An arrest or criminal charges can spur a multitude of questions, and what you need are answers from a source you can trust. At Humphrey & Thompson, Attorneys at Law in Bakersfield, CA, we take pride in our experience and attention to detail for anyone in need of criminal lawyers in Bakersfield.
Ask a Criminal Lawyer in Bakersfield: Five Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do If I’m Arrested?
If you are arrested, the most important thing is to remain calm and exercise your right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you in court, so avoid discussing your case with the police. Politely request to speak with an attorney and do not answer any questions before you have had an opportunity to do that.
What Are My Rights During an Arrest?
As stated above, you have the right to remain silent, that is, the right to not incriminate yourself. You have the right to know the charges against you, which means that you must be told why you are being arrested, and the arresting officers must make sure you understand those charges.
You have the right to an attorney to represent you during police interviews and in court. You are also protected against unreasonable searches and seizures; you and your property cannot be searched without either probable cause or a warrant.
What Is the Difference Between a Misdemeanor and a Felony?
In California, crimes are classified into misdemeanors and felonies based on their severity. Misdemeanors are lesser offenses, such as petty theft or simple assault. They carry penalties of up to one year in county jail and fines.
Felonies are serious crimes, such as armed robbery, drug trafficking, or homicide. These crimes carry harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences in state prison and more significant fines. Some crimes can be charged as either misdemeanors or felonies depending on the circumstances and your criminal history.
Will My Case Go to Trial?
Not all criminal cases go to trial. Your case may be able to be resolved through a plea agreement, where you plead guilty to a lesser charge, often a misdemeanor instead of a felony, in return for a reduced sentence. Or, we may be able to have the charges against you dismissed if we can prove a lack of evidence, violations of your rights, or procedural errors.
How Should I Choose Between Criminal Lawyers in Bakersfield?
Just like criminal cases, no criminal attorneys are the same. You need to find the right lawyer for you and your case. If you are looking to retain counsel, make sure that any potential lawyer has experience with cases like yours and that they have a proven track record of successful outcomes for their clients.
If you have come up against the criminal justice system, it’s normal to have lots of questions. Whether you want to find out more or retain our criminal defense services, get in touch with Humphrey & Thompson, Attorneys at Law in Bakersfield, CA.
