Why Hire a Local Attorney to Represent Your Case
Ventura, CA, has a crime rate of 21%, which is lower than the national average. Penalties and punishments consequent to conviction in criminal cases are usually more severe than those associated with civil cases. Additionally, criminal convictions can impact your personal life, employment opportunities, and your freedom adversely.
An experienced Ventura criminal defense lawyer can educate you on criminal defense laws and help prove your innocence in court. The laws and classifications associated with criminal offenses in Ventura, CA, can be confusing. Your lawyer can educate you on these provisions and help build a strong defense on your behalf.
In-Depth Knowledge of Criminal Laws and Offenses
Criminal offenses in Ventura, CA, could be classified as infractions, misdemeanors, or felonies based on the nature and severity of the offense. Offenses like first-degree murder, homicide, voluntary manslaughter, assault with a weapon, and rape could be punishable with up to twenty-five years in prison.
More heinous crimes are punishable with capital punishment or life sentences with no parole. Criminal defense lawyers have detailed knowledge of each classification. These lawyers also know the best defenses against each of these charges.
For instance, California’s self-defense laws allow individuals to defend themselves and protect others in the face of imminent harm. Your lawyer might be able to get you an acquittal if you were forced to commit a criminal act to defend yourself or another person.
The California Penal Code 198.5 PC follows the “Castle doctrine.” As per this principle, a person can use force against anyone who tries to break into or force their way into their home.
Even if the incident results in the death or murder of the intruder, the act will be deemed “justifiable homicide.” Expert Ventura, CA, criminal defense lawyers specializing in local criminal defense cases can help prove there was no “criminal intent” or “negligence” on your side.
Reduce the Severity of Your Punishment
Criminal defense lawyers typically employ the best criminal defense strategies to ensure the client’s felony is “expunged” or obliterated. If expungement is not possible, the lawyer will try to reduce the felony to a misdemeanor. Lawyers use options like “plea bargains” to reduce the intensity of the punishment.
This step will ensure the restoration of certain legal rights of the defendant, in this case, you. Some misdemeanors are punishable with up to 365 days in prison and fines of up to $1000, but remember, these punishments are much less severe than punishments for felonies.
Legal Representation Services
Only legally “competent” persons are allowed to represent themselves in criminal cases in Ventura, CA. Criminal cases could result in permanent criminal records if not handled well. A trusted Ventura criminal defense lawyer can defend you in court to boost your chances of getting an acquittal or plea bargain.
These experts understand the legal consequences of pleading guilty in a criminal case. Therefore, your Ventura criminal defense attorney will help you prepare for court trials and other proceedings.
Ventura, CA, has around 220 registered criminal offenders. Being convicted of a criminal offense in Ventura, CA, can potentially destroy a person’s life. However, an expert criminal defense lawyer can get your punishments lessened or even get your case dismissed entirely.
