Strong Criminal Defense In Stockton And Beyond
At Bird & Van Dyke, Inc., we represent adults and juveniles throughout the Central Valley. Attorney Bird is a former prosecutor and public defender with extensive criminal law experience. She uses this knowledge and experience to understand criminal cases from both sides and anticipate the prosecution’s strategies, which allows her to build stronger cases for our clients.
When You Need A Strong Advocate
We are committed to offering aggressive, effective and affordable representation in a wide range of criminal law matters:
- Federal criminal charges, including white collar crimes
- DUI/drunk driving, including boating under the influence and driving under the influence of drugs (DUID)
- Drug charges from simple possession or, trafficking or manufacturing
- Theft crimes, from petty theft to armed robbery
- Gang-related offenses, which have harsher penalties and can be very complex
- Juvenile crimes, including cases in which children are charged and tried as adults
- Sex crimes, including child pornography defense
- Domestic violence charges
- Homicide and related charges, including first-degree murder
Whatever charges you face, we’ll work hard to protect your rights and minimize damages. We offer one-on-one attention to all our clients and will ensure you understand your options at every step in the process.
If you have been charged with a misdemeanor crime, our attorneys can appear on your behalf, and you can avoid the necessity of going to court (unless the court specifically orders you to attend a hearing).
Answers To Common Concerns About Criminal Charges And Defenses
Being thrust into the middle of the criminal justice system is a jarring experience for anybody. You naturally have questions. We aim to provide answers so that you can be better informed about your situation and your options.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?
In California, a misdemeanor is punishable by no more than a year of incarceration in the county jail, while a felony is punishable by more than a year in prison. A felony conviction can also result in the loss of some critical rights, such as the right to vote and own firearms.
What should you do after you or a loved one has been arrested?
Stay calm. If you are the one under arrest, do not answer any questions from police other than to provide your basic identification. Invoke your right to remain silent and ask to speak to an attorney. Do not discuss your case with anyone, even your family, while in custody.
If you are the loved one of someone who has been arrested, refrain from asking them any questions about how they ended up in the situation or the alleged crime. Gather only basic details about the charges, where they are being held or taken, and what bail options they may have. Encourage your loved one to invoke their right to remain silent and help them contact an experienced criminal defense attorney.
Do I need to hire an attorney after being charged with a crime?
While it is not legally required to have a defense lawyer, a lawyer can explain the charges and potential penalties you face, evaluate the prosecution’s case for weaknesses, protect your rights against official overreaches, negotiate for lesser charges or a lower sentence with the prosecution if a plea deal is in order and, ultimately, zealously defend you in court.
Can I expunge my criminal record in California?
Certain misdemeanors and some lower-level felonies can be expunged, and records can sometimes be sealed. However, it is not an easy process, and you need an experienced lawyer’s assistance.
Get A Real Second Chance
It is crucial to secure a highly qualified criminal defense lawyer because a conviction can have life-altering consequences. We are always alert to developments in California criminal law that may help us protect our clients.
To learn more about our legal services, contact Bird & Van Dyke, Inc., today. Call our office in Stockton 209-507-0479 for an appointment to discuss your case.