Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Tracy, CA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Tracy Police Department is (209) 831-6550.

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

  You can get a copy of police reports for incidents in and around Tracy, California, online by submitting a request through the local government's records clerk. Links to request forms can be found on the Tracy Police Department's website.

• What kind of crime is most common throughout the Tracy area?

  In 2021, 1,986 property crimes were committed throughout the Tracy area. That resulted in around 20 or 21 victims of property crimes per 1,000 residents, according to statistics at the time. The 2021 FBI crime data also showed that Tracy had one of the highest rates of motor vehicle theft nationwide.

• How can you mitigate your theft charges in Tracy?

  In Tracy, it is possible to reduce your penalties for theft by returning the item stolen, provided the item is still in the same condition as when it was taken. This strategy works when the evidence is against you. Criminal defense attorneys may recommend different approaches, depending on your case.

• Can a Tracy resident get probation instead of prison time for a felony like burglary or aggravated assault?

  Yes, Tracy residents who have been charged with felonies can stay out of jail if their charges are reduced to misdemeanors through negotiation or trial. An attorney can help defendants plan out their strategies to improve their chances for reduced penalties or an acquittal. These strategies generally involve avoiding long trials so that the client does not have to deal with the emotional and financial stress that comes with them. 

• Is accepting a plea bargain beneficial for your Tracy criminal case?

  Accepting a plea deal means giving up important rights, like the right to a trial by jury, and you should usually only do it with the help of a lawyer. In some cases, the state prosecution charges you with several crimes to coerce you into signing an unfavorable plea bargain. Legal counsel can assist you in countering this through litigation.

• What should you do during and after your arrest for a criminal offense in Tracy?

  In Tracy, you are told to stay quiet and composed during an arrest so that you do not say or do something that could be used against you. Once you are in a police station or jail, you should talk to your lawyer so they can help you build your defense case. For example, they can tell you if you can get bail for your crime and what your rights are during the trial.

• 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.