Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Berkeley, CA

FAQs

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

  Dial 510-981-5900 to reach the non-emergency contact of the local police station in Berkeley.

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

  Requesting a police report for your incident can be done either in person or by sending mail to Berkeley's Police Records Bureau at 2100 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Berkeley, CA 94704.

• How can a criminal defense attorney in Berkeley help you clear your criminal record?

  There are multiple ways a criminal defense attorney in Berkeley can help you start with a clear record after conviction. Leading examples are filing a motion to seal and destroy, expungement, seeking rehabilitation certificates, and pardons. In most cases, having a criminal record can hurdle you from getting employed and may affect the quality of your living. Getting professional help from a legal expert can give you a shot at a new start.

• What are the typical types of criminal charges in Berkeley?

  There are three categories of criminal charges in Berkeley. These offenses are known as misdemeanors, felonies, and infractions. Infractions are illegal conduct resulting in the lowest level of unlawful behavior. Misdemeanors, on the other hand, include DUI cases and simple assaults. Lastly, felonies are criminal acts identified as grave offenses resulting in severe physical injuries and morbidity.

• What are the different types of pardons in Berkeley you can receive if you are convicted of a criminal offense?

  You can be granted a pardon in Berkeley even after a conviction. The types of pardon you may receive range from a governor's pardon and a certificate of rehabilitation to a presidential pardon. These pardons can help you clear your records, get employed, and alleviate the stigma of a conviction.

• What happens if you get arrested for DUI in Berkeley?

  If you are arrested for DUI in Berkeley, you will face penalties for both criminal and administrative charges. Furthermore, you must request an administrative hearing for your license suspension within ten days of your arrest, or your rights will be considered null and void and you will face criminal charges.

• What are the benefits of hiring a criminal defense lawyer if you're accused of theft in Berkeley?

  If you are accused of theft in Berkeley, a criminal defense lawyer can help you protect your rights and advocate for reduced or dismissed charges. Furthermore, they can represent your interests at trial by analyzing the evidence and determining the appropriate defense strategy. A defense lawyer is helpful, especially if you do not understand your rights or are facing criminal charges for the first time.

• 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.