When facing criminal charges, you may feel frightened or uncertain about how your future could be affected. In your time of greatest need, you want a dedicated legal advocate by your side each step of the way. Let our criminal defense attorneys provide aggressive representation on your behalf.
Here at the Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we examine the facts of your case and devise a strategy to get you back on your feet. You don’t have to face criminal charges alone — we handle your matter as if it were ours.
Our Approach to Criminal Defense
Our California criminal defense lawyers manage misdemeanor and felony cases throughout Southern California, taking a comprehensive approach to criminal defense.
After an individual is arrested and detained for a crime, they have to wait for an arraignment and find out about the charges being brought. If the defendant pleads not guilty, a judge will schedule a pre-trial conference or a preliminary hearing, depending on the charges. A defense attorney can negotiate with the judge and lower the bail during the arraignment.
An individual charged with a felony has a right to a preliminary hearing where the judge reviews the evidence and hears witnesses testify to decide whether to send the case to trial. At this point, a skilled attorney can cross-examine witnesses and highlight the weakness of the case. If the case goes to trial and a plea bargain hasn’t been reached, a jury will decide if the defendant is guilty or not.
At the Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we mobilize right away to analyze the facts, interview possible witnesses, collect evidence and arrange the most thorough and aggressive defense possible. We have decades of experience defending the rights of the accused in California courtrooms, offering us unrivaled experience in a wide range of practice areas.
Our Areas of Service
From misdemeanors to felonies, you should not take criminal defense matters lightly. Our criminal defense attorneys know the stakes when facing criminal charges. We are determined to fight tirelessly for your freedom each step of the way, with extensive experience representing individuals charged with various criminal offenses, misdemeanors, and felony crimes. We have the skills, experience, and dedication to take on the most challenging criminal cases in Los Angeles.
We cover the following criminal defense cases:
- Assault and Battery - These are two distinct but related offenses under criminal law. Assault includes the threat of physical harm, while battery involves actual physical contact. Penalties for these offenses vary, but a criminal defense lawyer could help.
- Diversion Programs - Alternatives to traditional court proceedings, these programs allow individuals to make amends and rehabilitate rather than serve jail time and receive a criminal record.
- Domestic Violence - Accusations of physical, psychological, financial, or sexual abuse between family members or intimate partners can have devastating long-term effects and severe penalties.
- Drug Charges - Drug crimes are among the most harshly prosecuted in Los Angeles, CA. In addition, a conviction can lead to imprisonment, substantial fines, and registration in a drug treatment program. A criminal defense attorney could help.
- DUI - California has some of the most rigid DUI laws in the country, but drivers still have rights when charged in Southern California. DUI lawyers have the skills, resources, and tenacity to handle even the most challenging drunk driving cases.
- Expungements - Clients who have served their time and wish to have a clear criminal record may be eligible for an expungement. This process almost always requires legal advice from an experienced defense attorney.
- Homicide - Being accused of homicide could place the defendant into a fight for their life. Skilled legal representation is necessary for this serious charge.
- Misdemeanors - Misdemeanor charges are no laughing matter. Even one strike on your record can have undesirable consequences. Let a criminal defense attorney help.
- Probation Violations - A probation violation could place the convicted in prison. The results of the probation violation hearing could impact your freedom. A qualified lawyer can assess the situation and explain the options.
- Sex Crimes - Few offenses come with a worse stigma. Sex offenses cover a wide range of offenses and most often carry a maximum sentence of one year in prison. From indecent exposure to rape, the right attorney can offer the strategies specific to the case.
- Theft - When a person is accused of taking the money or property of another, they face serious consequences. A California criminal defense attorney can offer advice and representation.
Contact a Los Angeles criminal lawyer today.
The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney Can Fight for You
If you or someone you love is facing criminal charges, time is of the essence. No matter what type of criminal charges you face, it’s crucial to stay quiet and talk to a skilled Los Angeles criminal defense attorney immediately to develop a detailed defense strategy.
Regardless of your circumstance, you are not alone in your fight. We are ready to stand by your side and fight for your rights, freedom, and reputation. Contact us today to schedule a free in-person consultation, and we can assist with finding a solution to whatever problem you may be facing.
What to Do When You’re Charged With a Crime
A criminal charge or accusation is serious, but you still have rights. You’re likely scared and confused if you’ve been charged with a crime in Los Angeles County, such as drug possession or domestic violence. Although law enforcement officers can be intimidating, remember that you have the right to remain silent during an investigation. You also have the right to retain an attorney who can help you protect yourself.
We all know that law enforcement takes criminal law charges seriously, and in most cases, the courts impose hefty financial penalties and mandatory jail time. No one wants any of that, especially if they’ve been wrongly accused.
Whether or not you are innocent, knowing what you should do to avoid stress and anxiety while working to achieve the most desirable outcome is essential.
Consult Skilled Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers
When you face misdemeanor or felony charges, the preferred course of action is to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney. Like many people, you may be tempted to cut corners to avoid the defense fee, especially if you believe your chances of getting convicted are slim.
Nonetheless, some charges can be more severe than you think. For example, accusations of domestic violence or abuse are complicated. Nonetheless, a Los Angeles, California, domestic violence lawyer with family law experience can provide a comprehensive legal defense and work tirelessly to prevent a conviction.
It’s challenging to navigate the court system by yourself. Someone with years of experience in criminal defense cases can help you avoid or reduce unnecessary jail time or harsh penalties.
Remain Silent
If law enforcement officers arrive at the crime scene, you may feel compelled to start explaining what happened. Although you may be innocent, you should remain silent. Try to remain calm. If the officers ask you any questions, remain silent and treat them respectfully. They may even ask you questions that seem simple and harmless, such as how much you’ve had to drink. Instead of responding to the question, let them know you want to remain silent until you speak to your lawyer.
What Are the Potential Defenses?
If you’re charged with domestic violence or another violent crime, a skilled attorney can help you use certain defenses to reduce or eliminate culpability. For instance, they may help you prove that the victim was the aggressor in the altercation and that you only acted in self-defense.
The courts know that people usually use the necessary force to defend themselves if they face a threat. They also know that there are many situations in which the alleged victims falsely accuse the defendants.
Suppose you are falsely accused, or the situation is misunderstood. In that case, it’s essential to retain an experienced attorney in the Los Angeles area to develop a robust defense and straighten out facts from fiction. Without proper representation, you might face long-lasting negative effects that can destroy your family, career, and life.
Ultimately, the way the defendant handles themselves and who they choose to work with in cases involving severe crimes influences the simplicity or complexity of the outcome. If you want to increase your chances of getting a positive outcome, contact our criminal defense law firm today to get in touch with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
