Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Garden Grove, CA

FAQs

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

  To reach the Garden Grove Police Department, call (714) 741-5704.

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

  To obtain a police report from the Garden Grove Police Department, call (714) 741-5719.

• How does a criminal defense attorney in Garden Grove help someone who accidentally hurt an elderly person and is now facing abuse charges?

  A criminal defense attorney in Garden Grove can assist you in establishing your innocence by proving it was an accident. For a charge like this to push through, there must be willful intent to inflict pain on the victim or, at least, clear evidence of neglect. The attorney will most likely bring in the opinion of a medical expert to evaluate the injuries to see if it was intentional or otherwise.

• What is the STEP Act and how does this affect gang members in Garden Grove?

  STEP stands for Street Terrorism Enforcement and Prevention. It affects gang members in Garden Grove and the entire state of California by imposing an additional 16 months to 3 years to their sentence, regardless of their conviction. Joining, participating in, or promoting any criminal activity with the gang while being aware of its criminal activities carries a separate punishment.

• What should you do if you are charged with a crime in Garden Grove but reside in another state?

  If you have been accused of a crime in Garden Grove and don't live in that area, you should hire a local criminal defense attorney since they know how to navigate the process and the laws specific to the city. They can take care of matters for you, but depending on the charges, you may still be called to be physically present in court.

• What is healthcare fraud and how is it penalized in Garden Grove?

  Healthcare fraud is a white-collar offense involving filing false claims for financial gain in Garden Grove. It includes phantom billing, overcharging, and using forged prescriptions. The penalties are proportional to the quantity of fraud committed. If it falls below $950, the offender faces six months in county jail and a $1,000 fine. Anything above $950, the offender may be charged with a felony that comes with a 5-year sentence and a $50,000 fine.

• Why are internet-related offenses called "wobbler" crimes in Garden Grove?

  Internet-related offenses are called "wobbler" crimes in Garden Grove because the sentences tend to "wobble" between a felony and a misdemeanor. Also, it all depends on the gravity of the crime, the amount of evidence, and the intentions of the prosecuting team in Garden Grove. The most common Internet-related crimes include unauthorized computer access, auction fraud, non-delivery of merchandise, and phishing and spoofing.

• 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.