Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Whittier, CA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency phone number of the Whittier Police Department is (562) 567-9200.

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

  You may drop by the Whittier Records Bureau, which offers 24-hour service. When the counter is closed between staff shifts, you can contact (562) 567-9131.

• How does someone get charged with DUI in Whittier?

  A law enforcement officer in Whittier, who has reasonable cause to believe a driver has committed a traffic violation, pulls over a vehicle. If symptoms of intoxication are detected, like slurred speech or bloodshot eyes, a DUI investigation is conducted. Authorities may ask drivers to take a blood or breath test. Afterward, they will refer the case to a local prosecutor, who determines whether or not charges should be filed.

• How can the Early Disposition Program help someone charged with a felony in Whittier?

  The Early Disposition Program (EDP) allows people charged with a felony to seek an early resolution to their cases with a plea bargain and less time spent in court hearings. This program aims to make court processes more efficient. Felony cases in Whittier can be transferred to the EDP program in the Norwalk Criminal Courthouse or other courts. Defendants can hire a lawyer who participates in this program and has built relationships with judges and prosecutors in EDP courts.

• What are the types of defenses commonly used for a criminal charge in Whittier?

  A prosecutor in Whittier and across California must prove that someone is guilty of a crime “beyond a reasonable doubt.” This high burden of proof allows defendants to argue that prosecutors have presented insufficient evidence of guilt. Other defense strategies involve asserting that a person has committed the crime in self-defense, out of necessity, or under a state of insanity, unconsciousness, or intoxication.

• How can you help an incarcerated family member in Whittier who suffers from a mental health condition?

  Offer your support to an arrested family member in Whittier and help them stay calm. Contact the local city jail, inform the Watch Commander of your relative’s mental health diagnosis, and if they are not due for release, request for their immediate transfer to the Los Angeles County Jail IRC. You may also consider posting bail or working with an attorney to pursue an optimal case outcome. Provide the lawyer with extensive information, such as mental health diagnosis and history.

• When does a petty theft case in Whittier escalate into a felony?

  A petty theft, a misdemeanor involving taking money or property with a maximum value of $400, can be filed as a felony upon a second offense, as per Penal Code § 666. This will be considered a “petty theft with a prior,” punishable with up to a year in prison. People facing petty theft charges in Whittier should seek the advice of an attorney because theft convictions can be used to increase punishments for future crimes.

• 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.