Nevada City Criminal Defense Lawyer

Nevada City Criminal Defense Attorney

Criminal defense law gives individuals a fair chance to defend themselves against criminal charges. If you have been accused of a crime, hiring a Nevada City criminal defense lawyer can help you seek acquittal, a dismissal or reduction of charges, or a favorable plea deal. To do so, they’ll perform a number of duties on your behalf, such as analyzing evidence and formulating a defense strategy.

The Law Office of Jennifer Granger represents clients throughout Northern California and handles every type of criminal case from misdemeanors to felonies. Jennifer is a highly experienced trial lawyer and has a great deal of experience in handling criminal cases at each stage of the process. From investigation to trial, she is ready to do what is necessary to defend your case.

What Are Common Criminal Defense Strategies?

If you have been accused of committing a crime in Nevada City, like drunk driving or possessing drugs, your next step is to connect with an attorney to discuss what possible defense positions would be most advantageous for your case. The following are some of the most commonly executed defense strategies in Nevada City that might work for you.

Innocence

If a client does not believe the charges against them are accurate, they could take the position of innocence in court. This is an attempt to raise doubts that the allegations are true. To successfully execute this strategy, the defense will need to present evidence that directly combats the prosecution’s claims of guilt. From eyewitnesses to video surveillance footage, a defense attorney will need convincing evidence to prove innocence.

Alibi

An alibi is arguably one of the strongest pieces of evidence a defendant can use in their case. This is when an individual or entity can provide testimony to your whereabouts during the alleged crime. If there is proof to show there is no possible way you would have been able to be at the scene of the crime, this could dismiss the case entirely. Combining an alibi with other evidence, like DNA or photographs, could strengthen the defense strategy to secure a win.

Self-Defense

Sometimes, a defendant believes that their alleged act of violence was a form of self-defense to protect themselves from a genuine threat. To win with this defense, an attorney will need to prove that their client faced a threat that was proportionate to their self-defense behavior. Being held at gunpoint or being physically harmed are two commonly agreed-upon scenarios in which an individual can interject to defend themselves.

Mental Incapacity

If you were not in a coherent state of mind during the incident, you and your attorney may be able to present a mental incapacity defense. This is applicable when an individual suffers from a mental health condition or some form of untreated illness that caused them not to understand what was going on. A significant amount of evidence will need to be collected to win with this position, especially notes from mental health counselors who can testify to their patient’s condition.

Illegal Search and Seizure

It is unlawful for law enforcement to enter an individual’s property without obtaining a warrant first. If there is evidence to suggest this right was violated, a defense attorney can use an illegal search and seizure defense for their client.

If illegal search and seizure is proven to be true, it would make any evidence that the officers collected during that time inadmissible in the case. This could force the prosecution to drop their charges if they have no other evidence available.

Police Misconduct

Any violations of the rules and regulations that guide police officers could warrant an investigation into police misconduct. This could include a look into whether they engaged in illegal behavior, such as planting evidence or forcing someone to confess to something they didn’t actually do.

Officers sometimes engage in police misconduct in order to protect themselves from their own illegal activity. If true, a defendant could press additional charges against the officer.

Plea Bargaining

If a defendant is willing to confess to certain aspects of the allegations, the prosecution could agree to enter a plea bargain. In this case, they may offer a reduced charge in exchange for the guilty verdict. For example, a DUI charge could be reduced to reckless driving.

Plea bargains are highly recommended when the prosecution’s evidence looks extremely compelling and would be difficult to disprove. In some cases, accepting a plea bargain could keep a defendant out of prison.

Types of Criminal Cases We Handle

• DUI
• Domestic Violence
• Drug Charges
• Probations Violations
• Cannabis Cases
• Firearms & Gun Offenses
• Governor’s Pardons
• Immigration Law & Crimes
• Juvenile Crimes
• White Collar Crimes

What Should I Do if I Have Been Arrested in Nevada City?

If you have been arrested in Nevada City, the first thing to keep in mind is to remain calm. Just because you have been accused of a crime does not automatically mean you will be found guilty in court. Take a deep breath and follow law enforcement’s instructions. It is also recommended you remain silent, as speaking to details of the case could be used against you later on.

You have the right to an attorney. Be sure to exercise this right and secure legal representation as soon as you can. Your Nevada City Criminal Defense Lawyer can take the time to detail what each step of the criminal defense process will look like and what their plans are to maximize your chances of success.

It’s at this point that you and your attorney can review all evidence available and determine what defense position could be the most effective in protecting your rights and avoiding criminal charges.

Is It Possible to Have a Criminal Record Expunged in Nevada City?

Many people who have been convicted of a crime in Nevada City wonder if there is a possibility of having the record expunged in the future. This is a possibility, but it will largely depend on what the specific charge is and what other misdemeanors and felonies are on your record. For example, first-time offenders with a non-violent charge have the greatest chance of sealing the record for good, while those with a repeated history of violent crime are less likely to see this happen.

Connect with a Nevada City Criminal Defense Lawyer to see what the likelihood is of your charge being expunged. If a significant amount of time has passed and you have not committed more crimes, this will boost your chance of clearing your record permanently and moving on with your life.

Contact The Law Office of Jennifer Granger Today

If you have been accused of a crime in Nevada City, it’s vital to contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. The Law Office of Jennifer Granger is committed to helping her clients by pursuing the best course of action to protect their rights.

This period of one’s life can feel isolating, which is why our lawyer can step in to join your team and protect your rights. Call today for a case evaluation.