At Power Trial Lawyers, we understand the profound impact a criminal charge can have on your life. Our skilled and dedicated team relentlessly pursues every possible angle to defend your rights and secure your freedom. With a rich history of representing criminal defendants across a myriad of charges, we possess an in-depth understanding of the American legal system and the tactics necessary for a vigorous defense. Our absolute commitment to your case distinguishes us as a reliable ally during your legal battle. We navigate through the intricate legal maze, ensuring every aspect of your case is meticulously handled. Reach out to us at (213) 800-7664 for a free consultation to discuss your situation. At Power Trial Lawyers, we are your fortress amidst the tumultuous sea of criminal law, upholding your rights and protecting your future.

Burden and Standard of Proof in Criminal Cases

Accused of a crime? Remember, at our distinguished law firm, we firmly believe and uphold the fundamental presumption of innocence until proven guilty – a cornerstone of American jurisprudence. Accusations, allegations, and charges do not define you, establish guilt, or predict outcomes. These are simply legal hurdles that our experienced lawyers can help you navigate through. The prosecution always bears the heavy duty of proving each element of a criminal charge. It is not enough to merely suspect or believe you to be guilty, they must present irrefutable proof beyond a reasonable doubt to satisfy the strict requirements of the law. Our lawyers understand the complexity of this burden and use it to your advantage.

We diligently scrutinize every shred of evidence, expose weaknesses in the prosecutor’s claims, and ardently champion your defense. Rest assured, our unwavering commitment to justice means we employ our comprehensive understanding of criminal defense law to ensure a robust defense strategy on your behalf. Your intended audience here isn’t the victim of the crime or the public, but the courtroom – the judge, jury, and opposing counsel. At our law firm, we exclusively represent individuals facing criminal charges, shaping compelling narratives and employing strategic defense tactics to help protect your rights and navigate the legal challenges that lay ahead. Bear in mind, we are not here for victims; we are here for you, the defendant, to aid your fight for justice. Whether this is your first encounter with the criminal justice system or a recurring incident, let our accumulated wisdom guide you in this legal battle.

Classification of Offenses

• Felonies: These are the most serious types of crimes under California law and can carry prison sentences ranging from a year to life, depending on the gravity of the crime. Our law firm is well-equipped with adequate resources to effectively represent clients facing felony charges. We employ strong defense strategies aimed at achieving optimal outcomes for these serious incidences.
• Misdemeanors: This category includes criminal offenses that are less severe but still carry significant potential penalties, such as fines, probation, and in some cases, jail time. Understanding that your reputation, freedom, and livelihood are on the line, we stand ready to mount a rigorous defense on your behalf, advocating fiercely for your rights.
• Infractions: While infractions are the least severe category, they are criminal offenses carrying potential fines and potential impact on one’s record. We extend comprehensive assistance to our clients, aiming to minimize the impact of such charges on their everyday lives.
• Wobblers: Some crimes in California can be prosecuted either as a felony or a misdemeanor. These are typically known as “wobblers.” Our legal team stays updated on the intricate legal landscape surrounding these charges, guiding our clients skillfully through the legal process as we strive for the most favorable resolution possible.

In each of these categories, our law firm’s attorneys employ their deep understanding of the law, relentless work ethic, and a thorough approach to provide unparalleled representation. We are committed to delivering legal services that put the needs and interests of our clients first in every aspect of criminal defense.

Common Defenses in Criminal Cases

Navigating the legal system can be tough, yet if you are facing criminal charges, understanding your defense options is pivotal to your future. Our law firm is committed to walking you through these paths:

• Self-Defense: This defense is valid if you believed you were in immediate danger and had to protect yourself. However, your self-defensive force should be proportional to the threat you faced.
• Defense of Others: This applies when you act to protect another person from immediate danger or harm. It is crucial to demonstrate your genuine belief that intervention was necessary, and your response was appropriate under the circumstances.
• Lack of Intent: Here, we aim to prove that you didn’t intend to commit the crime you’re accused of. Whether due to a genuine mistake, or because you accidentally caused damages or injuries, we can build a case around this.
• Consent: For certain crimes, showing that the supposed victim had given explicit consent can dismiss charges. It can be a challenging defense and may require substantial documentation and evidence.
• Entrapment: This defense focuses on proving you were encouraged by law enforcement to commit a crime you wouldn’t have otherwise done. Your attorneys will need to expose dishonest or manipulative actions leveraged by the police.
• Necessity: This uncommon defense requires proof that you committed the crime to avoid a greater evil. It can potentially be applied in survival situations or immediate crises.
• Duress: If you acted under serious threats or danger from another person, proving duress can dismiss charges. It requires evidence of immediate threat or use of force against you.

Our firm seeks to educate, guide, and represent you under the heavy burden of criminal charges. A deep understanding of these defense categories and a clear ethical commitment position us as a trusted ally in your pursuit of justice.

Constitutional Rights of Criminal Defendant

Navigating your way through the American criminal justice system can be daunting without appropriate legal counsel. Our firm is wholly dedicated to providing vigorous defense for those accused of crimes. We understand the profound impact these allegations can have on your personal and professional life, as well as the necessity of guarding and asserting your consitutional rights. These rights include:

• The right to remain silent: The Fifth Amendment allows you to abstain from questioning that may incriminate you. This right is a powerful safeguard against coerced or false confessions.
• The right to counsel: Sixth Amendment provisions guarantee your access to legal representation. If you cannot afford an attorney, the state must provide you with one.
• The right to confront witnesses: As a defendant, you, or your attorney, have the ability to cross-examine any witnesses who testify against you. This process ensures the integrity of their statements and your opportunity for defense.
• The right to a jury trial: If the charges are serious, you have the entitlement to a trial by a jury of your peers. This collective decision-making process aims to provide a fair and unbiased verdict.
• Protection against double jeopardy: The Fifth Amendment prevents you from being tried twice for the same crime, ensuring due process of law.
• Protection from unreasonable searches and seizures: The Fourth Amendment protects your privacy and personal property from unwarranted and invasive government intrusion.

These constitutional safeguards form the cornerstone of your defense, and any violation could potentially hinder the prosecution’s case against you. We are committed not just to uphold these rights but to strategize your defense around them. Remember, in our democratic society, you are innocent until proven guilty, and our firm is resolved to tirelessly advocate your defense until this justice is upheld.

Plea Bargains in Criminal Cases

When you’re facing criminal charges, the predicament can be daunting and overwhelming. Fears of the unknown, potential penalties, and the complex judicial process may cloud your decision-making. In such moments, you rely heavily on qualified legal advice to guide your steps. As a distinguished law firm, we’re competent in providing critical insights for criminal defense.

An aspect of criminal law that we provide substantial guidance on is plea bargains. Plea bargains can offer a more predictable outcome when compared to a trial. This option allows the accused to plead guilty to a lesser charge or to only some of the charges they face, in exchange for a lighter sentence. For example, armed robbery charges may dwindle to theft under specific circumstances.

However, plea bargains are not universally advantageous. You are effectively admitting guilt when you accept a plea deal, which can lead to consequences beyond immediate legal penalties, such as impacting your employment prospects or social standing. Moreover, poorly negotiated plea arrangements might still lead to severe sentencing or leave you with a criminal record.

Providing representation to criminal defendants, our law firm has immense experience in negotiating fair plea bargains. We commit to scrutinizing your case meticulously, analyzing your legal options, and advocating for your best interests, all without using highfalutin legal jargon. Regardless of the complexity of your situation, you can trust that our litigators will unrelentingly champion your cause. A firm belief in justice and equity fuels our dedication to serving each client, instigating our pursuit of every possible defense avenue for you. In us, you’ll find unfaltering guidance, relentless defense, and unwavering dedication to your case.

Expungement or Record Sealing of Criminal Convictions

Being charged with, and even more so, being convicted of a crime can markedly affect the course of an individual’s life; opportunities that were once available often become closed, and the shadow of the past begins to loom large over each and every future step. However, California law recognizes that everyone deserves a second chance, and people should have the capacity to amend for past mistakes and move on constructively. This is where post-conviction relief measures, such as expungement and record sealing, come into play.

Expungement, in the legal context, typically refers to the process by which a criminal conviction is essentially erased from an individual’s record. Once expunged, in the eyes of the law, it is almost as if the crime never occurred. This can open up lost opportunities, and free the person from the restrictions that a criminal conviction often places on employment, housing, and even the vote.

Record sealing, on the other hand, is not a complete erasure, but instead, as the name suggests, it seals away the record of the crime from public view. A sealed record is still present, but it is invisible to most background checks.

Both expungement and record sealing come with their unique benefits and are applicable under specific circumstances – the type of crime, the time that’s passed since the conviction or completion of the sentence, and the individual’s record since. It is at this juncture that our law firm, having an in-depth understanding of the workings of the California legal system, can prove invaluable. We extend our aid to defendants who want to rehabilitate their lives without the weight of a criminal conviction upon them. Clients, please understand: we are here to help defend your future by mitigating the impacts of the past. Our firm stands for commitment, compassion, and the belief in second chances.

Ready to Battle the Prosecution for You

We at Power Trial Lawyers are dedicated to staunchly advocating for those entangled in the complex criminal process. We comprehend the nuances of criminal law, unmask the subtleties of the prosecution’s case, and carefully craft your defense, respecting every unique scenario’s fine details. From the inception of client representation to a case’s conclusion, our commitment to you remains steadfast.

Are you being unjustly charged? Rest easy knowing that our competent and dedicated legal team stands ready to fight for you every step of the way. We believe in facilitating an open line of communication, keeping you in the loop and affording you comfort and peace of mind. We encourage potential clients to access our insights through a free consultation, exploring how we can best assist you in securing your freedom. At Power Trial Lawyers, we diligently work towards preserving your rights and ensuring justice is served.