Criminal Defense Hanford, CA

STRONG DEFENSE FROM SERIOUS CRIMINAL CHARGES

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At Griswold LaSalle Cobb Dowd & Gin LLP, we protect California residents facing criminal felony and misdemeanor charges. We understand the negative effects that a conviction can have on your life. We do everything we can to protect your reputation and your future.

When you retain us for your legal representation, you will get someone who will take the time and effort to let you know that we take your freedom and your future as seriously as you do. Contact Griswold LaSalle Cobb Dowd & Gin LLP of Hanford, California, for all of your criminal defense needs.

Why You Need an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer

You are not alone when you partner with Griswold LaSalle Cobb Dowd & Gin LLP. With help from our criminal defense lawyers, facing criminal charges does not have to involve uncertainty about your future and about how the legal system works.

Navigating the criminal defense process by yourself can be extremely challenging and usually leads to a worse outcome for yourself. Hiring a strong criminal defender can save you stress and money in the long run. With our assistance, we can help you avoid missing work and reduce or eliminate potential fines and penalties.

Knowledgeable Guidance Throughout Your Case

When you hire our team at Griswold LaSalle Cobb Dowd & Gin LLP of Hanford, California, we will be there to walk you through each step of the process. We handle difficult paperwork, pleading, and trial proceedings for you. With a long record of success, our legal team has an extensive level of knowledge and experience in California law, as well as the processes and personnel of local courthouses.

Our experience means we build a strong strategy for approaching your case and help you prove your innocence or obtain the minimum penalty possible. We also have a knowledgeable staff working with us who can provide you with extra resources such as helping track down evidence and building a strong case.

Having a Hanford, CA criminal defense attorney goes a long way toward taking the burden off of you and helping you secure a positive outcome in your case.

Here for You When You Need Us Most

Remember, anytime you’re facing felony or misdemeanor charges in the San Joaquin Valley, our criminal defense team at Griswold LaSalle Cobb Dowd & Gin LLP can help. We provide full criminal defense services for clients facing:

Our team will work closely with you so you understand what’s happening every step of the way and are never left in the dark.

Types of Criminal Charges in Hanford, CA

Criminal charges in Hanford range from misdemeanors to felonies, with penalties that can impact your freedom, finances, and future. The severity of the charges depends on factors such as prior convictions, the circumstances of the alleged offense, and whether anyone was injured. If you have been charged with a crime, knowing the difference between misdemeanor and felony offenses can help you understand what is at stake.

Misdemeanors vs. Felonies in California

Misdemeanors are considered less serious offenses and typically carry fines, probation, or jail time of up to one year in county jail. These charges may still affect your criminal record and future opportunities, but they do not result in state prison time. Examples of misdemeanors include petty theft, simple assault, and first-time DUI offenses.

Felonies, on the other hand, come with harsher penalties, including state prison sentences, larger fines, and long-term consequences such as loss of firearm rights or registration as a sex offender. Crimes such as homicide, aggravated assault, and large-scale drug offenses may result in felony charges. If you are convicted of a felony, you may also face a strike under California’s Three Strikes Law, increasing penalties for future offenses.

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Charges

DUI charges in California are prosecuted under California Vehicle Code § 23152, which makes it illegal to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. A first-time DUI conviction can lead to fines, a license suspension, DUI school, and up to six months in jail.

For repeat offenders, penalties increase significantly. A second or third DUI may result in longer license suspensions, mandatory ignition interlock device (IID) installation, and extended jail time.

Domestic Violence Charges

Domestic violence offenses are prosecuted under California Penal Code § 273.5, which criminalizes physical harm inflicted on a spouse, cohabitant, or intimate partner. A misdemeanor conviction can result in up to one year in jail and mandatory counseling, while felony convictions carry state prison time and long-term restraining orders.

Beyond criminal penalties, a domestic violence conviction can impact child custody, divorce proceedings, and employment opportunities. Courts may issue protective orders that restrict your ability to contact family members or return to your home.

Assault and Battery Charges

Assault and battery are separate offenses under California law. Assault, charged under California Penal Code § 240, involves the attempt to cause harm, while battery, defined in Penal Code § 242, refers to actual physical contact.

A misdemeanor conviction for simple assault or battery can result in fines, community service, and up to six months in jail. If the offense involves serious bodily injury or the use of a weapon, it may be charged as aggravated assault, leading to felony charges, years in state prison, and substantial fines.

Homicide Charges

Homicide charges in California include murder and manslaughter, with penalties that vary based on intent and circumstances. First-degree murder, prosecuted under Penal Code § 187, carries a sentence of 25 years to life in state prison.

Manslaughter charges apply when a death occurs without premeditation. Voluntary manslaughter, defined in Penal Code § 192, is punishable by up to 11 years in prison, while involuntary manslaughter carries a maximum sentence of four years.

Embezzlement Charges

Embezzlement is prosecuted under California Penal Code § 503 and occurs when someone fraudulently takes money or property entrusted to them. This crime often involves employees accused of stealing from their employers or individuals misusing company funds.

If the amount embezzled is under $950, the charge may be a misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and fines. If the amount exceeds $950, it may be prosecuted as a felony, carrying penalties of up to three years in state prison and significant financial restitution.

Drug Charges

Drug offenses in California range from simple possession to large-scale drug trafficking. Possession of controlled substances, under Health & Safety’s Code § 11350, is often charged as a misdemeanor, resulting in fines, probation, and court-ordered treatment.

More serious offenses, such as possession with intent to sell or drug manufacturing, may be prosecuted as felonies. These charges carry lengthy prison sentences, asset forfeiture, and federal penalties.

What to Expect from the Criminal Justice System in California

If you are charged with a crime in California, you will go through multiple stages in the criminal justice process. Each step plays a critical role in determining whether charges will be dismissed, reduced, or taken to trial. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare for the challenges ahead and make informed decisions about your defense.

Arrest and Booking Process

If law enforcement officers have probable cause to believe you committed a crime, they will take you into custody. After the arrest, you will be transported to a local jail or detention facility, where officers will record your personal information, take your fingerprints, and conduct a background check. You may also be required to submit to a photograph, medical screening, and property inventory before being placed in a holding cell.

After booking, the next step depends on the severity of the charges. In some cases, you may be released on bail, given a court date, or required to remain in custody until your arraignment. If you are accused of a felony, you may have to attend a bail hearing, where a judge will determine the conditions of your release.

Arraignment and Pre-Trial Motions

During arraignment, the court will formally read the charges against you, and you will have the opportunity to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. If you plead not guilty, your case will proceed to the pre-trial phase, where both sides gather evidence and file motions.

Pre-trial motions allow us to request specific actions before trial. These motions may include requests to suppress evidence, dismiss charges, or reduce felony charges to misdemeanors. The outcome of pre-trial motions can significantly impact how your case proceeds in court.

What Happens During a Criminal Trial

If your case goes to trial, the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The trial process consists of multiple stages, each critical to determining the outcome of your case. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare a strong defense.

1. Jury Selection

Both the prosecution and defense participate in jury selection. Our criminal defense attorneys may dismiss jurors they believe are biased or unable to fairly evaluate the evidence.

2. Opening Statements

The prosecution presents an outline of the case against you, while the defense highlights weaknesses in the prosecution’s argument. These statements set the stage for the trial.

3. Presentation of Evidence

The prosecution introduces witness testimony, forensic evidence, and documents to support their case. The defense cross-examines witnesses and may introduce counter-evidence.

4. Closing Arguments

Both sides summarize their case, emphasizing key points for the jury. The prosecution argues for a conviction, while the defense presents reasons for acquittal.

5. Jury Deliberation and Verdict

The jury reviews the evidence and reaches a verdict. If found guilty, the case proceeds to sentencing. If acquitted, the charges are dismissed, and you are free to go.

Legal Defenses Used in Criminal Cases

A strong defense strategy can challenge the prosecution’s case and lead to reduced charges or case dismissal. The right defense depends on the details of your arrest, the evidence presented, and whether law enforcement followed proper procedures. The following are common legal defenses used in criminal cases:

  • Lack of Probable Cause – Police must have a valid reason to stop, search, or arrest you. If there was no reasonable suspicion or probable cause, any evidence obtained may be inadmissible in court.
  • Self-Defense – If you used force to protect yourself or another person from harm, self-defense may apply. You must show that your actions were necessary and proportional to the threat.
  • Unlawful Search and Seizure – Officers cannot search your property without a warrant or valid exception. If law enforcement conducted an illegal search, any evidence they obtained may be thrown out.
  • Mistaken Identity – Eyewitnesses can make errors, and false accusations can arise. If you were misidentified as the suspect, presenting alibi evidence or challenging the credibility of the witness may be key.
  • Insufficient Evidence – Prosecutors must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is no physical evidence, unreliable witness testimony, or missing key facts, your case may not hold up in court.

In some cases, alternative sentencing options may be available. Diversion programs, probation, and community service may be possible for first-time offenders or non-violent crimes. Courts may also consider rehabilitation programs as an alternative to jail time, allowing you to move forward without a permanent criminal record.

Evidence Used in Criminal Cases

The prosecution builds its case using various forms of evidence. This evidence must support the charges and prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The type of evidence used can affect whether the case moves forward or is dismissed due to a lack of proof. Common types of evidence prosecutors may use in an attempt to convict you include:

  • Witness testimony
  • Surveillance footage
  • Forensic evidence (DNA, fingerprints, or ballistics)
  • Electronic records (cell phone data, GPS tracking, or online activity)
  • Confessions or statements made to police
  • Physical evidence (weapons, stolen property, or illegal substances)

Factors That Impact Sentencing

Judges consider multiple factors when deciding a sentence. Aggravating factors, such as the use of a weapon, injury to a victim, or prior convictions, can lead to harsher penalties. If the crime was particularly violent or involved vulnerable victims, the court may impose the maximum sentence allowed by law.

Mitigating factors, such as lack of prior offenses, cooperation with law enforcement, or evidence of rehabilitation, may reduce the severity of the sentence. In some cases, the defense can argue for a lighter penalty by demonstrating remorse, community involvement, or participation in rehabilitation programs.

California Criminal Laws Could Dramatically Influence the Outcome of Your Case

California law establishes strict guidelines for how crimes are classified, prosecuted, and sentenced. Whether you are charged with a misdemeanor, felony, or infraction, the penalties you face will depend on the severity of the offense, prior convictions, and any aggravating circumstances. Some crimes carry mandatory minimum sentences, while others allow for probation, diversion programs, or sentence reductions based on mitigating factors.

For example, under California Penal Code § 459, burglary is defined as entering a structure with the intent to commit theft or some other felony. Burglary charges can be classified as first-degree (residential burglary) or second-degree (commercial burglary), with penalties ranging from probation to years in state prison.

Other laws that may impact your case include firearm enhancement penalties and sentencing guidelines for repeat offenders. Some charges, such as violent felonies or drug-related crimes, may carry enhanced penalties, especially if a weapon was involved. If you are facing criminal charges, understanding how these laws apply to your case can help you determine possible defenses, sentencing options, and legal strategies to secure an acquittal.

Expungement and Record Sealing in California

A criminal record can affect your employment opportunities, housing applications, and ability to obtain professional licenses. Expungement and record sealing provide options for clearing or limiting public access to criminal convictions. While not all offenses qualify, many individuals can benefit from seeking post-conviction relief.

Expungement under California Penal Code § 1203.4 allows individuals to withdraw a guilty plea and have their case dismissed. Expunged records do not have to be disclosed to most employers, but they may still be considered in certain legal proceedings.

Record sealing applies to arrests that did not lead to convictions or cases where charges were dismissed. If your record is sealed, it will not appear in most background checks, giving you a fresh start. Understanding your eligibility for expungement or record sealing can help you move forward after a criminal case.

The Clean Slate Act

In 2023, California enacted the Clean Slate Act (SB 731), which expanded automatic expungement to most non-violent, non-serious felony convictions.

Starting January 2021, your criminal records are automatically sealed if you were arrested but not convicted. If your case was dismissed, it will be cleared from your record. Any misdemeanor arrests will be sealed after one year if there were no charges.

All felony arrest records that did not result in charges will be sealed after three years. In addition, most felony convictions will get automatically sealed from a person’s criminal record four years after the case has ended.

The Clean Slate Act does not apply to anyone convicted of a serious violent crime, sex offenses, or any crimes that require registration as a sex offender.

Address Your Charges Today With Help From a Criminal Defense Attorney in Hanford, CA

Get to know our criminal defense law team a little more and let Michael Johnson introduce himself to tell you a little bit more about his background and expertise.

Our firm handles felonies and misdemeanors in Kern, Tulare, Fresno, San Luis Obispo, and Kings counties on a regular basis. With our historic tenure in Hanford, you can trust our legal team for all your criminal law defense needs. The Griswold LaSalle Cobb Dowd & Gin LLP law office was founded in 1945 and collectively, our 11 attorneys have over 200 years of combined experience.

We pride ourselves on quickly responding to your inquiries so you will never be left wondering about the status of your case or when your next court date is. We also strive to provide affordable legal services in all of our practices. When you retain us, you will get a criminal defense lawyer in Hanford, CA who will take the time and spend the effort to let you know that we take your freedom and your future as seriously as you do.

Contact us today for criminal defense services. You can also reach us by phone at 559-802-1480.