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After being arrested, you should do two things: remain silent, and contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately. There are few events in life that are as traumatic as being arrested for a crime. In a split moment, you go from being a free person to a prisoner in handcuffs and chains, taken away from your… read more

The burden of proof in criminal cases is the required level of evidence to win a case: beyond a reasonable doubt in criminal cases, more likely true than not in civil cases, and a high likelihood of truth in family and administrative cases. If you are facing a criminal charge, you probably have a lot… read more

What is Indictment? An indictment is a formal accusation that initiates a criminal case, charging an individual with committing a specific crime. This process is typically used in the context of serious crimes, especially at the federal level. The Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution dictates that major offenses – capital or otherwise infamous crimes… read more

The immigration consequences of a criminal conviction can lead to removal from the United States, prevent lawful readmission, and even result in the denial of permanent residency. For immigrants in the United States, a criminal conviction can have severe consequences beyond the penalties associated with the crime itself. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has… read more

To prepare for a consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, you need to: Step 1: Gather all relevant documents, such as police reports and court summons, and write down your account of events with as much detail as possible. Step 2: Prepare Questions about potential outcomes, defense strategies, and the lawyer’s experience. Step 3: Be honest… read more

How Can My Criminal History Affect My Current Case?  A criminal history can worsen your current case by leading to harsher sentencing, stricter pretrial conditions, and reduced chances for plea deals. It may also affect your credibility in trial and result in probation or parole revocation. A criminal history can affect a current criminal case,… read more

What is Due Process? Due process ensures a fair and impartial hearing in legal proceedings, where decisions are based on facts, not bias. Due process is a cornerstone of our legal system that guarantees the rights and protection of all citizens. It is natural for many to be overwhelmed when faced with a situation requiring… read more

Yes, even if you’re innocent, you still need a criminal defense lawyer. Being innocent doesn’t guarantee that you won’t be charged or convicted, and navigating the legal system without proper representation is risky. Have you been falsely accused or charged with a crime you didn’t commit? If so, you’re not alone. It’s natural to think… read more

Deferred Entry of Judgment (DEJ) under Penal Code 1000 in California allows eligible defendants, particularly those facing drug charges, to avoid a criminal conviction by completing a drug treatment program. If the defendant successfully fulfills the program’s requirements, their case is dismissed, helping them avoid the long-term consequences of a conviction. The Rodriguez Law Group,… read more

Crimes involving moral turpitude are serious offenses involving fraud or harm, with consequences affecting immigration, professional licenses, and credibility. All crimes have consequences. In most cases, a conviction will result in supervised release, fines, and/or incarceration and a significant hit to your professional reputation and public conscience. Certain offenses are worse than others. They are… read more