Criminal defense lawyers in Alameda, CA. It's not the most fun topic in the world, but like it or not, you might find yourself in need of a Alameda, CA, criminal defense attorney. Maybe you unintentionally broke the law. Maybe you know someone else actually did it, or you made a choice you realize was wrong now. Or maybe a family member is running out of time to get help, and you're looking for a premier Alameda, CA, criminal defense lawyer to help you figure out your options.
Whatever you need legal help with, the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, Inc. is equipped to help you fight the charges. We have over 25 of the leading criminal defense attorneys in California, and have a history of success, even in the toughest cases. Call now at (800) 755-5174 or use our online contact form for a free consult with an attorney.
Why You Need a Alameda, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyer NOW
Hesitating to hire an attorney can give your case major disadvantages. While you're lagging, the the evidence against you is piling up. California is often very brutal in its treatment of convictions, and hesitating to find an attorney could make the difference in being found innocent and/or avoiding going to prison.
Even worse, the longer you take to work with , the more possible it is to offhandedly give the prosecution evidence that you wouldn't want them to have. By trying to clear up the charges on your own, you might be unknowingly setting a trap for yourself.
Speaking with a Alameda, CA, criminal defense lawyer early gives them a chance to stop the charges before they make it to court. By taking steps to protect your freedom right away, your defense lawyer may be able to get the charges dropped or dismissed.
If you've been arrested, it doesn't matter the day or time — call us now. At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, Inc., we're always ready for your call and begin building your defense from the first call.
Alameda, CA, Arrests and How to Handle Them
The arrest process in Alameda, CA, is never fun, but it can go smoothly. Your defense starts the moment you are arrested, and you want to handle it the right way. Do the following while in custody, in order to strengthen your chances of a positive outcome:
- Don't Run From or Fight the Arrest: Acting out, trying to get away, or harming the police won't help your case. In fact, it can lead to additional charges.
- Keep Quiet Until Your Attorney Arrives: If you are interrogated by the authorities, politely inform them that you are declining to answer questions without a lawyer present.
- Call an Attorney: In California, you have the right to three phone calls while under arrest – to get immediate legal protection, make sure one is to your lawyer.
- Post Bail (If Applicable): you might be released without being charged, but if you are, you will probably be given an option to post bail. Being able to act freely prior to a trial can make the rest of the defense process go a little smoother.
- Document Everything: As a first step in building your defense, you should put together all information you have regarding the charges and share it with your criminal defense lawyer.
If you do all of the above and work with a leading Alameda, CA, criminal defense lawyer, you'll lay the groundwork for a staunch defense.
The Role of a Alameda, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyer in Your Case
Every criminal defense lawyer will take a different approach. At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, we are focused on your experience and how we can serve you. Because all our cases are focused on our client, we both create a defensive strategy focused on your goals and care about the broader implications on your life.
Our lawyers help you by:
- Absorbing your case from all angles – from you, the state's evidence, and our own investigations, we get to know your case inside and out.
- Craft a mighty defense making use of motions to suppress evidence, hiring expert analysts, and fighting the state's subpoenas.
- Be at your side in court should your charges go to trial. We select jurors that will treat you fairly, present alternative narratives to the state's story, and present reasonable doubt.
- Negotiate with the prosecution for plea deals. After tactfully showing the strength of our defense to the district attorney, they're more likely to drop or reduce charges in your case.
- Advocate for lesser sentences both during plea negotiations and after the trial. Sometimes this takes the form of probation, or perhaps a diversionary program.
- Helping you move forward once the case is over. We'll assist with the expungement, sealing, and destruction of arrest and criminal records. Don't assume that you're stuck with your record.
Case Categories Our Alameda, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyers Will Defend
The Law Offices of David S. Chesley defends a wide variety of criminal defense case types, and are here to help with whatever charge you're facing in Alameda, CA. Our criminal defense lawyers can help you defend against:
Traffic Charges
If you're facing traffic charges, it could be from one of a variety of alleged actions while on the road. Something as simple as speeding or reckless driving, but can range up to hit and runs. Our Alameda, CA traffic and criminal defense lawyers can help with:
- DUI/DWI Charges
- Felony DUI Charges
- Out-of-State DUI Charges
- DMV Hearing Defense
- Driving Without Insurance Charges
- And more
Violent Offense Charges
Violent crime charges are prosecuted harshly in Alameda, CA. They can include anything from threats to firearm possession to actually harming another person. If you're facing charges for any of the following (or other) alleged violent crimes, call us immediately:
- Assault
- Assault with a Deadly Weapon
- Resisting Arrest
- Hate Crimes
- Unlawful Possession of a Firearm
- And more
Drug Charges
Drug charges in Alameda, CA, typically range from possession to distribution of a controlled substance. The state of California imposes criminal penalties for the misuse of everything from marijuana to fentanyl. Here are some of the most common charges and substances we build defenses for:
- Marijuana
- Prescription Drug Abuse
- Heroin
- Possession of a Controlled Substance
- Drug Trafficking
- Drug Possession for Sale
- And more
Theft Charges
Alameda, CA, theft charges cover a wide variety of alleged actions. Sentences are more severe for forceful or violent theft, such as robbery. If you're up against one of the below theft charges, or another one, call us today:
Sex Crime Charges
Sex crimes are particularly heinous ones to be accused of. There are many variations, including the posting of revenge porn, sexual assault, and soliciting a prostitute. Some common sex crime charges we defend against are:
Murder Charges
Arguably, the worst crime to be accused of in Alameda, CA, is murder. Regardless of the circumstances, you are looking at a major prison sentence, meaning that you need a Alameda, CA, defense attorney with extensive experience at your side. These are some of the murder charges that we can help you defend against:
- Attempted Murder
- First Degree Murder
- Second Degree Murder
- Voluntary Manslaughter
- Vehicular Manslaughter
- And more.
Contact our legal team for any criminal defense charges and we'll let you know how we can help.
What To Look For in Your Alameda, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyer
When deciding on a Alameda, CA, criminal defense lawyer, there are many choices available, but not all law firms are created equal. Picking the right criminal defense attorney is quite possibly the biggest factor in how your case will turn out. When you're looking at lawyers to hire, be sure to keep the following in mind:
- Experience – and knowledge of how cases are both defended and prosecuted.
- Relationships Within Local Courts – which can come into play when contacting the district attorney.
- Insights About Your Charges – previously worked on cases with the same charges that you're facing.
- Stellar Reputation – both for winning and treating their clients right.
- Responsiveness and Availability – you want a lawyer who listens and a firm that's always available.
- Open and Honest Costs – affordable rates and payment plans can give you a defense without crippling your finances.
How We Fight in the Alameda, CA, Court System to Protect Your Freedom:
Our approach for every case is to build a staunch, powerful defense from day one. We don't rely on the prosecution making a mistake; we're proactive and by your side throughout the legal process, facing down the district attorney and gaining the confidence of the jury.
As soon as you call our Alameda, CA, criminal defense lawyers, we are dedicated to finding ways to protect your freedom. Here are some common steps we take for major criminal defense cases:
- Gather Info About Your Charges – We want to know your case from the inside out, from your perspective and the prosecution's.
- Argue For Early Dismissal – Whether at a pre–filing investigation conference or a preliminary hearing, our goal is to get the charges against you dropped or dismissed early.
- Defend Your Liberty During the Case – At a bail hearing, we show why you should be freed in the meantime before a trial, and argue for bail to be set at a low value.
- Act as Your Intermediary With the Prosecution – We have experience with crafting a plea deal that you can decide to take.
- Defend You at Trial – Based on all our experience and research into your case, we'll tear apart the prosecution's case at trial and show reasonable doubt to the jury.
- Represent You for Sentencing and Appeals – If it applies in your case, our team will argue for lenient sentencing and can explore follow-up options that will give you a second chance.
The Advantages of Working With Our Alameda, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyers:
The Law Offices of David S. Chesley, Inc., features a group of former prosecutors, judges, and law enforcement officers who have turned their talents to criminal defense. We have over five decades of courtroom experience. We know the way the prosecution builds its case, and we can take advantages of the weaknesses we know are in their strategies.
Our connections in Alameda, CA, courts allow us to get a plea deal that secures your interests, and can avoid a trial in most cases. But if your case does reach a jury, we're prepared to defend you with a staunch defensive strategy.
We're top-rated by both clients and experts. We handle all types of serious crimes, and have a large team of the best criminal defense attorneys in California. We have affordable rates, multiple payment options, and our phones are available at all times if need an update on your case or there's an emergency.
Frequently Asked Criminal Defense Questions in Alameda, CA
When charged with a crime, there's probably a lot going through your head. It can be hard just to move forward, and without a guide, there isn't a map to find your way through the situation. We've put together some of the common questions Alameda, CA, residents ask about criminal defense, and clear answers to each:
Can a lawyer still help me if I'm not guilty of the charges?
Yes – while it's unlikely that the police will intentionally accuse the wrong person, somthing could get mixed up, and you never know if something you say could unintentionally make you look guilty.
Are DUIs easy cases to beat in Alameda, CA?
The circumstances around your DUI will have a major impact on its outcome. If it's your first DUI and you work with the right attorney, there's a good chance you can avoid jail time. However, repeat DUIs are often treated much more harshly and can be felonies.
How long does a conviction stay on my record in California?
In California, the 'Clean Slate Act' allows for some convictions to automatically be sealed. For most felonies, this occurs after four years, and for most misdemeanors, this occurs after one.
Do arrests go on my record in California?
Arrests do go on your record, but with a catch – the government keeps a record of arrests, but if you were released without being charged, your arrest qualifies to be sealed.
Can the police arrest me without a warrant?
If a police officer has a reasonable suspicion that you've broken the law, they can place you under arrest even if they don't have a warrant.
How does plea bargaining work in California?
Plea bargaining is a common way to resolve cases in Alameda. In the process, a specific (usually lighter) penalty is offered to the accused person in exchange for a guilty plea. The state uses them to manage their high caseloads, while defendants prevent the worse case scenario that comes with a conviction.
Get in Touch With the Law Offices of David S. Chesley Now – Your Freedom Depends On It
If you've been accused of committing a crime in Alameda, CA, you need a strong defense strategy. You can't settle for anything less than a top criminal defense attorney. At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, you'll get someone who knows how to handle your case.
No matter what the charges are, we have the knowledge and skills to fight against them. Get in touch as soon as possible – while you're waiting to hire an attorney, the prosecution is building a case against you. Call (800) 755-5174 or contact us online to start crafting your case right now.
We also can help in the following legal areas in Alameda, CA:
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