Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Lynwood

FAQs

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

  Reach out to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department at (323) 568-4800 regarding non-emergencies in Lynwood.

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

  To obtain a police report for a Lynwood car accident, contact the Los Angeles County/Century Sheriff's Station at (323) 568-4800.

• What is the difference between an infraction and a misdemeanor in Lynwood?

  An infraction is a much less serious offense than a misdemeanor. Some infractions carry a penalty of paying only $250. However, there are some charges that wobble between an infraction and a misdemeanor. For example, "disturbing the peace" can mean yelling a racial slur at someone while drunk in a bar, which may get the offender an infraction. However, the charge may upgrade to a misdemeanor if the same action was done in a Lynwood elementary school.

• Can you refuse a police officer who pulled you over and wants to search your vehicle in Lynwood?

  You have the right to refuse a police officer in Lynwood who wants to conduct a search of your vehicle, but you must make it clear that you are not in agreement with it. That is, it is not enough to ask them what they're doing it for while sounding indignant. If they wish to proceed after you've calmly stated your refusal, then the burden to show probable cause for the search will fall on the officer.

• Should you settle for the public defender that the government assigns your case in Lynwood?

  It is understandable that some people are left with no choice but to settle for a Lynwood public defender, but if there is any chance at all to get a private criminal defense attorney, you are highly advised to do so. While there is no doubt that public defenders do their best, they can be swamped with cases that the government hands them, which means that they are overworked and may not be able to focus on your case.

• What happens if you buy a stolen item from someone in Lynwood?

  This is considered receiving stolen property and, pursuant to Penal Code Section 496, any offender who buys or receives an item that they know to be stolen or obtained by unlawful means will be facing a sentence of up to one year in county jail for a misdemeanor or up to three years in state prison for a felony.

• What are the penalties associated with PPP Fraud charges in Lynwood?

  It depends, since PPP Fraud can be achieved in many different ways in Lynwood. Some examples with their corresponding penalties are:

  • Bank fraud: 30 years in federal prison, fine of up to $1 million
  • Wire fraud: 20 years in federal prison
  • Making false statement to an FDIC-insured bank: 30 years in federal prison, fine of up to $1 million
  • Tax evasion: 5 years in federal prison, fine of up to $500,000 for corporation, $100,000 for individual

• 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.