Criminal convictions can alter the entire course of your life, and you must ensure you get adequate legal representation to secure your freedom and future. Depending on your charges, you may need to register as a sex offender or be unable to find employment and housing due to your criminal record. You will also face fines, jail time, and more, which can uplevel your life.
Your best option is to speak to a Harvard Heights criminal defense lawyer from the Simmrin Law Group to fight for your freedom.
Criminal Cases in Harvard Heights
There are many charges you can face that fall into criminal defense. While you assume that your innocence will speak for itself, that is rarely the case. Once the prosecutor has you in their grasp, they are unlikely to let you go.
If they can find ways to show evidence that you are guilty, they will use it even if it is unreliable. A criminal defense lawyer in Harvard Heights, CA, will work against their efforts and present your case in the most advantageous way possible. Some of the cases we handle include the following:
- Sex crimes
- Drugs crimes
- Federal crimes
- Theft crimes
- White collar crimes
- Violent crimes
- Traffic violations
Allow the Simmrin Law Group to help you move forward with your life. We can handle infractions, misdemeanors, or felonies. We also assist with expungements, cleaning your record of previous criminal charges.
DUI Charges
Driving under the influence is criminal, as are some traffic citations. Avoid assuming that your traffic stop or DUI is a traffic violation you can pay a fine for and leave in the past. While some DUIs can be resolved by paying fees, the charge will stay on your criminal record.
If you get a subsequent offense within ten years, you will face harsher penalties. California also has a three-strikes rule where you can face 25 years to life for three felony convictions. You must take DUI charges seriously because your future could be at risk.
Our criminal defense attorneys are here to help you beat these charges and avoid further consequences.
Sex Crimes
Sex crimes are another prevalent criminal charge that Harvard Heights residents could face. If you have a sex crime conviction, you can be subject to many years in state prison and be required to register as a sex offender. You must list your name and address on the sex offender registry indefinitely.
While sex crimes are gruesome, many innocent people are charged with these crimes through false accusations and other mistakes. Some sex crimes include rape, sexual assault, and lewd acts with a child. Simmrin Law Group knows how severe these cases are, and we will work to reduce the consequences when possible.
Arrest and Pre-Filing for Criminal Charges
You need early intervention for your criminal case to get your charges dismissed or reduced. You Simmrin criminal defense attorney in Harvard Heights is ready to team with experts and investigators to build your case. We will obtain evidence, such as witness statements, to help us take action before your charges are completely filed.
The key is for you to contact our offices immediately following your arrest. Your arrest must be based on probable cause, and we can often find exculpatory evidence to help your case that the police and court miss. When we begin working on your case as quickly as possible, there is a better chance that your charges will be dropped before going to court.
However, results will vary depending on your individual circumstances.
Bail Bond vs Recognizance
After your arrest, you must focus on getting out of custody immediately. You will need to attend an arraignment and bail hearing to see what your future will hold. After your arraignment, you can be released by a bail bond agent or on your own recognizance.
You do not have to post bail if you are released on your own recognizance. If you need to post bail, we advise having a family member post it so you can get out immediately. The purpose of bail is to ensure you return to court when scheduled.
You can post cash bail to cover the entire amount. If your bail is exonerated at the end of the case, you will receive the whole amount back. However, the most common way to post bail is using a bail bonds company where you pay 10% of the bail, and the company posts the entire bond.
The bond company will get the 10% back if your bail is exonerated at the end of your case. We understand the process is complex, and we will guide you and your family through it to ensure you take the correct steps.
Probation Violations
If you already have a criminal conviction and are on probation, you should follow the terms of your probation. The court can find you in violation if you fail to check in, do not satisfy a condition, or violate another law. If you have a probation violation, you can face jail time and other consequences for your actions.
You will have to attend a probation violation hearing which is similar to a criminal trial where:
- Witnesses can testify
- Evidence is presented
- Your criminal defense lawyer represents you
The critical difference is no jury will determine your future. Everything will depend on the judge hearing your case. Additionally, the prosecution must not prove your case beyond a reasonable doubt but must show a preponderance of the evidence. Essentially they must show that you are 51% likely that you violated the terms of your probation.
You can prepare for a probation violation hearing by speaking to a Harvard Heights criminal defense lawyer.
Our Criminal Defense Lawyers Can Help
You can find yourself facing severe consequences for a mistake or misunderstanding that results in a criminal charge. You must take action as soon as you are arrested. Your arraignment and hearings will begin within 72 hours of your arrest, giving you one chance to get it right.
Each Harvard Heights criminal defense lawyer from Simmrin Law Group understands how important it is to move swiftly. We have defended clients for years and are ready to take on your case. Call our office to schedule an appointment today.