Riverside Criminal Defense Lawyer

When you are facing criminal charges in Riverside, your future is at stake. A conviction can result in lengthy prison sentences, hefty fines, and serious consequences if you’re an immigrant. A Riverside criminal defense lawyer from Arsany & Barraza, Attorneys at Law, can help you better understand your rights and the charges against you while crafting a powerful defense that protects your future.

Why Choose Arsany & Barraza, Attorneys at Law?

With over 20 years of experience, the attorneys at Arsany & Barraza, Attorneys at Law, provide skilled criminal defense and mental health advocacy. While our knowledge of criminal defense laws and skills for building a strong case can help you minimize the penalties of a criminal charge, our support extends beyond legal guidance. We pursue outcomes that focus on rehabilitation, help offenders seek treatment, and advocate for the health of our clients.

Types of Criminal Defense Cases We Handle in Riverside

At Arsany & Barraza, Attorneys at Law, we have defended clients across California against complicated criminal charges and helped to protect their futures. With our extensive trial experience and in-depth knowledge of misdemeanor and felony criminal defense laws in California, we stand ready to build a defense tailored to your case’s unique circumstances. Common criminal cases we handle in Riverside include:

• Violent Offenses. In California, there are about 480.3 violent crimes per 100,000 people. With such a prevalent violent crime rate, local law enforcement works hard to prosecute offenders. These crimes involve the threat or use of violence against another, such as assault, battery, or homicide.
• Drug Offenses. Drug crimes in Riverside involve controlled substances, ranging from possessing a drug for personal use to large-scale trafficking. The severity of a drug offense and the potential penalties you receive are largely affected by the type of drug involved and the quantity.
• Property Offenses. In Riverside County, there were 3,077 arrests for property offenses in 2024 alone. These crimes involve theft, misuse, or destruction of property. Common examples include grand theft auto, burglary, and arson.
• Firearm Offenses. California has strict gun laws, which can lead to severe penalties for offenses such as possession by prohibited persons, illegal sale or transfer, or carrying a concealed firearm. Other criminal offenses can also become more serious with the involvement of a firearm, such as assault.
• Sex Offenses. These kinds of offenses include rape, sexual battery, statutory rape, and child pornography, and can come with lifelong consequences if you are convicted.

Immigration Consequences of a Criminal Conviction in California

For non-citizens, a criminal charge can threaten their immigration status. A Riverside criminal defense attorney from our firm can help you navigate criminal charges as a non-citizen and explain the potential impacts of a criminal conviction on your livelihood. We can help you prepare a strong defense and work to protect your rights to remain in the country.

In general, a criminal conviction can trigger consequences for non-citizens that include:

• Removal proceedings
• Permanent inadmissibility
• Mandatory immigration detention
• Denial of naturalization
• Loss of a visa or other lawful status

A compassionate lawyer can help to identify the right legal strategy for your case, which may involve negotiating plea deals, challenging the classification of your offense, or pursuing alternative sentencing options.

Why You Should Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Riverside

When you’re facing criminal charges in Riverside, your future is on the line. A Riverside criminal defense lawyer from Arsany & Barraza, Attorneys at Law, understands California’s criminal defense laws, court procedures, and how to build a strong defense on your behalf. We can analyze evidence, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, and protect your rights at every stage of your case.

Our team also has experience negotiating for reduced charges, seeking case dismissals, and pursuing alternative sentencing options that may not be available without skilled representation. We can handle complex paperwork, court filings, and meet strict deadlines to make sure procedural errors don’t prevent you from putting forward a strong defense.

Beyond legal strategy, our lawyers can help you navigate an emotionally overwhelming process. We can explain your legal options, provide you with compassionate support and advice, and help you find beneficial resources that help you feel confident throughout your case.

FAQs

Q: What Is a Mental Health Diversion Program in California?

A: A mental health diversion program in California allows a defendant with mental health issues to receive mental health treatment rather than traditional criminal penalties. Upon completion of a personalized treatment plan, charges may be dismissed. However, diversion programs are typically only available in certain non-violent cases where mental health played a significant role in the offense. A criminal defense lawyer can help file a motion to request a diversion program.

Q: What Are Your Rights After You’re Arrested in California?

A: After an arrest in California, it’s important to be aware of your rights to protect yourself and your future case. Some of the most critical rights to remember after an arrest are your right to remain silent, your right to an attorney, your right against unreasonable searches and seizures, and your right to due process. To prevent law enforcement from gaining unnecessary evidence against you or violating your rights, you should request a lawyer and remain silent.

Q: What Are the Most Common Penalties for a Criminal Conviction in California?

A: The specific penalties you face for a criminal conviction in California will vary drastically from case to case. The severity of your charge, whether this is your first criminal offense, and whether your charge is a misdemeanor or a felony can all impact the consequences you receive. Jail or prison time, fines, community service, probation or parole, and mandatory treatment classes are all common criminal punishments in California.

Q: What Is the Difference Between a Misdemeanor and a Felony in California?

A: The main difference between a misdemeanor and a felony is the severity of the crime. Misdemeanors are considered less serious and include common offenses such as petty theft, public intoxication, simple assault, and other less severe charges. Felonies, however, are serious crimes that come with consequences such as prison time instead of jail time, heavy fines, and other penalties. Felonies include murder, assault with a deadly weapon, and drug trafficking.

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Learn How Arsany & Barraza, Attorneys at Law, Can Defend You Today Contact Arsany & Barraza, Attorneys at Law, to learn how we can build a strong defense against your criminal charges in Riverside. We’re proud to offer legal services in both English and Spanish and work with citizens and non-citizens alike.