Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Concord, CA

FAQs

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

  The Concord Police Department's non-emergency contact number is (925) 671-3333.

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

  To obtain a copy of a police report in Concord, email your request form to policerecords@cityofconcord.org. Include your name, report number or call history number, and a copy of your ID. After receiving confirmation that your report is available, visit http://www.cityofconcord.org/ccpayments to pay the $4 fee.

• How long does a crime stay on your record in Concord?

  Being arrested or convicted of a crime in Concord can have lasting consequences as it may remain on your criminal record forever. This can be detrimental to your life as the information is publicly available and accessible by anyone, including prospective employers and landlords. Therefore, your criminal past may continue to affect you even after fulfilling all the obligations of your sentence, such as paying fines or serving time. Nonetheless, in certain circumstances, you may be able to have the record erased by legal means like expungement.

• What are the penalties for domestic violence in Concord?

  The implications of a conviction for domestic violence can differ based on several factors, including the defendant's prior record of domestic violence or violent behavior and the extent of harm inflicted on the victim. Domestic violence charges may be brought as either a felony or a misdemeanor. The penalties for domestic violence in Concord include imprisonment, probation, community service, a criminal protective order against the perpetrator, compulsory participation in a 52-week anger management course, counseling, and mandatory fines.

• Do all criminal cases in Concord proceed to trial?

  Only a small percentage of cases in Concord proceed to trial. In fact, most criminal cases are settled through plea bargaining prior to trial. The decision to pursue a plea bargain or proceed to trial is based on various factors, such as the case's credibility, the evidence and witnesses available, and even the particular court or judge overseeing the case. It is important to note that each case is distinct and requires an individual assessment before determining the best course of action.

• Do you have to agree to a search of your home or vehicle by the police in Concord?

  If the police does not have a warrant to search your home in Concord, you are not required to give consent. A home search warrant needs to be very explicit. Only the areas that are specifically mentioned in the search warrant may be examined by officers. You can also simply decline to let the police search your car. However, if they see something in plain view in you car that gives them probable cause to believe you have committed a crime, they can lawfully search your vehicle without a warrant.

• What should you do after getting arrested for DUI in Concord?

  After a Concord DUI arrest, you should take a chemical test to identify your current blood alcohol level, which can be determined with either a blood or breath test. You may need to post bail, and a bail bondsman may be required, who will charge an upfront fee and post bail on your behalf. Additionally, do not forget to request a DMV hearing within the limited time frame after your arrest to maintain your driving privileges.

• 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.