Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Sunnyvale, CA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency dispatch number for the Sunnyvale Police Department is 408-730-7180.

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

  By submitting the online form, you can request Public Records. The telephone number for the City Clerk is 408-730-7474. You may also submit the form in person in Sunnyvale at 603 All America Way. The cost of duplicating paper records is 10 cents per page plus any applicable postage costs.

• Which Sunnyvale neighborhoods have a low crime rate?

  Following is a list of locations within Sunnyvale that have been determined to have low crime rates based on an analysis of data relating to criminal activity. Wrightmont Corner, West Valley, Birdland Neighbors / Ray Nor, Ortega, Fairbrae / Remington Estates, Cumberland South / Cherry Orchard, Ponderosa, Sunnyarts / Stratford Gardens, Panama Park, and Snail are some of the neighborhoods that fall under this category.

• What types of violent crimes are recorded as contributing to the crime rate in Sunnyvale?

  Armed robbery, aggravated assault, rape (not statutory), murder, and non-negligent manslaughter are among the violent crimes tracked and included in this crime rate. NeighborhoodScout's analysis shows that your chances of becoming a victim of violent crime in Sunnyvale are one in 659, which is roughly comparable to the national average.

• What is the statute of limitations when charged with a criminal offense in Sunnyvale?

  The statute of limitations for felony offenses in Sunnyvale is six years. Penal Code 187 PC murder has no statute of limitations, but violent felony crimes usually do. A prosecutor can file criminal charges for the alleged offense at any time. Some statutes of limitations are "tolled," giving the government more time to prosecute. Most criminal offenses in California have time limits, exceptions, and tolling. Prosecutors can dismiss cases if they charge someone after the deadline.

• Is house arrest available in Sunnyvale for misdemeanor and felony offenses?

  Yes. House arrest is available for misdemeanor and felony offenses, but it is uncommon for a prison sentence to be served at home. You have a better chance of being considered if you receive a county jail sentence as opposed to a state prison sentence. You may also be eligible for house arrest if you are physically or mentally impaired or disabled in a way that would make serving your sentence in jail unreasonable.

• How can your Sunnyvale criminal defense attorney use the alibi defense in your case?

  Sunnyvale criminal defense attorneys can use alibi defense. They inform the prosecutor in writing of the alibi defense before the trial, usually during discovery. If the defendant doesn't tell the court about their alibi, the court may forbid it. The defendant's written notice must include details about their alibi and their proof, including eyewitnesses, receipts from credit cards, banking records, tickets/receipts for modes of transport, time-stamped video surveillance footage, photographs, and supervisory remarks that can support an alibi.

• 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.