Sonoma County Criminal Defense Attorney Representing You When Your Freedom, Reputation, and Future Are at Risk
Being charged with a crime can change your life in an instant. Whether you were pulled over during a traffic stop and arrested, spoke to investigators about a crime, or learned that criminal charges are being filed against you, you may be unsure of what comes next. Criminal charges can impact your freedom, current job, immigration status, finances, and relationships.
While you will need to face criminal charges, you don’t have to face them without an aggressive Sonoma County criminal defense attorney by your side. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can protect your rights, guide you through California’s criminal justice system, and fight for the best possible outcome.
Attorney Andres Rico represents clients throughout Sonoma County who have been charged with misdemeanors and felonies. He approaches each case with careful analysis, strategic planning, and relentless advocacy to protect your rights and freedom.
At the Law Offices of Andres Rico, we take pride in helping clients when they need it the most. Below is information about common criminal charges, the possible penalties you are facing, and how the court process works. You will also discover why having an experienced criminal defense attorney in your corner is crucial to your case.
Understanding Criminal Charges in Sonoma County
Prosecutors from the Sonoma County District Attorney’s Office will typically handle criminal cases in Sonoma County. Cases are heard by judges in the Sonoma County Superior Court. Defendants can be charged by local police, California sheriff’s departments, or state and federal law enforcement.
The State of California divides crimes into three categories:
- Infractions
- Misdemeanors
- Felonies
Felony convictions carry the most severe consequences, including the possibility of state prison. But even misdemeanor charges can impact your life for years to come. For this reason, it’s important to speak to a Sonoma County criminal defense attorney at the Law Offices of Andres Rico as soon as possible. We will walk you through the charges and discuss potential defenses as you mentally prepare for what’s ahead.
Common Criminal Charges We Handle
While numerous crimes are discussed under California law, many fall into specific categories. Below are some of the most common charges we defend against.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) / Alcohol Offenses
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is one of the most common criminal offenses charged each year in California. A DUI can occur when a person drives with a blood alcohol content (“BAC”) of .08% or higher or is unable to safely operate a vehicle due to drugs or alcohol under California Vehicle Code § 23152.
These types of charges can stem from:
- Traffic stops and sobriety checkpoints
- Breathalyzer or blood testing issues
- Drug impairment
Second DUI
Violating DUI laws can lead to jail time, license suspension, heavy fines, DUI school, and increased insurance rates. Contacting a lawyer at the Law Offices of Andres Rico as soon as possible can allow you to begin forming a DUI defense.
Drug Charges
California continues to make changes to its drug laws. However, you could still face serious penalties depending on the charges. Drug crimes may include:
- Possession of drugs
- Possession of drugs for sale
- Transporting drugs
- Drug trafficking
- Writing prescriptions for sale
- Marijuana charges that exceed state limits
Most drug charges are addressed in California’s Health and Safety Code under §11350 and §11351.
In some situations, drug offenders may be eligible for drug diversion or drug treatment as an alternative to jail. Speak with a Sonoma County criminal defense attorney to see if you qualify.
Domestic Violence Charges
Like many states, California aggressively prosecutes domestic violence crimes. Domestic violence charges typically stem from emotional situations that can lead to assault.
Potential charges include: causing injury to a spouse or partner under Penal Code 273.5 and domestic battery under Penal Code 243(e)(1). You can get arrested for domestic violence even if there are no visible signs of injury. Police can arrest you based on what was said at the scene.
Penalties for domestic violence charges include:
- Restraining orders
- Jail time
- Anger management classes
- Loss of gun rights
- Deportation
Because domestic violence cases will often rely on “he said, she said” testimony, it’s critical to investigate your case as soon as possible. Let the team at the Law Offices of Andres Rico handle the investigation and protect your rights immediately from the start.
Firearm Charges & Weapons Offenses
California has some of the strictest gun laws in the nation. Firearms charges can include:
- Illegal possession
- Concealed weapons
- Possession of a firearm by a prohibited person
- Transporting or storing a firearm illegally
Firearms charges are generally under Penal Code §§ 25400, 29800, et. seq. It should be noted that gun convictions can result in felony convictions and keep you from owning a gun in the future.
Theft Charges
Theft charges can range from petty theft complaints to felony charges. Theft offenses can include:
- Petty theft
- Grand theft
- Shoplifting
- Identity theft
- Credit card fraud
- Embezzlement
Penalties for theft will depend on various factors. In California, many theft offenses are classified as misdemeanors or felonies under Penal Code § § 484 and 487 based on the value of the item or goods allegedly taken.
A theft charge can prevent you from securing certain jobs and professional licensing options.
Assault Charges
Assault charges are some of the most severe criminal charges you can face. Assault charges can include:
- Throwing a weapon at someone
- Threatening someone with a deadly weapon
- Making criminal threats
- Robbery
- Felony assault
Note that felony assault charges can lead to jail or state prison time. Additionally, assault can be considered a “strike” in California.
Defense of these charges will hinge on witness interviews and valid self-defense claims. Attorney Rico and his team have years of experience helping individuals retain their rights and privileges. Contact us today to discuss your legal rights and options.
Potential Long-Term Penalties
When you’re facing criminal charges, it’s easy to only think about the direct penalties involved. However, many long-term effects can arise from a conviction.
Potential long-term effects include:
- Jail or prison
- Probation
- Fines
- Loss of your driver’s license
- Gun rights restrictions
- Immigration consequences
- Loss of a job
- Difficulty finding housing
- Loss of professional licenses
In some cases, these consequences can affect you longer than any jail sentence. Don’t attempt to go it alone–let the Law Offices of Andres Rico help you fight for your rights under the law.
How Criminal Cases Work in California
From arrest to final sentencing, knowing what to expect can help you make informed decisions about your case.
Investigation and Arrest
Many cases begin with an investigation by law enforcement. You have the right to remain silent and request a skilled Sonoma County criminal defense attorney during this stage.
Booking and Release
If you are arrested, you may be booked into jail. You could be released on bail, citation release, or released to someone who agrees to supervise you until your first court appearance.
Arraignment
This is generally the first court appearance. The judge will explain the charges against you, your rights, and you’ll be asked to enter a plea.
Your attorney should be present at every stage of the process to protect your rights. By contacting a Sonoma County criminal attorney early, you give your lawyer the opportunity to protect your rights from the beginning.
Pretrial Activities
During the pretrial stage of your case, many things will happen. Both the prosecutor and your defense attorney will be reviewing evidence. There may be motions and hearings scheduled in court. You and your attorney may also negotiate with the prosecutor.
In some cases, charges are resolved at this stage through dismissal, diversion, or reduction.
Trial
If your case goes to trial, the prosecutor has the burden of proving you are guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. During the trial, your lawyer will question the prosecutor’s witnesses, and you have the right to testify on your own behalf.
Sentencing
If you are found guilty or reach a plea agreement with the prosecutor, sentencing will be scheduled. Depending on the circumstances, you may face jail or prison, be placed on probation, pay fines, or participate in educational programs.
Speak to a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Sonoma County
Although criminal law can be complicated, the prosecutor’s office will start working on your case the moment you are arrested. Still, you do not have to try to navigate the criminal justice system alone — have the Law Office of Andres Rico by your side every step of the way.
Hiring an experienced attorney can benefit you by:
- Protecting your rights
- Investigating your case
- Negotiating with prosecutors
- Representing you in court
- Guiding you through each stage of the process
Your attorney can often fight to have the charges dismissed or reduced by getting involved early.
Building a Criminal Defense in Sonoma County
Every case is different. But there are many defenses to criminal charges. Defenses could include one or several of the following tactics or legal maneuvers:
- Fighting illegal searches and seizures. The Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution protects you from unlawful search and seizures.
- Suppressing evidence. If evidence was discovered because of an illegal search, your attorney could file a motion to suppress that evidence.
- Discrediting witnesses. Investigating your case will allow your attorney to determine if the prosecution’s witnesses are credible.
- Examining forensic evidence. Just because something is considered “forensic” evidence doesn’t mean it’s correct.
- Intent. Sometimes people are charged with crimes they did not intend to commit.
- Self-defense. You have the right to defend yourself from harm. If you hurt someone while exercising your right to protect yourself, you could use self-defense as a justification.
Like all criminal charges, the prosecutor has the burden of proving your guilt. When you choose to allow the Law Offices of Andres Rico to handle your case, Andres will closely examine the charges against you to determine if the prosecutor can meet their burden.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do after getting arrested?
After getting arrested, you have the right to remain silent and ask for an attorney. You should not speak to the police or anyone else about your case until you have spoken to an attorney. By calling a lawyer early, you can prevent yourself from saying something that may harm your case later on.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?
Misdemeanors in California are typically punishable by up to one year in jail. Felonies can be punished by county jail or state prison. Felonies also have harsher long-term consequences.
What happens at my first court date (arraignment)?
At your arraignment, the Judge will advise you of the charges filed against you. The Judge will then explain your rights and ask you to enter a plea. If you have an attorney representing you at your arraignment, your lawyer will make sure the court protects your rights.
Can my charges be dropped before trial?
Yes, charges can be dropped before trial. The charges can be dropped by the prosecutor if they believe they don’t have enough evidence to prove your guilt. An attorney can also get charges dropped by proving there were constitutional violations during the investigation or that key witnesses are not credible.
Will I have to go to jail?
Not necessarily. Many crimes allow defendants to enter diversion programs or probation instead of jail. If convicted, your attorney could negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce your charges to ones that don’t require jail time.
Hire a Sonoma County Criminal Defense Attorney Now — Don’t Delay
You should contact an attorney as soon as possible. The earlier your attorney gets involved, the more options you will have. Facing criminal charges doesn’t have to define your future. Let us protect your life moving forward.
The team at the Law Offices of Andres Rico will protect your rights, fight the charges against you, and work toward a resolution that allows you to move forward with your life. If you have been charged with a crime or are currently under investigation, contact our firm today to learn how we can help.