Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Tustin

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Tustin Police Department is (714) 573-3225.

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

  To obtain a police report in Tustin, CA, you need to fill out an Application for Release of Information Form using this link https://www.tustinca.org/DocumentCenter/View/4992/Application-for-Release-of-Information-Form-PDF-. Provide a copy of your valid state-issued ID or passport, and also include your email address and phone number. You can make a request in person at the Tustin Police Department front counter, through the Tustin Police Department Records Unit fax (714-730-8027), or by mail.

• What are the three different categories of crime offenses in Tustin?

  Tustin categorizes criminal offenses into three categories: infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies. Infractions are the least severe and involve violations of traffic laws or municipal codes, punishable only by fines. Misdemeanors are more serious and may lead to fines up to $1,000-$2,000 and/or one year imprisonment in county jail. Felonies are the most severe and can result in lengthy prison sentences or even death, especially for major offenses such as murder.

• What is Tustin's criminal statute of limitations?

  The statute of limitations for criminal offenses in Tustin varies based on the severity of the crime. Misdemeanors have a one-year statute of limitations, while most felonies have a three-year statute of limitations. Felonies with prison sentences of eight years or more have a six-year statute of limitations, and there's no limit for crimes with life imprisonment or a death sentence. Some exceptions exist for heinous crimes, such as first-degree murder, rape, assault, kidnapping, embezzlement of public funds, and treason, where charges can be brought at any time.

• Can you file a lawsuit in Tustin for wrongful imprisonment?

  If you have been wrongfully imprisoned in Tustin, you have legal options available to you. You can submit a complaint with the police department against the arresting officer or file a motion to exclude any evidence that was gathered as a consequence of the arrest. Moreover, you can sue the arresting officer and department to seek financial compensation, or file a lawsuit against them for violating your civil rights.

• What defense strategies can you use in Tustin to counter circumstantial evidence?

  To challenge circumstantial evidence, a defense attorney in Tustin may argue that the evidence points to a different conclusion than guilt or that it is unreliable. For instance, if a woman is suspected of killing a loved one and a neighbor reports seeing her enter the home on the night of the death, the attorney can assert that she was there for a different purpose. In another scenario, the defense attorney can allege that the evidence is not reliable if a witness with impaired vision claims to have seen a man trespassing on someone else's property.

• Should you really hire a Tustin criminal defense attorney if you intend to enter a guilty plea?

  Yes. Even if you plan to accept a plea bargain, it is essential to seek help from a skilled Tustin criminal defense attorney. A legal team can help you decide whether a plea bargain is in your best interests and whether the prosecution has enough evidence to propose a plea bargain for a particular offense. Without an attorney, the prosecution may offer you an unfair deal, assuming that you will plead guilty. A defense attorney can negotiate for a reasonable settlement on your behalf.

• 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.