Criminal Defense Frequently Asked Questions

If you are arrested, remain calm and exercise your right to remain silent. Do not answer questions or make statements without speaking to an attorney first. Politely request a lawyer and do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney. Contact our office as soon as possible so we can begin working on your case. Read more about the arrest process here. Or read about posting bail here on our blog.

Even misdemeanor charges can result in fines, probation, jail time, or a permanent criminal record. An experienced criminal defense attorney can evaluate the evidence, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, negotiate reduced charges, and protect your future.

Your first court date is the arraignment. Read more about arraignments here on our blog. At this hearing, the judge informs you of the charges against you, and you enter a not-guilty plea. Bail conditions may also be discussed. Having an attorney at your arraignment can make a significant difference in how your case proceeds.

In California, misdemeanors are less serious offenses that typically carry up to one year in county jail. Felonies are more serious crimes and can carry state prison sentences. Some offenses are “wobblers,” meaning they can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances. For more information on this same question, read more on our Felony vs. Misdemeanor practice page.

Possibly. Every case is different. Charges may be reduced or dismissed due to insufficient evidence, constitutional violations, improper police procedure, or successful negotiation with the prosecutor. A thorough case review is essential to determine your options.

You must act quickly. In California, you only have 10 days from the date of a DUI arrest to request a DMV hearing to challenge your license suspension. Contact an attorney immediately to protect both your rights and your driving privilege.

Not automatically, but you must request a DMV hearing within 10 days of your arrest. There is both a criminal case and a separate DMV administrative process. In most cases, clients retain their driving privilege even after a DMV hearing loss. We can represent you in both. Read more about DUI here.

Most first-time DUIs are misdemeanors. However, DUI cases can become felonies if there was injury, prior DUI convictions, or other aggravating factors. Find more Q&A on the DUI page.

Not necessarily. Once charges are filed, the decision to proceed belongs to the prosecutor, not the alleged victim. However, a skilled defense attorney can present evidence and advocate for dismissal or reduction. Visit this page for more information on domestic violence charges.

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case, court scheduling, and negotiations. Some cases resolve in months, while others may take several months or even years. 

We do everything in our power to keep our clients from going to jail, but it can happen. Many cases can be resolved with probation, diversion programs, or alternative sentencing. Avoiding jail is often a primary goal in criminal defense, and we aggressively pursue options that protect your freedom.

Plea bargaining is a negotiation process where the defense and prosecution may agree to reduced charges or lighter penalties. It can be a strategic way to resolve a case favorably when appropriate.

Certain eligible defendants may qualify for diversion programs that allow charges to be dismissed upon successful completion of counseling, education, or other requirements.

Fees vary depending on the type of charge, complexity of the case, and whether the case goes to trial. We provide clear fee agreements and discuss payment options during your consultation.

Yes. We offer free confidential consultations so you can understand your rights and options before making any decisions.

We are a dedicated criminal defense practice serving Riverside County as well as San Bernardino, as well as San Diego and Orange counties. As a smaller firm, clients receive direct access to their attorney, personalized strategy, and consistent communication throughout the case.

Cases occurring in Riverside County, CA are handled, for the most part, at either the Southwest Justice Center in Murrieta, the Robert Presley Justice Center in downtown Riverside, the Larson Justice Center located in Indio, or the Banning Justice Center located in Banning.

See our Resources page for addresses and links to these and all other county justice centers. Our firm is very familiar with the local courts, procedures, and prosecutors in Riverside county.

Yes. We represent clients primarily throughout Riverside County, from all regions, plus many surrounding areas, including San Bernardino County.

You can call our office directly at 951-395-0511 or complete the contact form on our website. We respond promptly and understand that criminal charges require immediate attention.

Yes, we do accept all major credit cards for payment, as well as checks, cashier’s checks, and Venmo.