Criminal defense lawyers in Moorpark, CA. Nobody in Moorpark, CA, wants to be in a position where they need a criminal defense attorney. Maybe you broke a law that you weren't aware of. Maybe you've been falsely accused, or you made a mistake and need a second chance. Or maybe a family member is running out of time to get help, and you have to find a Moorpark, CA, criminal defense lawyer to help you find a way forward.
Whatever you need help facing, the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, Inc. is equipped to help you fight the charges. We have over 25 of the top criminal defense attorneys in California, and have successfully defended a wide range of charges. Get in touch at (800) 755-5174 or contact us online for a free consultation on your case.
Reasons to Find a Moorpark, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyer RIGHT AWAY
Hesitating to hire an attorney can give your case major disadvantages. While you're delaying, the prosecution gets a head start on the case against you. California has historically been very tough on crime, and letting the prosecution get an advantage could make the difference in a guilty verdict and prison time versus the charges being dropped, or receiving probation.
On top of that, the longer you take to hire an attorney, the more possible it is to inadvertently give the prosecution evidence you'd rather keep to yourself. If you speak to the police on your own, underestimate the charges, or talk with friends and family about your case, you could be unintentionally digging a deep hole for yourself.
Reaching out to a Moorpark, CA, criminal defense lawyer ASAP can give you access to different, easier resolutions. By fighting for your freedom early, challenging evidence, and leveraging their relationship with the prosecutor, your defense attorney 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 constantly prepared for your call and begin building your defense from the first call.
How to Handle an Arrest in Moorpark, CA
Nobody in Moorpark, CA, enjoys getting arrested. How you handle the situation can have a major impact on how your case turns out. Take the below steps during the arrest and following court procedures, in order to enhance your chances of a positive outcome:
- Do Not Resist: Refusing to go, trying to get away, or attacking the government officials won't help you in the long run. In fact, it can lead to additional charges.
- Keep Quiet Until Your Attorney Arrives: When you are questioned by the investigators, say "I do not wish to answer any questions at this time and am requesting to speak with my lawyer."
- Talk to a Lawyer: During the arrest and booking process, you should be given an opportunity to make some phone calls – the first one of these should be to your lawyer.
- Post Bail (If Applicable): After an arrest, if you are charged with a crime, you'll probably be given an option to for pretrial release. Being able to act freely before a trial can give you some breathing room and make it easier to build your defense.
- Write Down All the Details of Your Arrest: While your attorney is probably conducting their own investigation, you should collect all evidence you have regarding your defense and provide it to your defense attorney.
When you take these precautions and work with an expert Moorpark, CA, criminal defense lawyer, you'll create a base for a powerful defense.
The Role of a Moorpark, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyer in Your Case
We don't just represent you; we take the time to learn about what makes you and your case unique. Because of our individual-tailored approach, we both make a defense in a way that works best for you and know the difference we can make in your life.
We will go about your case by:
- Learning about your case from all angles – we look at the police investigation, our conversations with you, and our own inquiries into your case all give us an intimate understanding of it.
- Build a effective defense utilizing motions to have evidence thrown out, consulting subject matter experts, and pushing back against the state's subpoenas.
- Represent you in court if the case needs to go to trial. We ensure that the jury is made up of your peers, discredit the state's witnesses in cross–examination, and show reasonable doubt.
- Negotiate with the district attorney for plea deals. If the prosecution isn't confident it will win in court, we can often reduce the charges and sentence you're facing.
- Advocate for lesser sentences if needed after the trial. We want to keep you out of prison, and will fight for probation or a shorter sentence.
- Helping you get a clean slate after a court case. We can aid you with the expungement, sealing, and destruction of arrest and criminal records. Don't assume that you're stuck with your record.
Areas of Expertise for Our Moorpark, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyers
The Law Offices of David S. Chesley can help you with almost any Moorpark, CA criminal charge, and are here to help with whatever charge you're facing in Moorpark, CA. Our criminal defense attorneys will stand by your side against:
Traffic Charges
If you're facing traffic charges, it could be from one of a variety of alleged actions while on the road. Traffic charges include everything from DUIs to driving with a suspended license to street racing. Some of the most common Moorpark, CA, traffic charges we defend are:
- DUI/DWI Charges
- DUI Refusal Charges
- Street Racing Charges
- Wet Reckless Charges
- Driving With a Suspended License Charges
- And more
Violent Offense Charges
Violent crime charges are always serious, regardless of which specific charge you're facing. Several violent crimes have enhanced penalties in special circumstances. Below are violent crime charges we frequently defend clients against:
Drug Charges
Drug charges in Moorpark, CA, mostly come down to possessing a controlled substance, possessing paraphernalia, and/or trying to sell it. Even just holding a drug on California's controlled substance list can result in criminal accusations. If you're facing any of the following common charges (or another one) for any controlled substance, contact us now to start building your defense:
- Marijuana
- Methamphetamine
- Heroin
- Possession of a Controlled Substance
- Manufacturing or Producing Controlled Substances
- Drug Possession for Sale
- And more
Theft Charges
Moorpark, CA, theft charges are some of the most variable charges, depending on the specifics of what the state alleges happened. The ones that involve the use of force, like robbery, tend to face more serious consequences. We provide defense for all of the below theft charges, in addition to others:
Sex Crime Charges
Sex crimes can be treated even harsher than violent crimes. Some, like prostitution, are vice crimes, while others, like rape, are forcible. Sex crime charges that our criminal defense lawyers in Moorpark, CA, defend include:
Murder Charges
Arguably, the worst crime to be accused of in Moorpark, CA, is murder. Regardless of the circumstances, you are looking at a major prison sentence, meaning that you need a leading Moorpark, CA, criminal defense lawyer on your side. 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.
Get in touch with our legal team with any criminal charges and we'll start creating your defense strategy today.
How to Pick a Moorpark, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyer
When deciding on a Moorpark, CA, criminal defense lawyer, there are many choices available, but not all law firms are created equal. Partnering with the right criminal defense attorney is quite possibly the biggest factor in how your case will turn out. By going with a lawyer who has the below characteristics, you are ensuring you get the legal representation you deserve:
- Experience – both as defense attorneys and for the state.
- Connections With Local Courts – as these are key in securing plea deals.
- Insights About Your Charges – experience working with the specific charge you're facing.
- Positive Reputation – ideally with professional recognition and popular opinion.
- Responsiveness and Availability – a team that you can get ahold of when you need them most.
- Clear Costs – be sure you understand the bill and payment structure before hiring your attorney.
The Steps Our Moorpark, CA Criminal Defense Lawyers Take to Protect Your Freedom:
From day one, we craft the strongest defense we can against your charges. It's not enough to just sit back and assume the prosecution will fail; we're always looking for ways to improve your defense, and are with you throughout the legal process, showing strength in the face of the prosecution and convincing the jury.
When you call our Moorpark, CA, criminal defense lawyers, we take immediate action. When we get started on your major criminal defense case, this is the general process we go through:
- Learn Your Case – We listen to you and do our own research to craft a strong defense.
- Fight For Charges Dropped or Dismissed – Whether at a pre–filing investigation conference or a preliminary hearing, if we can get the charges dropped or dismissed, we'll do so.
- Fight for Your Freedom During the Case – At a bail hearing, we will show the court that you deserve freedom while awaiting trial, and argue for bail to be set at a low value.
- Negotiate With the Prosecution – We have experience with crafting a plea deal that protects your interests.
- Defend You at Trial – Since we've been preparing from day one, we'll scrutinize the state's case at trial and show reasonable doubt to the jury.
- Represent You for Sentencing and Appeals – If it applies in your case, we will argue for lenient sentencing and can take your case to an appeals court if there were any rights violations in the trial.
The Law Offices of David S. Chesley: Premier Moorpark, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyers:
When you hire the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, Inc., you're getting a team of criminal defense lawyers with over 50 years of courtroom experience, both as defense attorneys and as prosecutors. We know the ins and outs of how prosecutors build a case against you, and we will strike back with a staunch defensive plan.
Our connections in Moorpark, 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, you'll have a persuasive attorney armed with a powerful defense.
We've received acclaim from both clients and experts. When you work with the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, you get a team who knows how to win in Moorpark, CA, court. We don't surprise you with fees, and you can speak to one of our team members at any time if you learn something new about your case or there's an emergency.
Frequently Asked Criminal Defense Questions in Moorpark, CA
When charged with a crime, there's probably a lot going through your head. On your own, there's no guide on what to do next, and it's not always clear what to do next. We've put together some of the common questions Moorpark, 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 – even though investigators have the goal of catching the actual person who committed the crime, errors can always happen, and your attorney can help ensure your rights are protected.
What is the hardest criminal charge to beat?
Each case is unique, so there isn't a hard and fast rule on "which charge is the hardest to beat." Generally speaking, though, white collar crimes, crimes against children, and repeat DUI accusations are treated harshly.
Do convictions stay on your record for life in Moorpark, CA?
Yes and no – while there are automatic and assisted procedures to have your records sealed, they are still visible to the government.
Do criminal records in Moorpark, CA, include arrests?
Your criminal record does include arrests, 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.
When can police arrest someone if they don't have a warrant?
When an officer has probably cause, they can place you under arrest regardless of whether they have a warrant or not.
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.
How does plea bargaining work in California?
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. District attorneys use them to manage their high caseloads, while defendants often take them because of the reduced penalty.
Get in Touch With the Law Offices of David S. Chesley Now – Your Freedom Is at Stake
When you're facing charges in Moorpark, CA, you need a strong defense strategy. You need a leading criminal defense attorney to protect you. Our firm's criminal defense lawyers are prepared to give you expert defensive representation.
We will watch out for your rights and make sure you get justice in your case. Start working on your case today – take too long to make a defense, and it could cost you dearly. Call (800) 755-5174 or contact us online to start building your defense and protecting your rights.
We also can help in the following legal areas in Moorpark, CA:
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