Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Orange, CA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency number for the Orange Police Department is (714) 744-7444.

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

  You can request a copy of a police report at the Orange Police Department Records Bureau. Reports are only available to the individuals involved in the incident. You may also request a copy of a police report online at https://secure.coplogic.com/rar/en/filing/showdisclaimer?dynparam=1678498357898.

• What should a person in Orange do if they were arrested or charged with a crime?

  After being charged with a crime or arrested in Orange, the individual will either be required to post bail before being released or will be released on their own recognizance. They will be given a court date to appear before a judge after being released. The accused should work with their attorney to create a defense strategy and negotiate with the prosecution to resolve the case and prove their innocence.

• What are the benefits of expunging a criminal record in Orange?

  After being convicted of a crime in Orange, most individuals can have their convictions expunged from their records. Expunging their record can allow them to legally state that they were not convicted of a crime when applying for employment or housing. Their record will also show the prior conviction as dismissed or dismissed in the interest of justice rather than convicted or guilty.

• What are the consequences of giving false statements to police officers in Orange?

  In Orange, it is illegal to knowingly provide incomplete or untrue statements to peace officers and prosecutors under the Penal Code section 148.5. The individual may be charged with a misdemeanor, but it can also result in a more serious charge depending on the crime. A false report can result in a $1,000 fine and up to six months in county jail.

• Who can be charged with domestic violence in Orange?

  In Orange, physically violent acts are considered domestic violence if they are committed against someone who the individual has or previously had an intimate relationship with. Examples include domestic partners, current spouses, ex-spouses, girlfriends/boyfriends, parents, and siblings. A person can be charged with domestic violence if they commit violent acts such as shoving, hair pulling, blocking exits, verbally threatening to harm someone, and damaging their personal property.

• What are considered sex crimes in Orange?

  There are several types of sex crimes in Orange, including rape, statutory rape, sexual battery, child molestation, indecent exposure, and possession of child pornography. To be charged with rape, the accused individual must have used violence, threats, or fraud to have sex with another person. Individuals accused of sex crimes should contact an attorney to aggressively examine the evidence and hold the prosecution to a high standard.

• 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.