Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Buena Park

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency dispatch number for the Buena Park Police Department is 714-562-3902.

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

  Police reports and arrest records are available for purchase from the Buena Park Police Department. These records are only accessible to involved parties, authorized representatives, victims, and insurance carriers. A qualified individual may complete a request form at the BPPD's Records Bureau. The requestor will receive the requested report within ten business days of payment. Buena Park arrest records will not be released unless the requestor obtains approval from a supervisor or presents a subpoena.

• Is it necessary for a Buena Park criminal defense attorney to reveal evidence to the prosecution?

  Yes. Just as defendants have the right to obtain evidence from the prosecution that is beneficial to their case, criminal defense attorneys in Buena Park are also required by law to provide prosecutors with information. These include the names and addresses of witnesses they intend to call, pertinent statements made by any of these witnesses, any expert reports, and actual evidence they intend to present as proof. Any other information beyond this is not required.

• How can a criminal defense attorney in Buena Park help if you are charged with a drug crime?

  Your Buena Park criminal defense attorney can ensure you take advantage of all available drug diversion programs. In addition, they can help you obtain a reduced sentence, dismissal of charges, or a not-guilty verdict by undermining the prosecution's evidence. It may include activities such as examining police procedures during arrest and collecting evidence for violations of entrapment or search and seizure laws. They may also contest the results of any drug testing conducted in a DUI case.

• How much does it cost to hire a criminal defense attorney in Buena Park if you have been charged with murder?

  Murder charges are the most serious in California and cost more than misdemeanor assault charges. Your criminal defense attorney in Buena Park may charge you a flat fee that can be paid regardless of how much time they spend on your case. Alternatively, your attorney may bill you hourly, paying for each hour spent on your case. You may have to pay for expert witnesses to testify about evidence in the case in addition to attorneys' fees.

• Do you need a criminal defense attorney for your arraignment in Buena Park?

  Yes. You must hire a Buena Park criminal defense attorney for your arraignment because they can advise you on pleading. They can also request a bail reduction or release on their recognizance at the arraignment. Your solicitor can make the legal argument based on the judge's bail standards, as well as file a lawsuit if your arrest or detention was illegal. Furthermore, your lawyers can request a probable cause hearing if you were arrested without a warrant for a misdemeanor and are in custody at arraignment.

• Which Buena Park areas have a low crime rate?

  The following neighborhoods in Buena Park have low violent and property crime rates and are considered safe. These areas include Buena Park Northeast, Buena Park West, William Peak Park, Buena Park Southwest, Knott Ave / Holder St, San Marino Park, Buena Park Southeast, Buena Park South, Buena Park North, and George Bellis Park.

• 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.