Legal Representation

How Does It Benefit me to be Represented by a San Diego Criminal Attorney in Court?

November 13, 2012 | Ronald N. Hoffman

When you have been charged with a criminal offense, you have not yet been convicted. To be convicted you have to either plead that you are guilty, or the Court must prove that you are guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. That is your right as a person.

It is important that you are fully aware of the strengths and weaknesses of your case before you plead to anything, and before you prepare to go to trial. In addition, it is necessary to know if you have any applicable defenses so that you are fully prepared in Court when you are asked to present you case before a Judge.

An experienced San Diego criminal defense lawyer deals with cases like yours everyday. They know the Judges, and the prosecutors and would be able to inform you what the strengths of your case would be. They would also let you know what the weaknesses are and work hard to accommodate for those weaknesses so that you can get the best possible results.

What are my Options if I Cannot Afford a Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney?

November 8, 2012 | Ronald N. Hoffman

When you have been arrested on suspicion for a criminal offense, it is in your best interest to seek the counsel of an experienced legal counsel. There are two options when it comes to retaining legal counsel; securing the help of a public defender, or hiring a private criminal defense attorney.

A public defender is a court appointed lawyer who will help defend you in your case for a cost that is reasonable in comparison to your income. Whereas a public defender is in the courtroom every day and knows the prosecutor and Judges really well, they are also incredibly swamped with a caseload.

Lets consider Peter, the public defender. He works in the Courtroom and sees about 30 to 40 clients a day. As the Prosecutor speaks to each client, Peter has about 10 minutes to speak to each person about their case. He doesn’t get the opportunity to call around to friends and family, to look into the background of your case and to discuss the details of the facts with you. All of these are extremely important to your case and to the successful outcome of your case.

Do I have the Right to Change my San Diego California Defense Attorney?

April 10, 2012 | Ronald N. Hoffman

Attorneys are held to a high standard of ethics by the California State Bar. There are many rules in effect that are designed to protect a person and their legal rights. There are also guidelines an attorney must follow so that they provide the most diligent, competent and effective legal help available.

Accordingly, the client has many rights when it comes to choosing and retaining an attorney. You have the right to not be hassled when choosing an attorney, and attorneys may not actively solicit your business in a courtroom, hospital, or even the scene of an arrest.

Similarly, if you have retained an attorney, you have the right to terminate the attorney client relationship whenever you feel it is necessary. An attorney, however, cannot terminate you as a client without good reason and permission from the Judge.