Professional Criminal Defense
Anyone facing the consequences of a criminal charge probation violation should consider speaking with our Redwood City, CA criminal defense attorney today. The outcome of criminal charges and probation hearings is often determined by the judge’s impression of the individual. The Morales Law Firm may be able to help.
Being accused of committing any type of crime in California is a serious matter and requires having a strong defense attorney from The Morales Law Firm, a criminal defense law firm services San Mateo County residents trust. If you are charged with a crime where someone was hurt as a result, such as assault or manslaughter, you need an attorney. In addition to facing the possibility of heavy fines and a lengthy jail sentence as the result of your charges, you could also be facing the prospect of a lawsuit filed by the victim in the case. In California, victims of violent crimes may seek damages for the injuries they suffered, regardless of whether the person accused of the crime is ever convicted.
Table of Contents
- Professional Criminal Defense
- Your Guide to Probation
- 3 Reasons to Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney
- Redwood City Criminal Defense Infographic
- Redwood City Criminal Defense Statistics
- Redwood City Criminal Defense FAQs
- Morales Law Firm, Redwood City Criminal Defense Attorney
- Contact Our Redwood City Criminal Defense Attorney Today
Short-Term and Long-Term Consequences of a Criminal Conviction
The kinds of consequences you could face at a sentencing for a criminal conviction would depend upon the nature of your crime, as well as other factors (such as any history of previous criminal wrongdoing, the impact of victim statements, etc.). A judge could potentially sentence you to imprisonment, fines, community service, probation, substance abuse treatment, anger management courses, a suspension or revocation of your driver’s license, the installation of an ignition interlock device in your vehicle, etc. etc.
However, the short-term and long-term consequences of a criminal conviction extend well beyond the sentencing handed down by a judge. Having a criminal record is something that you’ll be compelled to disclose under many different circumstances. You’ll likely need to admit to your conviction on job applications, housing applications, credit applications, applications to institutions for higher learning, and even on background checks to volunteer at a hospital or school. Don’t underestimate how tough it can be to have a conviction on your record. Work hard to present a strong defense to the charges against you.
Understanding Your Miranda Rights
You are probably familiar with this term and the words police officers speak to those they arrest. Every arrested individual has the right to an attorney. In fact, accused people should not say a word to police officers or investigators without first consulting with their Redwood City, CA criminal defense attorney. Your attorney will discuss the accusations with you and will apprise you of your rights. The attorney will advise you what questions you can and should answer and will be present with you during questioning. Another part of the Miranda reading states that an attorney will be provided to you if you can’t afford one.
Choosing Your Criminal Defense Attorney
Choosing a criminal defense attorney could be one of the most important decisions you make in your life. The right attorney could be the difference between conviction and acquittal, or prison time and community service. While a criminal defense attorney serving Redwood City, California can’t guarantee an outcome, you have a better chance at a more favorable result when you choose the right professional to represent you. The Morales Law Firm provides you with considerations to make when searching for the right criminal defense attorney for your case:
The Right Kind of Experience
When you’re looking at potential attorneys, be sure you’re looking for the right kind of experience. If you hire an attorney with twenty years of legal experience in fraud cases, it may not do you much good if you are charged with breaking and entering with possession of an illegal firearm. You may be better off with a criminal defense attorney in Redwood City, CA who has experience in representing criminal cases.
Keep in mind, experience shouldn’t always be a determining factor. There are some attorneys just starting out that may charge less in order to build a reputation and a client base, and who focused on criminal defense more than anything else in law school. There could be another attorney with many years of experience who is burned out and doesn’t perform as well. As you can see, experience is important, but it has to be the right kind of experience.
Someone Who Practices Empathy
Our Redwood City, CA criminal defense attorney knows that criminal charges often feel quite personal to the defendant. It may not do you well to hire an attorney who isn’t empathetic to your situation. Afterall, you could be dealing with one of the most difficult situations in your life. You should find an attorney who takes time to learn about you, about the crime for which you are charged and about the way you live.
You should pay attention to how you and the attorney interact, ensuring you feel comfortable with their style of communication. Do they listen to what you’re trying to portray, even if you can’t find the words? Does your Redwood City, CA criminal defense attorney give you enough information that you understand what’s going on? Communication is very important moving forward, and you shouldn’t be afraid to get personal with your attorney.
A Local Professional
Sometimes when you hire an attorney who is local, they have a more solid understanding of the way your courthouse operates. You attorney is more likely to have a history with certain judges, district attorneys, police officers and other individuals who could be part of your case. This could come in handy in many criminal cases.
Criminal Defense Strategies
There are two categories that criminal defense strategies fall under: either the defendant did commit the crime, or they didn’t. If they did commit the crime, then it will be our job to show why they should not face certain repercussions. There are many criminal defense strategies out there, and the most common ones have been listed below:
- Lack of Proof
- Alibi
- Consent
- Insanity
- Self-Defense
- Entrapment
- Under the Influence
Your Guide to Probation
Probation Conditions and Terms
If a person is found guilty on criminal charges, depending on the charge, he or she may be offered probation in addition to or in lieu of jail time. Probation is essentially the court’s way of restricting the individual and holding him or her accountable without putting the person in jail. Our Redwood City, CA criminal defense attorney provides you with some common conditions or terms for probation:
- Regular meetings with the probation officer
- Required court appearances
- Random drug tests
- Fines and restitution
- Required classes related to the offense- drug and alcohol or anger management classes may be required as part of the probation
Understanding Probation Violations
In the event that an individual does not comply with any of the conditions or terms that are required to fulfill the probation, he or she may be subject to a probation revocation hearing. It is important to speak with a Redwood City, CA criminal defense attorney if you may have violated the terms of your parole so that you have the best possible chance to mitigate the consequences of that violation. Some common violations include:
- No show for meetings with the probation officer.
- Missed court dates- court appearances are required and a judge may issue a warrant if the individual misses a court date.
- Failed drug test- in the event that a drug test is failed, the probation officer has the discretion to give a warning or bring it to the court’s attention.
- Failure to pay fines and restitution- the individual may have to pay fines associated with the original charges. In addition, the court may require restitution be paid to those who were affected by the original crime.
Probation Violation Repercussions
The repercussions of violating probation vary greatly. It depends on many factors that are based on the severity of the violation, the probation officer and the judge, should the individual be required to attend a hearing. The repercussions can vary from a warning from the probation officer for something minor to jail time for something more significant, such as a new arrest resulting in a criminal charge. As you can see, the consequences of a possible parole violation are serious.
Probation Revocation Hearings
If the probation officer recommends a revocation hearing, he or she can also recommend a consequence. The final decision on whether the individual violated probation and the consequence that he or she will have to face ultimately falls on the judge in the case. The judge will hear arguments from the prosecution and your Redwood City, CA criminal defense defense attorney and review any evidence. The hearing is not as rigid as a trial might be and the judge has a lot of discretion with how to handle the proceedings and information.
Our Criminal Defense Attorney Answers Your Questions
3 Reasons To Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney
If you believe you are in trouble with the law, hiring a criminal defense attorney in Redwood City, CA, could be a good idea. The criminal justice system can be complex. A lawyer from the Morales Law Firm can be your guide and confidant through the process.
You have certain rights, even if you are being charged as guilty. Always know that you are not alone. The outline below has a few of the reasons why hiring a criminal defense attorney can help you out.
- They Are a Protector of Your Rights
A criminal defense attorney in Redwood City, CA, can help you navigate the complex trial process. Did you know police officers are only allowed to ask you certain questions? Additionally, answering their questions in a certain way could incriminate you.
A criminal defense lawyer can advise you on how to behave during an investigation. They can also accompany you if you get further questioning from the police. Sometimes, they could be able to negotiate a dismissal of certain charges. You can strengthen your odds of success if you have a knowledgeable attorney advising you.
- They Can Prepare You for Your Case
You don’t have to wait for your arrest to hire an attorney. If you believe you could be in trouble with the law, find a criminal defense lawyer to help. A lawyer can advise you on how to proceed if the time were to come to face charges.
Know that all criminal cases start as investigations. If you are found guilty after an investigation, law enforcement officers will either arrest you or turn in their report to the State Attorney’s Office. Finding a criminal defense attorney in Redwood City, CA, ahead of this process can help immensely. A lawyer can be there to negotiate your charges or drop sentences.
- Representation Can Matter
You don’t have to hire a defense lawyer. You can represent yourself in court. You can also simply plead guilty to any charges you face. However, hiring a defense attorney can be helpful if you are facing serious charges.
A defense lawyer can help ensure that the charges are legitimate. They may be able to help change your charges from a felony to a misdemeanor. There can be many ways how representation helps your case in the long run.
Redwood City Criminal Defense Infographic
Redwood City Criminal Defense Statistics
According to Pew Research Center, only 2 percent of the almost 80,000 defendants charged with federal crimes actually go to trial. Almost 90 percent of those cases are resolved with a guilty plea by the defendant, while just under 10 percent are dismissed. Make sure you have a skilled criminal defense lawyer who will aggressively defend you and not just look to plead your case out.
Redwood City Criminal Defense FAQs
How Can a Criminal Defense Attorney Help?
Most defendants in criminal cases should seek representation, and an experienced criminal defense lawyer can help you navigate the system. Although you could work with a public defender, a criminal defense attorney in Redwood City CA might have more time and resources to devote to your case. Defense lawyers are able to help their clients because they are familiar with how the local criminal justice system works. They often have knowledge of the courts, judges and prosecutors. Furthermore, they can advise you on interacting with law enforcement and the justice systems.
What Can I Expect From a Defense Lawyer?
Your criminal defense attorney in Redwood City CA should be knowledgeable regarding cases like yours and criminal law in general. The lawyers at the Morales Law Firm are familiar with a variety of criminal law cases. Your legal team should be able to help you deal with paperwork and scheduling. They can also coach you on speaking with law enforcement or before a judge. Your criminal defense lawyer is obligated to keep confidential any information pertaining to your case. You can expect your defense attorney to communicate openly and work towards improving the outcome of your case.
How Can I Find a Defense Attorney?
It’s important to do some research before you start working with a criminal defense attorney. You can use your state’s bar association or other legal organizations which may have recommendations. You could also seek a referral from your personal network. Once you find a criminal defense attorney in Redwood City CA, you can ask about their focus and level of experience. Don’t be afraid to ask questions to assess their enthusiasm and expertise. You should also ask about fees and payment before you hire an attorney.
What Should I Do During a Criminal Case?
Being involved in a criminal investigation can be a confusing and stressful experience. A criminal defense attorney in Redwood City CA can help you figure out how you should act regardless of your situation. In general, you shouldn’t talk with law enforcement without representation present, as your words could be used against you in court. You and your lawyer may also need to discuss potential plea deals, and their experience in criminal law can help you decide how to proceed. Furthermore, your case may go to trial. Attorneys from the Morales Law Firm can help you litigate your case if that occurs. In addition, they can advise you on communicating and presenting yourself appropriately in court.
Morales Law Firm, Redwood City Criminal Defense Attorney
605 Middlefield Road Suite A, Redwood City, San Mateo County, CA 94063
Contact Our Redwood City Criminal Defense Attorney Today
If you have not yet connected with us to schedule a risk-free consultation with the experienced California team at Morales Law Firm, don’t delay any longer. There is really no way to overestimate how seriously you need to approach your legal situation now that you’re facing criminal charges. Once we have been alerted to your need for guidance and support, we’ll begin working to aggressively protect your interests and defend your rights.
If you are in need of a criminal defense attorney, it’s important that you learn as much as possible about them. This will provide you with the ability to make the right choice when hiring one. For a Redwood City, CA criminal defense attorney you can trust and rely on, contact The Morales Law Firm today.
Redwood City Criminal Defense Attorney Google Review
“If you’re looking for a trusted and experienced criminal attorney in the Bay Area Mr. Morales is the one. I had a Great experience with him , he’s a great attorney and good human being. He is beyond helpful. I highly recommend his services to anyone in need. Thank you Mr. Morales!!” – Narcis V.
Client Review
“I have had the pleasure of working alongside Mr. Morales. He is an excellent attorney who is well regarded in the legal community for his skill, experience, and zealous advocacy.”
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