Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Palmdale

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency phone line of the Palmdale Sheriff's Station is 661-272-2400.

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

  Call 562-345-4441 to request a copy of a Palmdale police report in person or via mail. You will be required to give the following details when scheduling an appointment by phone:

  • Your full name, including any aliases
  • Your birthdate
  • The type of your ID, the ID number, and its expiration date
  • The incident's date
  • The address or scene of the incident

• How much does a Palmdale defense lawyer charge?

  The typical hourly rate for a criminal defense lawyer in Palmdale is between $100 and $350. The price can change based on a case's complexity—those requiring more pre-trial time, study, and negotiation may cost more money. A lawyer's expertise, experience, and reputation are additional elements that affect the fee.

• Why is it necessary for you to retain a Palmdale criminal defense attorney as quickly as possible after being detained?

  One advantage of contacting a criminal defense attorney in Palmdale as soon as you are charged or arrested is that they may assist you in gathering crucial evidence that will be useful in constructing your defense. If you put off hiring legal counsel for too long, you risk forgetting vital information about your case. They can also offer legal advice, such as outlining whether it would be best to negotiate a plea bargain or have your case tried in court.

• What should you do following your Palmdale arrest?

  After being detained in Palmdale for a crime, your primary concern should be safeguarding yourself. Make sure you cooperate with law enforcement officials and conduct yourself politely. It's advised that you keep silent. Additionally, it is best to contact a skilled criminal defense attorney immediately. The quicker you seek legal counsel, the stronger your defense will be.

• Why shouldn't you tell the police about the specifics of your criminal case in Palmdale?

  You should not discuss the contents of your Palmdale criminal case with police officers since they are only interested in obtaining a conviction after charging someone with a crime. Each statement you make could be used against you in court. Some police officers can attempt to coerce you into making a false confession or agreeing to an unfair deal. Before you discuss your case, make sure you have legal representation.

• How will your criminal conviction in Palmdale affect your life?

  The consequences of a conviction would vary depending on the offense you were accused of in Palmdale. You can be subject to hefty penalties, a lengthy probationary period, or possibly jail time. You may be required to sign up for California's sex offender register after being convicted of certain offenses. In some cases, you might potentially lose your license.

• 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.