Orange County Criminal Law: What You Need to Know

Criminal law can be complex, and the penalties for breaking the law can be severe. If you are accused of a crime, it’s important to understand your rights and what you can do to protect yourself. If you are under investigation or have been arrested for a crime, it’s important to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney right away.

What Is A Criminal Law

Criminal law is a set of rules and regulations that dictate what actions are deemed criminal in nature. These laws are put in place to protect citizens from harmful and dangerous behavior, as well as to punish those who commit crimes. Criminal laws vary from state to state and can be quite complex. It is important to know and understand the criminal laws in your area, as breaking them can result in serious consequences.

What Are The Most Common Criminal Offenses

There are many different types of criminal offenses, but the most common ones are:

DUI

The acts of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This can be a serious offense and can result in fines, jail time, and loss of driving privileges.

Theft Crimes

These are any criminal offenses that involve the taking of property without the owner's consent. There are many different types of theft crimes, and the penalties for committing them can vary depending on the severity of the offense.

Some of the most common theft crimes include burglary, larceny, and robbery. Burglary is defined as breaking into a building or other structure unlawfully in order to commit a crime, while larceny is the unlawful taking of property valued at $500 or more. Robbery is taking property from another person by force or threat of violence.

Drug Crimes

Drug crimes are typically prosecuted under state law, although the federal government also has jurisdiction in some cases. The penalties for drug crimes vary depending on the type and amount of drug involved, as well as on the jurisdiction. State laws tend to be more punitive than federal law, with longer sentences and higher fines.

Drug crimes can include possession, distribution, trafficking, and manufacturing of drugs. In most cases, simple possession of a drug is a misdemeanor, but it can be charged as a felony if the defendant has a prior conviction or if the drug is considered to be a controlled substance.

Domestic Violence

This is a serious issue that can have devastating effects on victims and their families. It occurs when one partner in an intimate relationship uses physical violence, sexual violence, emotional abuse, or financial abuse to control the other partner. Domestic violence can happen to anyone, regardless of age, race, gender, or sexual orientation.

What Are Your Rights If You Are Being Investigated For A Crime

It is important to know your rights if you are being investigated for a crime. If you are contacted by the police, you should always consult with an attorney before talking to them. You have the right to remain silent, and anything you say can be used against you in court.

You also have the right to have an attorney present during any questioning. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to you free of charge. You have the right to inspect and copy any evidence that is being used against you. You have the right to a fair trial, and to cross-examine any witnesses who testify against you. You also have the right to appeal your conviction if you are found guilty.

What Are The Consequences Of A Criminal Conviction

When someone is convicted of a crime, there are generally two types of consequences: criminal and civil. Criminal consequences are those that arise from the criminal justice system, such as fines, jail time, or probation. Civil consequences are those that arise from the victim or victims' families, such as a civil lawsuit or a restraining order.

Criminal consequences vary depending on the crime. Some crimes, like DUIs or simple assaults, may result in a few days in jail and a fine. Other crimes, like murder or rape, may result in a lengthy jail sentence or even the death penalty. Civil consequences can also vary widely depending on the situation. A victim of assault may be able to sue the assailant for damages, while the family of a murder victim may receive monetary compensation from the murderer's estate.

Both criminal and civil consequences can have a significant impact on the life of the person convicted of a crime. A criminal record can make it difficult to find employment or housing. Civil lawsuits can result in large financial judgments that must be paid out of pocket. It is important to understand the consequences of a criminal conviction before making any decisions that could lead to one.

What Happens When You Are Arrested For A Criminal Offense

When you are arrested, you will be brought to a local law enforcement station or jail. You will be fingerprinted and photographed. You may be held in custody for up to 48 hours before you are brought before a judge.

During this time, the police may try to question you. You should speak to an attorney before talking to the police. If the judge decides that you should be released, you will be given a date to appear in court. If the judge decides that you should be held in custody, you may be given a bail amount to pay in order to be released.

When To Hire A Criminal Justice Attorney

Depending on the severity of the charge, you may need to hire an attorney before your first court appearance. Misdemeanors and petty crimes are typically handled without the need for an attorney, but if you are facing felony charges, it is strongly recommended that you seek legal counsel.

If you have been arrested or are under investigation for a crime, it is important to contact an attorney immediately. Even if you have not been charged with a crime, an experienced criminal justice attorney can help protect your rights and ensure that you are treated fairly by law enforcement.

What Does A Criminal Justice Attorney Do

This type of lawyer may represent defendants in court, help them understand their rights, and work to get the best possible outcome in their case. A criminal justice attorney is a legal professional who helps clients who have been accused of committing a crime.

A criminal justice attorney specializes in defending individuals who have been accused of committing a crime. An attorney will investigate the case against you, review evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong defense to present in court. In some cases, an attorney may also be able to negotiate a plea deal with prosecutors on your behalf.

How Much Does A Criminal Justice Attorney Cost

The cost of a criminal justice attorney can vary depending on the lawyer's experience and location. Generally, criminal justice attorneys charge an hourly rate, which can range from $100 to $500 per hour.

Some lawyers may also require a retainer fee, which is a deposit that is paid upfront and is typically used to cover the lawyer's fees for the initial consultation and any work that is done before the case goes to trial.

What Are The Benefits Of Hiring A Criminal Justice Attorney

Here are the benefits of hiring a criminal defense attorney:

  • An attorney can help you navigate the criminal justice system.
  • An attorney can help you understand the charges against you and what to expect at each stage of the criminal justice process.
  • An attorney can investigate the facts of your case and work with experts to build a strong defense on your behalf.
  • An attorney can negotiate with prosecutors to try to get the charges against you reduced or dismissed.
  • An attorney can represent you at trial and advocate for a not-guilty verdict or a sentence that is less severe than what the prosecutor is seeking.
  • If you are convicted, an attorney can help you understand your options for appeals and post-conviction relief.

Contact A Criminal Justice Attorney In Orange County

If you are facing criminal charges in Orange County, it is important to seek legal assistance as soon as possible. The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman is a criminal justice attorney in Orange County who can provide you with the legal representation you need to protect your rights and fight for a favorable outcome in your case.

When you retain The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman as your attorney, They will thoroughly investigate the charges against you and build a strong defense on your behalf. They will fight tirelessly to get the charges against you reduced or dismissed altogether. If your case goes to trial, they will be by your side every step of the way, ensuring that you have the best possible chance of obtaining a favorable outcome.