Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Glendale

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Glendale Police Department in California is (818) 548-4911.

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

  You can obtain a copy of the police report by heading to the Records Bureau of the Glendale Police Department at 131 North Isabel Street 91206. You can also reach them at (818) 548-3135. For online requests, you can file a claim here: https://www.glendaleca.gov/government/departments/city-clerk/services/public-records-request. Note that there might be a fee of $0.10 per page.

• What evidence can a Glendale attorney use in challenging their client's sexual harassment charge?

  Under Evidence Code 782 EC of California's "rape shield" laws, a Glendale attorney can obtain and present evidence like the accuser's statements to challenge their credibility. The lawyer might use these statements to question the plaintiff's capacity to recall the events involving the sexual harassment charge. An attorney can also provide evidence that highlights the accuser's previous sexual conduct.

• What are the penalties for a first-degree robbery charge in Glendale?

  Individuals accused of first-degree robbery can face as much as nine years in prison and compensation to the victim for their losses. The jail sentence could increase to 15 years if the victim suffered great bodily injury, according to California Penal Code § 12022.7 PC. People convicted of first-degree robbery lose the right to possess or own guns and vote in elections. Robbery is the highest recorded crime by Glendale police in January 2022.

• How can a Glendale attorney defend an individual accused of identity theft?

  Glendale defense attorneys must obtain evidence that shows their client had no unlawful intent with the data in question. Lawyers can highlight how their client operated a business that requires data collection—like an internet service provider—and did not transfer the plaintiff's information with fraudulent intentions. The attorney might also demonstrate that someone else misappropriated the defendant's identity for criminal activities.

• Can an undocumented individual accused of a drug-related crime in Glendale avoid deportation?

  Yes. Under the California Values Act of 2017, officers arresting individuals on drug charges need not notify federal immigration officials. Undocumented residents in Glendale also have the right to due process and can sue for wrongful imprisonment. Individuals should note, however, that they may still face deportation if they are ultimately convicted of drug-related offenses. Over 50% of Glendale residents are foreign-born, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau, emphasizing the need for quality legal representation for this community.

• Can a juvenile in Glendale avoid being sent to prison for a crime they have committed?

  Yes. Los Angeles County—in which Glendale is part—currently runs the Youth Diversion and Development (YDD) program, which connects offenders to resources that allow them to manage their socio-economic situation. The YDD initiative also assists juveniles with mental health issues through tailored counseling. Since its inception, the program has worked with over 1,400 individuals across the county's 23 sheriff stations.

• 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.