San Luis Obispo Criminal Defense Attorney Providing Quality Legal Representation
When you have been charged with a crime then it is vital that you take immediate steps to protect yourself. Failing to do so can mean that you receive more severe penalties than were necessary or, worse, that you receive a wrongful conviction on your record. Retaining a lawyer is the first step in ensuring that your case is handled correctly from beginning to end. If you or a family member have been arrested or charged with a crime, then contact us today to speak with a San Luis Obispo criminal defense attorney.
The Potential Consequences of Being Convicted of a Crime in California
Being convicted of any crime can have a serious impact on your future. This is true whether you are charged with a felony or a misdemeanor. First and foremost, any criminal charge raises the possibility that you will lose your freedom for a period of time. Furthermore, even if incarceration appears unlikely, a conviction means that you will be saddled with a criminal record. Such records can appear on background checks and, as a result, you may find yourself disqualified during job interviews, unable to obtain professional licenses, and more.
Counsel will help you understand the potential consequences of any charge you are facing. This can include the possibility of counts being run concurrently, whether you may be eligible for probation, etc. This understanding of your situation will, in turn, assist you with informing your lawyer how you wish to proceed.
How a San Luis Obispo Defense Lawyer Can Be of Assistance
An experienced attorney understands that criminal matters move through the system very quickly. There are many ways in which counsel can ensure that you are protected while the case proceeds.
Determining the relevant facts. Your attorney’s early steps will include, but not be limited to, gaining all available evidence from the prosecution, launching an investigation and, importantly, hearing your side of the story. Unfortunately, many defendants accept a guilty plea without being able to present their side of the story.
Identifying possible defenses. How to best defend a case will depend on the nature of the charges. Your counsel will review the evidence to determine if your matter involves search and seizure issues, mistaken identity, or other facts which may give you a possible defense.
Providing honest advice on how to proceed. There may be instances in which an agreed upon resolution is the best way to resolve your case. The overwhelming majority of criminal cases do not go to trial. If you have a viable defense then, quite often, the prosecution may be willing to offer a favorable resolution to resolve the matter.
