Criminal defense lawyers in Merced, CA. Everyone in Merced, CA, hopes that they'll never need a criminal defense attorney. Maybe you broke a law even though you were trying not to. Maybe one of your friends broke the law, and you've just gotten wrapped up in it, or you made a rash choice, without realizing the consequences. Or maybe your best friend tried to drive home after one too many drinks, and you need to contact a Merced, CA, criminal defense lawyer to help you fight against the charges.
Whatever you need help facing, the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, Inc. is ready to stand by your side. We have over 25 of the leading criminal defense attorneys in California, and boast a proven track record of success. Reach us now at (800) 755-5174 or use our online contact form for a free review of your case.
Reasons to Find a Merced, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyer RIGHT AWAY
Hesitating to hire an attorney can give your case major disadvantages. While you're pausing, the prosecution gets a head start on the case against you. California frequently is very tough on crime, and any advantage the state gets could make the difference in avoiding a conviction or prison time.
On a related note, the longer you take to work with , the more danger you are in to unconsciously give the state evidence which, fair or not, can make you look guilty. By underestimating the charges or talking to the authorities without counsel present, there's a good chance that you will be unintentionally setting yourself up for a guilty verdict.
Connecting with a Merced, CA, criminal defense lawyer right away can give you access to different, easier resolutions. By utilizing their knowledge of your case, evidence rules, and connections with the district attorney, your lawyer may be able to reach a resolution with no prison time.
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 Merced, CA? Follow These 5 Steps
Arrests are high-tension situations in Merced, CA. Your defense starts the moment you are arrested, and you want to handle it the right way. Follow these steps during the arrest and following court procedures, to increase your odds of a positive outcome:
- Don't Fight Back: Acting out, trying to get away, or harming the law enforcement officers won't help you in the long run. In fact, you could see more criminal charges that are even harder to beat.
- 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.
- Talk to a Lawyer: California allows people to make three phone calls after an arrest – the most important thing to do is reach out to your attorney.
- 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 before a potential trial can give you some breathing room and make it easier to build your defense.
- Record Everything About the Arrest: While your attorney is probably conducting their own investigation, you should document whatever data you have regarding your case and make copies to show your attorney.
If you do all of the above and work with the right Merced, CA, criminal defense lawyer, you'll lay the groundwork for a mighty defense.
What to Expect From a Leading Merced, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyer
When you work with us, you're getting a law firm that not only knows how to win in court, but also knows how to treat you like a person, not a case number. Because of our individual-tailored approach, we both make a defense in a way that works best for you and care about the broader implications on your life.
Our attorneys do this by:
- Absorbing your case from all angles – we learn your case from both your point of view and the district attorney's, giving us the tools for a powerful defense.
- Prepare a mighty defense typically featuring motions to suppress evidence, working with expert witnesses, and battling the state's subpoenas.
- Stand by you in court should your charges go to trial. We take steps to prevent prejudiced juries, present alternative narratives to the state's story, and show reasonable doubt.
- Negotiate with the state for plea deals. After tactfully showing the strength of our defense to the district attorney, they're more likely to offer a plea deal with reduced charges.
- Advocate for lesser sentences at the trial's end. We'll fight for probation or shorter sentences, highlighting mitigating factors.
- Helping you clear your record once the case is over. We'll assist with the expungement, sealing, and destruction of arrest and criminal records. Don't allow your record to cause far-reaching damage.
Areas of Expertise for Our Merced, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyers
The Law Offices of David S. Chesley can help you with almost any Merced, CA criminal charge, and are prepared to fight for your rights in any Merced, CA, criminal defense case. Our criminal defense attorneys 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. Sometimes it's something simple, like driving without a license, but it can also include higher profile charges like DUIs or Hit and Runs. In Merced, CA, we frequently defend traffic charges including:
- DUI/DWI Charges
- Felony DUI Charges
- Street Racing Charges
- Wet Reckless Charges
- Driving Without a License Charges
- And more
Violent Offense Charges
Violent crime charges are always serious, regardless of which specific charge you're facing. They can include anything from threats to firearm possession to actually harming another person. Following are some of the violent crime practice areas which the Law Offices of David S. Chesley defends clients:
- Assault
- Assault with a Deadly Weapon
- Resisting Arrest
- Hate Crimes
- Unlawful Possession of a Firearm
- And more
Drug Charges
Drug charges in Merced, CA, typically range from possession to distribution of a controlled substance. Many substances are restricted or illegal in California. We defend against charges related to the following substances and alleged actions:
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Heroin
- Possession of a Controlled Substance
- Drug Trafficking
- Drug Possession for Sale
- And more
Theft Charges
Merced, CA, theft charges are some of the most variable charges, depending on the specifics of what the state alleges happened. Sentences are more severe for forceful or violent theft, such as robbery. Whatever theft crime charge you're facing, our theft crime defense lawyers are here to help:
Sex Crime Charges
Sex crimes are socially and legally some of the most serious charges someone can face. Some, like prostitution, are vice crimes, while others, like rape, are forcible. Sex crime charges that our criminal defense lawyers in Merced, CA, defend include:
Murder Charges
Arguably, the worst crime to be accused of in Merced, CA, is murder. Whether unintentional or on purpose, or even unsuccessful, the law is harsh, meaning that you need a secure defense strategy to protect your freedom. 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
- Vehicular Manslaughter
- And more.
Reach out to our attorneys for any criminal defense charges and we'll let you know how we can help.
What You Want in a Merced, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyer
Criminal defense lawyers are plentiful in Merced, CA, but you'll need to examine them carefully to pick the right one. Hiring the right criminal defense attorney is critical to getting the best outcome for your case. Here are the main criteria to use when evaluating potential defense attorneys:
- Experience – ideally as both defense and prosecution attorneys.
- Relationships Within Local Courts – to leverage in negotiations.
- Familiarity With Your Charges – previously worked on cases with the same charges that you're facing.
- Stellar Reputation – they should be known for providing quality and compassionate service.
- Responsiveness and Availability – you want a lawyer who listens and a firm that's always available.
- Transparent Costs – be sure you understand the bill and payment structure before hiring your attorney.
The Steps Our Merced, CA Criminal Defense Lawyers Take to Protect Your Freedom:
From day one, we craft the strongest defense we can against your charges. You can't just presume that the prosecution will fail; we're always looking for ways to improve your defense, and are with you throughout the legal process, petrifying the prosecution and satisfying the jury.
The minute you call our Merced, CA, criminal defense lawyers, we are dedicated to finding ways to protect your freedom. Here's an example of what that will likely look like:
- Study 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.
- Champion Your Pretrial Freedom – At a bail hearing, we argue for your freedom while awaiting a trial, without excessive bail.
- Communicate With the District Attorney – We'll look for a plea deal that protects you from the worst of the penalties.
- Defend You at Trial – With everything we've learned about your case up to this point, we'll tear apart the prosecution's case at trial and present a convincing defense to the jury.
- Represent You for Sentencing and Appeals – If your case reaches this point, we will argue for lenient sentencing and can explore follow-up options that will give you a second chance.
The Advantages of Working With Our Merced, 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 will strike back with a staunch defensive plan.
Our relationships with judges and prosecutors throughout California help us get a favorable plea deal and avoid most trials entirely. But if your case does reach a jury, your criminal defense lawyer won't hesitate to give you a powerful defense.
We have an esteemed reputation with 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 you can get in touch with us at all times if you think of anything you need to ask us or a sudden development came up and you need a lawyer to help.
Frequently Asked Criminal Defense Questions in Merced, CA
When charged with a crime, there's probably a lot going through your head. There's a lot you're trying to find out, and you're left looking for clear answers to complex questions. We've put together some of the common questions Merced, CA, residents have regarding criminal defense, and have answers for you below:
Should I still hire a Merced, CA, criminal defense lawyer if I'm not guilty?
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 Merced, 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.
Do convictions ever expire from my criminal record in California?
Technically no. Barring special circumstances, after a conviction, the government will always keep it on your record. However, after a certain time period, they can seal the record, lessening the negative impact.
Are arrests also on my criminal record?
Yes, 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.
Can the police arrest me without a warrant?
if you commit an alleged crime and an officer sees it, or if the officer suspects that you've committed a crime, they can detain you even if they don't have a warrant.
How does plea bargaining work in California?
Plea bargaining is a set of negotiations between the district attorney and your defense attorney. District attorneys use them to manage their high caseloads, while defendants use them to minimize their time in jail, if they're worried about being found guilty.
Contact Our Firm – Your Freedom Depends On It
Regardless of the type of crime you've been charged with, you have to have an airtight plan for your defense. You need an expert criminal defense lawyer. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley, Inc. is here to help.
We bring experience and expertise to your case, and are ready to help you whenever you need us. Call now – the Merced, CA, district attorney isn't waiting, and neither should you. Call (800) 755-5174 or contact us online to start building your defense at once.
The Law Offices of David S. Chesley can also help you with the following in Merced, CA:
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