Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Thousand Oaks, CA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Thousand Oaks, California is 805-494-8200

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

  You can obtain a copy of the police report for incidents related to your case at the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department Office, located at 2101 East Olsen Road, Thousand Oaks, CA. You can also call their office for inquiries regarding police reports at 805-494-8208.

• What is the difference between probation and parole in Thousand Oaks, California?

  Probation and parole are two forms of supervised release in California's criminal justice system. When a felon is sentenced to probation, the justice system allows the offender to remain in the community under the supervision of a probation officer. When an offender has completed a portion of his term and is freed from jail for good behavior, he is granted parole. A parole officer will oversee the parolee's case.

• What is the potential sentence for a DUI in Thousand Oaks, California?

  The penalty for DUI in Thousand Oaks, California, depends on the severity of the incident. A first DUI case may warrant a jail term of up to 6 months, a license suspension, and a fine of up to $1,000. An ignition lock may also be installed in the driver's vehicle. Second and third DUI cases will have a longer jail sentence and a driver's license suspension of up to two years.

• What is the process for plea bargaining in Thousand Oaks, California?

  A plea bargaining agreement has four important phases. Your lawyer will first negotiate your terms with the prosecution and will then present them to the presiding judge. There will be a plea hearing if the judge accepts the plea bargain, and once the defendant enters a guilty plea, sentencing may commence.

• How do you prepare for a criminal trial in Thousand Oaks, California?

  You can prepare for a criminal trial in Thousand Oaks by working closely with your legal counsel. You will need to know all the details of your case, including all the evidence you will present. You should review your testimony as well as the statements from the prosecutors. Present yourself appropriately in court by observing proper behavior and wearing presentable clothes.

• What happens if you violate your probation or parole in California?

  There will be severe consequences if you violate your parole or probation in the state of California. Your parole or probation officer will file a report in court, and you will be required to attend a Violation of Parole hearing. The judge will then decide whether to revoke your parole or probation or keep you under the program.

• 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.