Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Citrus Heights, CA

FAQs

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

  Contact 916-727-5500 for a non-emergency dispatch in Citrus Heights.

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

  Request reports from the records unit of the Citrus Heights Police Department through email: PDPRA@citrusheights.net and fax: (916) 727-4973. You can also text requests through the number (916) 417-1297. You can choose whether the report will be mailed or emailed to you, or you may pick it up at the police station located at 6315 Fountain Square Drive. For your convenience, call (916) 727-5500 first to check if the report is available.

• How does the DA in Citrus Heights decide if a person of interest will be charged with a crime?

  To charge a person of interest with a crime, the Citrus Heights DA must first analyze if the case is legally sound, or else it may be thrown out of court. Then the DA will check if there is enough evidence to make a conviction probable. Additionally, it may be possible for charges to be disposed of if the person of interest enters into a plea deal.

• How can a person in Citrus Heights be charged with identity theft?

  Someone in Citrus Heights who unlawfully obtains another person's personal data through deception or fraud to achieve economic gain can be charged with identity theft or identity fraud. Such personal data includes social security numbers, personal mail, and account numbers for finances. Identity thieves usually take out loans, open credit accounts, and sometimes use their identities to commit crimes.

• What happens if someone fails to appear in court for a criminal case in Citrus Heights?

  The judge may issue a bench warrant if you fail to appear in court for your criminal case in Citrus Heights. You may be able to clear the warrant by checking your mail and following the instructions in it. Additionally, you can call 916-874-5522 for any queries. Some criminal cases in Citrus Heights are tried in the Lorenzo Patiño Hall of Justice, which is located at 651 I Street in Sacramento.

• What are the differences in sale and intent to distribute and possession charges in Citrus Heights?

  A possession charge in Citrus Heights typically occurs when someone is found to have drugs in their presence, while a sale and intent to distribute charge means that someone exchanges drugs for something of value, which includes money or a favor. There are two types of possession charges: actual and constructive possession.

• Does a person in Citrus Heights always need a criminal defense lawyer?

  Always consult with a lawyer if you have a criminal case in Citrus Heights. Facing the justice system is an intricate process, and it would be wise to retain a lawyer instead of navigating the system on your own. A lawyer can improve your chances of obtaining a better case outcome by securing a not-guilty verdict, a favorable plea deal, or outright dismissal.

• 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.