As a leading criminal defense attorney in San Diego, I have spent years defending clients against serious criminal charges. In California, the legal system is complex, and the prosecution works tirelessly to secure convictions. However, every defendant has rights, and there are several legal defenses that can be used to challenge criminal charges.
Being accused of a crime does not mean you are guilty. The burden of proof lies with the prosecution, and it is my job to challenge their case. Whether you are facing charges for DUI, drug offenses, theft, assault, or even more serious crimes like homicide, the right defense strategy can mean the difference between conviction and freedom.
Below are some of the most common legal defenses I use in California criminal cases:
One of the fundamental principles of our justice system is that the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If the state fails to provide enough credible evidence to meet this standard, I will aggressively challenge their case. Many times, evidence is circumstantial, unreliable, or simply insufficient to justify a conviction. When this happens, I fight to have charges reduced or dismissed altogether.
In cases involving assault, battery, or even homicide, self-defense is a powerful legal argument. If my client acted to protect themselves or others from imminent harm, California law recognizes the right to use reasonable force. This defense hinges on proving that:
When applicable, I work to present compelling evidence and witness testimony to demonstrate that my client acted out of necessity rather than criminal intent.
The Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects individuals from illegal searches and seizures. If law enforcement obtained evidence without a proper warrant or without probable cause, that evidence may be inadmissible in court. I thoroughly review how evidence was collected in each case and file motions to suppress any evidence obtained through illegal means. Without key evidence, the prosecution’s case can crumble, leading to a dismissal or favorable plea deal.
Unfortunately, false accusations happen more often than people think. Whether it’s due to personal vendettas, mistaken identity, or ulterior motives, being falsely accused of a crime can be devastating. I work to uncover inconsistencies in the accuser’s statements, present alibi evidence, and expose ulterior motives behind false claims. In cases where false allegations are involved, a strong defense can not only clear my client’s name but also hold the accuser accountable for making fraudulent claims.
An alibi defense demonstrates that my client was somewhere else at the time of the alleged crime. This can be established through witness testimony, surveillance footage, phone records, or other verifiable evidence. If the prosecution cannot place my client at the scene, their case weakens significantly.
Entrapment occurs when law enforcement induces someone to commit a crime they otherwise would not have committed. This often happens in sting operations, particularly in drug and prostitution cases. If I can prove that law enforcement officers coerced or pressured my client into committing a crime, the case may be dismissed on the grounds of entrapment.
Eyewitness testimony is often unreliable, and mistaken identity is a leading cause of wrongful convictions. I work with forensic experts, review surveillance footage, and use DNA evidence when applicable to establish that my client was not the person who committed the crime.
Law enforcement sometimes use aggressive interrogation tactics that lead to false confessions. If my client was intimidated, deprived of their rights, or subjected to lengthy questioning without legal counsel, I challenge the validity of any confession. The law requires that confessions be voluntary, and if they are not, they must be thrown out.
If a defendant was suffering from severe mental illness at the time of the crime and was unable to understand their actions, an insanity defense may be appropriate. California follows the M’Naghten Rule, which states that a defendant is not legally responsible if they were incapable of distinguishing right from wrong due to a mental disorder.
Before an arresting officer questions a suspect, they must read them their Miranda rights, which include the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. If law enforcement fails to inform my client of these rights, any statements made may be inadmissible in court. I thoroughly investigate whether proper procedures were followed and use any violations to weaken the prosecution’s case.
With years of experience defending clients in San Diego and throughout California, I understand how to build a strong defense strategy tailored to each case. Every legal defense requires careful planning, a deep knowledge of the law, and a willingness to fight aggressively on behalf of my clients.
If you or a loved one has been accused of a crime, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side. Time is critical in building a strong case, and the sooner you seek legal representation, the better your chances of a favorable outcome.
Call me now to schedule a consultation.
I provide 24-hour assistance because legal emergencies don’t wait.
Let me help you protect your rights and fight for your future.
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