Criminal defense lawyers in Sherman Oaks, CA. Everyone in Sherman Oaks, CA, hopes that they'll never need a criminal defense attorney. Maybe you didn't intend to, but accidentally broke the law. Maybe you just happened to be nearby the scene of a crime, and were arrested in the confusion, or you made a mistake and need a second chance. Or maybe a loved one was arrested, and you're searching for a experienced Sherman Oaks, CA, criminal defense lawyer to help you figure out your options.
Whatever the case is, 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 our results speak for themselves. Speak with one of our representatives at (800) 755-5174 or contact us online for a free consult with an attorney.
Reasons to Find a Leading Sherman Oaks, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyer ASAP
Taking too long to find a lawyer can make it harder to get a positive outcome for your case. While you're holding back, the prosecution gets a head start on the case against you. California has historically been very punishing towards convicts, and waiting to work with a lawyer could make the difference whether or not you'll have any options available outside of prison.
Even worse, the longer you spend on your own, the more chances you have to inadvertently give the state evidence that you wouldn't want them to have. If you speak to the police on your own, underestimate the charges, or talk with friends and family about your case, you could be accidentally making your case harder to fight.
Finding a Sherman Oaks, CA, criminal defense lawyer early can give you access to different, easier resolutions. By suppressing evidence and negotiating with the prosecution, your lawyer may be able to convince the court to drop or dismiss the charges against you.
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 start working on your defense right away.
Sherman Oaks, CA, Arrests and How to Handle Them
Nobody in Sherman Oaks, CA, enjoys getting arrested. While you may not want to cooperate with the authorities, doing so (the right way) is important. Follow these steps during the arrest and following court procedures, in order to improve the likelihood of a positive outcome:
- Don't Run From or Fight the Arrest: Causing trouble, trying to escape, or attacking the government officials won't help you in the long run. In fact, you could see more criminal charges that are even harder to beat.
- Remain Silent: If you are questioned by the police, you can just say, "I am invoking my right to have an attorney present during questioning."
- 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): you might be released without being charged, but if you are, you will probably be given an option to post bail. Securing your freedom before a potential trial can make the rest of the defense process go a little smoother.
- Document Everything: To ensure you have it available to reference later, you should collect whatever evidence you have on your defense and make copies to show your attorney.
If you follow these steps and work with the right Sherman Oaks, CA, criminal defense lawyer, you'll lay the groundwork for a staunch defense.
The Role of a Sherman Oaks, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyer in Your Case
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 we listen to you first, we both craft a defense specific to you and make decisions based on the broader effects on your future.
We give our clients superb representation by:
- Learning about your case from all angles – From your story, discovery, and evidence reviews. We leave no stone unturned.
- Design a effective defense by filing motions to suppress evidence, working with expert witnesses, and challenging the state's subpoenas.
- Stand by you in court if there is a trial. We fight to remove biased jurors, discredit the state's witnesses in cross–examination, and establish reasonable doubt.
- Negotiate with the prosecution for plea deals. When the prosecution knows that you have a strong defense, you're more likely to receive an offer of a plea deal with a lesser sentence.
- Advocate for lesser sentences at the trial's end. Sometimes this takes the form of probation, or perhaps a diversionary program.
- Helping you carry on once the case is over. We can aid you with the expungement, sealing, and destruction of arrest and criminal records. Don't give up on a fresh start.
Sherman Oaks, CA, Criminal Defense Practice Areas for the Law Offices of David S. Chesley
The Law Offices of David S. Chesley practices criminal defense for several case types, and are here to listen, not to judge. 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. Our Sherman Oaks, CA traffic and criminal defense lawyers can help with:
- DUI/DWI Charges
- Felony DUI Charges
- Out-of-State DUI Charges
- DMV Hearing Defense
- Driving Without Insurance Charges
- And more
Violent Offense Charges
Violent crime charges tend to have high penalties in Sherman Oaks, CA, no matter which specific one you're alleged to have committed. They can include anything from threats to firearm possession to actually harming another person. Below are violent crime charges we frequently defend clients against:
Drug Charges
Drug charges in Sherman Oaks, CA, typically range from possession to distribution of a controlled substance. 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
- Drug Possession
- Manufacturing or Producing Controlled Substances
- Drug Possession for Sale
- And more
Theft Charges
Sherman Oaks, CA, theft charges vary greatly depending on the alleged act. 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 frequently come with a harsh social stigma. They can involve either the commission of a sexual act, certain communications, or the consumption of some pornographic materials. We can help you fight the following sex crime accusations in Sherman Oaks, CA:
Murder Charges
Murder charges are some of the most serious you can face in Sherman Oaks, CA. The punishment is severe, even for unintentional or unsuccessful attempts, meaning that you need an expert Sherman Oaks, CA, criminal defense attorney in your corner. Our attorneys can help you fight all of the below charges:
- Attempted Murder
- First Degree Murder
- Second Degree Murder
- Voluntary Manslaughter
- Vehicular Manslaughter
- And more.
Reach out to our attorneys today to learn more about how we can help with your case.
How to Pick a Sherman Oaks, CA, Criminal Defense Lawyer
There is no shortage of criminal defense lawyers in Sherman Oaks, CA, but there's a wide range of quality. Working with the right 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 – especially as a prosecutor, giving insights into how the state builds its cases.
- Relationships With Local Courts – as these are key in securing plea deals.
- Familiarity With Your Charges – ideas about how cases similar to yours have been successfully fought.
- Good Reputation – from other lawyers and from people they've previously defended.
- 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 – be sure you understand the bill and payment structure before hiring your attorney.
The Steps Our Sherman Oaks, CA Criminal Defense Lawyers Take to Protect Your Freedom:
For every single case we take, we build the fiercest defense possible. We don't believe in just sitting by and letting the prosecution make its case; we start early and stick with you throughout the legal process, showing strength in the face of the prosecution and satisfying the jury.
The minute you call our Sherman Oaks, CA, criminal defense lawyers, we get started on building your defense. Here's an example of what that will likely look like:
- Gather Info About Your Case – While the state is gathering evidence against you, we are gathering evidence to exonerate you.
- Fight For Early Dismissal – Whether at a pre–filing investigation conference or a preliminary hearing, our goal is to get the charges against you dropped or dismissed early.
- Argue To Get You Out of Jail Before the Trial – At a bail hearing, we will show the court that you deserve freedom while awaiting trial, without excessive bail.
- Negotiate With the Prosecution – If the prosecution cooperates, we'll secure a plea deal which works best for you.
- Defend You at Trial – Based on all our experience and research into your case, we'll tear apart the prosecution's case at trial and present a convincing defense to the jury.
- Represent You for Sentencing and Appeals – After the trial, if needed, we will argue for lenient sentencing and can appeal the verdict to reclaim your freedom.
The Advantages of Working With Our Sherman Oaks, 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 type of strategy the district attorney is likely to use, and we will strike back with a staunch defensive plan.
Our relationships with judges and prosecutors throughout California help us get plea bargains that can protect your freedom. 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 have a strong reputation with both clients and experts. As premier Sherman Oaks, CA, criminal defense attorneys, we make it our mission to defend every client to the best of our abilities. We don't surprise you with fees, and you can talk to one of our representatives at any time if you have any questions or there's an emergency.
Frequently Asked Criminal Defense Questions in Sherman Oaks, CA
The system moves fast after an arrest. It can be hard just to move forward, and it's not always clear what to do next. We've put together some of the common questions Sherman Oaks, CA, residents have regarding criminal defense, and clear answers to each:
Should I still hire a Sherman Oaks, CA, criminal defense lawyer if I'm not guilty?
Yes – while the police should never intentionally accuse an innocent person, errors can always happen, and you never know if something you say could unintentionally make you look guilty.
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 Sherman Oaks, CA?
Yes and no – while there are automatic and assisted procedures to have your records sealed, they are still visible to the government.
Are arrests also on my criminal record?
Arrests do go on your record, but with a catch – the state keeps a record of arrests, but without a conviction, the court can restrict access to those records.
If there is not a warrant out for my arrest, how can the police arrest me?
If a police officer has a reasonable suspicion that you've broken the law, they can arrest you even if they don't have a warrant.
What are the consequences of a criminal conviction?
Criminal convictions often carry fines and either prison or jail time. On top of that, you can face challenges in employment, housing, professional licensing, and possibly immigration. Because of this, it's critical to work with a criminal defense lawyer to minimize your chances of being convicted in the first place.
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 is plea bargaining?
Plea bargaining is a set of negotiations between the district attorney and your defense attorney. District attorneys use them to allow them to focus on the most serious cases, while defendants prevent the worse case scenario that comes with a conviction.
Contact the Law Offices of David S. Chesley Now – Your Freedom Is at Stake
If you're facing criminal charges in Sherman Oaks, CA, you need a strong defense strategy. You have to have an expert criminal defense attorney at your side. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley, Inc. is up to the job.
We bring experience and expertise to your case, and are ready to help you whenever you need us. 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 case at once.
The Law Offices of David S. Chesley can also help you with the following in Sherman Oaks, CA:
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