Criminal Defense Lawyer

Most people are not looking for a criminal defense lawyer out of general curiosity.

If you are facing criminal charges, you are probably filled with apprehension.

Don't panic. No matter what the charge(s), a good criminal defense lawyer can calm you down and help you treat this as a business problem to be solved.

Being charged with a crime in California does not mean your life is over. The whole process is almost never as devastating as most clients fear at the outset.

You need someone to calmly evaluate your case and assess the likelihood of an innocent verdict and, failing that, the reality of probable sentences for the Penal Code section or sections to which you may have to plea.

You want an attorney who has experience dealing with the District Attorney's office. You want to achieve a result that will not significantly change your life.   

• What is the attorney’s initial ‘read’ on your case? Based on his preliminary analysis, does he have any suggestions as to defenses available to you? Should you plan on trial or will your interests be better served by a plea bargain?

• What will the costs be? Will expert witnesses be needed?  If so, what will they cost? Can you afford trial? What is the standard sentencing range?

• What discovery of evidence and witnesses does the lawyer propose to undertake? Discovery includes witness statement, police reports, video and audiotapes, and other matters that bear on your evidentiary posture. Has the lawyer discussed with you the possible significance of evidence that is not there? Could the prosecutor have evidence that might help your case? How much investigating may be required to prove your innocence? 

• What does the lawyer suggest you do?  For instance, would it be advisable to enter into a rehab or anger management class before sentencing?

• What plea-bargains and sentence alternatives may be available?  More than 90% of all criminal cases are negotiated to a resolution other than trial. Plea-bargaining is an art practriced well by the Law Offices of Douglas Slain.   First we have to assess the strength of your case and your odds at trial.  Then we try to size up the attitude of the deputy district attorney assigned to the case.  We consider what we have in the way of ammunition to improve our response to the prosecutor's offer.

• Are there any sentencing alternatives such as electronic home detention or community service?

For a free confidential consultation, contact the Law Offices of Douglas Slain online or call toll-free 888-998-5558.