Being charged with a felony in San Diego is a serious legal matter that can have significant consequences. Felonies are classified as the most severe crimes, ranging from drug offenses to violent crimes, and can result in substantial fines, probation, and imprisonment. If you are arrested for a felony offense, it is in your best interest to contact the experienced criminal defense lawyer at Bernal Law to understand your best legal options and protect your legal rights throughout the legal process.
Felony defense attorney Pedro Bernal, Esq. at Bernal Law in San Diego, was a former prosecutor for almost a decade, giving him a unique insight into what strategies the opposing side may use against you. Whether you are charged with a wobbler offense or a more serious felony, we have helped countless clients achieve a favorable outcome by judge and jury verdict.
Types of Felony Offenses We Handle at Bernal Law
In San Diego, felony offenses cover a wide range of serious crimes, each with varying degrees of severity and potential consequences. At Bernal Law, we handle the following types of felony offenses:
- Assault with a deadly weapon (PC 245)
- Aggravated battery (PC 243(d))
- Burglary (PC 459)
- Child pornography (PC 311.11)
- Domestic violence
- Drug possession
- Drug distribution
- DUI
- Grand theft (PC 487)
- Hate crimes
- Homicide
- Kidnapping (PC 207)
- Murder (PC 187)
- Manslaughter
- Rape (PC 261)
- Robbery (PC 211)
- Sexual battery (PC 243.4)
- Torture (PC 206)
Wobbler offenses can be prosecuted as felonies or misdemeanors, depending on the details of the case, prior criminal history, and aggravating factors. Additionally, some felonies are classified as “strike” offenses, resulting in 25 years imprisonment to life under the Three Strikes law.
At Bernal Law, we will analyze the evidence against you and work to build individualized legal defenses to secure the most favorable outcome. Every case is unique, which is why we fight for full dismissal, a negotiated plea deal, or acquittal in a jury trial, depending on the circumstances of your case.
Defenses Against Felony Charges
In order to convict you of a felony offense, the prosecutor must prove you committed the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Bernal Law aims to highlight errors or doubts in the prosecutor’s evidence and their case. Most criminal charges require proof of criminal intent, but proving this beyond a reasonable doubt can be very challenging.
Depending on the offense, an experienced criminal defense lawyer may demonstrate doubt in the criminal intent claim by showing evidence of the following:
- The act was an accident
- You acted in self-defense or under duress
- The act was based on a mistake of fact
- The act was brought on due to law enforcement entrapment
Other defenses that may be used, depending on the facts of your case, include the following:
- Mistaken identity
- False accusation
- Contesting the credibility of the witnesses
- Contesting the police officers’ accounts
- Contesting the evidence
- Dismissing, excluding, or suppressing evidence based on lack of probable cause, police misconduct, illegal search and seizure, or other reasons
Facing felony charges can be frightening, as you may be sentenced to harsh penalties. However, having an experienced felony defense lawyer in San Diego by your side can significantly improve the likelihood of getting your charges dismissed, acquitted, or reduced.
How the San Diego Felony Defense Lawyer at Bernal Law Can Help Your Case
Without legal representation, you may be fighting an uphill battle against the prosecution’s relentless pursuit of a conviction. At Bernal Law, we know the psychological and financial strain a felony charge can bring. We can take the burden off your shoulders by handling the following aspects of your case:
- Focused legal knowledge and strategy: We have an in-depth understanding of California’s complex legal laws. We can evaluate the circumstances of your case, identify the weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, and build a strong defense strategy.
- Protecting your rights: You have constitutional rights that need safeguarding, such as the right to remain silent and the right to due process. We ensure your rights are upheld throughout the legal process.
- Negotiation and plea bargaining: In some cases, we may negotiate with the prosecution to reach a favorable plea agreement, leading to reduced charges or penalties.
- Evidence examination: Our legal team has the skills to scrutinize evidence, police procedures, and witness statements. We can uncover inconsistencies or violations that could weaken the prosecution’s case.
- Alternative sentencing options: For certain non-violent offenses, we can explore alternatives to imprisonment, such as diversion programs, drug treatment, or community service.
- Trial representation: If your felony case proceeds to trial, your experienced San Diego felony defense lawyer will build a strong defense and aggressively advocate on your behalf before the court.
San Diego felony defense attorney Pedro Bernal, Esq. has over a decade of experience as a prosecutor. We take advantage of that experience when defending our clients against any felony charges. Do not risk your freedom by gambling on an unproven felony defense attorney.
Contact the Experienced San Diego Felony Lawyer at Bernal Law
If you are being investigated or charged with a felony crime, contact Bernal Law as soon as possible. We have a proven track record fighting for clients facing felony convictions and are prepared to defend your rights and freedom.
Schedule a complimentary consultation today by calling (619) 736-9092 or filling out a contact form. We are fluent in both English and Spanish.