General Criminal Defense FAQs
1. What should I do if I am arrested in Riverside County, CA?
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.
2. Do I really need a criminal defense attorney?
Yes. 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.
3. What happens at my first court appearance?
Your first court date is the arraignment. 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.
4. What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?
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, visit the FAQ on our homepage.
5. Can my charges be reduced or dismissed?
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.
DUI FAQs
6. What should I do after a DUI arrest in Riverside County?
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.
7. Will I lose my driver’s license after a DUI?
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.
8. Is a first-time DUI a felony?
Most first-time DUIs are misdemeanors. However, DUI cases can become felonies if there was injury, prior DUI convictions, or other aggravating factors.
Domestic Violence FAQ
9. Can domestic violence charges be dropped if the alleged victim changes their mind?
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.
Court Process & Case Timeline FAQs
10. How long does a criminal case take?
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.
11. Will I have to go to jail?
Our clients rarely go 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.
12. What is plea bargaining?
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.
13. What is a diversion program?
Certain eligible defendants may qualify for diversion programs that allow charges to be dismissed upon successful completion of counseling, education, or other requirements.
Hiring an Attorney FAQs
14. How much does a criminal defense attorney cost?
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.
15. Do you offer free consultations?
Yes. We offer free confidential consultations so you can understand your rights and options before making any decisions.
16. What makes your firm different?
We are a dedicated criminal defense practice serving Riverside County as well as San Bernardino, San Diego, and Orange counties. As a smaller firm, clients receive direct access to their attorney, personalized strategy, and consistent communication throughout the case.
Riverside County FAQs
17. Where will my case be heard?
Cases occurring in Riverside County, CA are handled at the Southwest Justice Center in Murrieta, the Robert Presley Justice Center in downtown Riverside, the Larson Justice Center located in Indio, and the Banning Justice Center located in Banning. See our Resources page for addresses and links to these justice centers. Our firm is very familiar with the local courts, procedures, and prosecutors in Riverside county.
18. Do you handle cases throughout Riverside County?
Yes. We represent clients throughout Riverside County and the surrounding areas.
Contact & Next Steps FAQs
19. How do I schedule an appointment?
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.
20. Do you accept credit cards?
Yes, we do accept all major credit cards for payment, as well as checks, cashier’s checks, and Venmo.
For more answers on the criminal justice process, in greater depth, please see our FAQs on the homepage of the site.