Criminal Defense

When your freedom and future are on the line, you need a strategic, determined defense. We provide aggressive representation for individuals facing criminal charges throughout California — protecting your rights at every stage of the process.

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Our Services

Our Criminal Defense Services

Strategic defense representation designed to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future.

DUI Defense

A DUI charge carries serious consequences — license suspension, fines, jail time, and a criminal record that can affect employment and immigration status. We challenge every aspect of the prosecution's case: the validity of the traffic stop, the accuracy of field sobriety and chemical tests, and the handling of evidence. Our goal is always the best possible outcome — whether that means dismissal, reduced charges, or acquittal at trial.

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FOIA Requests

Understanding your complete criminal and immigration history is critical before taking any legal action. We file Freedom of Information Act requests with federal agencies and public records requests with state and local authorities to obtain your full records. We then carefully review every document to identify potential issues, expired convictions, and opportunities for relief.

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Criminal Record Assistance for Immigration

Certain criminal convictions can trigger severe immigration consequences — including deportation, inadmissibility, and denial of citizenship. We work at the intersection of criminal and immigration law to mitigate the immigration impact of criminal charges. Our team collaborates to pursue dispositions that protect your immigration status while providing a strong criminal defense.

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Expungement & Record Clearing

A criminal record can follow you for life — affecting employment, housing, professional licenses, and immigration benefits. We help eligible individuals clear or reduce the impact of past convictions through expungement, and other post-conviction relief. A clean record opens doors that a conviction closed.

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Why Choose Our Firm for Criminal Defense

Criminal defense is about more than the courtroom. We bring legal skill, strategic thinking, and a genuine commitment to protecting your future to every case.

California Licensed & Experienced

With extensive courtroom experience and deep knowledge of California criminal law, we provide capable, confident representation from arraignment through trial — and through post-conviction relief when needed.

Immigration-Savvy Defense

For non-citizen clients, a criminal case is also an immigration case. We understand how criminal dispositions affect immigration status and develop defense strategies that protect both your freedom today and your ability to remain in the United States tomorrow.

Bilingual, Client-Centered Representation

All services are available in English and Spanish. We ensure you fully understand the charges against you, the legal process, your options, and the potential consequences — in the language you are most comfortable with.

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions about criminal defense in California.

What should I do if I am arrested?+

First, remain calm and comply with law enforcement. Do not resist, even if you believe the arrest is wrongful. Invoke your right to remain silent and your right to an attorney — clearly and politely. Do not discuss the facts of your case with anyone except your lawyer. Anything you say to police, cellmates, or even on recorded jail calls can be used against you. Contact an attorney as soon as possible.

What are the penalties for a first-time DUI in California?+

A first-time DUI conviction in California typically carries penalties including: 3 to 5 years of summary probation, fines and penalty assessments totaling approximately $1,800 to $2,000, a 4-month or 6-month driver's license suspension, completion of a 3-month or 9-month DUI education program, and possible jail time (often served through community service or alternative sentencing). Penalties increase significantly for higher blood alcohol levels, accidents, or prior offenses.

Can a criminal conviction affect my immigration status?+

Yes — certain criminal convictions can have devastating immigration consequences, including deportation, inadmissibility, mandatory detention, and permanent bars to lawful status or citizenship. Crimes involving moral turpitude, aggravated felonies, drug offenses, and domestic violence are particularly dangerous for non-citizens. This is why it is critical to have an attorney who understands the intersection of criminal and immigration law before accepting any plea agreement.

How long does a criminal conviction stay on my record?+

In California, most criminal convictions remain on your record permanently unless you take affirmative steps to clear them. Certain misdemeanors and felonies may be eligible for expungement under California Penal Code § 1203.4, which reopens the case, withdraws the plea or verdict, and dismisses the charges. While an expungement does not erase the record completely, it can significantly improve your ability to pass employment background checks and qualify for professional licenses.

Do I really need a lawyer if I am innocent?+

Yes — absolutely. Being innocent does not guarantee a favorable outcome. The criminal justice system is complex, and prosecutors are skilled at building cases. Without an experienced defense attorney to challenge the evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and present your side of the story effectively, innocent people can and do face wrongful convictions. An attorney protects your rights, ensures due process, and fights for the outcome you deserve.

Your Defense Starts Here

A criminal charge is not a conviction. With skilled, strategic representation, you can mount a strong defense and protect your rights, your freedom, and your future. Do not wait — the earlier we get involved, the more options are available to you.

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