Criminal defense lawyers in Orange, CA. A Orange, CA criminal defense attorney is someone you hope you don't need, but life seldom goes as planned. Maybe you broke a law that you weren't aware of. 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're finding yourself needing a premier Orange, CA, criminal defense lawyer to help you protect your freedom.
Regardless of the circumstances, 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 our results speak for themselves. Reach us now at (800) 755-5174 or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation.
Why You Need a Orange, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyer NOW
Delaying hiring an attorney can have serious consequences. While you're lagging, the prosecution gets a head start on the case against you. California frequently is very harsh in sentencing, and letting the prosecution get an advantage could make the difference for your future freedom.
Additionally, the longer you spend on your own, the more danger you are in to unittingly give the district attorney evidence that wouldn't look good in a courtroom. By trying to clear up the charges on your own, you might be inadvertently decreasing your chances of a positive outcome.
Connecting with a Orange, CA, criminal defense lawyer ASAP gives them a chance to stop the charges before they make it to court. By challenging evidence and communicating with the state early, your defense lawyer 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 ready at all times for your call and will give you honest, straightforward advice from day one.
How to Handle an Arrest in Orange, CA
Being arrested in Orange, CA, is a very stressful event. Protecting your freedom starts with the choices you make in that moment. Take the below steps during and after an arrest, to strengthen your chances of a positive outcome:
- Comply With the Police: Refusing to go, trying to get away, or harming the law enforcement officers won't help you in the long run. In fact, it can lead to additional charges.
- Don't Answer Questions: When you are questioned by the authorities, say "I do not wish to answer any questions at this time and am requesting to speak with my lawyer."
- Find a Lawyer: During the arrest and booking process, you should be given an opportunity to make some phone calls – before anyone else, make sure to place a call to your lawyer.
- 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 prior to a trial can be invaluable.
- Write Down All the Details of Your Arrest: In order to aid with your attorney's defensive efforts, you should document all facts you have regarding the charges and provide it to your criminal defense lawyer.
If you do all of the above and work with a skilled Orange, CA, criminal defense lawyer, you'll create a base for a strong defense.
The Role of a Orange, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyer in Your Case
At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, we believe that criminal defense attorneys have an obligation to care for clients as people, beyond just looking at the charges they're facing. Because we have a client-centered focus, we both create a defensive strategy focused on your goals and make decisions based on the broader effects on your future.
We approach each case by:
- Studying your case from all angles – From your story, discovery, and evidence reviews. We leave no stone unturned.
- Prepare a powerful defense utilizing motions to suppress evidence, hiring expert analysts, and pushing back against the state's subpoenas.
- Represent you in court if there is a trial. We protect you from a biased jury, dissect the state's case against you, and demonstrate reasonable doubt.
- Negotiate with the prosecution for plea deals. After weakening the prosecution's case, they are more likely to let you take a deal with lesser charges.
- Advocate for lesser sentences during negotiations and after a trial. Sometimes this takes the form of probation, or perhaps a diversionary program.
- Helping you get a clean slate after a court case. We'll assist with the expungement, sealing, and destruction of arrest and criminal records. Don't give up on getting another chance.
Case Categories Our Orange, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyers Will Defend
The Law Offices of David S. Chesley is prepared for any category of criminal defense case in Orange, CA, and are here to help with whatever charge you're facing in Orange, CA. Our criminal defense attorneys will stand by your side against:
Traffic Charges
Anything you can be accused of while driving would be a traffic charge. They can include driving while intoxicated, driving while high, and reckless driving. Some of the most common Orange, CA, traffic charges we defend are:
- DUI/DWI Charges
- DUI Refusal Charges
- Out-of-State DUI Charges
- Wet Reckless Charges
- Driving Without a License Charges
- And more
Violent Offense Charges
Violent crime charges tend to have high penalties in Orange, CA, no matter which specific one you're alleged to have committed. Assault, battery, and more forceful offenses are all included. Here are some of the violent offense charges we can defend you against:
Drug Charges
Drug charges in Orange, CA, are often based around someone either allegedly carrying or allegedly trying to sell a controlled substance. California's controlled substances list is long and covers anything from marijuana to opioids. 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
Orange, CA, theft charges vary greatly depending on the alleged act. As a category, it encapsulates everything from shoplifting to fraud. Whatever theft crime charge you're facing, our theft crime defense lawyers are here to help:
Sex Crime Charges
Sex crimes are often viewed as some of the most serious charges a person can face. There are many variations, including the posting of revenge porn, sexual assault, and soliciting a prostitute. Here are some sex crime charges that we defend against:
Murder Charges
Arguably, the worst crime to be accused of in Orange, CA, is murder. Whether unintentional or on purpose, or even unsuccessful, the law is harsh, meaning that you need a leading Orange, CA, criminal defense lawyer on your side. These are some of the murder charges that we can help you defend against:
- Attempted Murder
- First Degree Murder
- Second Degree Murder
- Voluntary Manslaughter
- Involuntary Manslaughter
- And more.
Contact our attorneys for a free case review regarding any criminal charge in Orange, CA.
What You Want in a Orange, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyer
Criminal defense lawyers are plentiful in Orange, CA, but not every firm is equipped for the job. Partnering with the right criminal defense attorney is vital to creating the right defense for your case. When you're looking at lawyers to hire, be sure to keep the following in mind:
- Experience – especially as a prosecutor, giving insights into how the state builds its cases.
- Relationships Within Local Courts – to make negotiating plea deals or dropped charges easier.
- Familiarity With Your Charges – practice defending previous cases just like yours.
- High Reputation – both among clients and with experts.
- Responsiveness and Availability – you want a lawyer who listens and a firm that's always available.
- Open and Honest Costs – be sure you understand the bill and payment structure before hiring your attorney.
Our Criminal Defense Process in Orange, CA:
Our approach for every case is to build a staunch, powerful defense from day one. We don't sit passively by while the prosecution builds up evidence against you; our attorneys are always vigilant throughout the legal process, facing down the district attorney and persuading the jury.
The minute you call our Orange, CA, criminal defense lawyers, we are dedicated to finding ways to protect your freedom. In a criminal defense case, that normally includes the following steps:
- Learn Your Charges – We listen to you and do our own research to craft a strong defense.
- Argue 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.
- Defend Your Liberty During the Case – At a bail hearing, you get the opportunity to be freed before a trial, with minimal to no cash bonds.
- Communicate With the District Attorney – Using our wide network of relationships, we'll explore options for a plea deal which offers you an alternative to a trial's risks.
- Defend You at Trial – Since we've been preparing from day one, we'll tear apart the prosecution's case at trial and show reasonable doubt to the jury.
- Represent You for Sentencing and Appeals – After the trial, if needed, our team will argue for lenient sentencing and can appeal the case to a higher court for justice.
The Law Offices of David S. Chesley: Premier Orange, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyers:
Our Orange, CA, criminal defense lawyers know how to win. We're made up of experienced criminal defense attorneys, as well as former prosecutors and judges. We know from personal experience how the state crafts its case, and we will strike back with a staunch defensive plan.
Our connections in Orange, CA, courts allow us to get a plea deal that secures your interests, and can avoid a trial in most cases. That said, if there is a trial in your case, one of our expert criminal defense attorneys will be ready with a stalwart defense.
We've received acclaim from both 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 get in touch with us whenever you need to if you have any questions or you need advice in a situation.
Frequently Asked Criminal Defense Questions in Orange, 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 you're left looking for clear answers to complex questions. We've put together some of the common questions Orange, CA, residents ask about criminal defense, and have answers for you below:
Do I still need a Orange, CA, criminal defense lawyer if I'm innocent?
Yes – while it's unlikely that the police will intentionally accuse the wrong person, nobody is perfect, and your attorney can help ensure your rights are protected.
Are DUIs easy cases to beat in Orange, 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.
Are arrests also on my criminal record?
Your criminal record does include arrests, but with a catch – the government keeps a record of arrests, but without a conviction, the court can restrict access to those records.
When can police arrest someone if they don't have a warrant?
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.
Why do people plea bargain in Orange, CA?
Plea bargaining is a common way to resolve cases in Orange. In the process, a specific (usually lighter) penalty is offered to the accused person in exchange for a guilty plea. District attorneys use them to handle cases faster, while defendants may find them appealing to avoid harsher sentences.
Contact the Law Offices of David S. Chesley Now – Your Freedom Is at Stake
Regardless of the type of crime you've been charged with, how you fight the case will determine the kind of outcome you get. You need an expert criminal defense lawyer. 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. Talk to an attorney today – if you take too long to get started on your defense, you'll be fighting an uphill battle against the prosecution. Call (800) 755-5174 or contact us online to start building your defense without delay.
We also provide the following legal services in Orange, CA:
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