Oakland Criminal Defense Attorneys Committed to Protecting Your Rights
Facing criminal charges can be a daunting experience with far-reaching consequences that impact every facet of your life—from your freedom and future to your personal and professional relationships. Lamano Law in Oakland is here to help. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys are committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive, and highly skilled representation. Whether you are facing charges for theft, drug offenses, assault, or other crimes, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Lamano Law’s criminal defense attorneys bring extensive experience across a wide range of cases and have a proven track record of helping clients navigate the complexities of California’s criminal justice system. With a detailed, client-focused approach, we ensure that every aspect of your case is addressed with the utmost care and attention. Please take a look at our services below and contact us today for a consultation with one of our criminal defense team members.
Experienced Representation from a Top-Rated Bay Area Criminal Lawyer
Having strong legal representation from an experienced Oakland criminal lawyer can significantly affect the outcome of your case. At Lamano Law, we pride ourselves on our comprehensive, client-centered approach to criminal defense. Our services include:
- Legal Knowledge and Experience: Our attorneys have a deep understanding of California criminal laws and extensive experience defending clients in court. We handle cases involving theft, assault, drug offenses, and more, developing tailored defense strategies for each unique case.
- Thorough Case Analysis: Every detail matters. Our team conducts an in-depth analysis of the charges and evidence against you, identifying potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and exploring all defense options.
- Court Representation: Should your case proceed to trial, you can trust our seasoned attorneys to zealously advocate on your behalf, defending your rights and pursuing a favorable outcome.
- Skilled Negotiation: In many cases, we work to resolve issues through plea negotiations, aiming to minimize charges or secure alternative sentencing options whenever possible.
- Personalized Support: At Lamano Law, you are more than a case number. Our attorneys take the time to understand your specific circumstances, answer your questions, and keep you informed throughout the legal process.
Every case is different, and we approach each one with the dedication, insight, and respect it deserves. By developing a strong, strategic defense, we strive to secure the best possible outcome for each client.
Criminal Law Charges We Defend Against
Our firm provides robust defense against a wide array of criminal charges, including:
- Assault and Battery: Defense strategies for assault and battery cases may involve disproving intent or establishing self-defense.
- Drug Crimes: We defend against charges for possession, distribution, and trafficking, addressing potential procedural errors and rights violations.
- Theft and Burglary: Whether you’re facing charges for shoplifting, robbery, or grand theft, we can help you understand your options and work toward a favorable resolution.
- Domestic Violence: Accusations of domestic violence can be especially challenging. We provide sensitive, experienced representation focused on protecting your rights.
- DUI and Traffic Offenses: While DUI is a specific focus of ours, we also handle related traffic offenses and their potential impact on your criminal record.
- White Collar Crimes: We defend clients against fraud, embezzlement, and other financial crimes, often leveraging expert testimony to strengthen the defense.
The Importance of a Rock Solid Criminal Defense Strategy
In California, criminal charges carry serious consequences. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor or felony charge, having a skilled criminal defense attorney is essential to safeguard your rights and ensure that you receive fair treatment. At Lamano Law, we approach each case with a customized strategy designed to:
- Challenge Evidence: We scrutinize the evidence against you, often seeking to exclude improperly obtained or inaccurate evidence.
- File Pretrial Motions: Our attorneys may file motions to dismiss charges or suppress evidence, aiming to weaken the prosecution’s case.
- Explore Alternative Sentencing: We often explore options for reduced or alternative sentencing, such as diversion programs, probation, or community service.
Understanding the legal process is essential when you’re facing criminal charges. From your initial arrest through potential trial and sentencing, we will be by your side to guide and represent you.
Consequences of a Criminal Conviction in California
A criminal conviction in California carries severe, far-reaching consequences that can extend beyond the immediate penalties imposed by the court. Beyond potential jail or prison time, a conviction can affect your personal, professional, and financial well-being, creating barriers that impact every area of your life. Below are the primary consequences you may face if convicted of a crime in California, as well as the long-term implications of each.
1. Permanent Criminal Record
A conviction results in a permanent criminal record, which is accessible to potential employers, landlords, licensing boards, and even educational institutions. Even after serving your sentence, this record can follow you indefinitely, affecting future opportunities in ways you may not anticipate. Specific impacts of a criminal record include:
- Employment Challenges: Many employers conduct background checks and may be hesitant to hire someone with a criminal record, especially for positions that require trust, security, or involve working with vulnerable populations.
- Licensing and Professional Restrictions: Professions that require state licensure, such as teaching, healthcare, and law, often restrict or prohibit individuals with certain criminal convictions from obtaining or renewing their licenses.
- Housing Discrimination: Landlords commonly run background checks and may deny housing applications based on criminal records, making it difficult to secure stable housing after a conviction.
Expungement or record sealing may be available in some cases, but these processes can be complex and are not always an option, especially for serious offenses.
2. Fines, Restitution, and Financial Penalties
Criminal convictions frequently come with significant financial penalties, which may include fines, court fees, and restitution payments to victims. These expenses can add up, placing a considerable financial burden on you and your family. Specific costs include:
- Fines and Fees: Fines vary based on the offense and can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, particularly for felony convictions.
- Restitution: Courts often order offenders to pay restitution to victims to cover damages or losses incurred due to the crime, such as medical bills, property damage, or lost income.
- Court Costs: You may also be required to cover various court costs, including administrative fees, probation fees, and fees associated with rehabilitation programs or classes.
These financial obligations can be particularly burdensome if you’re already facing challenges due to employment difficulties, making it even harder to rebuild after a conviction.
3. Incarceration and Loss of Freedom
For many, the most immediate consequence of a criminal conviction is the potential for jail or prison time. Incarceration disrupts daily life, separating you from your family, job, and community support systems. The length and location of incarceration depend on the severity of the offense and whether the conviction is a misdemeanor or felony.
- Misdemeanor Convictions: Typically result in shorter sentences, often served in county jail, with possible probation as an alternative.
- Felony Convictions: These more serious charges can lead to years in state prison, with severe restrictions on early release and limited eligibility for alternative sentencing programs.
- Impact on Family: Incarceration places an emotional and financial strain on families, especially when the convicted individual is a primary earner or caregiver.
Additionally, time spent in custody can impact educational and career advancement opportunities, making reintegration challenging even after release.
4. Probation and Strict Conditions
Instead of incarceration, some individuals are sentenced to probation, which allows them to remain in the community but imposes strict conditions. While probation can be a favorable alternative to jail time, the terms are often challenging to adhere to and may include:
- Regular Check-ins: Probation requires regular check-ins with a probation officer and may involve unannounced visits to your home or workplace.
- Mandatory Programs: Probation often requires attending court-ordered counseling, rehabilitation programs, or community service.
- Employment and Residency Restrictions: Probation may place limits on where you can live or work, especially if you were convicted of certain offenses.
- Random Testing and Monitoring: Many individuals on probation are required to submit to drug or alcohol testing, wear monitoring devices, or adhere to curfews.
Violating any condition of probation can lead to a revocation of probation, resulting in additional jail time or other penalties.
5. Driver’s License Suspension or Revocation
Certain criminal convictions, particularly those related to DUI or other driving offenses, can lead to the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license. This can be a major hindrance, especially if your job requires driving or if you live in an area with limited public transportation options. The effects of a license suspension include:
- Employment Challenges: Losing your license may affect your ability to work if your job requires commuting or driving as part of your role.
- Increased Expenses: Without a license, you may need to rely on rideshare services, taxis, or public transportation, which can be costly and time-consuming.
- Impact on Personal Life: Limited transportation options can make it difficult to fulfill personal responsibilities, such as attending family events, medical appointments, or other obligations.
6. Loss of Civil Rights
Certain felony convictions can result in a loss of basic civil rights, including the right to vote, serve on a jury, and own or possess firearms. These rights are not automatically restored upon completing your sentence, and in some cases, they may be permanently lost.
- Voting Rights: In California, voting rights are typically restored after completing probation or parole, but this may vary based on the offense and jurisdiction.
- Firearm Ownership: Individuals convicted of certain felonies or violent crimes lose the right to own or possess firearms, often permanently, with strict penalties for any violations.
- Jury Service: Many convictions disqualify individuals from serving on a jury, a restriction that can last long after your sentence is served.
7. Immigration Consequences
For non-citizens, a criminal conviction can have profound immigration consequences, including deportation, denial of naturalization, or a bar from re-entering the country. Convictions for crimes involving moral turpitude, drug offenses, and aggravated felonies can lead to immediate deportation proceedings, even if you have lawful permanent residency.
- Deportation Risk: Certain offenses can lead to removal proceedings, especially if classified as an aggravated felony.
- Naturalization Challenges: A criminal record can prevent individuals from becoming naturalized citizens, affecting their ability to secure permanent residency.
- Barred Reentry: Depending on the conviction, non-citizens who leave the U.S. may be barred from returning, separating them from family and employment opportunities.
Contact Lamano Law Office Today for a Criminal Defense Consultation
If you’re facing criminal charges in Oakland, San Francisco, or the Bay Area you need an advocate who understands the complexities of California criminal law. Lamano Law’s team of experienced criminal defense attorneys is here to support you with empathy, expertise, and a relentless commitment to justice.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and let us help you build a robust defense and protect your rights during this challenging time.
