Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Perris

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Perris City Police Department is (951) 776-1099 (Option 5).

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

  You can get a copy of the police report for incidents related to your case at the Perris Police Department. It is located at 137 N. Perris Blvd, Perris, CA 92570.

• What DUI defenses are available in Perris?

  Various strategies can be applied to your DUI charge in Perris. These include contesting low-accuracy field sobriety tests, establishing a lack of reasonable cause to pull over, proving violations of your constitutional rights during the arrest, and determining a lack of probable cause for an arrest. Finally, it is always critical to hire an attorney who can assist you in developing a good defense for your case.

• What are the penalties of domestic violence charges in Perris?

  There are various consequences that you may face if you are charged with domestic violence in Perris. You may lose your right to own a handgun and face a jail or prison sentence. If you work in a professional field, you may face disciplinary action. In extreme cases, you may lose the custody of your children. You must consult with an attorney regarding your domestic violence complaint.

• What can you do if you've been convicted of a crime in Perris?

  If you've been convicted of a crime in Perris, you can immediately appeal or request a new trial at the trial level. If you want a new trial, your attorney will draft a brief outlining the errors that prevented you from receiving a fair trial and previous cases involving the same issue as yours and how the courts ruled those. If this does not work, you may file an appeal to the appellate court.

• What are the benefits of expungement for your case in Perris?

  There are several advantages to having your Perris case expungement. These include removing your criminal record from employment background checks, restoring your rights (including weapons rights), and updating your records from previous employers. Remember that you must still report your convictions in some situations, such as applications for public office and contracts with the state lottery. You must employ an attorney to assist you in obtaining an expungement.

• What crimes count as strikes in Perris?

  While not every crime in Perris will count as a strike against you, there are crimes which may be considered "strikes". Most felony convictions fall into this category, as do felonies in which the defendant used a firearm, felonies with a sustained California gang enhancement, and felonies in which the defendant directly inflicted grave bodily damage on the victim. It's also worth noting that California has Three Strikes Laws, which can result in life in jail following the third strike.

• 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.