Inglewood Criminal Defense Lawyer

What Criminal Defense Cases Are Common in Inglewood?

Like any city, Inglewood sees various criminal cases, and the specific types of cases can vary from year to year. Some common criminal defense cases in Inglewood include:

• Drug Crimes: Drug offenses in Inglewood can range from simple possession of illegal drugs to large-scale drug trafficking operations. Inglewood drug cases often involve marijuana, cocaine, and methamphetamine. In recent years, the city has seen an increase in drug-related crimes. In response, law enforcement has increased their efforts to combat these offenses. Individuals charged with drug crimes in Inglewood face the possibility of serious penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
• Theft Crimes: Theft crimes in Inglewood are common, with offenses ranging from petty theft to grand theft auto. Shoplifting is one of the most common theft offenses in Inglewood. Area stores have experienced significant losses due to this crime. Individuals charged with theft crimes in Inglewood face potential penalties, including fines, probation, and jail time.
• Assault and Battery: Assault and battery offenses in Inglewood can range from simple altercations to severe domestic violence cases. Domestic violence is a particular concern in Inglewood. Therefore, law enforcement officers are trained to respond quickly to these incidents. Individuals accused of assault and battery offenses in Inglewood may face significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
• DUI and Traffic Offenses: Driving under the influence (DUI) and other traffic-related offenses, such as reckless driving and hit-and-run accidents, are also common in Inglewood. The city takes DUI offenses seriously. Individuals charged with DUI may face penalties such as fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment. Traffic offenses, such as speeding or running a red light, can also result in fines and points on the driver’s license.
• White Collar Crimes: Inglewood sees its share of white collar crimes, such as fraud, embezzlement, and identity theft. These types of crimes can be complex and may involve significant amounts of evidence. Individuals accused of white collar crimes in Inglewood face potential penalties, including fines and imprisonment. White collar crimes can result in significant financial losses for individuals and businesses. This makes them a serious concern for law enforcement agencies in Inglewood.

While the prevalence of criminal cases is undeniable, each one must be treated on its own merits. There are still scenarios where a person can be wrongfully accused of a crime. They can also be unfairly charged with a higher level of offense than is appropriate for the facts and circumstances. Working closely with an experienced Inglewood criminal defense lawyer can ensure that your rights are protected and your case is handled appropriately.

What Defenses Can be Used in Criminal Cases in Inglewood?

Several defenses can be used in criminal cases in Inglewood. The specific defense used will depend on the circumstances of the case and the charges being brought against the accused. Here are some common defenses that may be used in criminal cases in Inglewood:

• Self-Defense: Self-defense is a legal defense that can be used in cases where an individual is charged with assault or battery. The defense requires the accused to show that they reasonably believed they were in danger of harm. They must also demonstrate that the force used was proportional to the perceived threat. For example, an individual who uses force to defend themselves against an attacker could claim “self-defense” in court.
• Insanity Defense: The insanity defense can be used to show that the accused had a mental illness at the time of the offense. The accused must show that their mental illness prevented them from understanding the nature of their actions or making moral judgments. If so, they may be found not guilty because of insanity. This defense is often difficult to prove, and the standard for proving insanity is high.
• Duress: Duress is a legal defense where an individual asserts that they were forced to commit a crime under the threat of harm to themselves or others. If the accused can show that they were coerced into committing the offense, and had no other reasonable option, they may be able to avoid conviction. However, this defense requires a clear and credible threat of harm.
• Lack of Evidence: In cases where the prosecution has insufficient evidence to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, the defense could get the charges dismissed. The defense may directly challenge the prosecution’s evidence. They may also use other legal strategies to show that the evidence does not meet the standard required for a conviction.
• Mistaken Identity: Sometimes, the accused is misidentified as the perpetrator of the crime. The defense may present evidence to show that the accused was not present at the crime scene. They may also prove that they had an alibi at the time of the offense. This defense requires a clear and credible alternative suspect to be identified.
• Unlawful Search and Seizure: The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures. If law enforcement officers conducted an unlawful search and seizure, any evidence obtained from that search may be inadmissible in court. This can result in the charges being dismissed or reduced. The defense may challenge the legality of the search and seizure and move to have the evidence suppressed.

An experienced criminal attorney can help individuals facing criminal charges in Inglewood understand the defenses that are available to them. They can use these to build a strong case for their defense.

Criminal Defense Lawyer FAQs

Q: How much is a local criminal defense attorney?

A: The cost of a local criminal defense attorney in Inglewood, California, varies depending on the case’s complexity and the attorney’s experience. Some attorneys charge a flat fee for their services, while others charge an hourly rate. Discuss the fees and payment options with the attorney before retaining their services. If you neglect to do so, you may be subject to unexpected legal fees and charges. These could delay your case and add to your financial burden.

Q: Should I hire a lawyer for criminal charges?

A: Yes, it is highly recommended that individuals facing criminal charges in Inglewood hire a criminal defense attorney. The criminal justice system is complex and intimidating. A skilled attorney can provide guidance and representation throughout the legal process. An attorney can help to ensure that the accused’s rights are protected and that they receive a fair trial. The risk of a conviction is too great to risk going through the process without an attorney. The average citizen does not have the same level of legal knowledge or experience as an experienced attorney. Therefore, it is advisable to seek professional help for long-term legal protection.

Q: What questions should I ask a criminal defense attorney?

A: When hiring a criminal defense attorney, ask about their:

• Experience with cases similar to yours
• Success rate
• Strategy for defending the case
• Fee structure

It is also helpful to discuss the attorney’s availability and communication style. A reasonable attorney is willing to answer all your questions. They can also provide a clear understanding of their approach to your case.

Q: Can a criminal defense attorney guarantee a not-guilty verdict? 

A: No, a criminal defense attorney cannot guarantee a not-guilty verdict. The outcome of a criminal trial depends on many factors, including:

• The strength of the prosecution’s evidence
• The skill of the defense attorney
• The decisions of the judge and jury

A good defense attorney can work to provide a solid defense. However, the trial’s outcome cannot be predicted or guaranteed. Nevertheless, the accused’s most promising chance at a successful outcome is to have an experienced attorney. They can provide skillful representation and mitigate the risks of conviction.