Criminal defense lawyers in Fairfield, CA. Nobody in Fairfield, CA, wants to be in a position where they need a criminal defense attorney. Maybe you broke the law on accident. Maybe you're a victim of mistaken identity, or you made a mistake and need a second chance. Or maybe your child called you from jail, and you urgently need a premier Fairfield, CA, criminal defense lawyer to help you fight against the charges.
Regardless of the reason why you're calling, the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, Inc. is here to help you. We have over 25 of the top criminal defense attorneys in California, and know how to win in a variety of case types. Talk to an attorney at (800) 755-5174 or use our online contact form for a free consult with an attorney.
Reasons to Find a Fairfield, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyer RIGHT AWAY
Taking too long to find a lawyer can make it harder to get a positive outcome for your case. While you're hesitating, the prosecution gets a head start on the case against you. California has historically been very brutal in its treatment of convictions, and allowing the state to get a head start could make the difference the outcome of your case.
Even worse, the longer you hesitate before working with a lawyer, the more danger you are in to accidentally give the prosecuting attorney evidence for their case. If you speak to the police on your own, underestimate the charges, or talk with friends and family about your case, you could be inadvertently making it harder on yourself.
Hiring a Fairfield, CA, criminal defense lawyer early might stop the state's case in its tracks, before you need to go to trial. By challenging evidence and communicating with the state early, your defense lawyer may be able to get the charges dropped or dismissed.
We know that arrests don't only happen during weekdays or business hours. At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, Inc., we're available around the clock for your call and will give you honest, straightforward advice from day one.
Arrested in Fairfield, CA? Follow These 5 Steps
Being arrested in Fairfield, CA, is a very stressful event. Your defense starts the moment you are arrested, and you want to handle it the right way. Take the below steps while going through the arrest process, in order to strengthe your odds of a positive outcome:
- Obey Police Instructions: Causing trouble, attempting to flee, or harming the police won't help your case. In fact, you could face even more accusations of breaking the law.
- Remain Silent: If you are interviewed by the investigators, say "I do not wish to answer any questions at this time and am requesting to speak with my lawyer."
- Speak With a Lawyer: In California, you have the right to three phone calls while under arrest – be sure one of them is to your attorney.
- Post Bail (If Applicable): During a special hearing, a judge will likely give you the opportunity to post bail and enjoy your freedom before a potential trial. Being able to act freely before 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 organize whatever information you have related to your case and make copies to show your attorney.
When you take these precautions and work with an expert Fairfield, CA, criminal defense lawyer, you'll set yourself up for a powerful defense.
How Our Fairfield, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyers Help You
We don't just represent you; we take the time to learn about what makes you and your case unique. Because we start with your story, we both take realistic approaches in finding you the best outcome possible and care about the broader implications on your life.
We will go about your case by:
- Learning about your case from all angles – From your story, discovery, and evidence reviews. We leave no stone unturned.
- Craft a mighty defense utilizing 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 take steps to prevent prejudiced juries, discredit the state's witnesses in cross–examination, and display reasonable doubt.
- Negotiate with the district attorney for plea deals. When the prosecution knows that you have a strong defense, we can often reduce the charges and sentence you're facing.
- Advocate for lesser sentences at the trial's end. We'll fight for probation or shorter sentences, highlighting mitigating factors.
- Helping you carry on after a court case. We help with the expungement, sealing, and destruction of arrest and criminal records. Don't be passive with your record and reputation.
Case Categories Our Fairfield, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyers Will Defend
The Law Offices of David S. Chesley is prepared for any category of criminal defense case in Fairfield, CA, and are equipped to defend against anything in Fairfield, CA. Our criminal defense attorneys practice defenses for:
Traffic Charges
People don't always think of traffic charges as 'criminal,' but they technically are. Something as simple as speeding or reckless driving, but can range up to hit and runs. Some of the most common Fairfield, CA, traffic charges we defend are:
- 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 require an expert criminal defense lawyer in Fairfield, CA. Several violent crimes have enhanced penalties in special circumstances. Below are violent crime charges we frequently defend clients against:
Drug Charges
Drug charges in Fairfield, CA, are in a tricky place, because the difference between some accusations (for example, possession and possession-for-sale) are hard to distinguish. Many substances are restricted or illegal in California. We defend against charges related to the following substances and alleged actions:
- Marijuana
- Methamphetamine
- Opiods
- Possession of a Controlled Substance
- Drug Trafficking
- Drug Possession for Sale
- And more
Theft Charges
Fairfield, CA, theft charges cover a wide variety of alleged actions. For those that intersect with violence (e.g. robbery), you could be facing years in prison. We provide defense for all of the below theft charges, in addition to others:
Sex Crime Charges
Sex crimes are particularly heinous ones to be accused of. Some, like prostitution, are vice crimes, while others, like rape, are forcible. We defend those accused of the following sex crimes:
Murder Charges
It's hard to thing of a charge in Fairfield, CA that's as significant as murder. No matter what the circumstances were, the punishment is strict, up to life imprisonment for first-degree murder. This means that you need the strength of a premier Fairfield, CA, law firm to protect your rights. To get help with any of the below accusations, contact our offices immediately:
- Attempted Murder
- First Degree Murder
- Second Degree Murder
- Voluntary Manslaughter
- Involuntary Manslaughter
- And more.
Contact our lawyers to learn more about what we can do to help you fight criminal charges in Fairfield, CA.
What To Look For in Your Fairfield, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyer
Criminal defense lawyers are plentiful in Fairfield, CA, but some stand out from the rest. Hiring the proper criminal defense attorney is essential to protect your freedom and empower your case. When you're looking at lawyers to hire, be sure to keep the following in mind:
- Experience – ideally as both defense and prosecution attorneys.
- Relationships Within Local Courts – which can come into play when contacting the district attorney.
- Familiarity With 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 – a team that you can get ahold of when you need them most.
- Open and Honest Costs – don't get caught up in a contract you don't understand.
The Steps Our Fairfield, CA Criminal Defense Lawyers Take to Protect Your Freedom:
As soon as you hire us, we get to work on a compelling, vehement defense strategy for your case. We don't believe in just sitting by and letting the prosecution make its case; we start early and stick with you throughout the legal process, scaring the state and gaining the confidence of the jury.
As soon as you call our Fairfield, 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 Case – We learn from you directly about your case, and conduct other investigations to get ahead of the prosecution.
- Argue For Dropping the Charges – Whether at a pre–filing investigation conference or a preliminary hearing, if possible, we'll find a way to have the charges dismissed, and make it almost as though you were never accused.
- Advocate for Pretrial Release – At a bail hearing, we argue for your freedom while awaiting a trial, with minimal to no cash bonds.
- Connect With the District Attorney – Using our wide network of relationships, we'll explore options for a plea deal that works for you.
- Defend You at Trial – Using the defense we built while first learning about your case, we'll challenge the district attorney at trial and show reasonable doubt to the jury.
- Represent You for Sentencing and Appeals – Depending on the outcome of the trial, we will argue for lenient sentencing and can file appeals to give you the justice you deserve.
The Advantages of Working With Our Fairfield, 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 ins and outs of how prosecutors build a case against you, and we counter it with our compelling defensive strategies.
Our connections in Fairfield, CA, courts allow us to get alternative options to a trial, most notably a dismissal or a favorable plea deal. If these negotiations don't work out, though, and you need a defense in front of a jury, your criminal defense lawyer won't hesitate to give you a powerful defense.
We're top-rated by both former clients and experts. As premier Fairfield, CA, criminal defense attorneys, we make it our mission to defend every client to the best of our abilities. Our rates are affordable, and you can get in touch with us any day and any time if you have any questions or something happened and you need urgent help.
Frequently Asked Criminal Defense Questions in Fairfield, CA
When charged with a crime, there's probably a lot going through your head. It's easy to feel overwhelmed, and it's not always clear what to do next. We've put together some of the common questions Fairfield, CA, residents have regarding criminal defense, and clear answers to each:
Do I still need a Fairfield, CA, criminal defense lawyer if I'm innocent?
Yes – even though law enforcement officials are trying to do their jobs correctly, somthing could get mixed up, and when your freedom is at stake, you don't want to take chances.
Do arrests go on my record in California?
Arrests do go on your record, but with a catch – the authorities keeps a record of arrests, but if you were released without being charged, your arrest qualifies to be sealed.
If there is not a warrant out for my arrest, how can the police arrest me?
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.
If you've already been convicted, what are your options?
California's appeals process is available if there were any errors or mistakes in your court case. A skilled attorney will always explore every available appeals avenue and explain what options you have to keep fighting your conviction.
What are the advantages of plea bargaining in Fairfield, CA?
Plea bargaining is the process where the state's lawyers and defense lawyer come up with a deal for the defendant, wherein the defendant likely pleas guilty for a reduced penalty. The state uses them to allow them to focus on the most serious cases, while defendants may find them appealing to avoid harsher sentences.
Contact Our Firm – Your Future Depends On It
When you're up against the Fairfield, CA, prosecutor, you need a strong defense strategy. You have to have an expert criminal defense attorney at your side. At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, you'll get someone who knows how to handle your case.
Our team of expert criminal defense lawyers is ready for your case. Reach out right away – 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 defending your freedom without delay.
We also provide the following legal services in Fairfield, CA:
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