Rancho Santa Margarita Criminal Defense Lawyer

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Rancho Santa Margarita Criminal Defense Attorney

Facing any type of criminal charge is a stressful endeavor for anyone. Walking into the Harbor Justice Center to fight a criminal offense can leave you feeling hopeless and overwhelmed. That is why it’s important to hire a Rancho Santa Margarita criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. A skilled attorney can guide you through this trying time.

How We Can Help

Brown & Stedman LLP has a proven track record of success in criminal defense cases. With decades of experience, we know how to reach a positive outcome, no matter how severe your charges may be. We’ve served the Southern Orange County area for many years, and we are happy to help members of the community in their moments of need.

What Type of Criminal Charges Can a Criminal Defense Lawyer Help With?

Rancho Santa Margarita criminal defense laws cover a wide range of different offenses, from misdemeanors to felonies. The following are some of the most common cases that a criminal defense attorney can help with:

DUI. Driving under the influence is a common criminal case in California. A DUI on your record can linger and affect your life for years to come. We can investigate to determine if the officer had probable cause and examine the evidence to find a solution to your DUI case.
Drug charges. Drug-related arrests were the most common type of misdemeanor in the state as of 2023, making up 24.9% of all misdemeanor arrests. Courts can seek harsh sentences if the amount found is upgraded to a felony quantity. Having one of our experienced criminal defense lawyers on your side can help ease the process and increase your chances of a successful outcome.
White-collar crimes. This category covers a variety of different crimes, such as forgery, fraud, embezzlement, tax errors, and other financial offenses. The overwhelming nature of these cases should be left to a professional who can sift through all the records and paperwork. Decades of working in these sorts of complex cases have left our team well-prepared.
Domestic violence. These cases can be very emotionally charged due to the relational background between the parties involved. We can help calm the situation and bring a clear mind to the case, both at home and in the courts. With 163,024 domestic violence calls for help in 2024, these charges are common throughout California.
Homicide. Facing a homicide charge is a terrifying endeavor. Our skill and experience in other homicide trials can give you more options for a strong defense.

No matter the situation, it’s crucial to remain level-headed while being charged. You may have the urge to plead your case on your own, sure of your innocence, but that is often the last thing you should do. When arrested, remain calm, and use your phone call to make sure a criminal defense attorney is on the way.

Why Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer From Brown & Stedman LLP?

Hiring a Rancho Santa Margarita criminal defense lawyer can make all the difference in your case. The earlier a professional can get involved, the better the outcome may be.

A criminal defense lawyer from Brown & Stedman LLP can sit down and walk through your case with you. We can examine the evidence being used against you and explain your options. In order to convict you, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you are guilty of the charges at hand. Our defense attorneys can examine their case, pointing out any potential errors or violations made during the time of your arrest.

Another role that your criminal defense lawyer can play is in lessening your sentence. Your attorney can argue for the quality of your character and help soften any penalties if you are found guilty. They may be able to argue a felony down to a misdemeanor or have a case wiped from your record. With a lawyer by your side, your chances of receiving the harshest penalties are significantly lower.

Finally, your criminal defense lawyer can help you make the decision of whether or not a plea bargain is worth taking to avoid trial. If you are sure of your guilt or if the case is too strong, your criminal defense attorney can help get the most favorable plea deal possible. Much like their role in sentencing, we can fight for your ideal guilty verdict if necessary.

FAQs

Q: How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost in California?

A: There is no set cost in place for a criminal defense lawyer in California. The pricing relies on the details of your case and the work required. Generally, criminal defense lawyers will charge an hourly rate that you can discuss before hiring them. Often, more experienced, reputable lawyers charge higher rates.

Q: What Is the Difference Between a Criminal Lawyer and a Criminal Defense Attorney?

A: A criminal lawyer refers to a legal professional who practices criminal law. This includes both criminal defense attorneys and prosecutors. A criminal defense attorney is someone whose main interest is representing individuals facing criminal charges. Conversely, a prosecutor represents the government and works to build a case against the defendant.

Q: How Much Do Criminal Defense Attorneys Affect a Case?

A: The ways in which criminal defense attorneys affect a case cannot be overstated. From having a charge dismissed outright to getting a reduced sentence, a criminal defense attorney can only improve the results of any case. Talking to a lawyer as early in the legal process as possible is one way to protect yourself from legal turbulence.

Q: What Should I Hide From My Criminal Defense Attorney?

A: Hiding things from your criminal defense attorney could harm your case. The ideal course of action for any criminal charge is to be upfront and honest with your attorney. A criminal defense attorney’s job is to give you the most effective representation, and they can only do that when you share all the details. Even if you believe you are guilty, it’s still better to inform your lawyer so they know how to protect your interests.

Schedule a Free Consultation for Your Criminal Case Today

No matter the details of your criminal case, Brown & Stedman LLP has the talent and experience you need. We can help you by providing top-quality legal representation. Contact us for a free consultation right away. We can discuss your case and identify the ideal path forward in this scary time.