Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Mountain View, CA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency line for the Mountain View Police Department is 650-903-6344.

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

  If you have been arrested or cited as a suspect or party to a crime, contact the Palo Alto District Attorney's Office at 650-324-6400 and ask how you can get a copy of your police report.

• How can a lawyer help you with your Mountain View criminal charge?

  A Mountain View criminal defense lawyer can defend your rights and has knowledge and experience with the criminal justice system to obtain favorable results for you. An attorney can negotiate on your behalf to get reduced charges. If your case goes to trial, lawyers can contest the evidence and witnesses presented by the prosecution, as well as provide alternative proof and witnesses who can testify on your side.

• Why work with an attorney if you face gang crime charges in Mountain View?

  If you are under suspicion of any gang-related crime in Mountain View, you could be imprisoned or required to pay fines. Lawyers can evaluate your personal circumstances to see if you are a victim of profiling. They can help prove that you have been wrongfully labeled as a gang member just because of the neighborhood you live in or the colors you wear.

• What are the repercussions of criminal charges for military personnel in Mountain View?

  Members of the military stationed at Moffett Field near Mountain View may be accused of crimes and lose their careers as a result. Common offenses include sexual assault and drug crimes punishable under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. A court-martial defense attorney can represent those facing these charges or dealing with administrative separation, elimination board, or a letter of reprimand.

• Do you have to actually use the weapon to be charged with “assault with a deadly weapon” in Mountain View?

  No. It is a myth that you have to use a gun or anything sharp, like a knife or a beer bottle shard, in order to be charged. This type of crime does not require physical contact with a person. If you hold a hard object in a threatening way or point a gun against another person in Mountain View, you could still face charges.

• Who can be accused of domestic violence in Mountain View?

  Men, women, or same-sex partners in Mountain View can face charges of domestic violence. These may comprise accusations of stalking, threats, violations of restraining orders, and physically violent acts resulting in minor injuries. Possible offenses include violence against a family member, spouse, and girlfriend or boyfriend, whether past or present.

• 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.