Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney in Victorville, CA
Hey there! If you got arrested in Victorville, CA and are facing criminal charges, you’re probably feeling stressed and overwhelmed. Finding the right criminal defense lawyer can make all the difference in getting your charges reduced or even dismissed. This article will give you the scoop on Victorville criminal attorneys and how they can help.
Do I Really Need a Lawyer?
You may be tempted to just represent yourself rather than hire a lawyer. I feel you – lawyers are expensive! But here’s the thing: the prosecutors have years of legal experience and know all the ins and outs of the system. They will use this against you if you try to go it alone. Having an experienced criminal defense attorney levels the playing field.Here are some key benefits of hiring a lawyer:
- Negotiate with the prosecutor to get charges reduced or dismissed
- Develop an effective legal strategy based on their expertise
- Advise you on whether to take a plea deal or go to trial
- Present the strongest defense case on your behalf
- Handle all the legal paperwork so you don’t mess anything up
Most cases don’t even make it to trial – a good lawyer can get your charges lessened or dropped through negotiations. Totally worth the money in my opinion!
Finding the Right Victorville Criminal Defense Attorney
There are a bunch of lawyers to choose from in Victorville. Here are some tips on finding the right one:
Check their experience
You’ll want a lawyer who specializes in criminal defense and has years of experience representing clients in Victorville courts. Ask about the types of cases they’ve handled and their track record of successes.
Make sure they have time for you
Some lawyers take on way too many clients and don’t give each one the attention they deserve. Make sure they have the bandwidth to fully investigate your case and advocate for you every step of the way.
Consider their reputation
Do some research online for client reviews and ratings. Also ask the lawyer for references from past clients you can speak to. This gives you a sense of their responsiveness, communication skills and effectiveness.
Meet them in person
It’s important to meet with the lawyer in person before hiring them. This lets you gauge their personality, communication style and overall approach. You want someone who listens to you and whom you feel comfortable with.
Compare fee structures
Ask upfront about their rates and fee structure. Some lawyers charge flat fees while others bill by the hour. Get quotes from a few different attorneys so you can compare.I’d recommend checking out firms like The McMillan Law Firm, The Law Offices of Christopher Whelton, and The Law Offices of Dmitry Gorin & Associates. They have awesome reviews and a proven track record with Victorville cases.
How Can a Victorville Criminal Lawyer Defend Me?
If you do get charged with a crime, an experienced criminal defense attorney can be your best advocate. Here are some of the ways they defend clients:
Investigate the charges
Your lawyer will do their own investigation into what happened. They can interview witnesses, collect evidence, visit the crime scene, and build the strongest case for your innocence or at least reasonable doubt.
Attempt to get charges dismissed
In some cases, charges can be dismissed pre-trial if your rights were violated upon arrest or if there’s insufficient evidence. A lawyer knows how to file the proper motions to get charges tossed out.
Negotiate with the DA
An experienced criminal defense attorney has likely worked with the District Attorney‘s office before. They can negotiate with the DA to get charges reduced or even dropped in exchange for a plea deal.
Mount an aggressive legal defense
If your case does go to trial, your lawyer will give you the strongest defense possible. This includes cross-examining witnesses, presenting evidence, and delivering compelling legal arguments. An adept lawyer can create plenty of reasonable doubt.
Seek alternative resolutions
Your attorney may suggest alternatives like drug court, deferred adjudication, community service, or probation to avoid jail time. They know all the options that the DA and judge may agree to.Having a knowledgeable criminal lawyer in your corner can make a huge difference. They know how to navigate the system and protect your rights.
What Types of Crimes Do Victorville Criminal Attorneys Handle?
Lawyers in Victorville have experience defending all sorts of criminal charges, including:
- Drug crimes like possession, distribution, trafficking
- Violent crimes such as assault, battery, domestic violence
- Sex crimes including rape, statutory rape, sexual assault
- Weapon charges like illegal possession of a firearm
- DUI and drunk driving
- Theft, burglary, shoplifting, and robbery
- Vandalism and criminal mischief
- Fraud, forgery, identity theft
- Homicide, manslaughter, and murder
No matter what you’ve been accused of, don’t try to handle it alone. A criminal defense lawyer can carefully review the charges and evidence and build the strongest case for your defense.
What Will It Cost to Hire a Victorville Criminal Attorney?
The cost to hire a criminal defense lawyer in Victorville can range quite a bit depending on the attorney’s experience level and the complexity of your case. Here are some typical price points:
- Less serious misdemeanors – $1,000 – $5,000 total
- More serious felony charges – $5,000 – $15,000+ total
- DUI cases – $2,000 – $7,500 total
- Sex crime charges – $4,000 – $12,000+ total
- Violent felony charges – $10,000 – $25,000+ total
- Murder, homicide cases – $25,000 – $100,000+ total
Rates will also vary based on whether the lawyer charges a flat fee upfront or bills hourly. Be sure to get a detailed fee agreement in writing before moving forward.Many law firms offer payment plans to break up the total cost into more affordable monthly installments. And some may be willing to negotiate their rates if needed. Don’t hesitate to ask about flexible payment options.
Having an experienced criminal defense lawyer is worth the investment to protect your future. In the long run, hiring a pro can save you money by getting charges reduced or dismissed.
How Do I Choose Between Victorville Criminal Defense Lawyers?
I know it can be overwhelming deciding which criminal defense attorney to hire with so many options to pick from. Here are some key factors to consider as you make your choice:
- Years of experience – Look for 10+ years specifically handling criminal cases in Victorville
- Case results – Ask about their track record getting charges dismissed or reduced
- Communication skills – Choose a lawyer who listens and keeps you informed
- Courtroom skills – Opt for an aggressive yet strategic litigator
- Reputation – Check reviews and attorney rating platforms
- Compatibility – Make sure your personalities mesh well
- Resources – Pick a firm with ample time and resources to dedicate to you
- Fees – Get fee quotes from a few firms to compare rates
I’d recommend starting by checking out The McMillan Law Firm, The Law Offices of Christopher Whelton, and The Law Offices of Dmitry Gorin & Associates. Schedule consultations with a few of your top choices to get a feel for them and make sure you feel comfortable.
What Should I Do If I’m Arrested in Victorville?
Here are some key tips if you find yourself under arrest in Victorville:
- Remain silent – Don’t say anything to police without your lawyer present. Use your right to remain silent.
- Don’t resist arrest – As difficult as it is, don’t physically resist being arrested. This can lead to additional charges.
- Ask for your phone call – Request your one phone call to contact a lawyer or loved one.
- Don’t consent to searches – Politely refuse to consent to any searches of your person, belongings or property.
- Hire a lawyer ASAP – Have a lawyer present for any police questioning or interactions.
- Follow pre-trial release terms – If released, follow all terms like checking in with pre-trial services.
- Start building your defense – Work closely with your lawyer to build your strongest case.
Having an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side early on can make a huge difference. Don’t wait to hire one!