A Criminal Defense Attorney Stockton Can Count On 

DUIs, Misdemeanors and Felonies, White Collar Crimes

Why you need a criminal DEFENSE attorney Stockton

One mistake can result in an arrest — but that act shouldn’t determine the course of the rest of your life.

Unfortunately, without help from a qualified criminal defense attorney, that may end up being your reality. Too often, people believe that law enforcement officials or even their own intelligence will negate the need for an attorney. If you tell police officers what you know or proclaim your innocence, the legal system will work exactly as it should… right?

Sadly, this isn’t always the case — not by a long shot. While a criminal defense attorney stockton can’t guarantee the outcome of a case, hiring an experienced legal representative is one of the best ways to ensure your rights are protected. Whether you’ve been falsely accused or you may have engaged in wrongdoing, it’s essential to have help from a lawyer from the onset of your case.

If you or someone you love is facing criminal charges following an alleged drunk driving incident, white collar crime, or another event, your first instinct should be to secure legal help. Here are just a few reasons why:

Legal cases are complex. What might appear to be a simple DUI could be infinitely more complicated than you initially realize. Even first-time offenders may face strict penalties for their decisions, particularly if their DUI cases resulted in injuries or property damage. And no matter how many crime shows you’ve seen on television, they won’t prepare you for what happens inside the courtroom. You need help from a criminal defense attorney Stockton residents can trust in order to mount an effective defense.

Legal cases are stressful. Preparing a legal defense requires an immense amount of experience, patience, and tenacity. The emotional burden of facing any kind of trial is substantial — and without legal help by your side, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, lost, and frustrated by the entire process. In order to minimize stress and maximize the likelihood of an agreeable resolution, you should be able to put your trust in your lawyer. With their help, you and your family can make it through to the other side.

Legal cases can have huge repercussions. You might assume that if you’re innocent of the claims being made against you, you’ll have nothing to fear. Tragically, history has shown us that this simply isn’t true. Whether you’re completely innocent or have some kind of involvement in criminal activity, you need help from a criminal defense attorney to protect your future. The last thing you’ll want is to face discrimination when applying to jobs or trying to secure housing due to a singular incident on your record. Your lawyer will work towards a positive and fair resolution of your case and will protect your rights throughout the process.

Most people never plan ahead to contact a criminal defense attorney Stockton residents can depend on. But if you or your loved one ends up charged with a crime, it’s vital to secure legal representation right away. Doing so can make all the difference between a devastating outcome and one that will prioritize your rights and your well-being for the future. We would happy to hear how we can help you or your loved one out please contact us here.

Where to Find A Criminal Defense Attorney IN STOCKTON, CALIFORNIA

Davalos Law Firm PC is located on 2502 Beverly Pl, Stockton, CA. From Oakland International Airport (OAK) get on I-880 S from 98th Ave. Then head south on Ron Cowan Pkwy toward John Glenn Dr, and use the left 2 lanes to turn left onto the ramp to Interstate 880/Downtown Oakland. Next merge onto Bessie Coleman Dr, and keep left to continue on 98th Ave. After that use the right 2 lanes to turn slightly right to merge onto I-880 S toward San Jos, and take I-580 E, I-205 E and I-5 N to N Pershing Ave in Stockton. Take exit 473 from I-5 N, and merge onto I-880 S. At this point take exit 31 toward I-238 S, and keep left to continue toward I-238 S.

Next keep left at the fork, follow signs for I-238/I-580/Castro Valley/Stockton, and continue onto I-238 S. Then merge onto I-580 E, and keep left to continue on I-205 E, follow signs for Interstate 205/Tracy/Stockton. At this point merge onto I-5 N, and take exit 473 toward N Pershing Ave. Continue on N Pershing Ave to your destination, and continue straight onto N Pershing Ave. After that turn right onto S Tuxedo Ave, and turn left onto Allston Way. Turn right at the 2nd cross street onto S Central Ave, and turn left onto Beverly Pl. Finally, turn right onto Central Ct, turn left, and Davalos Law Firm PC will be on the left. We’re open: Monday-Friday 08:00 AM – 5:00 PM. For additional questions you can call us at (209) 400-4517 or find us on Yelp

FAQ: What to know before hiring a criminal defense attorney Stockton

I got a DUI. Should I hire a private attorney or handle this case myself like I’ve been told by some family and friends? NOTE: I’m not sure I could afford an attorney.

We can’t make that decision for you, but can tell you this: The process can be daunting and somewhat scary whether it’s your first offense or (even more so) if it’s 2nd or more. If it is your first offense, you should consider consulting the Davalos Law Firm and Attorney Davalos versus representing yourself. There are many reasons your case may present defenses that you may not see or do not know about. Experienced representation is essential and the eyes of an attorney who knows what they are looking for is invaluable.

As for cost, many clients have said things like “you can’t afford not to” when asked this question. Others have said, “worth every penny.” There are many good attorneys out there… Attorney Davalos being one of them… and most will work with you for payment arrangements if budget is of concern. BUT there are also attorneys who will not provide you with the level of service and personal attention you want when you are going through this sometimes-confusing legal process.

More importantly, no one should enter a courtroom without understanding the process and what rights they have. Many times defendants in court simply take a plea offer without fully analyzing their case because they feel compelled or lack understanding and just want the case to be over. Contact the Davalos Law Firm and speak with Attorney Davalos before you go into court!

Can my felony drug conviction be reduced to a misdemeanor or expunged?

Without knowing the specific violation code you were charged with, we can’t accurately answer that question. However, in general, if the felony is a “wobbler” meaning it can be or could have been charged as EITHER a felony or misdemeanor, it many times can be reduced to a misdemeanor depending on the judge and sentence. There could also have been a “settlement” offered. Again, it depends on the case.

As for expungement, we would advise a reduction to a misdemeanor as a first step, then filing for expungement. Again, though I know “it depends” isn’t the answer you are looking for, it really does depend on the case and sometimes other factors like probation terms may need to be addressed before steps to clear your record can be taken. The Davalos Law Firm and Attorney Davalos are experienced in post-conviction matters and understand the process and we are happy to speak with you about your case.

If I have my record expunged, will it still show up in my background check?

If you have successfully had your record expunged, you are legally able to answer “no” on many employment applications, rental agreements and the like. And for the most part, your expunged record will not show up on a background check performed by employers or property management companies. The first step is to determine what convictions you have and then explore your options which in some cases include a motion to terminate probation.

However there are a few exceptions to an expungement where you will need to disclose a conviction. Speaking with the Davalos Law Firm and Attorney Davalos is your best first step to moving forward with your life and leaving an old conviction behind. If you are unsure if a conviction has been expunged, give us a call… I’ll take a look for you. If you WANT to have your record expunged, let’s talk. We can review your case and present you with the best options to achieve your goals.

Now that recreational use of marijuana is legal in the state of California, can I be arrested for using it? If someone has a prior arrest for possession, can that now be dismissed?

Using marijuana in the wrong way or more importantly transporting marijuana in the wrong way can have far reaching consequences. Although the law has opened the door to recreational use and possession, like the unlawful use of alcohol, even ignorance or negligent use of marijuana may lead to unintended criminal consequences. You cannot afford to remain ignorant of the law our office has the knowledge and experience to help you through any problems you may encounter.

It is also important to note that even with prior arrests or convictions, in some cases the record of an arrest and charges can be reduced or even dismissed depending on what jurisdiction you were convicted in. Speaking to an attorney with knowledge of the change and development of marijuana law in relation to your specific case is important.