Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Santa Monica

FAQs

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

  Call (310) 458-8491 for a direct dispatch from the Santa Monica Police Department.

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

  Call (310) 458-8431 for more information on how to request a car accident report. You can also go to the website of the Public Records Request Center and submit a request. Similarly, you can visit the Santa Monica Public Safety Facility located at 333 Olympic Dr. to get your report in person.

• What things should be considered in a criminal defense lawyer for a case in Santa Monica?

  A lawyer's professionalism, personality, and demeanor are some of the things that should be considered. The level of experience in criminal cases and the responsiveness of communication should also be checked in a lawyer before hiring one. Lastly, you also have to take into consideration the lawyer's sincerity in defending your case in Santa Monica.

• How do you bail a person arrested and jailed in Santa Monica?

  You can post bail directly 24/7 at the jail located inside the Santa Monica Police station which is at 333 Olympic Dr. in the metro. This happens after a person is arrested and booked- that includes getting a mugshot, fingerprinting the arrestee, and recording personal information. Should you need more information, call the SMPD jail staff at (310) 458-8482.

• If the wife of a husband arrested for spousal abuse in Santa Monica says she made a mistake when calling the police, can the charges against the husband be dropped?

  No. Only the DA can drop the charges against the husband arrested for spousal abuse in Santa Monica. It is unlikely that the DA's Office will drop charges because they prefer to file charges and then let the court decide the outcome of domestic violence cases. This is because most spousal abuse victims attempt to recant their statements when their spouses are arrested and this has led to a continuous cycle of abuse in the past.

• Should you talk to the Santa Monica police if you are being arrested?

  Do not ever talk to the police—instead, you may just tell them that you need to contact your lawyer if you are under investigation or facing charges in Santa Monica. Never consent to any search requests from the police and whenever possible you do not need to answer when the police knock on your door without a warrant or probable cause. Lastly, keep in mind that everything you discuss with your lawyer is confidential.

• Which crimes are common in Santa Monica?

  DUI, prostitution and solicitation, and drug possession are some of the crimes common in Santa Monica. Violent crimes such as murder and non-negligent manslaughter, rape, and armed robbery are also higher in the metro compared to others in the county. Property crimes also abound and these include motor vehicle theft, larceny, and burglary.

• 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.