Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in West Covina

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency phone line of the West Covina Police Department is 626-939-8500.

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

  You can get a copy of the incident report at the front counter of West Covina Police Department's Records Bureau. You can also request a copy through email by sending a letter to reportrequest@wcpd.org. The request letter should include as much information as possible, like the report number, time and date of the accident, your birthdate, and a copy of your valid ID.

• Which criminal accusations in West Covina are typically handled by attorneys?

  Criminal defense attorneys in West Covina commonly manage misdemeanor and felony criminal cases such as DUI, domestic violence, manslaughter, assault and battery, kidnapping and arson, and weapons offenses. They also deal with matters involving child pornography and child molestation, drug transportation and trafficking, fraud and embezzlement, theft, robbery, and burglary.

• Where are people booked in West Covina after being arrested?

  Those who are detained in West Covina are typically transported to the West Covina Police Department Jail, a type I facility with a maximum 96-hour holding period for inmates absent emergencies. The phone number is 626-939-8550, and the address is 1444 West Garvey Ave.

• When should you hire a West Covina criminal defense lawyer?

  Professionals generally advise you to contact a criminal defense team as soon as possible after being arrested. In order to protect your rights, it would be best to avoid speaking with police or prosecutors without an attorney present, as they may turn what you say against you. Criminal defense attorneys in West Covina can keep an eye on police officers to ensure that your rights are being respected. They can also advise you during legal questioning and assist you on bail hearings.

• What steps are taken by West Covina police following an arrest?

  After the arrest, the police will hold the suspect in the West Covina Police Department Prison while waiting for a bail hearing and sentencing. Both law enforcement and prosecutors will question the person who has been arrested for gathering information. Typically, a person is released by the police on bail or a bond until their criminal trial. Still, the detained person might have to remain in custody based on specific court instructions or information in the arrest warrant.

• What if a defendant in West Covina cannot afford a criminal defense lawyer?

  Criminal defendants in West Covina have the right to a court-appointed attorney from the Los Angeles County Public Defender's Office. However, deputy public defenders are frequently unavailable by phone or email, and they cannot devote as much time to each case as a private attorney can. The Public Defender's Office is located at 210 West Temple Street, Suite 19-513, Los Angeles, CA 90012, and the number to call is 213-974-2811.

• 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.