Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Lake Forest, CA

FAQs

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

  You can reach (949) 770-6011 to report non-emergency cases in Lake Forest.

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

  You can get a copy of police reports from the Lake Forest City Clerk's Department. Download and fill out the request authorization form and send it through mail to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. You may also file report requests in person during weekdays, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• What types of legal penalties can you obtain for a criminal violation in Lake Forest?

  If you have been convicted of a criminal violation in Lake Forest, you will be facing various penalties, including jail time or imprisonment and probation. You will also need to pay court fees, fines, and victim restitution. If you have committed DUI and violent crimes, you are required to take anger management courses and alcohol treatment programs.

• How can you determine if a driver is guilty of a DUI violation in Lake Forest?

  A Lake Forest driver can be charged with the crime of driving with a blood alcohol concentration that is equal to or above the legal limits. Individuals who are 21 years old and above are not allowed to drive non-commercial and commercial vehicles if they have BAC at or over 8% and 4%.

• How can you dismiss your criminal case in Lake Forest?

  You have to coordinate with your legal team to help you dismiss your case in Lake Forest. If you were arrested for a misdemeanor offense and one year has passed from the date of your arrest, your lawyer can file a Serna motion claiming a violation of your Sixth Amendment right. A one-year delay carries a presumption of prejudice and your right to investigate your case and produce evidence has interfered with the delay.

• Do you need to answer questions during FBI investigations in Lake Forest?

  During FBI investigations in Lake Forest, you do not have to answer questions. It would be best if your lawyer is present to answer questions on your behalf. Anything you say in an interview can be used against you during court proceedings. Working with a legal team is the best thing to do to make sure your statements can save you from criminal violations.

• Should you allow the FBI agents to enter your place in Lake Forest if they have a search warrant?

  If you do not have a lawyer and the FBI arrives at your place in Lake Forest with a search warrant, you need to let them in. You do not have to say anything more than your name and address. If the agents try to ask you questions during the search, do not try to make any statements.

• 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.