Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Inglewood, CA

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency situations, you may reach the Inglewood Police Department at 310-412-8771.

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

  A copy of a police report for a criminal case may be obtained at the Inglewood Police Department at 1 W Manchester Blvd, Inglewood.

• What crimes cannot be expunged in Inglewood?

  Individuals who have served a prison sentence due to a criminal offense in Inglewood do not qualify for expungement. Charges involving sexual crimes against children, statutory rape, probation violation, failure to stop and submit to an inspection in legally mandated equipment inspections, and certain felonies are also not eligible for expungement.

• How can you have your criminal record in Inglewood expunged?

  Individuals with a criminal record in Inglewood can file a petition to expunge their records immediately after completing their probation. If they were not imposed probation for an infraction or misdemeanor conviction, they have to wait after a year from the date of the judgment before filing a petition. On the other hand, individuals charged with a felony under the Realignment Act have to wait an additional two years.

• What will happen if you get charged as a first-time DUI offender in Inglewood?

  An individual who gets charged as a first-time DUI offender in Inglewood may face penalties imposed by the court, such as jail time with a mandatory of 48 hours in custody and a maximum of six months in jail, fines, driver’s license suspension, and probation. The court may also order them to attend a six-week to nine-month DUI alcohol school.

• What happens if you get charged with three felonies in Inglewood?

  Under California’s three-strikes law, individuals charged with three felonies in Inglewood can be sentenced to 25 years to life if they are currently convicted of a violent or serious felony offense and if they already have at least two other prior convictions for violent or serious felony convictions. Second strikers can also receive double the normal maximum sentence for the crime they get convicted of.

• Is receiving stolen property a crime in Inglewood?

  Individuals who received stolen property or goods in Inglewood may also be charged with a theft crime, even if they have not directly participated in stealing the property. They can face criminal charges if their offense involves selling, concealing, and buying stolen property; withholding a property that they are aware was stolen or obtained through a theft crime or extortion; or intending to remain with the stolen property permanently.

• 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.