Criminal defense lawyers in Petaluma, CA. Everyone in Petaluma, CA, hopes that they'll never need a criminal defense attorney. Maybe you didn't intend to, but accidentally broke the law. Maybe one of your friends broke the law, and you've just gotten wrapped up in it, or you made a choice you realize was wrong now. Or maybe your spouse is being charged, and you have to find a premier Petaluma, CA, criminal defense lawyer to help you make a plan to go forward.
For any of these reasons, or more, the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, Inc. is experienced, knowledgeable, and prepared to help. We have over 25 of the top criminal defense attorneys in California, and boast a proven track record of success. Get ahold of us at (800) 755-5174 or reach out online for a no obligation case review.
The Importance of Working With a Petaluma, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyer ASAP
If you don't hire an attorney right away in the legal process, the consequences can be dire. While you're holding back, the investigators are putting together a case against you. California is often very punishing towards convicts, 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.
Plus, the longer you delay hiring an attorney, the more chances you have to inadvertently give the police evidence that wouldn't look good in a courtroom. By trying to clear up the charges on your own, you might be inadvertently making your case harder to fight.
Connecting with a Petaluma, CA, criminal defense lawyer ASAP might stop the state's case in its tracks, before you need to go to trial. By fighting for your freedom early, challenging evidence, and leveraging their relationship with the prosecutor, your attorney may be able to convince the court to drop or dismiss the charges against you.
Whether it's midday on the weekend or the middle of the night during the week, you need a lawyer who is prepared for your call. At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, Inc., we're always ready for your call and can start helping you craft your defense as soon as you call.
Arrested in Petaluma, CA? Follow These 5 Steps
The arrest process in Petaluma, CA, is never fun, but it can go smoothly. Protecting your freedom starts with the choices you make in that moment. Do the following while in custody, in order to enhance the likelihood of a advantageous outcome:
- Don't Run From or Fight the Arrest: Being difficult, running, or attacking the police won't improve your situation. In fact, it will actually hurt your case.
- Don't Talk Without Your Lawyer Present: If you are questioned by the authorities, just tell them that you are invoking your right to remain silent and your right to an attorney.
- Find a Lawyer: During the arrest and booking process, you should be given an opportunity to make some phone calls – the most important thing to do is reach out to your attorney.
- 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 go about your life prior to a trial can make the rest of the defense process go a little smoother.
- Write Down All the Details of Your Arrest: As a first step in building your defense, you should put together all findings you have regarding the charges and provide it to your lawyer.
If you follow these steps and work with a skilled Petaluma, CA, criminal defense lawyer, you'll lay the groundwork for a powerful defense.
What to Expect From a Leading Petaluma, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyer
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 your defense should be centered around you, we both take realistic approaches in finding you the best outcome possible and know the difference we can make in your future.
We assist you by:
- Researching your case from all angles – we examine the prosecution's case, conduct our own research, and listen to you in order to get the full story.
- Build a strong defense often consisting of motions to have evidence thrown out, consulting subject matter experts, and fighting the state's subpoenas.
- Represent you in court should the case reach trial. We ensure that the jury is made up of your peers, deftly cross-examine the prosecution's witnesses, and establish reasonable doubt.
- Negotiate with the district attorney for plea deals. If we show the prosecution the weaknesses in their case, they are more likely to let you take a deal with lesser charges.
- Advocate for lesser sentences both during plea negotiations and after the trial. We'll always be honest with you about realistic outcomes for your case, and how we can work to get you the most positive outcome.
- Helping you get a clean slate 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.
The Law Offices of David S. Chesley's Petaluma, CA, Criminal Defense Legal Areas
The Law Offices of David S. Chesley defends a wide variety of criminal defense case types, and are always ready to help, regardless of what you're facing. Our criminal defense attorneys can help you defend against:
Traffic Charges
With the high number of traffic laws in California, these types of charges are among the most common in the state. Traffic charges include everything from DUIs to driving with a suspended license to street racing. In Petaluma, CA, we defend each of the following traffic charges:
- DUI/DWI Charges
- DUI Refusal Charges
- Hit and Run Charges
- Wet Reckless Charges
- Driving Without Insurance Charges
- And more
Violent Offense Charges
Violent crime charges require an expert criminal defense lawyer in Petaluma, CA. They range from assault to resisting arrest. Below are violent crime charges we frequently defend clients against:
Drug Charges
Drug charges in Petaluma, 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. Here are some of the most common charges and substances we build defenses for:
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Ecstasy
- Possession of a Controlled Substance
- Manufacturing or Producing Controlled Substances
- Drug Possession for Sale
- And more
Theft Charges
Petaluma, CA, theft charges vary greatly depending on the alleged act. As a category, it encapsulates everything from shoplifting to fraud. Below are some of our theft charge defense specialties:
Sex Crime Charges
Sex crimes are socially and legally some of the most serious charges someone can face. They range from rape to prostitution to pornography charges. We defend those accused of the following sex crimes:
Murder Charges
When you're facing murder charges in Petaluma, CA, you need a top-tier defense plan. Whether unintentional or on purpose, or even unsuccessful, the law is harsh, meaning that you need a strong defense against these charges. If you're facing murder charges like the following, contact us now to start building your defense:
- Attempted Murder
- First Degree Murder
- Second Degree Murder
- Voluntary Manslaughter
- Involuntary Manslaughter
- And more.
Contact our attorneys to learn more about what we can do to help you fight criminal charges in Petaluma, CA.
What You Want in a Petaluma, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyer
There is no shortage of criminal defense lawyers in Petaluma, CA, but some stand out from the rest. Hiring the proper criminal defense attorney is vital to creating the right defense for your case. Here are the main criteria to use when evaluating potential defense attorneys:
- Experience – both as defense attorneys and for the state.
- Relationships With Local Courts – as these are key in securing plea deals.
- Knowledge of Your Charges – ideas for your defense based on prior experience with similar cases.
- High Reputation – from people they've worked with in the past.
- Responsiveness and Availability – it's important to be able to get updates on your case promptly and are treated with respect.
- Open and Honest Costs – avoid hidden fees and high charges.
How We Fight in the Petaluma, CA, Court System to Protect Your Freedom:
No matter what charges you're facing, we will prepare our defense as if it will go to trial. We know how hard the district attorney will work against you, and we're ready for it; we're always looking for ways to improve your defense, and are with you throughout the legal process, scaring the state and satisfying the jury.
The minute you call our Petaluma, CA, criminal defense lawyers, we take immediate action. Here's an example of what that will likely look like:
- Study Your Case – We learn from you directly about your case, and conduct other investigations to get ahead of the prosecution.
- Argue For Charges Dropped or Dismissed – Either 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 will show the court that you deserve freedom while awaiting trial, with minimal to no cash bonds.
- Negotiate With the Prosecution – We have experience with crafting a plea deal that works for you.
- Defend You at Trial – Using our expertise and intimate knowledge of your case, we'll dissect the state's argument at trial and present a convincing defense to the jury.
- Represent You for Sentencing and Appeals – If it applies in your case, our team will argue for lenient sentencing and can take your case to an appeals court if there were any rights violations in the trial.
The Advantages of Working With Our Petaluma, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyers:
At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, Inc., we have over 50 years of experience in the courtroom, as judges, prosecutors, police officers, and criminal defense attorneys. We know the strategies prosecutors use to try and secure a guilty verdict, and we can take advantages of the weaknesses we know are in their strategies.
Because we have long relationships with state officials across California, we can get plea bargains that can protect your freedom. If you do end up in a courtroom in front of a jury, you'll have a persuasive attorney armed with a powerful defense.
You can hear about our stellar performance from both former clients and legal experts. We handle all types of serious crimes, and have a large team of the best criminal defense attorneys in California. We're upfront with our fees, and you can talk to one of our representatives at any time if need an update on your case or you need advice in a situation.
Frequently Asked Criminal Defense Questions in Petaluma, CA
It's normal to have lots of questions after a criminal accusation. On your own, there's no guide on what to do next, and you're left looking for clear answers to complex questions. We've put together some of the common questions Petaluma, CA, residents ask about criminal defense, and have answers for you below:
Should I still hire a Petaluma, CA, criminal defense lawyer if I'm not guilty?
Yes – even though law enforcement officials are trying to do their jobs correctly, errors can always happen, and when your freedom is at stake, you don't want to take chances.
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.
Are arrests also on my criminal record?
Yes, but these aren't always permanent – the state keeps a record of arrests, but without a conviction, the court can restrict access to those records.
Can I get arrested if there isn't a warrant for me?
if you commit an alleged crime and an officer sees it, or if the officer suspects that you've committed a crime, 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 diversionary programs?
Diversionary programs, such as drug court, mental health court, and veterans court, are alternatives to the traditional court and sentencing process. They normally allow for treatment to be given to people who are accused of a crime, rather than being sent to prison.
What are the advantages of plea bargaining in Petaluma, CA?
Plea bargaining is a common way to resolve cases in Petaluma. In the process, a specific (usually lighter) penalty is offered to the accused person in exchange for a guilty plea. Prosecutors use them to save time, while defendants prevent the worse case scenario that comes with a conviction.
Get in Touch With Our Petaluma, CA, Criminal Defense Attorneys – Your Freedom Depends On It
Whatever Petaluma, CA, charges you're facing, how you fight the case will determine the kind of outcome you get. This isn't a time to play games with your freedom. You'll get a top defense and expert representation at The Law Offices of David S. Chesley, Inc.
We will watch out for your rights and make sure you get justice in your case. Speak with one of our lawyers now – take too long to make a defense, and it could cost you dearly. Call (800) 755-5174 or contact us online to start making a plan to keep you out of prison as soon as possible.
We also provide the following legal services in Petaluma, CA:
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