Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Pleasanton

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency phone number of the Pleasanton Police Department is (925) 931-5100.

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

  You may request a copy of a Pleasanton police report online at https://www.cityofpleasantonca.gov/gov/depts/police/investigations/records.asp. For further assistance, call the Pleasanton Police Department Records Unit at 925-931-5125. 

• Where will you be taken after getting arrested in Pleasanton?

  If you get arrested in Pleasanton, it is highly likely that you will be taken to Santa Rita Jail. This facility on Border Boulevard in Dublin is where most people arrested in Pleasanton are taken. It houses both men and women as well as pre-trial and sentenced inmates. On rare occasions, someone arrested in Pleasanton will be taken to Glenn Dyer Jail in Oakland, which exclusively houses male inmates.

• How much will hiring a Pleasanton criminal defense attorney cost you?

  Criminal defense attorneys in Pleasanton do not offer their services on a fixed rate, as their fees vary depending on the unique details of your case. On average, however, most misdemeanor cases that do not go to trial cost somewhere between $1,000 and $1,500. You can expect the costs to increase significantly more than this if your case goes to trial or involves more severe charges.

• What should you do if the police contact you to give a statement regarding your Pleasanton criminal case?

  If you are contacted by the Pleasanton police to give your side of the story, firmly tell them that you wish to exercise your right to remain silent and that you will not speak with them without the presence of your lawyer. If you talk to law enforcement officers, whatever you tell them can be used against you at any stage of the proceedings.

• Are you required to take a chemical test if you were arrested for DUI in Pleasanton?

  Yes, you must submit to a chemical test if you were arrested by law enforcement officers for drunk driving in Pleasanton. This means you must provide them with a breath or blood sample for testing. If you refuse to take the test after your arrest, you could face a longer license suspension or revocation.

• Can you clear your criminal record in Pleasanton?

  In reality, you can’t completely clear your criminal record after getting convicted in Pleasanton. However, if you were convicted of an infraction, misdemeanor, or felony and are not sentenced to state prison, you may be eligible to petition for a dismissal of your criminal charges. This process is sometimes called expungement, and it will change your criminal record to show a dismissal instead of a conviction.

• 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.