Rancho Cucamonga Criminal Defense Lawyer

Rancho Cucamonga Criminal Defense Attorney

If you have been accused or charged with a crime, you may be facing serious consequences. However, whether the crime was a felony or misdemeanor, you deserve the ability to defend yourself and your rights. Your freedom is of utmost importance, and hiring a skilled Rancho Cucamonga criminal defense lawyer may provide the opportunity to secure it.

At the Law Offices of Julian I Ducre, we have experience with a broad range of criminal charges. We have handled cases from shoplifting to homicide, and we believe that all clients deserve a strong defense. Julian I. Ducre takes a creative and thorough approach to building a solid defense strategy. He carefully investigates the case from all angles while being available to his clients throughout the process. Our team is prepared to exhaust all avenues to ensure you’re defended effectively.

Examples of Criminal Cases

Criminal law is different from civil law because it focuses on punishing crimes rather than resolving disputes. This is why it is wise to hire a lawyer, as the prosecution will likely be armed and ready to punish crimes to the highest extent. Even a misdemeanor could result in devastating consequences. We handle both misdemeanor and felony cases with the same skill, compassion, and fierce advocacy.

Types of Common Misdemeanors

Misdemeanors are less severe than felonies but more severe than infractions. While most misdemeanors stay on your record, you may have some expunged or dismissed depending on your unique situation and the skill of your lawyer. Misdemeanors are typically punishable by paying fines or serving time in county jail. Some of the most common misdemeanor cases in California include:

• Petty theft – Petty theft is stealing another person’s property that is valued at $950 or less. Shoplifting is a common example of petty theft in California. Petty theft is classified as a misdemeanor, and the punishment is serving up to 180 days in prison or paying up to $1,000 in fines.
• Drug possession – Though recreational cannabis use is legal in California, controlled substances are not. If you are caught in possession of a controlled substance in California, you could be facing time in prison, as it is a felony.
• DUI – As per the California DUI Laws driving under the influence or driving impaired is a serious offense. Driving impaired includes driving while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or even prescription medications with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or higher. A DUI is a misdemeanor in many cases, and the punishment may include jail time, fines, or both.
• Prostitution – Prostitution is the illegal exchange of sex for money. It is a misdemeanor that may come with a punishment of time in jail and paying fines for both the buyer and seller.
• Vandalism – In short, vandalism is illegally defacing or destroying another person’s property. The penalty for vandalism depends on the damage caused.
• Domestic violence – Domestic violence can come in many forms. It can include physical, emotional, mental, or financial abuse by an intimate partner or even a relative. Domestic violence can be a felony or misdemeanor, depending on the severity of the crime. Misdemeanors in California may mean serving up to a year in jail, while felony convictions for domestic violence could mean driving up to six years in jail.

Types of Common Felonies

Felonies are crimes that are met with more severe consequences. Offenders can pay steep fines and serve time in county jail or state prison, and they will likely have a permanent criminal record. At the most extreme, a person who commits a felony can serve life in prison or even receive the death penalty. Examples of common felonies committed in California are:

• Murder – Murder is the most serious felony conviction that exists in California. This crime is defined as the killing of another person with malice. A murder sentence could include serving up to life in prison.
• Possession of dangerous drugs for sale – This is a serious offense with severe consequences. Possessing a controlled substance is a less severe crime, but selling it increases the charges significantly. If you are convicted of selling controlled substances, you could be facing felony charges.
• Robbery – Robbery is broken down into first and second-degree charges. Both are felonies. First-degree robbery involves the use of a weapon, while second-degree does not. However, both types of robbery charges involve some degree of force.
• Rape – Rape is a violent sexual crime defined as sexual intercourse without a person’s consent. If you are found guilty of rape, you could be facing very steep fines and may serve up to eight years in prison.

Penalties for Common Criminal Cases

If you are convicted of a felony, you can face serious charges. This is why it is important to hire a lawyer as soon as you are arrested. Delaying the call could expedite your chances of losing your freedom. As per the Rancho Cucamonga, CA laws, the penalties for most misdemeanors are fines, jail time, community service, and, in some cases, probation. Specifically, most misdemeanors result in up to a year in jail at the court’s discretion.

Unlike some states, California does not classify felonies by letter or number. Instead, the punishment for the felony depends on the severity of the crime. California does abide by the “three strikes” law, which significantly increases the penalty for individuals with prior felony convictions. Under the three strikes law, offenders can face a mandatory 25 to life sentence.

Common Defenses for Criminal Charges

If you are charged with a crime in California, there are several defenses available to you. To start, most crimes require intent for a person to be charged. If you can prove lack of intent, your charges may be reduced, or in some cases, you may be able to get your case dismissed.

Another common defense is the lack of sufficient evidence. If the prosecution lacks the evidence necessary to charge you with the crime, you may have a solid defense. Criminal cases require defendants to be proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in order to be convicted. If your guilt cannot be proven with the prosecutor’s evidence, you may have a solid defense.

Sometimes, people commit crimes out of self-defense, necessity, to defend others, or because they believe they have consent. For example, if you assault a person out of self-defense, the judge may take this into consideration in your case. Additionally, if you commit a crime to protect or defend someone else, you may also have a defense at your disposal.

At the Law Offices of Julian I. Ducre, we look at each case meticulously, evaluating all circumstances to see how we can build a solid defense. We care about your freedom and your future and are ready to protect your rights and defend you in court if necessary.

FAQs

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost in California?

The cost of a criminal defense lawyer in California largely depends on the lawyer’s experience, the complexity of your case, and the firm’s location. More experienced lawyers in areas with a higher cost of living typically charge more. Likewise, if your case is complex, the rates may be higher. It is important to note that paying a lawyer in a criminal case may be less costly than serving time in state prison.

What Is the Difference Between a Criminal Lawyer and a Defense Attorney?

A criminal lawyer can be a defense attorney or a prosecuting attorney as long as they are litigating a criminal case. However, a defense attorney specifically works to defend a person who is accused of committing a crime. In short, a criminal lawyer is a general term referring to a lawyer who practices criminal law, while a defense attorney is more specific.

What Types of Cases Do Criminal Lawyers Handle?

Criminal lawyers handle criminal cases. They represent clients who are accused of committing either felonies or misdemeanors. Felonies are more serious crimes, while misdemeanors are impactful but less severe. Examples of felonies include murder, rape, and robbery, while misdemeanors include petty theft, many DUIs, or vandalism. Some defense attorneys may focus on certain types of cases, such as white collar crimes, DUIs, or violent crimes.

What Happens If I Commit a Crime?

If you commit a crime, you should exercise your right to remain silent at the arrest. Anything you say may be used against you in court. You should also call a lawyer immediately to discuss your case and weigh your options. Finally, you should have a firm understanding of the penalties you may be facing. Your attorney can explain your charges and the stakes of your case.

Julian I. Ducre: Your Compassionate and Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer

Being charged with a crime can change your life forever. Not only may you be facing jail time and fines, but you may have a permanent stain on your criminal record. At the Law Offices of Julian I. Ducre, we understand what is at stake and work tirelessly to help our clients secure their freedom. Don’t hesitate to contact our office so we can inform you of all we have to offer.