstandings, or statements taken out of context—but once a report is made, the consequences can escalate quickly.

At the Law Office of H. Charles Gorian, we provide experienced criminal defense backed by well over two decades in practice. We represent clients in Murrieta and the surrounding communities of Riverside and San Bernardino County who are facing criminal threats charges and work to protect their rights at every stage of the case.

What Is a Criminal Threat in California?

Under California Penal Code 422, a criminal threats charge may be filed when a person is accused of making a statement that is interpreted as a serious threat to harm another person. The law does not require that the threat be carried out—only that it is perceived as credible and causes fear.

To secure a conviction, the prosecution must prove several elements, including:

  • That a threat of serious harm was communicated
  • That the statement was intended to be taken as a threat
  • That the alleged victim experienced sustained fear
  • That the threat appeared immediate and credible

Because these cases often depend heavily on interpretation, context, and witness testimony, they can be challenged with a strong and strategic defense.

Penalties for Criminal Threats

Criminal threats may be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony in Riverside County, depending on the circumstances of the case.

Potential consequences can include:

  • Jail or prison time
  • Substantial fines
  • Probation conditions
  • A permanent criminal record
  • A “strike” under California’s Three Strikes law (for felony convictions)

Given the seriousness of these penalties, it is critical to have an experienced Murrieta criminal defense attorney on your side as early as possible.

Common Defenses to Criminal Threats Charges

Every case is different, but many criminal threats allegations involve situations where statements were misunderstood, exaggerated, or made in the heat of the moment.

At the Law Office of H. Charles Gorian, we carefully analyze:

  • The exact words used and the context in which they were spoken
  • Whether the alleged threat was specific and credible
  • Whether the alleged victim’s fear was reasonable
  • Any inconsistencies in witness statements
  • Whether law enforcement followed proper procedures

With over 27 years of experience in criminal defense, we know how to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and build an effective defense strategy.

Criminal threats charges can develop quickly, especially when law enforcement responds to a report and makes an immediate arrest. What you say and do early in the process can significantly affect the outcome of your case.

Working with an experienced criminal defense attorney in Murrieta allows you to:

  • Avoid common mistakes that could harm your case
  • Ensure your rights are protected during questioning and investigation
  • Begin building a defense strategy right away

Speak With a Murrieta Criminal Defense Attorney Today

If you have been accused of making criminal threats in Murrieta or anywhere in Riverside County, do not wait to seek legal guidance. The Law Office of H. Charles Gorian provides knowledgeable, strategic defense backed by over 27 years of experience.

Call today to schedule a consultation and discuss your case.