Criminal defense lawyers in Clovis, CA. Everyone in Clovis, CA, hopes that they'll never need a criminal defense attorney. Maybe you broke the law on accident. Maybe the alleged victim is making the allegations up, or you made a decision you now regret. Or maybe your spouse is being charged, and you have to call a Clovis, CA, criminal defense lawyer to help you find a way forward.
Regardless of the reason why you're calling, the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, Inc. is prepared to go to bat for you. We have over 25 of the top criminal defense attorneys in California, and know how to win in a variety of case types. Speak with one of our representatives at (800) 755-5174 or reach out to us online for a no obligation case review.
The Importance of Working With a Clovis, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyer ASAP
Delaying hiring an attorney can have serious consequences. While you're lagging, the police and prosecutors are setting you up for a guilty verdict. California is known for being very punishing towards convicts, and letting the prosecution get an advantage could make the difference whether you can get off innocent, or make use of a diversionary program.
Plus, the longer you hesitate before working with a lawyer, the more possible it is to offhandedly give the district attorney evidence that could be used to convict you. Answering questions without an attorney treating the charges as unserious, or even speaking with anyone other than your attorney could be unintentionally setting a trap for yourself.
Talking to a Clovis, CA, criminal defense lawyer early not only protects your rights, it could also stop the prosecution's case before it even reaches court. By challenging evidence and communicating with the state early, your attorney may be able to reach a resolution with no prison time.
When you're accused of a crime, it doesn't matter what time it is. At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, Inc., we're always prepared for your call and will give you honest, straightforward advice from day one.
How to Handle an Arrest in Clovis, CA
Arrests are high-tension situations in Clovis, CA. While you may not want to cooperate with the authorities, doing so (the right way) is important. Follow these steps while going through the arrest process, to enhance the likelihood of a beneficial outcome:
- Do Not Resist: Making a scene, trying to escape, or attacking the government officials won't improve your situation. In fact, you can then be charged with resisting arrest.
- Don't Answer Questions: When you are questioned by the police, say "I do not wish to answer any questions at this time and am requesting to speak with my lawyer."
- Find an Attorney: During the arrest and booking process, you should be given an opportunity to make some phone calls – be sure one of them is to your lawyer.
- Post Bail (If Applicable): Most people charged with a crime in Clovis, CA, are either released on their own recognizance or given a bail amount to post. Securing your freedom prior to a potential trial can give you some breathing room and make it easier to build your defense.
- Record Everything About the Arrest: In order to aid with your attorney's defensive efforts, you should document whatever facts you have related to the charges and share it with your criminal defense lawyer.
If you do all of this and work with a skilled Clovis, CA, criminal defense lawyer, you'll build the foundation for a strong defense.
How Our Clovis, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyers Help You
We believe that criminal defense lawyers have an obligation not only to represent you in court, but to get to know your case from your perspective. Because your defense should be centered around you, we both take realistic approaches in finding you the best outcome possible and make decisions based on the broader effects on your life.
We will fight for you by:
- Researching your case from all angles – From your story, discovery, and evidence reviews. We leave no stone unturned.
- Create a effective defense typically featuring motions to have evidence thrown out, utilizing our wide range of resources, and battling the state's subpoenas.
- Present your defense in court if the case needs to go to trial. We take steps to prevent prejudiced juries, deftly cross-examine the prosecution's witnesses, and show reasonable doubt.
- Negotiate with the prosecution for plea deals. When the evidence against you is weakened, we can often reduce the charges and sentence you're facing.
- 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 after a court case. We help with the expungement, sealing, and destruction of arrest and criminal records. Don't allow labels to control you.
Case Categories Our Clovis, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyers Will Defend
The Law Offices of David S. Chesley is prepared for any category of criminal defense case in Clovis, CA, and are prepared to fight for your rights in any Clovis, CA, criminal defense case. Our criminal defense lawyers specialize in:
Traffic Charges
People don't always think of traffic charges as 'criminal,' but they technically are. Traffic charges include everything from DUIs to driving with a suspended license to street racing. Some of the most common Clovis, CA, traffic charges we defend are:
- DUI/DWI Charges
- Felony DUI Charges
- Street Racing Charges
- DMV Hearing Defense
- Driving With a Suspended License Charges
- And more
Violent Offense Charges
Violent crime charges require an expert criminal defense lawyer in Clovis, CA. Assault, battery, and more forceful offenses are all included. If you're facing charges for any of the following (or other) alleged violent crimes, call us immediately:
Drug Charges
Drug charges in Clovis, CA, could be anything from possession, usage, or sale, depending on the situation. 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
- Ecstasy
- Drug Possession
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
- Drug Possession for Sale
- And more
Theft Charges
Clovis, CA, theft charges frequently intersect with other types of criminal cases. The ones that involve the use of force, like robbery, tend to face more serious consequences. With a local criminal defense lawyer on your side, you can get help fighting the following:
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. We defend those accused of the following sex crimes:
Murder Charges
Few charges in Clovis, CA, are as grave as murder. The punishment is severe, even for unintentional or unsuccessful attempts, meaning that you need a strong defense against these charges. Here are some of our murder charge specialities:
- Attempted Murder
- First Degree Murder
- Second Degree Murder
- Voluntary Manslaughter
- Involuntary Manslaughter
- And more.
Reach out to our legal team to learn more about what we can do to help you fight criminal charges in Clovis, CA.
What To Look For in Your Clovis, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyer
You will have no problem finding a criminal defense lawyer in Clovis, CA, but figuring out who is the right fit for you takes some thought. Working with the right criminal defense attorney is essential to protect your freedom and empower your case. Here are the main criteria to use when evaluating potential defense attorneys:
- Experience – and knowledge of how cases are both defended and prosecuted.
- Connections Within Local Courts – to make negotiating plea deals or dropped charges easier.
- Knowledge of Your Charges – previously worked on cases with the same charges that you're facing.
- Positive Reputation – seen in reviews and accolades.
- Responsiveness and Availability – situations can change outside of working hours, so you want to work with a firm that can pick up the phone any time you call.
- Open and Honest Costs – be sure you understand the bill and payment structure before hiring your attorney.
How We Fight in the Clovis, CA, Court System to Protect Your Freedom:
For every single case we take, we build the fiercest defense possible. We never underestimate the prosecution or case against you; We don't let up for the entirely of the legal process, scaring the prosecution and satisfying the jury.
The minute you call our Clovis, CA, criminal defense lawyers, we get started on building your defense. When we get started on your major criminal defense case, this is the general process we go through:
- Examine Your Case – This starts with your story, and continues with our investigations.
- Fight For Dropping the Charges – Either 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 explain why you should be released before the trial, and minimize the bail you'll need to post to get your freedom back.
- Speak on Your Behalf With the State – We'll look for a plea deal that protects you from the worst of the penalties.
- Defend You at Trial – Based on all our experience and research into your case, we'll battle against the state at trial and explain your side of the story 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 Clovis, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyers:
Our lawyers have experience. When you work with us, you're getting a law firm with a combined more than five decades of legal experience. We know the strategies prosecutors use to try and secure a guilty verdict, and we use our knowledge to tear it apart.
Because we have long relationships with state officials across California, we can get the best plea deal possible before most cases even go to trial. That said, if there is a trial in your case, your criminal defense lawyer will be ready.
We've received acclaim from both clients and experts. Whatever crime you're facing, our team of top California criminal defense attorneys can handle it. We offer reasonable payment plans, and you can call us at all times if you need an update on your case or you need to speak with someone right away.
Frequently Asked Criminal Defense Questions in Clovis, CA
When you've been arrested, it's normal to have a lot on your mind. It can be hard just to move forward, and your next steps may not be obvious. We've put together some of the common questions Clovis, CA, residents ask about criminal defense, and clear answers to each:
Should I still hire a Clovis, CA, criminal defense lawyer if I'm not guilty?
Yes – while it's unlikely that the police will intentionally accuse the wrong person, people can make mistakes, and your attorney can help ensure your rights are protected.
If I'm convicted of a crime in Clovis, CA, how can I get it off my record?
The best way to explore options to remove a conviction from your record in Clovis, CA, is to connect with an expungement lawyer, who can help you explore options to seal and destroy your criminal record.
Are arrests also on my criminal record?
Yes, but these aren't always permanent – the state keeps a record of arrests, but these can be sealed and destroyed if the arrest did not result in a conviction.
Can I get arrested if there isn't a warrant for me?
If a police officer has a reasonable suspicion that you've broken the law, they can arrest you without a court order.
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 Clovis, CA?
Plea bargaining is a common way to resolve cases in Clovis. 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 often take them because of the reduced penalty.
Contact Our Clovis, CA, Criminal Defense Attorneys – Your Future Depends On It
If you're facing criminal charges in Clovis, CA, you need a strong defense strategy. You can't settle for anything less than a top criminal defense attorney. The right choice is The Law Offices of David S. Chesley, Inc.
We will watch out for your rights and make sure you get justice in your case. Reach out right away – while you're hesitating, the odds are stacking up against you. Call (800) 755-5174 or contact us online to start crafting your case now.
We also provide the following legal services in Clovis, CA:
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