Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Manteca, CA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Manteca Police Department is (209) 456-8101.

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

  You can obtain a copy of the police report from the Records Unit of the Manteca Police Department through a visit to 1001 West Center Street, 95337. The unit is open Monday to Friday between 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Note that the office might be closed every other Friday. You may also contact the office through their phone number at (209) 456-8108.

• What are the differences in penalties between felony and misdemeanor grand theft in Manteca?

  An individual might face a fine of up to $1,000, as much as a year in county jail, and summary probation for a misdemeanor grand theft conviction. However, if found guilty of felony grand theft, a person could face more severe penalties, including imprisonment for two to three years and a fine of up to $5,000. Manteca recorded over 232 instances of grand theft in the first six months of 2022, an over 50% increase last 2021.

• Can a person be denied bail in Manteca?

  Yes. In accordance with Article 1, Section 12 of the California Constitution, individuals in Manteca who are arrested for capital crimes may be subject to bail denial. Additionally, if a judge determines that the release of a suspect could pose a significant risk of harm to others or carry out the execution of violent threats, they may also choose to deny bail.

• How does California's three-strike law impact individuals in Manteca who have a prior criminal record?

  The three-strike law is a policy wherein individuals with two prior felony convictions who are then arrested for a third could face a sentence of 25 years to life in jail, regardless of the severity of the third offense. A skillful Manteca attorney could petition the court to reduce the felony charge to a misdemeanor. It is also possible, though not guaranteed, that current charges might be dismissed altogether depending on new circumstances during the legal process.

• What are the consequences of a theft charge for a juvenile in Manteca?

  Juveniles convicted of minor theft offenses can be eligible for the deferred entry of judgment program, where a guilty plea leads to the dismissal of the charge upon the program's successful completion. A court can also order a teenager to perform community services. For serious offenses in Manteca, minors may be committed to facilities under the management of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. Such facilities are typically reserved for juvenile offenders and individuals aged 25 or below.

• In what ways can the San Joaquin County-wide restorative justice program benefit individuals who have been convicted of crimes in Manteca?

  The county-wide restorative justice program in Manteca provides a framework for victims, offenders, defense attorneys, and law enforcement personnel to develop a plan that reduces the likelihood of the offender committing the crime again. This program encompasses a variety of initiatives designed to address underlying factors that promote rehabilitation, such as:

  • substance abuse treatment
  • job preparation assistance
  • counseling

• 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.