Bellflower Criminal Defense Lawyer

Bellflower Criminal Defense Attorney

If you have been charged with a crime, one of the first steps you should take is securing an experienced lawyer who can aggressively defend you. A Bellflower criminal defense lawyer can guide you through the upcoming complex legal processes and help you make difficult legal decisions that can be too overwhelming to tackle on your own.

Criminal defense encompasses many types of criminal charges, ranging from misdemeanors to felonies. No crime is too insignificant or convoluted for the right defense lawyer. Understanding the abilities of a defense attorney can help you know what to look for when searching for someone to represent you.

The Role of a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Criminal defense lawyers are dedicated to ensuring that their clients receive the right to a fair trial and are treated with respect and fairness throughout the process. They work on behalf of an individual who has been charged with a crime to seek a favorable outcome. This may take many forms, such as drafting paperwork, negotiating with other lawyers, gathering evidence, investigating the prosecution’s evidence, and more.

Areas of Criminal Defense

Criminal defense is a broad area of the law that offers legal representation to anyone charged with a crime. While some lawyers focus on one or two specific practice areas, the field as a whole encompasses many types of criminal charges. Some of these include:

• Assault
• Battery
• Burglary
• Domestic Violence
• Drug Crimes
• Gang Crimes
• Homicide
• Human Trafficking
• Juvenile Crimes
• Probation Violations
• Sex Crimes
• Theft Crimes
• White Collar Crimes

Infractions, Misdemeanors, and Felonies

Criminal defense lawyers often handle a range of infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies. Some crimes can be classified as any of the above, depending on the details of the crime. In California, crimes are tried based on these three classifications.

Infractions are sometimes referred to as petty offenses, but they are considered more like violations than crimes. Infractions include offenses such as speeding tickets, noise violations, littering, fishing or hunting without a license, and other minor incidents. Individuals found guilty of committing an infraction are not subject to imprisonment or probation, but they may need to complete community service or pay a fine.

Misdemeanors are more serious than infractions but not as significant or violent as felonies. Examples include some cases of domestic violence, reckless driving, minor cases of shoplifting, and driving while under the influence or while on a suspended license. Individuals convicted of a misdemeanor could face punishments of up to a year in jail and/or fines. Misdemeanors can be classified into two categories, standard and gross, depending on severity.

Felonies are the most serious types of crimes an individual can commit. Crimes that are automatically classified as felonies include murder, rape, vehicular manslaughter, kidnapping, and assault with a deadly weapon, among others. Other crimes, referred to as wobbler crimes, may be classified as either misdemeanors or felonies depending on the severity of the offense and the decision of the prosecutor.

How a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help

There are numerous benefits associated with hiring a strong, experienced defense lawyer. If you have been charged with a crime, prosecutors are already working to build a case against you. A defense lawyer can analyze evidence, draft and file paperwork, interview witnesses, and complete other tasks to ensure you are adequately defended.

A defense lawyer walks with you throughout the entire process from beginning to end, answering questions and advising you in every decision you make. They work tirelessly to build a strong case before going to trial, represent you with strength and precision in court, and support you in any way they can afterward, no matter the verdict.

FAQs

What Is the Difference Between Felonies and Misdemeanors?

The difference between felonies and misdemeanors is that felonies are more serious. Felony crimes are typically more severe, and they may be violent in nature. Penalties for misdemeanors and felonies also vary significantly. Felonies are punished more harshly, with penalties such as years in prison and thousands in fines. Some crimes are automatically classified as misdemeanors or felonies, while others may depend on the circumstances at hand.

How Much Does a Defense Lawyer Cost?

In Bellflower, the cost of a private defense lawyer depends on a few factors. Not all lawyers charge in the same way. For example, some charge flat rate fees for specific services, while others charge hourly rates. The cost of your lawyer could depend on the amount of time they need to put into your case, the specific services you ask for, and any additional criteria they may include.

When Should You Call a Defense Attorney?

It is important to call a defense attorney as soon as possible once you become aware that you are under investigation for a crime. Even if you haven’t been arrested or formally charged, it can be beneficial to have a defense attorney working and investigating on your behalf ahead of time. A defense lawyer can help you early in the process by providing legal advice and assessing the facts of your case.

What Kinds of Cases Do Defense Attorneys Handle?

Defense attorneys often handle a wide variety of cases, including anything from misdemeanors to felonies. Sometimes, they focus on one or two areas, such as white collar crimes, sex crimes, or others that can be more intricate in nature. It can be helpful to look for a lawyer with experience with cases similar to your own, as that may enhance their ability to defend you.

Gibbons & Gibbons, A Law Corporation

At Gibbons & Gibbons, we handle a variety of criminal cases. We understand the complexities of a strong defense and work diligently to ensure you receive the outcome you desire. We have over 60 years of combined legal experience, making our advice and guidance indispensable.

Contact us today to learn more about the criminal defense process and how we can help you navigate the journey ahead. Nobody should go through such a difficult experience alone. We can be with you every step of the way to defend, support, and encourage you.