Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Pomona, CA

FAQs

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

  The Pomona Police Department's non-emergency number is 909-622-1241.

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

  You can obtain copies of reports at the front desk of the Pomona police department. Its hours of operation are Monday – Thursday from 8:30 am - 5:30 pm. On weekends and holidays, the Front Desk is closed.

• What is Pomona's statute of limitations regarding criminal offenses?

  The criminal statute of limitations is a time frame established regarding the deadline for filing a lawsuit and the window of opportunity for charging suspects with a crime in Pomona. Violent crimes have a longer statute of limitations. For crimes not listed in criminal statutes of limitation, criminal laws typically consider expected penalties and sentencing to determine time limitation: -Six years in prison for felonies punishable by at least eight years in prison -Three years in prison for felonies and crimes resulting in imprisonment -One year in prison for misdemeanors

• What happens if you commit a felony crime in Pomona while on bail or an OR release?

  If you commit a second felony while awaiting trial, you will face enhanced penalties if convicted of both felonies, as defined by California Penal Code 12022.1 PC. This law increases the penalties for felony defendants who commit a second felony while out on bail or an OR release. If the defendant is convicted of both felonies, for instance, the judge may impose an additional two years in state prison.

• What are the penalties for being accused of criminal conspiracy in Pomona?

  In California, conspiracy to commit a crime is a serious crime in and of itself. If you are convicted of criminal conspiracy in Pomona, you could face the same penalties as if you had committed the crime, regardless of whether or not you carried it out. The PC 182 conspiracy in California is a "wobbler." It means that the prosecution has the discretion to file the case as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances and criminal history of the defendant.

• Do you have to appear in court if you have a Pomona criminal defense attorney?

  Even if you have a lawyer, defendants in felony cases are usually required to attend every court appearance. In misdemeanor cases, judges are more likely to allow a private attorney to represent the defendant. In any case, defendants should consult with their Pomona criminal defense attorney ahead of time to see if they can avoid appearing in court. If a defendant fails to appear at a mandatory hearing, a bench warrant will be issued for their arrest.

• How likely is it to become a victim of a violent crime in Pomona?

  Based on NeighborhoodScout’s analysis, they discovered that Pomona has a higher rate of violent crime than the majority of American communities of all sizes. In Pomona, a person has a 1 in 195 chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime such as armed robbery, aggravated assault, rape, or murder. It corresponds to a rate of 5 per 1,000 inhabitants.

• 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.