Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Temecula, CA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Temecula Police Department is 800-950-2444, option five.

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

  You can get a copy of the police report for incidents related to your case by contacting the Riverside County Sheriff's Department at 951-955-2400.

• Can you change defense attorneys throughout the process of your criminal offense trial in Temecula?

  In Temecula, you can change attorneys at any point during your trial, generally subject to the court's approval. Occasionally, you may need to sign documents related to this change or appear before court to inform them that you have switched attorneys. There are a few instances where you may not change attorneys, such as on the day your trial is set to begin.

• What is the general process of criminal trials in Temecula?

  In Temecula, criminal trials generally follow the same structure, namely beginning with an investigation of criminal charges against the defendant followed by arrest and arraignment, and eventually leading to pretrial and trial proper. The defendant's charges may be dropped or reduced at the pretrial stage, depending on various factors such as the presence or absence of probable cause and plea bargains between the defense and prosecution.

• In Temecula, how likely is your first-time misdemeanor charge to result in a conviction leading to prison time?

  Generally, first-time misdemeanor charges are placed under probation if found guilty, especially for non-violent crimes. In and around the Temecula area, first-time misdemeanor offenders are often treated as low-risk defendants and are offered probation as an alternative to jail time early on in their case. Noncompliance with probation terms can still send a first-time offender to jail, depending on the court's discretion.

• Will you be fired from your government position in Temecula if you have a misdemeanor on your criminal record?

  Generally, a misdemeanor on your criminal record does not bar you from working in the government. Exceptions exist, particularly at the federal level, where there are certain positions with established regulations preventing people with criminal records from working in them. Employers may also reconsider employing you if your misdemeanor charge is related to your position, such as having theft on your criminal record while working in a finance-related field.

• Can a Temecula court order you to wear a blood alcohol monitoring ankle bracelet if you are convicted of a DUI?

  Yes, Temecula courts can order you to wear an ankle bracelet that monitors your blood alcohol levels as part of your release on recognizance or bail. This condition is usually only applied when found reasonable by the court. This condition is also generally reserved for defendants on their second or third DUI offense, or those charged with felony DUIs.

• 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.