Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Simi Valley

FAQs

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

  The police in Simi Valley can be reached at (805) 583-6950 for non-emergencies.

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

  Request reports by calling (805) 583-6976 or visiting the police station at 3901 Alamo Street, Simi Valley, CA 93063.

• Can you go to jail for forgery in Simi Valley?

  You can go to jail for forgery in Simi Valley if you intended to defraud someone. State forgery laws apply to actions that damage, solicit, and prejudice another person for things like money and property. Other than being jailed, you may also be ordered to pay up $10,000 in fines or subjected to felony probation.

• Can you contest a parking citation in Simi Valley?

  You can contest a parking citation in Simi Valley by completing the Parking Citation Administrative Review Form and sending it to the address given below. You must do so within 21 days after the citation was issued. The police staff will conduct an investigation and assess if you are liable for the citation or not. This is the address: Simi Valley City Hall Attn. Customer Services 2929 Tapo Canyon Road Simi Valley, CA 93063

• What does having a Certificate of Rehabilitation mean for a person in Simi Valley?

  Having a Certificate of Rehabilitation means the person holding it is a convicted felon who was incarcerated in a local or state prison but has already been rehabilitated. The certificate does not erase the criminal record of the person in Simi Valley, but it can help them get on with their lives, such as when they apply for a job. It can also be used when filing for a pardon from the Governor's Office.

• Is it possible to be arrested or searched without a warrant in Simi Valley?

  The police can conduct a search or arrest a person without a warrant if they have probable cause to do so. This means the police can make an arrest when they see the person committing a crime or in the process of doing it. However, these cases are rare, and most of the time, the police must have a valid warrant to legally search or arrest someone in Simi Valley.

• What happens if a person in Simi Valley gets sentencing under California’s Three Strikes law?

  Under California’s Three Strikes law, an offender in Simi Valley could be sentenced to 25 years to life imprisonment. This happens if the defendant who is currently convicted of violent or serious felonies already has two or more similar sentences. Violent felonies include rape, murder, and felony robbery. There will also be more severe penalties for defendants convicted of serious felonies for the second time even if they have not yet reached three strikes.

• 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.