Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Bellflower

FAQs

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

  The contact number for non-emergency situations for the local police station in Bellflower, California, is 562-623-3500.

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

  You can get a copy of police reports for incidents related to your case in Bellflower, California at the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station.

• Should you talk to the police by yourself if you have been arrested for a crime in Bellflower?

  No, you should refrain from talking to the police or other law enforcement authorities by yourself without conferring with a lawyer. If you have been arrested for a criminal offense, you should not talk to police officers without proper legal representation because the police are allowed to use tactics such as lying to suspects and misrepresenting evidence in order to force admissions.

• What are the possible consequences of a criminal conviction in Bellflower?

  There are various possible consequences of being convicted of a crime in Bellflower, such as a permanent criminal record, incarceration, community service, monetary fines, and victim restitution. A conviction could also count as a strike under California’s three-strikes law. In addition, it could affect the personal and professional aspects of a person’s life, including difficulties in gaining housing and employment.

• What are the aggravated circumstances that could lead to misdemeanor DUIs being charged as felonies in Bellflower?

  A DUI can be charged as a felony in Bellflower if aggravated circumstances are present, such as excessive speeding, the driver’s refusal to take a breathalyzer test, and over 0.15% blood alcohol content. Other aggravated circumstances include causing the crash while driving under the influence and while a child under 14 years of age is in the vehicle.

• What happens after a person is arrested for a crime in Bellflower?

  After a person is arrested for a crime in Bellflower, he or she will have to go through an arraignment, which is the first time a defendant will have to appear in court. During the arraignment, a defendant is informed of his or her constitutional rights and the charges against him or her, provided with the charging documents, and given the opportunity to enter a guilty, not guilty, or no contest plea.

• What happens during a jury trial for criminal cases in Bellflower?

  During a jury trial for criminal cases in Bellflower, the parties’ lawyers select the members of the jury and litigate pretrial motions. The attorneys would also have to present opening and closing statements, evidence, and witnesses. After which, the jury would have to deliberate on the merits of the case and decide whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty of the crime charged against him or her.

• 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.