Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Santa Clarita, CA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number of the local police station in Santa Clarita, California is (661) 255-1121.

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

  You can call (562) 345-4441 to submit a request to schedule an appointment and obtain a copy of an incident report. In addition, you can make an in-person request by visiting the office at: 12440 East Imperial Highway, Suite 120. Norwalk, California 90650 Please note that basic information and identification are compulsory in requesting legal documents such as police reports.

• What is the crime rate in Santa Clarita?

  According to recent statistics, Santa Clarita has a lower crime rate than the rest of California, with a percentage of -59.78%. Santa Clarita is considered one of the least dangerous places compared to the nearest cities. The area's most common property and violent crimes are assault and theft.

• How much does hiring a criminal defense lawyer cost in Santa Clarita?

  Hiring a Santa Clarita defense lawyer costs between $250 and $500 per hour. There are no fixed costs because several factors contribute to the value of hiring a lawyer in California. Some of the elements that may make the fees higher are the experienced legal team and the complexity of the case.

• How will a domestic violence conviction affect a person living in Santa Clarita?

  A convicted domestic abuser does not only face the court penalties of up to four years in state prison and a fine of $6,000. The defendant also accepts the collateral consequences that will affect his living situation in Santa Clarita. The offensive record impacts employment opportunities, issuance of protective orders, denial of housing, professional licensing, and immigration consequences for non-citizens.

• Is a domestic violence restraining order in Santa Clarita only granted if there has been physical abuse?

  Aggressive and threatening behavior is an essential factor acknowledged by the court when granting restraining orders to domestic abusers in Santa Clarita. Reasonable evidence of violence includes showing emotional, psychological, or physical abuse that distresses the complainant. The court order sanctions someone who is a blood relative or has an intimate relationship with the victim.

• Can a person expunge his criminal record in Santa Clarita?

  A lawyer can help a person file a motion for expungement in a California state court. The judge assesses whether the Santa Clarita offender qualifies for the requirements of expungement. It requires the satisfaction of probation conditions, settlement of fines and restitution, attending counseling, completing community service, and committing no other criminal offense. Sex offenders of minors are not eligible for expungement.

• 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.