Your Fresno Criminal Attorney: One of the Most Important Decisions You'll Make

When you're arrested you're taken to be processed at the county jail. There you will be asked your name and other personal information, and you will be searched. Your property will be taken and held for you until you are released. You'll be fingerprinted and photographed and held until your first appearance in front of a judge or until someone posts bond for you.

Felonies and Misdemeanors

Felonies are more serious than misdemeanors. Some crimes may be considered felonies or misdemeanors depending on severity and circumstances. A DUI is usually a misdemeanor unless someone is seriously injured or killed. Some felony charges may be reduced to misdemeanors and even if you plea to a felony it may be reduced to a misdemeanor at some point. Your Fresno criminal defense lawyer is critical to ensuring you are not charged improperly.

Consequences of a Conviction

A felony conviction carries more severe consequences than a misdemeanor conviction. If you're convicted of a felony, you'll generally spend more time in custody and have more restrictions placed on you after release. After release, you may not be allowed to vote or hold public office, and in some cases you may not be eligible to serve in the military. Your Fresno criminal attorney should spell out the consequences of a conviction in your specific case.

Honesty is the Key to a Successful Defense

If you're not honest with your Fresno criminal defense lawyer, you cannot expect the best defense in court. If you're caught in a lie in court, your lawyer will be unprepared and cannot defend you to the best of his or her ability. You will not shock your attorney with the details of your case. He or she relies on you to be honest so that you can get the best possible defense.

Regardless of Circumstances, You Have Rights

Even those who commit the most heinous of crimes have the right to a proper defense. Whether you've been arrested on a DUI charge or face other criminal charges, you need an experienced Fresno criminal lawyer on your side from the beginning to protect your rights and defend you adequately.