Cerritos Criminal Defense Lawyer

Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney in Cerritos

Any accusation of a criminal offense can be stressful, with the potential for thousands in fines, years in prison, and a lasting impact on your future. If you are under investigation or charged with a crime, a Cerritos criminal defense lawyer can help you through this difficult period. Skilled legal counsel can advocate for you throughout proceedings and make a positive impact on your case. 

About Reputable Law Firm, Gibbons & Gibbons

Our team at Gibbons & Gibbons has over 60 years of combined legal experience representing the people of Cerritos, Downey, Bellflower, and communities across Southern California. Co-founder Joseph Gibbons has handled a variety of criminal defense cases ranging from minor drug possession to first-degree murder. His legal accomplishments earned him the title Attorney of the Year by the Southeast District Bar Association and the City of La Mirada.

Criminal Defense Cases in Cerritos, California

Cerritos has a mixed crime rate when compared to California overall. The violent crime rate is 3.48 per 1,000 residents, lower than the statewide median of 4.86 per 1,000 people. Property crime incidents are far higher, with 52.38 per 1,000, nearly double the 20.78 per 1,000 statewide rate. Heritage Park and West Cerritos are some of the more crime-ridden areas with more incidents than the blocks around Cerritos Regional County Park and Southeast of town.

Criminal defense law covers many offenses in California. Cases involving criminal charges in Cerritos fall under the jurisdiction of the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Misdemeanor cases are typically handled at the Bellflower Courthouse on East Flower Street in Bellflower, and felonies, preliminary hearings, and general criminal proceedings for Cerritos are heard at the Norwalk Courthouse on Norwalk Boulevard in Norwalk.

Types of Criminal Defense Cases We Handle

Gibbons & Gibbons represents a variety of criminal defense cases. Some common types of offenses we handle are listed below:

• Violent crimes. Violent crimes encompass a variety of offenses centered on attempting or causing physical harm to another. Examples include assault, battery, robbery, manslaughter, and homicide.
• DUI. Driving under the influence, or a DUI charge, is made upon the arrest of an individual who is driving a motor vehicle while affected by drugs or alcohol. California’s legal blood alcohol content limit is 0.08% for regular licensed drivers and 0.04% for commercial drivers. A conviction can result in fines, probation, driving restrictions, or jail time.
• Drug offenses. Drug offenses cover the illegal possession, distribution, manufacturing, or trafficking of controlled substances.
• Theft crimes. Theft criminal offenses involve someone intentionally taking another’s property, such as shoplifting, larceny, and burglary. The severity of charges is based on the value of the involved assets. For instance, grand theft charges are made when stolen property is worth $950 or less, while cases valued lower are classified as petty theft.
• White collar crimes. White collar crimes are typically nonviolent offenses centered on monetary gain. Identity theft, embezzlement, insider trading, and wire fraud are all common cases.
• Sex crimes. Sex crimes center on any illegal, nonconsensual acts done for sexual gratification, such as indecent exposure, sexual assault, rape, statutory rape, and child pornography.

Repeat Offenders

One key element in determining penalties in a criminal defense case is whether you have prior offenses. California uses a strike system that expands sentencing guidelines and bars someone from parole. The base extension is five years, with serious and violent felonies potentially doubling the new charge’s prison sentence. A third conviction for a serious felony extends punishment to triple the base guidelines, imprisonment of 25 years, or life in prison.

Mistakes To Avoid After an Arrest

The actions you take immediately after an arrest can play an important role in determining your options later on. The first mistake to avoid is talking with law enforcement. Anything you say, including seemingly innocuous comments or explanations, can be used against you by the prosecution. Remain silent until you can speak with your attorney.

Another common misstep to refrain from is being combative during the arrest and booking process. Resisting arrest can result in additional criminal charges and harm your defense. You should refuse to consent to a search while remaining cooperative.

The third frequent error to avoid is discussing the case with anyone outside legal counsel. This includes social media posts, conversations with loved ones, and contacting alleged victims or involved parties. The state may draw on any of these during discovery and use them for its argument.

The final prevalent mistake to avoid is waiting to speak with an attorney. Your legal counsel can have a greater influence on your criminal defense case when consulted early in the proceedings.

Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer Who Is Familiar with Cerritos Criminal Defense Laws

Criminal convictions can have lasting consequences on your life. The serious nature of an offense makes it recommended that you hire a criminal defense lawyer to assist with your case. Your Cerritos criminal defense attorney can provide key services like those listed below:

• Explain court proceedings. Many are confused following an arrest. We can explain the charges against you, the potential penalties, and the upcoming stages of the process.
• Choose defense. The strongest legal defense depends on the unique details of each case. Gibbons & Gibbons can advise you on what approach matches your situation.
• Gather evidence. Supporting evidence can be a crucial element in criminal defense cases. Your attorney can assist in gathering.
• Examine the case against you. Our team can examine the state’s case against you to highlight procedural errors or challenge faulty arguments. Factors such as an illegal search and seizure or failing to read Miranda rights can be used to dismiss a charge.
• Represent you in court. Court appearances can be stressful when facing years in prison. We can represent you in all court hearings and meetings.
• Negotiate with the state. Your lawyer can negotiate with the prosecution and court for a favorable plea bargain. Plea deals can reduce the offense you are charged with and lower penalties.

Speak With a Cerritos Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

At Gibbons & Gibbons, we know how overwhelming criminal defense cases can be. Our team has decades of experience, knowledge, and skills from practicing law in Southern California that we can use to make a positive impact on your case.

Contact us to schedule your free consultation, during which we can learn your side of the story, discuss next steps, and explore defense strategies that fit your situation. You may also visit our offices in town on Studebaker Road, west of City Hall, north of 183^rd Street, and south of Artesia Boulevard.