Hermosa Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer

Professional Criminal Defense Services

When navigating the complexities of criminal law in California, having a seasoned criminal defense attorney by your side can be absolutely crucial. At Ernenwein & Mathes, LLP, we focus on providing comprehensive legal services in various criminal defense situations, including:

• DUI Defense: Our legal team has vast experience and a record of success defending clients who have been charged with DUI (“driving under the influence”, i.e., operating a vehicle after using drugs or alcohol) offenses. We can meticulously analyze all evidence brought against you and aggressively pursue any weaknesses in it as we fight to minimize the consequences of a DUI conviction or get wrongful charges dropped.
• Sex Crimes Defense: The sensitivity and gravity of sex crime charges are difficult to overstate. Our work begins with a compassionate, and judgment-free, consultation of your circumstances. From there, our attorneys can handle your case with the utmost discretion and work diligently to build a strong defense, protecting both your rights and your reputation.
• Drug Crimes: Our skilled attorneys have also successfully represented clients facing charges related to drug possession, distribution, manufacturing, and trafficking. We take an assertive approach to drug crime defense, exploring all possible defense strategies and looking for elements like unlawful search and seizure, procedural errors, or unreliable witnesses that can be used to undermine the state’s case and, in turn, lead to a better outcome for you.
• Theft and Property Crimes: If you have been accused of theft, burglary, robbery, or some other property-related offenses, our dedicated criminal defense team can thoroughly examine the evidence against you to develop a robust defense strategy that is custom-tailored to the unique circumstances of the case.
• Violent Crimes: California takes charges like assault, battery, homicide, or any other violent crime extremely seriously. In these cases, you need experienced attorneys who can aggressively protect your rights. In these troubled times, take comfort in knowing that our team has proven its ability to achieve favorable outcomes in complex and high-stakes criminal cases.

Criminal Defense Lawyer FAQs

Q: Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer for Criminal Charges in Hermosa Beach?

A: Absolutely. When facing criminal charges, it can be crucial to have a skilled criminal defense lawyer by your side, even in situations where you personally believe the evidence exonerating you is undeniable. Remember, prosecutors and police are powerful and skilled at their jobs in our state, while public defenders are spread extremely thin and must often lean on their good working relationship with their local court system rather than taking the time to create a strong and viable defense strategy. A qualified, privately hired defense attorney has the knowledge and experience to:

• Analyze the details of your case.
• Develop a strong defense strategy.
• Navigate the legal process.
• Negotiate effectively with prosecutors.
• Protect your rights throughout each step of the proceedings.

Q: Should You Tell Your Criminal Defense Lawyer Everything?

A: Yes, it is essential to be open and honest with any legal representation you choose to work with. Attorney-client privilege ensures that the information you disclose to your lawyer remains confidential. By sharing all the details of your case, including any potential weaknesses, you enable your lawyer to develop the most effective defense strategy and prepare for any possible turns the case may take. Withholding information can seriously hinder your attorney’s ability to protect your rights and, in the worst cases, undermine your entire defense strategy.

Q: At What Point Should I Ask for a Defense Attorney?

A: It is wise to ask for a lawyer as soon as you become aware that you are a suspect in a criminal case, or, lacking that opportunity, when you are formally told that you are facing criminal charges. Regardless of whatever attitude police officers give you, remember that it is your inalienable constitutional right to have legal representation during any interactions with law enforcement or state officials. Requesting a lawyer early in the process ensures that everyone involved knows you understand your rights, which, in turn, makes it more likely that those rights will be respected from the outset. Getting a lawyer as an early step in the process means that your lawyer can:

• Guide you through the entire situation from end to end.
• Advise you on what to say or not to say.
• Ensure that your interests are safeguarded during every interaction with state authorities.

Q: Do You Have to Pay for a Public Defender in California?

A: Thanks to powerful protections in the United States Constitution, public defenders are available to individuals who cannot afford to hire private legal representation. In California, if you meet certain financial eligibility criteria, you will be eligible for a public defender, either at no cost or at a reduced fee. Public defenders are dedicated professionals who provide legal representation to many citizens who would otherwise be unable to afford a lawyer. However, it is important to note that public defenders often have heavy caseloads that limit their effectiveness in cases requiring a truly personalized touch. Hiring a private criminal defense lawyer can typically give you access to far more personalized attention and resources.