Facing criminal charges in San Francisco, CA, can be a daunting experience. You should depend on a legal team familiar with the criminal justice system and understands how to vigorously defend your rights.
At Summit Defense, our criminal defense lawyers have experience defending clients against various charges. We can use this experience to provide you with the strong defense you expect and deserve.
Learn more about how our criminal defense law firm protects your freedom below. Then, call (415) 666-2316 to schedule a free consultation.
- Why Choose a San Francisco Criminal Defense Attorney from Summit Defense
- Understanding Criminal Charges in San Francisco
- Key Defense Strategies Used by Our San Francisco Attorneys
- Crimes We Defend in San Francisco
- Plea Bargains and Negotiations: What You Need to Know
- Preparing for Trial with a Summit Defense Attorney
- Potential Outcomes of a Criminal Case in San Francisco
- How to Protect Your Rights After an Arrest
- Why You Need a San Francisco Criminal Defense Attorney From Our Team
- FAQs: San Francisco Criminal Defense Attorney
- Call a San Francisco Criminal Defense Attorney at Summit Defense Today
Why Choose a San Francisco Criminal Defense Attorney from Summit Defense
When you’re facing criminal charges, having a local San Francisco criminal defense attorney from Summit Defense can be invaluable. Our attorneys are experienced in criminal law and have connections with the local courts, judges, and prosecutors. Our expertise can be a major advantage in your defense strategy. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys understand the nuances of San Francisco’s legal system and uses this knowledge to our client’s benefit.
🗹 Expertise in San Francisco’s Legal Landscape
Our attorneys have a comprehensive understanding of San Francisco’s criminal justice system. We stay up to date with the latest laws and legal precedents that could affect your case. This knowledge means we can work through the system effectively and advocate strongly on your behalf. Our team at (415) 666-2316 has built relationships with key figures within the San Francisco legal community, which can be beneficial in negotiating the best possible outcome for your case.
In addition to our local legal expertise, we specialize in a wide range of criminal charges, from drug crimes to white-collar crimes. Our attorneys tailor their approach based on the specific details of your case and the latest legal strategies. This customization ensures that we’re always prepared to defend you vigorously, regardless of the complexity of your case. Count on our criminal defense lawyer to defend your rights.
🗹 Tailored Defense Strategies for Your Case
At Summit Defense, we believe that each case is unique. Therefore, each case mandates a personalized defense strategy. Our attorneys take the time to understand the specifics of your alleged criminal offense, including any evidence against you and the circumstances of your arrest. We then craft a defense strategy that targets the weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. This thorough preparation is crucial for challenging the charges against you effectively.
We also consider the potential impacts of your case beyond the courtroom. Our attorneys work to minimize the effects of criminal charges on your personal and professional life. Whether it’s negotiating for reduced charges or arguing for alternative sentencing, we explore every option to protect your future.
🗹 A Long Track Record of Success in San Francisco
We possess a storied track record of successfully defending clients in San Francisco. In many cases, we have earned favorable outcomes for our clients, from minor offenses to serious felonies. Our success is built on meticulous case preparation, effective courtroom strategies, and our commitment to our clients.
We pride ourselves on securing our clients’ acquittals, dismissals, and reduced charges. Our attorneys leverage their knowledge of San Francisco’s criminal law and their courtroom experience to fight for the best possible outcome. We know the impact a criminal conviction can have on your life, and we’re dedicated to helping you avoid those severe consequences. Call (415) 666-2316 today.
Understanding Criminal Charges in San Francisco
Being charged with a crime in San Francisco can be overwhelming. The legal process is complex, and the stakes are high. Understanding the nature of the charges against you and the potential consequences is crucial. Our attorneys can clearly explain the charges and outline the legal process ahead.
Criminal charges in San Francisco can range from misdemeanors, which are less severe and carry lighter penalties, to felonies, which are more severe and can result in significant prison time. The type of charge depends on the nature of the alleged offense and its severity. Understanding the specifics of your charges is the initial step in formulating an effective defense strategy. Let our San Francisco criminal lawyer fight on your behalf.
Key Defense Strategies Used by Our San Francisco Attorneys
🗹 Challenging the Evidence
Our law office often finds success by questioning the evidence’s accuracy, reliability, and legality against you. If the evidence was obtained improperly, it might be excluded from the trial.
🗹 Alibi Defense
If you were somewhere else at the time the crime was committed, we work to prove your alibi with credible evidence and witnesses.
🗹 Self-Defense
In cases of violent crime, arguing that you acted in self-defense can be a powerful strategy. We’ll gather evidence to support this claim if it applies to your case.
🗹 Constitutional Violations
We scrutinize the details of your arrest and the gathering of evidence for any constitutional violations. If your rights were violated, we could argue to have the charges reduced or dismissed.
🗹 Plea Bargains
We negotiate plea bargains to reduce your charges or sentencing when appropriate. We only recommend this route when it’s in your best interest and always consult with you first.
Crimes We Defend in San Francisco
- Drug crimes
- Domestic violence cases
- Sex crimes
- Assault and violent crimes
- Embezzlement
- Grand theft
- Prostitution
- DUI offenses
- Animal abuse
Plea Bargains and Negotiations: What You Need to Know
Plea bargains are a mainstay of the justice system in San Francisco. They involve negotiating a deal with the prosecution, where you may plead guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a lighter sentence. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who can assess whether a plea bargain is the best option for your case.
We only recommend accepting a plea deal after carefully considering all aspects of your case and the potential outcomes of a trial. Our goal is to ensure that any agreement is in your best interest. We’ll explain the pros and cons of a plea bargain and support you in making an informed decision.
Preparing for Trial with a Summit Defense Attorney
When you’re facing a trial in San Francisco, having a Summit Defense attorney by your side means you’re fully prepared for the courtroom. We start by thoroughly reviewing the evidence, identifying strengths and weaknesses in your case, and developing a comprehensive defense strategy. Our attorneys also conduct mock trials and prepare you for potential questions, ensuring you’re comfortable and confident when it’s time to testify. Why wait – call (415) 666-2316 now.
In addition, our team works tirelessly to gather additional evidence, including witness statements and expert testimonies that can bolster your defense. We’ll challenge the prosecution’s evidence through pre-trial motions to weaken their case before it reaches a jury. Our goal is to present a compelling and persuasive argument on your behalf, showcasing your innocence or mitigating circumstances that favor a more lenient outcome.
Potential Outcomes of a Criminal Case in San Francisco
The outcome of a criminal case in San Francisco can vary widely depending on the nature of the charges, the strength of the evidence, and the effectiveness of your defense. One possible outcome is a not guilty verdict, where the defendant is acquitted of all charges, effectively clearing them of wrongdoing. Another potential outcome is a guilty verdict on some or all charges, which could lead to penalties such as fines, probation, or imprisonment.
In some cases, a plea bargain might be reached before the case goes to trial. This is where the defendant pleads guilty to lower charges. In exchange, the defendant gets a more lenient sentence. This can be beneficial when the evidence against the defendant is intense and a guilty verdict at trial seems likely.
Alternatively, the charges may be dismissed altogether if the defense successfully challenges the prosecution’s evidence or demonstrates procedural errors that compromise the case’s integrity.
Another outcome could involve alternative sentencing or diversion programs, especially for first-time offenders or those charged with non-violent crimes, such as drug crimes. These programs focus on recovery rather than punishment. This could allow defendants to avoid jail time by completing community service, counseling, or other court-mandated requirements.
How to Protect Your Rights After an Arrest
If you’re arrested in San Francisco, the first and most crucial step is to remain silent and ask for an attorney. Anything you say can and will be used against you in court, so it’s vital to exercise your right to remain silent. Do not speak until you have legal representation. Do not discuss your case with police officers or investigators without your attorney present, as this can inadvertently harm your defense.
In addition, comply with police instructions to avoid additional charges, but do not consent to searches or provide any information beyond basic identification without your lawyer’s advice. It’s also wise to memorize the phone number of a trusted criminal defense attorney or law firm like Summit Defense so you can quickly secure legal counsel in your time of need.
Why You Need a San Francisco Criminal Defense Attorney From Our Team
Facing criminal charges in San Francisco can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate this challenging time alone. Our team of experienced defense attorneys at Summit Defense understands the complexities of the criminal justice system and is committed to providing aggressive, personalized defense strategies for each client. We have a lengthy history of success, from negotiating favorable plea bargains to achieving not-guilty verdicts at trial.
Furthermore, our deep knowledge of local laws and courtroom procedures gives our clients a significant advantage. We pride ourselves on handling cases with compassion and diligence, ensuring that your rights are protected every step of the way. By choosing a San Francisco criminal defense attorney from Summit Defense, you’re securing a passionate advocate who puts your interests first every time.
FAQs: San Francisco Criminal Defense Attorney
What should I do immediately after being arrested in San Francisco?
Immediately after being arrested in San Francisco, ask for an attorney. Exercise your right to remain silent. Do not provide any information or agree to any deals without consulting your lawyer first.
How can a San Francisco criminal defense attorney help me?
A San Francisco criminal defense attorney at (415) 666-2316 can navigate the legal system on your behalf, develop a strong defense strategy, negotiate plea deals, and fight for your rights in court to achieve the best possible outcome.
What are the possible penalties for a criminal conviction in San Francisco?
The penalties for a criminal conviction in San Francisco can include jail or prison time, fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record, which can affect employment, housing, and more.
Call a San Francisco Criminal Defense Attorney at Summit Defense Today
If you’re facing criminal charges in San Francisco, now is the time to call (415) 666-2316. Contacting Summit Defense means securing a team of dedicated, experienced attorneys who will fight for your rights. We will do everything we can to earn a favorable outcome. Our attorneys have the expertise, knowledge, and commitment to guide you through every stage of your case, from the initial consultation to the final verdict.
COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT CRIMINAL DEFENSE
Innocent people end up being arrested in San Francisco CA all the time. It’s possible to be arrested as the victim of improper identification, or you could simply just be in the wrong place at the wrong time.
If you are innocent and end up being arrested, it’s still absolutely critical to obtain legal counsel from an experienced San Francisco office that specializes in criminal law. You should never accept an interview with law enforcement prior to speaking with your attorney because the odds are that you’ll only make matters worse for yourself.
Yes, California’s Three Strikes Law will classify a felony charge as a “strike”. This means that an individual will obtain a harsher penalty with each felony they commit. What’s disturbing about this law is that if an individual is charged with their third strike offense, they’ll likely be facing 25 years to life in jail. This will most likely be the third strike penalty regardless of the typical penalty associated with the underlying offense.
You can still hire a lawyer if you’re short on finances, which is many times the case for college students and countless individuals throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.What you’ll likely end up doing is hire a deputy public defender that works for San Francisco County, this person will provide free legal counsel for a whole variety of criminal cases.
Although it’s possible for you to appoint a public defender to your case, it’s important to understand that public defenders in San Francisco will largely be overworked and navigating dozens of cases simultaneously. This subsequently means that your case will not get the attention to detail that it undoubtedly requires. No matter what type of criminal charge you’re facing, a California state-appointed public defender won’t have the legal knowledge that’s necessary to provide you with a comprehensive, well-rounded defense strategy. There’s no reason to unnecessarily put your future in jeopardy due to lack of adequate legal counsel, and hiring a private attorney will give your case the edge it needs to come away with a successful outcome.
Absolutely. It’s necessary for clients to be 100% honest with our criminal law specialists because we’ll need as much candid information as possible to provide you with your very best course for legal action. We’ll need to know the intricate details oriented around the facts of your case, and this requires being completely honest during your free consultation.
Yes, it’s possible for your charges to be dismissed when police officers didn’t provide you with your Miranda Rights in the moments while you’re being taken into custody. This is a serious violation of your Constitutional rights, and an experienced criminal defense lawyer will be capable of getting your case dismissed in these situations.
You should have legal representation supporting your criminal defense whether you’re innocent or guilty of a crime. Hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney in San Francisco CA will always go a long way to ensure that you’re being respected throughout the entirety of the legal process, and to reduce your chances of being wrongly convicted. It’s important to understand that prosecutors in the San Francisco Bay Area have years of experience trying criminal cases, so you should have a skilled attorney that’s attuned to the local criminal justice system as your source of legal protection.
A plea bargain is an offer provided by the prosecution in a criminal case, and in most cases a defendant will agree to plead guilty during these negotiations in exchange for reduced penalties and/or a reduction in charges. When you accept a plea bargain, your guilty plea will become a part of your criminal record.Your attorney will be your best source of information when it comes to helping you weigh the pros and cons associated with a plea bargain, and it’s important to note that the best course for legal action is unique for every particular case. So you should never accept a plea bargain deal prior to obtaining legal advice from one of our criminal defense attorneys.
Misdemeanors are specific crimes that can lead to up to one year in a San Francisco County jail. Felonies are much more serious crimes that can carry considerable jail time, ranging from 16 months to life in prison.Felonies tend to pertain to acts of violence and physical harm to another individual, and misdemeanors tend to be less serious offenses. It’s also important to note that your criminal record will play a role in determining the level of criminal charge that you’ll end up facing.
SAN FRANCISCO CRIMINAL COURT INFORMATION
HALL OF JUSTICE BUILDING
(415) 551-4000
CIVIC CENTER COURTHOUSE
(415) 551-4000
To find out which court you are in, please see the Daily Calendar posted at Room 101 at the Hall of Justice Building, or you can contact the clerk’s office on (415) 551-0322. However, if you have retained an attorney, they will find out which court your case is in and let you know where you need to go – and if you need to attend court at all.
Directions to our San Francisco office
Summit Defense is located on 580 California St 12th floor, San Francisco. From San Francisco International Airport (SFO) head northwest and keep left at the fork to continue toward Airport Access Rd. Then keep left at the fork to continue toward Airport Access Rd and continue onto Airport Access Rd. Next, use the left lane to turn slightly left to stay on Airport Access Rd and continue straight to stay on Airport Access Rd. After that, make a U-turn and use the 2nd from the right lane to keep right at the fork, follow signs for US-101 N/San Francisco and merge onto US-101 N. At this point, use the right 2 lanes to take exit 430A to merge onto I-280 N and take exit 56 toward Mariposa Street. Use the right 2 lanes to turn slightly left onto Owens St and turn right onto 16th St. At 1.7 miles, turn left onto 3rd St. Finally, continue onto Kearny St and Summit Defense will be on your left.
We’re open 24 Hours.
For additional questions you can call us at (415) 666-2316 or you can find us on Yelp.
HIRE AN EXPERIENCED TEAM OF CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYERS TO FIGHT FOR YOU
CALL OUR SAN FRANCISCO CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYERS FOR A FREE CONSULTATION
Choosing a San Francisco criminal defense attorney is a difficult process, which is why we try to make this process easier by providing a free consultation.
Contact us online or call us at 1-866-560-4276 to see how our criminal law specialists can support you or your loved one during this difficult time. We look forward to meeting you and discussing your defense needs as we formulate your best legal strategy.
DRIVING DIRECTIONS TO OUR SAN FRANCISCO CA OFFICE
From North Point Centre in North Beach, drive East onto Bay St. Drive for .2 miles until you reach Pier 35. Take a right onto the Embarcadero. Follow the Embarcadero for .8 miles, passing Levi’s Plaza, The Battery, and The Punchline. Take a right onto California St. when you see San Francisco Soup Company. Follow California for 0.2 miles. Our office will be on your right, next to Events and Adventures San Francisco.
From Alta Plaza Park turn onto Jackson St., heading West. Take a quick right onto Webster St, passing California Pacific Medical Center on your left. After 0.4 miles, take a left onto Bush St. Follow Bush St. for 1.5 miles, passing People’s Barber, St Francis Memorial Hospital, and the Dragon’s Gate as you go. Take a left onto Kearny St., and after two blocks, a right onto California St. Our office will be just to your left, kitty-corner from Wells Fargo and Newport Asia.
From Gene Friend Recreation Center in South of Market, drive onto 6th St. going North. After 0.5 miles, you’ll see Dottie’s True Blue Café. 6th St. will turn into Taylor St. and Veer right slightly. Follow Taylor St. for half a mile passing Glide Memorial Church and Honey Honey Café & Crepery as you go. Turn right onto Bush St. right after passing Sanraku. Follow Bush, then take a left onto Kearny St. Drive North two blocks and our office will be on your right, in the same building as the Social Security Administration.
From the heart of the Financial District, head South on Battery St. Passing Sensor Tower and Michael Mina. Take a right onto California St. Pass the Bank of California Museum and Wells Forgo History Museum, our office will be on your right.
JAILS IN SAN FRANCISCO
There are several county jails in San Francisco, as well as one located in San Bruno (although still within the jurisdiction of San Francisco county). They are run by the Sheriff’s Department.
County Jail #1 at 425 7th Street
All prisoners are initially booked in through this jail in San Francisco, but moved to on of the other facilities after booking is complete.
County Jail #2 on 7th Street
This facility houses both men and women inmates, but is the only jail in San Francisco that houses women.
County Jail #4 at Bryant Street
This jail is the maximum security facility for San Francisco County.
County Jail #5 on Moreland Drive, San Bruno
This large facility is actually located in San Mateo County, but falls under the jurisdiction of San Francisco County and City.
If a prisoner requires medical attention or mental health treatment, they are housed in a locked ward at San Francisco General Hospital on Potrero Avenue.
HOW DO I VISIT SOMEONE IN JAIL IN SAN FRANCISCO?
The Sheriff’s Department requires all visitors to schedule visits to inmate online, except for those who wish to visit people being held in San Francisco General Hospital.
Visits can be scheduled via the Sheriff’s Department website, here. Visits are available on weekends and holidays, and at the San Bruno jail on Thursday evenings, although attorneys can visit their clients outside of those times. There are strict rules that apply to jail visits, such as time limits and dress requirements. You should make sure that you review the rules carefully beforehand; otherwise you may not be allowed to visit.
Federal Court Locations
Phillip Burton Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse
+1 415-522-2000
San Francisco Federal Building
+1 800-333-4636