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.

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.

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.

7 Best Downey Criminal Defense Attorneys

Law Office of Diego J. Weinsetel

9040 Telegraph Rd #311, Downey, CA 90240

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The Law Office of Diego J. Weinsetel is a law firm based in Downey that represents clients in cases related to immigration, citizenship, criminal defense, and DUI. The firm was established in 2010 and since then has been committed to helping clients accused of criminal charges throughout Los Angeles County. It works for reasonable and favorable outcomes, like an acquittal, a dismissal, or reduced charges; it can also assist in the expungement of crimes from their clients' records. The firm provides thorough investigations and courtroom representation before state prosecutors.

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Law Office of James Mendez

8301 Florence Avenue, Downey, CA 90240

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The Law Office of James Mendez is a Downey-based criminal defense law practice that serves several cities around Southern California. James Mendez provides representation to clients involved in theft crimes, drug offenses, sexual crimes, juvenile crimes, and probation violations. Mendez was also once a prosecutor, giving him intimate experience in handling arguments from both sides of the stand. He is qualified to argue in the California Supreme Court and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.

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Law Office of Jesse A. Arana

Second, Downey, CA 90240

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The Law Office of Jesse A. Arana is a criminal defense law firm serving the community of Downey. The firm advocates for clients who are on trial for probation and weapons violations, manslaughter and murder, drunk driving, drug possession and trafficking, and kidnapping. Its team gathers, examines, and presents the case's evidence to prove the client's innocence and maintain their record. It also helps qualified clients seal or expunge their arrest and conviction records.

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Law Office of Manuel Eli Gonzalez

8201 4th Street, Downey, CA 90241

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The Law Office of Manuel Eli Gonzalez is a general law firm that has been handling criminal law matters for more than 20 years. Criminal defense lawyers at this firm are experienced in dealing with DUI, arrest warrants, and major and minor crimes. They also represent clients in various family matters that involve child support, child custody, and restraining orders. The Law Office of Manuel Eli Gonzalez also covers personal injury law.

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Law Offices of Anthony A. Arzili

12749 Norwalk Blvd., Suite 100, Norwalk, CA 90650

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The Law Offices of Anthony A. Arzili is a criminal defense law firm that represents the accused in and out of the courtroom. The firm caters to clients in Downey, Whittier, Los Angeles, and the rest of the state. Founding lawyer Anthony A. Arzili has over 20 years of experience in the criminal defense field. The firm concentrates on matters of domestic violence, drugs, DUI, murder and attempted murder charges, sex crimes, and theft offense crimes.

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Law Offices of Patrick S. Aguirre

7847 Florence Avenue, Downey, CA 90240

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The Law Offices of Patrick S. Aguirre is a general litigation law firm that was founded by a criminal lawyer in Downey with over 20 years' experience. The firm has experience defending its clients from charges involving white collar crimes, drug-related offenses, cybercrime, drunk driving, and murder. It also advocates for teenagers who are being accused of juvenile crimes. Founding attorney Patrick Aguirre is a member of the American Institute of Trial Lawyers.

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Reyes & Schroeder Associates, P.C.

1300 West Beverly Boulevard, Montebello, CA 90640

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Reyes & Schroeder Associates PC is a general litigation law firm offering criminal defense services in Downey and the nearby areas. The firm of criminal defense lawyers provides legal representation for those accused of serious crimes, such as theft, robbery, sexual and domestic assault, drug-related offenses, and drunk driving. It also works with qualified clients to seal or expunge their arrest and conviction records. These lawyers also practice in other areas, such as intellectual property, specializing in trademark and copyright.

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Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Downey

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Criminal Defense Attorneys FAQs

Law Office of Diego J. Weinsetel

Law Office of James Mendez

Law Office of Jesse A. Arana

Law Office of Manuel Eli Gonzalez

Law Offices of Anthony A. Arzili

Law Offices of Patrick S. Aguirre

Reyes & Schroeder Associates, P.C.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?

Q: Why hire a criminal defense attorney?

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

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