Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in San Bernardino, CA

FAQs

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

  Phone the San Bernardino Police Department 24/7 at 909-383-5311 for non-emergencies.

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

  Submit a request for incident reports at the Records Bureau of the police station located at 710 North "D" Street in San Bernardino. The office is open from Mondays - Thursdays from 9 AM - 4 PM. Processing of requests may take three to four weeks. Call 909-384-5742 for more information.

• What is gang enhancement and how does this affect gang-related crime in San Bernardino?

  Gang enhancement is a criminal charge which is added on top of the charges for a gang-related crime committed in San Bernardino. If it is a felony, up to four years will be added to the sentence, and if a misdemeanor, a minimum of 180 days imprisonment in jail. For violent crimes, ten years to life imprisonment could be added.

• How can you bail a person detained at the Central Detention Center in San Bernardino?

  You can post bail 24/7 at the Central Detention Center in San Bernardino by paying in property bonds, cash, money order, checks, and bail bonds. For additional information call (909) 350-2476 or visit the detention center located at 630 E. Rialto Ave. Detained persons needing specific release plans for mental health, medical, or structured living arrangements can be released any time of the day, depending on the case.

• How does "dismissal in the interest of justice" affect a criminal case in San Bernardino?

  In a "dismissal in the interest of justice" case, a judge has the discretion to dismiss criminal charges in the interest of justice. This can be the dismissal of charges due to insufficient evidence, because of a lack of witnesses, and as part of a plea bargain. Only the court has the authority to grant a dismissal although the DA can make recommendations and the defense lawyer can invite the judge to use their authority.

• What is the difference between accomplice or accessory to murder in San Bernardino?

  An accessory to murder helps the offender commit a crime in San Bernardino without being present during the action while an accomplice to murder directly assists the offender in performing the crime. A person who fails to notify the police about a potential murder is an example of an accessory. A person who provides the murder weapon is an example of an accomplice.

• What animal-related activities are a crime in San Bernardino?

  Dogfighting, cockfighting, tethering dogs to stationary objects, and poisoning animals are considered a crime in San Bernardino and anywhere in the state. Unlawful actions toward animals such as leaving them in unattended vehicles, sexual abuse, and transporting them inhumanely are also illegal. Failure to properly maintain a pet store such as having inadequate heating, unsanitary conditions, and unfit accommodations is a criminal offense.

• 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.