Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Torrance, CA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency hotline to contact the Torrance Police Department in California is (310) 618-5641.

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

  The copies of incident reports may be obtained via in-person appointments or mail-in requests. The Records Division of the Torrance Police Department is located at 3300 Civic Center Drive, Torrance, CA 90503, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m., Saturdays. Eligible applicants can obtain the report by completing a request form available at https://www.torranceca.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/73439/637842223917230000. The claimants must also provide a valid ID and a $1 processing fee with their request.

• Why should you not miss criminal court appearances in Torrance, California?

  If you willfully miss a court date in Torrance, "Failure to Appear" charges under California Penal Code 1320 & 1320.5 is imposed. This violation can be a misdemeanor or felony punishable by up to $10,000 fine, probation, and a potential year jail sentence to a maximum of three-year in state prison. A bench warrant will also be issued, and the police can conduct to arrest the defendant under any circumstances if they fail to have the order recalled within 14 days.

• How can one be charged with the crime of perjury in Torrance, California?

  When a person takes an oath to testify, declare, depose, or certify truthfully before any authorized tribunal and then lies about a matter that directly impacted the case, he is guilty of perjury in the court of Torrance, California. The defendants' intent and good faith belief that their statement is true are also considered. Under the California Penal Code § 118 PC, perjury is a felony punishable by probation, fines, and a maximum of four years sentence.

• How does a criminal defense lawyer charge in Torrance, California?

  A criminal defense attorney in Torrance, California, will set their fees based on the client's case's complexity, severity, and penalties. It also depends on the fee arrangement deal they make with their clients. For instance, the standard fee of a felony conviction is between $10,000 and $40,000 due to the complexity and length of the proceedings. Additionally, a lawyer with a specialized practice and extensive expertise will charge more than a general practitioner.

• What is the criminal arrest process in Torrance, California?

  In the event of an arrest in Torrance, California, the suspect will be transported to the city jail to undergo the usual booking procedures, including being photographed and fingerprinted. You are advised to seek the counsel and representation of a criminal defense lawyer without delay to help you navigate your case and advocate for your rights through your interrogation, bail, and the conclusion of the police investigation.

• Does gender play a role in a DUI charge in Torrance, California?

  No, it does not. DUI charges are imposed in Torrance, California if the person is found driving with a blood alcohol level of 0.08% in their system, as stated under the California per Vehicle Code Section 23152. Even though studies suggest that one drink for a woman is roughly equivalent to two for a man, the only aspect that matters to the law enforcement officer is whether or not the driver has a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or higher.

• 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.