Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Anaheim

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Anaheim, California?

  Dial (714) 765-1900 to reach the Anaheim Police Department for non-emergency inquiries or to request a non-emergency police response.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Anaheim, California?

  The Records Bureau of the Anaheim Police Department provides police reports. Certain requests for police reports submitted to the Anaheim Police Department may be exempt from disclosure under the California Public Records Act (CPRA). Please note that not all requests for reports will be granted. The Records Bureau can be reached at (714) 765-1990 seven days a week between 6:00 AM and 6:30 PM.

• What if your Anaheim arresting officer did not read you your rights?

  Many believe their case will be dropped if an officer fails to give them their rights. It is not always the case. However, if an Anaheim arresting officer fails to tell you of your rights, any information you provide during the investigation cannot be used against you in court. It sometimes results in the dismissal of the case, but not always.

• Can you go to jail for violating your probation in Anaheim?

  Yes. You risk going to jail if you break any of the terms and conditions of your probation in Anaheim. The judge may revoke your probation, in which case you'll have to serve the whole term of your initial sentence. It is also possible that the court will decide to inflict the maximum punishment allowed by law.

• What are the implications for noncitizens accused of a crime in Anaheim?

  Immigrants accused of a crime in Anaheim are required to retain a counsel who is knowledgeable in both criminal defense and immigration law. All non-U.S. nationals, including those with permanent resident green cards, H-1b, E-2, L-1, L-2, and other visas, are in grave danger when charged with a criminal case. Even overseas students who are arrested and fingerprinted might have their F1 visas canceled.

• What should you expect at your Anaheim arraignment?

  There are several hearings you will attend depending on your offense, but the one that pertains to every criminal case is the arraignment. Your first court appearance in Anaheim and the first time the judge will see you is your arraignment. They will read the charges to you and ask if you want to plead guilty or not guilty. You can also enter a no-contest plea, which indicates you don't reject the offenses but don't admit to doing them.

• When does the statute of limitations start in Anaheim?

  Typically, the statute of limitations begins when the crime is committed. California uses the discovery rule, which specifies that legislation begins when the offense is detected. This rule is helpful for prosecutors and victims of crimes in Anaheim that are difficult to solve. In addition, it applies to situations wherein the victim fails to disclose the occurrence out of fear or is a minor. In these situations, the prosecution may be granted additional time to submit the charge.

• What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

  Criminal defense attorneys provide help to those facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. The attorney will research the circumstances surrounding the charge and investigate the case on behalf of the client. This may involve talking to police, interviewing witnesses, determining a plea, and assessing possible sentences. With this information, the defense attorney can negotiate plea deals or navigate a court case on behalf of the client. In some cases, the attorney may get a case dismissed entirely, a reduction in bail or jail time, or probation or community service instead of prison.

• How do I know if I need a criminal attorney?

  Any criminal charge that could result in a prison sentence requires the help of a criminal defense lawyer. This applies to both misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

  Misdemeanors

  • Petty theft
  • Public intoxication
  • Simple assault
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Vandalism
  • Reckless driving

  Felonies

  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated assault
  • Specific types of fraud
  • Possession of certain types of drugs

• What steps should I take after being charged with a crime?

  The first thing to do after being charged with a crime is to contact a criminal defense attorney. It is best to hire a defense attorney as soon as possible after being released from arrest, and before an arraignment takes place. The attorney will explain charges in detail, and possible consequences, to help you decide whether a plea deal or a jury trial is the best option. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss the circumstances of a criminal case and how they're able to assist. Speaking with a number of defense attorneys before hiring one can increase the likelihood of finding the right fit, and getting the best defense possible.

• What if I can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer?

  All Americans are afforded the right to hire an attorney to act as a defense in a legal case. However, not everyone can afford one. If an attorney isn’t in a defendant’s budget, and the defendant’s income meets designated state or local thresholds, the court system will provide a public defender. This attorney usually works on cases pro bono or without any fees paid by the defendant. Many public defenders have a high caseload, which can limit the amount of time they are able to devote to each case. In most situations, hiring a dedicated criminal defense lawyer ensures the best outcome. This is particularly true in more serious felony cases that can result in a significant prison sentence without the involvement of a skilled, experienced defense attorney.

• Why hire a criminal defense attorney?

  Working with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to minimize the ramifications of committing or being accused of a crime. Criminal attorneys thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding a case to prove innocence or inspire reasonable doubt in a jury. Criminal defense lawyers also are better prepared to negotiate with the prosecutors. Due to the high cost and logistics involved with taking a case to trial, many prosecutors are willing to reduce sentences in exchange for avoiding a jury trial. An experienced criminal attorney understands what would be a reasonable deal for a specific criminal charge, and will negotiate it on behalf of the defendant.

• Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?

  Whether legal fees from a criminal case can be deducted on a tax return depends on the circumstances. If criminal charges pertain to activities related to a trade or business, attorney fees can be deducted on a business tax return, as they are considered an expense associated with the normal course of business. However, personal legal fees cannot be deducted.