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December

30

Arson Charges Are Particularly Serious in California

Criminal Defense

Accused Of Arson? Arson charges are dependent on the accused perpetrator's intent. Did you mean to start a fire, or was it an accident? Did you intend to burn down a garage or an entire neighborhood? Did you intend to hurt anyone?

April

18

Got Bail? California Supremes Change Bail Dynamic with Humphrey Decision

Criminal Defense

The California Supreme Court, last month, upheld the Court of Appeal Decision in In Re Kenneth Humphrey. This is a game changer for the bail system in California. Now the court can consider a defendant’s ability to pay the bail in deciding what the bail should be, or if alternatives to incarceration can be arranged.

February

07

How Do Competent Criminal Defense Lawyers Win your Case?

Criminal Defense

Are you facing criminal charges that could attract a hefty fine or imprisonment? A competent criminal lawyer can help to mitigate or negate the charges you are facing. Experienced Defense Lawyers understand that no criminal case is like another; they spot unique aspects of your case and use tactics to safeguard your rights and interests. Read more to find out how.

December

30

Get A Misdemeanor Charge Dismissed Through AB 3234- California's New Diversion Law

Criminal Defense

There's some good news for many Californians facing criminal misdemeanor charges. As of January 1, 2021, Assembly Bill 3234 is now an active law. A primary provision in this bill means California judges can now offer a pretrial diversion in a qualifying misdemeanor case even when the prosecuting attorney objects to the offering. This can be a great tool for experienced lawyers to help clients avoid criminal convictions.

June

29

Right to a Speedy Preliminary Hearing in the age of COVID-19

Criminal Defense

Recently, California courts extended, in certain cases, the time frame to hold preliminary hearings in March of 2020. However, preliminary hearing time frames were, often violated, due to unilateral extensions. A California Court of Appeal (First App. District, Division 5), ruled the “speedy” preliminary hearing right of a Defendant in a human trafficking case were violated when the Contra Cost County Court did not hear his preliminary hearing within the 10 day period as required by law. For those lawyers looking for the citation, the case is Dejuan Bullock v. Superior Court of Contra Costa County (2020) 51 Cal.App.5th 134.

June

29

Contact a Top-Notch Criminal Lawyer to Combat False Child Abuse Claims

Criminal Defense

Michael E. Mitchell is an excellent attorney with proven results. He works tirelessly for his California Community. Contact us, immediately, if you have been wrongfully accused of any crime, and we will build a plan to clear your name and protect your children. Your initial consultation is free and without obligation. Come in and witness our dedication for yourselves.

June

07

Mid-Year New Laws Heads-Up

Criminal Defense

Most new laws in California go into effect on January 1st following the year they were enacted. However, AB12, an expansion on gun violence restraining orders, goes into effect on September 1, 2020. This mid-year activation may catch those tasked with enforcing the new law by surprise, and may catch those who are the targets of such a law even more by surprise.

April

26

If I’m Arrested, do I have the Right to a Phone Call?

Criminal Defense

One of the most common questions I get, besides, they didn't read me my rights, is whether the police have to give you a phone call. The following is my public service announcement regarding this oft-requested information.

December

30

Common Criminal Defense Charges

Criminal Defense

The Mitchell Law Group handles all major areas of criminal defense, both at the State and Federal level, including the appellate level. If you're faced with a serious felony or misdemeanor charge, and you're concerned about the impact on your life and livelihood, our Fresno Criminal Defense Lawyers will provide the dedicated defense you need to see you through his difficult period in your life.

June

29

Do You Have an Outstanding Warrant?

Criminal Defense

Officers are aggressively serving and arresting defendants for bench warrants and jail warrants (for not doing required community service). They can show up to your home or place of work. Sometimes its also at a very inconvenient time, like right before Thanksgiving or Christmas. Instead of cozying up next to the fireplace, you could be cozying up next to your new cellmate. So, how can outstanding warrants happen?

June

17

Consider the Evidence and Your History to Plan Your Fresno DUI Defense

Criminal Defense

If you're being tried in court for a DUI, you'll need to have a strategy. Working closely with your criminal defense lawyer can help you to come up with one. Your lawyer will be able to tell you what all your choices are and whether you should plead guilty or not guilty. Even if you do plead guilty, it may be possible for you to get a reduced sentence. Or it may be possible for you to make a deal with the prosecutor's office. There are many options open to you as the defendant.

June

02

Should I accept a Plea Deal?

Criminal Defense

Being charged with a crime is a very scary and confusing time. You may or may not be guilty of the alleged crime(s). The evidence may be shaky, hard to understand, or completely false. It is also not unheard of to have additional charges tacked on in an effort to give leverage to a prosecutors plea bargaining practices. If you or a loved one has been charged with a crime, chances are you've heard the words plea deal floated around a few times and you may be wondering if a plea deal is in your best interest.

April

29

Felony Arrests and Convictions

Criminal Defense

If you are in trouble with the law, you are probably confused. The legal system is quite complicated, especially because there are several different levels of offenses in California. While infractions are considered small, petty offenses (e.g. speeding tickets), misdemeanors are more serious charges. Even a small misdemeanor offense can lead to being placed on probation and a life long blemish on your record.

November

29

Fresno Criminal Defense: Three Strike Offense

Criminal Defense

In the State of California, we have a three strikes law. Every time that you are convicted of a serious or violent felony, it is considered a strike. This includes crimes like burglary, arson, mayhem, murder, and much more. Here are some things that you should know about the three strike law.

September

29

Fresno Criminal Defense: What Is a Plea Deal?

Criminal Defense

If you end up in legal trouble, you should meet with an experienced criminal defense lawyer. He or she will discuss your case and your defense. Your lawyer may also bring up a plea bargain or deal. Though you may have heard about them, you might not really know or understand what they are.

September

29

Why You Should Hire a White Collar Criminal Attorney

Criminal Defense

Being charged with a white-collar crime can be a very stressful experience. Those that are charged should contact an attorney immediately. A lawyer that specializes in providing defense for white-collar crimes can provide you with a range of different services to ensure your rights are represented and your punishment is minimized.

September

03

What to Look for on a Criminal Lawyer’s Website

Criminal Defense

When you're searching for a criminal lawyer, the stakes are much higher compared to shopping for everyday products and services. On the other hand, at least one part of the process is similar. You're likely to go online to find out what their website has to say. Here are some of the most important features to look for to be sure you are getting a knowledgeable and experienced attorney who will stand up for your rights.

June

29

What Is a Bench Warrant?

Criminal Defense

Bench Warrant? You might receive a bench warrant if you failed to show up for your day in court. You might also find yourself faced with a bench warrant if you didn't meet your probation conditions. You might have missed signing up for a class that you were required to take, or you might have missed your community service. What do you do?

June

03

3 Criminal Defense Tips When it Comes to Social Media

Criminal Defense

If you have been charged with a crime, the time between your arrest and your court date should be taken seriously. Aspects of your day-to-day life can be fair game for judges and prosecutors to review. Police and investigators will often review your posts or updates on social media. Here are three criminal defense tips that can help you avoid posting the wrong things on social media while your case is pending.

April

29

Fresno Criminal Lawyer: Do You Know What Domestic Violence Looks Like?

Criminal Defense

Domestic violence is looked upon as a serious crime. Even on a misdemeanor offense, a conviction usually necessitates the completion of a 52 week class and results in substantial jail time. But, what is Domestic Violence?

February

25

3 Reasons Why Everyone Deserves a Fresno Criminal Attorney

Criminal Defense

Everyone has a right a to a good defense lawyer, no matter what the crime. This is something stated by the law and that's because it's a system that works. In case a person is really innocent, they shouldn't end up behind bars because they didn't have the chance to defend themselves.

December

30

3 Tips for Communicating with Your Criminal Lawyer

Criminal Defense

When you're communicating with your criminal lawyer, you should remember that it doesn't matter whether you're innocent or guilty. The law says that everyone has a right to a defense. So you shouldn't be afraid that your lawyer is going to judge you or betray your confidence.

September

26

Tips for Appearing in Court for Your Criminal Case

Criminal Defense

If you are heading to court soon for criminal charges, there are a few things you should prepare in advance. While you might have your case in order and working with an attorney on strategy, it is important to put a little thought into your appearance and actions in court. Here are three tips for personal appearance and attitude during your upcoming day in criminal court.

September

14

Top Criminal Defense Tips When You're Facing Charges

Criminal Defense

If you are facing criminal charges, you are probably feeling more than a little bit nervous about what is going to happen. These are a few criminal defense tips that can help you through this difficult process.

April

29

Times Police Can Search You or Your Home or Car Without a Warrant

Criminal Defense

The fourth amendment of the United States Constitution grants persons reasonable rights to not have themselves and their properties searched. Unlawful searches and seizures can violate a person's expectation of privacy. There are, however, several mitigating circumstances that allow law enforcement to legally search you, your residence or your vehicle without a warrant.

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