What should I do if I've been arrested?

If you’ve been arrested, we recommend that you stay calm, clearly say that you want to remain silent, and ask to speak with a lawyer before answering any questions, because anything you say can be used against you later. With over 34 years of criminal defense experience in private practice since 1991, we understand how those first decisions at the station or jail can shape the rest of your case. We offer free consultations and 24/7 phone answering, so call us at (415) 552-1215 or contact us online as soon as possible so we can start protecting your rights and building a defense plan tailored to you.

Do I need a lawyer if I haven't been charged yet?

Yes, talking with a lawyer while you are under investigation but before charges are filed can make a real difference, because we can deal with detectives for you, help you avoid harmful statements, and in some cases present information that may influence a prosecutor’s charging decision. With over three decades of criminal defense experience across California, handling misdemeanors, felonies, and juvenile matters, we know how pre-charge work can affect what happens later in court. We offer free consultations, so reach out now and let us review what is happening before things get worse, instead of waiting until you are already in court.

Can I get my charges reduced or dismissed?

Many cases can be reduced or even dismissed, but it depends on the facts, the evidence, your record, and how the prosecution and judge see the case, so we start by carefully reviewing police reports, witness statements, and any video or scientific evidence for weaknesses we can challenge. Attorney Morales has experience defending everything from DUI and drug charges to serious felonies and white collar cases. We know which issues to attack and when to push for dismissals, reduced charges, or alternative resolutions. While no lawyer can promise a specific outcome, we offer free consultations to talk through your options and next steps, so contact us today and let us evaluate the best strategy for your situation.

What are my rights during a police investigation?

During a police investigation, you have the right to remain silent, the right to ask for a lawyer, and in many situations the right to refuse consent to a search, even if officers try to pressure you to talk or let them “just look around.” Attorney Morales has spent over 30+ years defending people in police stations and courts throughout California, so we know how officers question suspects and what tactics they use to get statements. We offer free consultations and 24/7 phone answering, so contact us as early as possible, ideally before you meet with the police, so we can explain your rights in plain language and speak to law enforcement on your behalf.

Can you tell me if I'll have to go to trial?

Most criminal cases do not go all the way to trial, but some do, and whether yours will depend on the strength of the evidence, the offers from the prosecutor, and your own goals and risk tolerance. With over 34 years of trial experience handling everything from DUI and assault to murder, sex crimes, and complex white collar matters, we can give you a realistic picture of what a trial would look like and when it makes sense to fight in front of a jury. During your free consultation, we’ll review your situation, talk about possible outcomes both with and without trial, and help you decide the path that best fits you and your family.

How much does a criminal defense attorney cost?

The cost of a criminal defense attorney depends on factors like the seriousness of the charges, how complex the evidence is, whether the case is likely to go to trial, and which court the case is in, so we usually cannot give a meaningful quote until we know some details. Since 1991, Attorney Morales has handled everything from misdemeanors and juvenile cases to serious felonies in courts across California. We can quickly assess what level of work your case will likely require. We offer free consultations so we can review your situation, explain your options, and discuss fees and payment arrangements upfront. Contact us today to talk through costs before you make any big decisions alone.

Can I get my record expunged in California?

In many situations, people can seek to have certain California convictions expunged, meaning the court treats the conviction as if it never happened and removes it from the public record, but eligibility depends on the type of offense, your sentence, and whether you have completed all terms of probation and are free of new charges. We handle expungements and record-clearing work as part of our practice, using over thirty years of experience in criminal law to review your history and determine what relief may be available. We offer free consultations, so contact us and we’ll go through your record with you, explain what can and cannot be cleaned up, and map out the next steps to give you a better future.

Morales Law Firm

Blog

We’ve been protecting clients’ rights in California since 1991. Reach out today for your free consultation and let us put our decades of experience to work for you.

Sex Offense Appeals

By Ave Mince-Didier People who are convicted of crimes, including sex crimes, may want to appeal...

READ THIS BLOG

House Arrest & How To Request It

What is House Arrest? House arrest involves being confined to your primary residence rather than going...

READ THIS BLOG

Falsely Accused of a Crime

If you're being investigated for or charged with a crime you did not commit, you...

READ THIS BLOG

Fruit of the Poisonous Tree

Evidence derived from illegal police actions is generally inadmissible. You might know that evidence the...

READ THIS BLOG

Your Right to Represent Yourself in a Criminal Case

You must be legally "competent" before a judge will allow you to represent yourself in a...

READ THIS BLOG

The Hallmarks of a Criminal Case

By Paul Bergman J.D., UCLA Law School Professor A criminal case takes place when the government seeks to...

READ THIS BLOG

Police Brutality

Police brutality affects not only its immediate victims, but can undermine the community's trust in its...

READ THIS BLOG

Juvenile Weapons Possession

by Mark Theoharis All states limit the right to purchase, own, or possess weapons to some...

READ THIS BLOG

Investigating a Criminal Case: Experts, Investigators, and Subpoenas

Preparing for trial shouldn’t involve simply reviewing discovery. Rather, the defense should use various investigative means...

READ THIS BLOG

1 … 40 41 42 43 44 … 111

Blog

Sex Offense Appeals

House Arrest & How To Request It

Falsely Accused of a Crime

Fruit of the Poisonous Tree

Your Right to Represent Yourself in a Criminal Case

The Hallmarks of a Criminal Case

Police Brutality

Juvenile Weapons Possession

Investigating a Criminal Case: Experts, Investigators, and Subpoenas

Schedule a Consultation