Manhattan Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer

Criminal Defense Services for Manhattan Beach, CA, and the Surrounding Areas

At Ernenwein & Mathes, LLP, we offer a comprehensive range of legal services for individuals facing criminal charges, including (but not limited to):

• DUI Defense: Driving Under the Influence (DUI) charges can have rather severe consequences in California when someone is caught operating a vehicle under the influence (or suspected influence) of drugs and/or alcohol. In California, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of 0.08% is even lower for certain individuals, like commercial drivers and motorists under 21. Our experienced DUI defense attorneys know the intricacies of California’s DUI laws and can meticulously analyze your case for any weaknesses that can be used to build a defense strategy. We can challenge any evidence brought against you, examine the legality of the traffic stop, and explore the possibility of procedural errors to pursue a reduction of your charges or even a dismissal of the case.
• Drug Crimes: California has strict laws governing drug offenses. Thankfully, our attorneys have extensive experience defending clients facing drug charges, such as those related to possession, trafficking, manufacturing, or prescription fraud. We can assess the state’s case against you, scrutinize evidence and law enforcement practices, and pursue all available legal avenues to protect your rights and pursue the most favorable outcome possible, no matter how bad your circumstances may seem.
• Violent Crimes: Being accused of a violent crime, such as assault, domestic violence, or homicide, can have very serious consequences in California as well as under federal laws. Our dedicated attorneys possess the courtroom experience and legal acumen necessary to build a strong defense on your behalf by fully analyzing the unique circumstances of your case. We can thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged offense, challenge any weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, and explore potential mitigating factors (e.g., self-defense situations) to protect your rights and achieve the most optimal resolution.
• Theft, Robbery, and Other Property Crimes: Property crimes, ranging from armed robbery to petty vandalism and everything in between, represent some of the most common criminal cases in our court system. It’s no surprise, then, that the team at Ernenwein & Mathes, LLP, has had great success in such cases.
• White-Collar Crimes: Not every criminal case comes straight out of a television drama, of course. White-collar crimes like embezzlement, tax evasion, and various workplace offenses can also be prosecuted aggressively. These cases often involve the need for forensic accounting on multiple financial instruments and uncovering stealthy financial tactics used by one or more parties, leading to some of the most complex and easy-to-misconstrue criminal cases. Judges and jurors are not forensic accountants, and you should not allow your fate to rest in their hands simply because you know you are innocent.

A skilled criminal defense attorney can serve as your trusted partner and advocate throughout the challenging legal process to come. The team at Ernenwein & Mathes, LLP, can guide you, protect your rights, and construct a robust defense strategy geared towards the details of your specific case. We can:

• Challenge the evidence and witnesses brought against you.
• Conduct independent investigations.
• Negotiate with prosecutors.
• Represent your interests in court.
• Ensure that your side of the story is fully heard and considered.

It is crucial to seek legal representation as soon as you become aware of criminal charges or suspect that you are under investigation. Early intervention from a criminal defense attorney allows them to:

• Protect your rights from the beginning.
• Advise you during police interrogations and other meetings with officials.
• Prevent self-incrimination.
• Provide comprehensive support.
• Ensure that any evidence that makes it to court has been gathered and submitted properly.

Criminal Law FAQs

Q: Should You Tell Your Criminal Defense Lawyer Everything?

A: Yes, it can be absolutely crucial to be open and honest with your criminal defense team. Attorney-client privilege protects the confidentiality of any information you disclose, allowing you to share all the details of your case without fear of your statements being used against you. By providing your lawyer with complete and accurate information, including any potential weaknesses in your case, you enable them to build the strongest defense strategy possible and prepare for all possible turns the case might take, ensuring that your rights are protected and increasing the likelihood of a favorable outcome.

Q: How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost in California?

A: The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer in California will vary quite a bit depending on several factors, such as:

• The complexity of the case
• The attorney’s experience and reputation
• Your local market conditions
• The specific services required

Some criminal defense attorneys charge a flat fee for specific services, like simple DUI cases, while other reputable attorneys only work on an hourly basis to ensure that they can give each case the individual attention it warrants. In 2023, hourly fees for capable attorneys can run anywhere from a couple hundred dollars to $500 or more. It is important to discuss fees and payment arrangements during your initial consultation with your attorney so that you understand their billing structure and any additional costs that may arise throughout the legal process.

Q: How Much Do Criminal Defense Attorneys Charge Per Hour in California?

A: The rates for criminal defense attorneys in California can vary significantly based on all sorts of factors, including the attorney’s experience and the complexity of your case. Hourly rates typically start around $150 or $200 for a qualified attorney, but many firms in major cities will charge $500 or more. The price is typically commensurate with the quality of service and local market conditions. If you are having trouble budgeting for a decent attorney, you may not need to resort to using a public defender’s services. Many private criminal defense attorneys offer alternative fee arrangements for certain situations, such as flat fees or payment plans, to provide more flexibility for clients in difficult circumstances. During the initial consultation, your attorney should openly discuss their fee structure so that the finances of the arrangement are transparent.

Q: What Qualities Make for the Ideal Criminal Defense Lawyer?

A: Choosing the right criminal defense lawyer is crucial for the success of your case, but it’s not always easy to know what that means. Here are some key qualities to consider when selecting the ideal criminal defense lawyer for your needs:

• Experience: Look for a lawyer with a proven record of handling cases similar to yours. Experience in the local court system and a deep understanding of California criminal laws and procedures are must-have qualities.
• Knowledge: Criminal defense, like any other area of the law, is a highly detailed field that requires specific training to master. Seek a lawyer who focuses primarily on criminal defense and has in-depth knowledge of relevant statutes, case precedents, and defense strategies.
• Communication: Great criminal defense lawyers actively listen to your concerns, communicate clearly, and keep you informed throughout the process.
• Strategy: Effective defense often requires creative and strategic thinking. Look for a lawyer who can analyze complex situations, identify strengths and weaknesses, and develop a comprehensive defense strategy tailored to your case, rather than someone trying to sell you a flat-fee, standard defense solution.
• Reputation: Consider seeking out a lawyer with a strong reputation in the legal community and good working relationships with local officials, as this can positively influence negotiations and make courtroom proceedings go smoother.
• Resources: A lawyer with a solid support team and access to relevant resources, such as expert witnesses and private investigators, can significantly strengthen your chances of a successful defense.