San Mateo Criminal Defense Attorney
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If you’ve been arrested or contacted by law enforcement in San Mateo, California, several questions may flood your mind. You may wonder how this will impact your job, whether you could lose custody rights to your children, or if you will need to spend time in jail. Not to mention the repercussions that follow long after your sentence is complete.
Our Summit Defense attorneys have handled all types of criminal cases throughout San Mateo County and across the Bay Area. From minor traffic stops and DUI cases all the way to sexual assault charges and murder, our team is well-equipped to help you navigate any situation.
Call 916-668-4131 now to schedule a free, confidential consultation with a San Mateo criminal defense attorney.
Why Hire a Local San Mateo Criminal Defense Attorney?
Criminal cases in San Mateo County are complex. It takes a seasoned legal professional to navigate your unique case effectively. Further, local details, such as where your case is filed and how it’s handled in your area, weigh heavily on the overall outcome, even affecting potential offers to reduce your charges.
We Offer Local Knowledge
A criminal defense lawyer in San Mateo knows how these cases are handled in your area and can seize opportunities to dismiss exaggerated charges before you make it to further legal proceedings.
We’re Ready to Hear Your Case
Waiting too long to get an attorney involved is a mistake. Without opposition, the prosecution can use whatever is at their disposal to determine the narrative of your case. Our job is to protect your rights and craft a solid defense that holds up in a San Mateo courtroom. The evidence against you might have been gathered illegally, you might have a clear case for self-defense, or you might have a strong alibi that clearly proves you were not even at the scene of the crime in the first place.
We Understand the Local Justice System
Our attorneys frequently assist individuals facing criminal investigations and charges connected to San Mateo, including matters involving:
- Arrests and investigations conducted by the San Mateo Police Department
- Court appearances within the San Mateo County Superior Court system
- Criminal proceedings held at the San Mateo County Hall of Justice and Records
- Evidence such as police reports, surveillance recordings, witness testimony, and search or seizure procedures
- Negotiations with prosecutors from the San Mateo County District Attorney’s Office regarding potential jail time, probation, protective orders, or felony allegations
Having legal counsel familiar with local procedures can make a meaningful difference. This is especially true when a case involves urgent issues such as bail, restraining orders, or release conditions that may affect where you can live or who you are allowed to contact.
Prepare the necessary pleadings to answer your criminal charges
Talk to the members of the court and the prosecution on your behalf on matters relating to the judicial proceedings.
Fully study the merits of your case, your possible defenses, and the allegations in the criminal information filed by the prosecution.
Represent you in all judicial proceedings and ensure that your interests are best served in every decision we make.
What To Look For In A Criminal Defense Lawyer In San Mateo?
When hiring a criminal defense lawyer, it is vital to always look for someone credible and someone who has proven experience in defending the rights of citizens with criminal charges. When hiring a San Mateo criminal defense attorney, you place full confidence in another professional that your rights are secured. You don’t want someone playing around and doing nothing to protect your liberty.
Here are some of the characteristics that you should look for when hiring a defense attorney in California
- Someone who has an aggressive approach to prioritizing your rights above everything else.
- Someone with years of handling criminal defense cases, with a proven track record of achieving favorable results for defendants.
- A person with proven knowledge of the court system and competence in handling several criminal cases.
- Compassionate and understanding towards clients, someone who genuinely cares and is committed to achieving justice.
Call us at Summit Defense for an outstanding legal representation and get hold of the services of a defense lawyer who prioritizes your best interests.
San Mateo Criminal Cases We Defend
Our team has handled all types of cases, from minor misdemeanors to major felonies that could result in years behind bars.
San Mateo Domestic Violence Lawyer
California Penal Code Section 273.5 makes it a criminal offense to inflict physical injury on an intimate partner. These cases often involve complex family dynamics and may result in restraining orders and other court-imposed conditions.
Depending on the facts of the case, domestic violence may be charged as a felony and can carry penalties of up to four years in state prison.
Our attorneys approach these cases with sensitivity while aggressively protecting our clients’ rights. We investigate the circumstances carefully, address false accusations, and work to ensure the full story is presented.
Sexual Assault Defense Attorney in San Mateo
Sexual assault allegations can involve claims of non-consensual sexual contact or other forms of misconduct. These cases are often complex and may rely heavily on witness testimony, investigative reports, and prosecutors’ interpretations of evidence.
Our attorneys carefully assess the facts of each case, reviewing statements, physical evidence, and the methods used during the investigation. We look for inconsistencies, procedural errors, or circumstances that may cast doubt on the allegations. By thoroughly examining the prosecution’s case, we work to build a defense focused on protecting your rights and your future.
San Mateo Assault Lawyer
Simple assault, defined by California Penal Code Section 240, involves attempting to use force or violence against another person. Prosecutors must prove you acted intentionally and had the ability to carry out the threatened force. A conviction could result in penalties including up to six months in county jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
Our team reviews witness statements, video evidence, and medical documentation to build strong defenses. Many assault allegations arise from misunderstandings, mutual confrontations, or acts of self-defense, which can play an important role in the outcome of a case.
Drug Crimes Attorney for San Mateo Residents
Drug-related offenses in California are prosecuted based on the type and quantity of the substance involved. Charges may include possession, possession with intent to sell, or drug trafficking. Because of Proposition 47, many drug possession offenses are now treated as misdemeanors rather than felonies.
Our attorneys defend individuals facing all types of drug allegations. We regularly challenge illegal searches, questionable evidence, and procedural mistakes that may have occurred during the investigation. When appropriate, we also work to help clients pursue treatment-based alternatives rather than incarceration.
San Mateo DUI Lawyer
Under California Vehicle Code Section 23152, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher. First-time DUI offenses may carry penalties including up to six months in jail, fines, and license suspension.
Our defense strategy involves reviewing every step of the investigation, including breath testing equipment maintenance, officer observations, and field sobriety testing procedures. Identifying errors or inconsistencies in the process can sometimes lead to reduced charges or dismissal of the case.
Trespassing Attorney in San Mateo
Under California Penal Code Section 602, trespassing involves entering or remaining on another person’s property without authorization. Depending on the circumstances, the offense may be charged as either an infraction or a misdemeanor.
Our defense team carefully reviews every detail, including property boundaries, signage, and whether you had implied permission to be on the property. Potential penalties can include fines up to $1,000 and possible jail time. Having knowledgeable legal representation can be critical when defending against trespassing allegations.
San Mateo Theft Lawyer
California Penal Code Section 484 describes theft as unlawfully taking another person’s property. Whether the charge is classified as petty theft or grand theft generally depends on the value of the property involved. Petty theft convictions may result in up to six months in county jail, while grand theft can carry penalties of up to one year in county jail.
Our attorneys thoroughly analyze the facts of each case. We examine witness credibility, review surveillance evidence, and consider whether mistaken identity or other errors may have occurred. Through detailed investigation and strategic negotiation, we have helped many clients obtain reduced charges or case dismissals.
Murder Defense Attorney in San Mateo
First-degree murder can lead to life sentences, while second-degree murder carries serious penalties depending on the circumstances.
Our attorneys conduct detailed reviews of forensic evidence, witness testimony, and investigative procedures. By carefully analyzing every aspect of the case, we work to build the strongest possible defense.
San Mateo Practice Areas
Meet the Bay Area’s Most Experienced Criminal Defense Team
The Summit Defense legal team includes three former prosecutors, a former Police Officer, a Board Certified Appellate Specialist and attorneys who graduated from the country’s top law schools. Their accomplishments in the courtroom are well known in the legal community.
James Reilly
Attorney at Law
Rabin Nabizadeh
Attorney At Law
Ross Pytlik
Attorney at Law
Collin Moore
Attorney at Law
Aaron Palley
Attorney at Law
Patricia Campi
Attorney at Law
Scott Mossman
Attorney at Law
Deepti Sethi
Attorney at Law
Mario Andrews
Attorney at Law
Alison Adams
Attorney at Law
Todd Goodrich
Legal Assistant
Fara Karim
Legal Assistant
Practice Areas
San Mateo Criminal Cases We Defend
When you’re facing the criminal justice system, you might think your only concern should be the criminal charge itself. However, knowing where your charges have been filed and how the local justice system handles cases like yours can make a huge difference in the outcome of your case, affecting factors like bail, probation, or plea deals.
A local criminal defense lawyer understands how cases are prosecuted in San Mateo County, what issues tend to matter most at early hearings, and how to challenge weak or exaggerated allegations before they become harder to fight.
San Mateo cases can move quickly, with decisions coming from police and prosecutors faster than you might expect. If you don’t get legal help as soon as you can, it becomes easier for the prosecution’s version of events to become the “official story.” Our goal is to disrupt that early, protect your rights, and create a defense strategy built for the realities of San Mateo courtrooms.
Our attorneys regularly help clients with San Mateo-area cases like yours.
Let us help you fight for your future
FAQsAbout Your Legal Rights After an Arrest in San Mateo
What Should I Do if the BPD Wants to Question Me?
If the San Mateo Police Department wants to question you, you have the right to remain silent and the right to ask for an attorney before answering any questions. Even if the questions seem harmless or a well-intentioned effort to clear up any miscellaneous details, whatever you say can still be used against you. Politely tell the officer that you would like to speak with a lawyer before answering questions.
Where Will My San Mateo Criminal Case Be Heard?
Most criminal cases that originate in San Mateo are handled by the San Mateo County Superior Court. Depending on the type of case and scheduling, hearings are commonly held at the San Mateo County Hall of Justice and Records in Redwood City, the county’s main criminal courthouse.
What Happens at Arraignment Hearings in San Mateo County?
At an arraignment in the San Mateo County Superior Court, the judge formally reads the charges against you and explains your rights. You will be asked to enter a plea—typically guilty, not guilty, or no contest. The judge may also address bail, release conditions, or future court dates. In many San Mateo cases, the arraignment is the first opportunity for a defense attorney to begin negotiating with the prosecutor or to identify weaknesses in the case.
Can My Charges Be Reduced or Dismissed?
Yes, in some cases, charges can be reduced or dismissed depending on the evidence, witness reliability, and whether law enforcement followed proper procedures. A defense attorney may challenge how the local police conducted the investigation, question the strength of the prosecution’s evidence, or negotiate with prosecutors from the San Mateo County District Attorney’s Office.
How Long Does a Criminal Case Take in San Mateo?
The timeline for a criminal case varies widely. A misdemeanor case may be resolved within a few weeks or a few months, while a felony case can take several months or more than a year. Scheduling and case processing are handled by the San Mateo County Superior Court, and delays may occur due to evidence review, court availability, or attorney negotiations.
Will a Criminal Charge Affect My Job or Housing?
A criminal charge in San Mateo can potentially impact employment or housing, especially if background checks are involved. Even an arrest that has not yet resulted in a conviction can raise questions for employers or landlords. However, many cases resolve without a conviction, and California law provides protections regarding the use of criminal history in employment decisions.
What’s the Difference Between a Misdemeanor and a Felony?
In California, misdemeanors are generally less serious offenses that can carry penalties of up to one year in county jail, fines, probation, or community service. Felonies are more serious crimes and can result in longer prison sentences, larger fines, and additional long-term consequences. In San Mateo, both types of cases are prosecuted by the San Mateo County District Attorney’s Office and handled in the San Mateo County Superior Court.
What Happens if I Miss a Court Date in San Mateo?
Missing a required court date in the San Mateo County Superior Court can lead to serious consequences. The judge may issue a bench warrant for your arrest, and additional charges, such as failure to appear, may be filed. If you realize you missed a date or cannot attend, it is important to contact your attorney immediately so they can work with the court to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.
Do I Need a Lawyer if I’m Innocent?
Absolutely. Prosecutors from the San Mateo County District Attorney’s Office rely on police reports, witness statements, and misunderstandings or incomplete information can still lead to charges. A lawyer can protect your rights, review the evidence, and present your side of the story effectively in the San Mateo County Superior Court system.
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?
It depends. In most cases, legal fees will vary depending on various criteria. Some of these criteria include the overall severity of the criminal charges and the legal team’s or law firm’s track record.
Effective Defense Strategies in San Mateo Criminal Defense Cases
You may be facing hefty charges, but no charge is too extreme to refute. We’ll use the following strategies to clear your name and help you fight for your future.
Challenging the Evidence Against You
In every criminal case, prosecutors must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence is unreliable, inconsistent, or improperly obtained, the case may be vulnerable to reduction or dismissal.
Common issues we investigate include:
- Inaccurate or exaggerated police reports
- Conflicting witness statements
- Faulty eyewitness identification
- Poor-quality surveillance footage
- Lack of physical evidence connecting you to the alleged offense
- Evidence obtained through unlawful searches or improper procedures
If evidence was gathered illegally, it may be possible to file a motion asking the court to exclude it. Without key evidence, prosecutors may struggle to prove their case.
Self-Defense and Legal Justification
In certain assault or violent crime cases, self-defense may apply. California law allows individuals to use reasonable force to protect themselves or others when facing an immediate threat.
A successful self-defense argument may involve showing:
- You reasonably believed you were in danger
- Your response was proportionate to the threat
- The force used was necessary to prevent harm
- The situation escalated due to the other person’s actions
Many incidents happen quickly in stressful situations. Our role is to present the full context so the court understands what actually occurred.
Alibi, Timeline, and Mistaken Identity
Sometimes the strongest defense is demonstrating that you were not the person involved or that you were somewhere else at the time of the incident.
Evidence that may support this defense includes:
- Digital location data or receipts
- Phone and communication records
- Surveillance footage
- Witness statements
- Work schedules or travel records
Mistaken identity can occur more often than people realize, especially in stressful situations or environments with limited visibility.
Constitutional Violations
Law enforcement must follow strict constitutional requirements when conducting searches, stops, and interrogations. When those rules are violated, it may be possible to challenge the charges.
Examples include:
- Illegal searches or seizures
- Unlawful traffic stops
- Coercive or improper interrogation tactics
- Violations of the right to remain silent
- Evidence obtained without a valid warrant or legal justification
Police errors or procedural violations can sometimes become the foundation for a strong legal defense.
Negotiating Reduced Charges or Alternative Resolutions
Not every criminal case proceeds to trial. In many situations, negotiation plays a major role in resolving the matter.
Our attorneys help clients evaluate:
- The prosecution’s proposed plea offers
- The long-term consequences of accepting a plea
- Potential penalties if the case proceeds to trial
- Whether alternative resolutions are available
Depending on the circumstances, outcomes may include reduced charges, minimized penalties, or agreements designed to avoid a felony conviction.
Plea Bargains and Negotiations in San Mateo Criminal Cases
Plea negotiations are common in cases handled within the San Mateo County Superior Court system. However, the first offer from prosecutors is not always the most reasonable option.
Accepting a plea agreement can have long-term consequences, including effects on:
- Your criminal record
- Employment opportunities
- Professional licensing
- Housing applications
- Immigration status
- Background checks
Our attorneys approach negotiations with preparation and strategy. By identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, we work to secure outcomes that protect your future whenever possible.
Potential negotiated outcomes may include:
- Reduced charges
- Reduced penalties
- Avoiding incarceration
- Avoiding a felony conviction
- Limiting consequences that affect employment or professional licenses
We also make sure you fully understand any plea agreement before deciding whether to accept it.
Preparing for Trial in San Mateo County
If your case proceeds toward trial within the San Mateo County Superior Court, thorough preparation becomes essential.
Trial preparation may involve:
- Filing and arguing pretrial motions
- Challenging evidence through suppression hearings
- Preparing witnesses and cross-examination strategies
- Consulting expert witnesses when appropriate
- Developing a comprehensive courtroom strategy
Possible Outcomes in San Mateo Criminal Cases
Being charged with a crime does not automatically mean a conviction. Many cases are resolved in ways that reduce or avoid the most serious consequences.
Possible outcomes may include:
- Case dismissal due to lack of evidence or legal violations
- Reduced charges through negotiation
- Diversion programs or alternative sentencing options
- A negotiated plea that limits penalties
- A not guilty verdict at trial
- A conviction with penalties such as probation, fines, or incarceration
For many individuals, the greatest concern is the long-term effect of a criminal record. Even cases that do not involve jail time can create lasting obstacles in employment, housing, and other areas of life.
Our goal is to achieve outcomes that protect your freedom, reputation, and future.
How to Protect Your Rights After a San Mateo Arrest
If you have been arrested or contacted by the San Mateo Police Department, your actions in the early stages of the case can be extremely important.
To protect yourself:
- Exercise your right to remain silent. Anything you say to law enforcement can potentially be used as evidence later, so it is often best to avoid making statements until you have spoken with a lawyer.
- Do not answer questions without an attorney present. Even questions that seem routine or harmless can become part of the prosecution’s case, which is why having legal counsel present is important.
- Do not consent to searches or volunteer information. Politely declining a search request preserves your legal rights and may allow your attorney to challenge improperly obtained evidence later.
- Avoid discussing the situation with anyone other than your lawyer. Conversations with friends, family members, or coworkers are not protected and could be repeated or used against you in court.
- Write down everything you remember about the incident. Recording details such as the timeline, people involved, and what officers said or did can help your attorney evaluate the circumstances of the arrest.
- Stay off social media and avoid posting about the situation. Posts, photos, or comments can easily be misinterpreted and may be reviewed by investigators or prosecutors.
- Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Early legal guidance allows your lawyer to begin reviewing the case, protecting your rights, and preparing a defense strategy right away.
While cooperating with law enforcement may seem helpful, speaking without legal guidance can sometimes create unintended problems. Protecting your rights and seeking legal advice early can make a significant difference in your case.
Areas We Serve on the San Mateo County Peninsula
We defend clients throughout San Mateo County and nearby Peninsula communities, including:
- Foster City
- San Carlos
- San Bruno
San Mateo Court Information
Hall of Justice and Records
400 County Center, Redwood City
Cases Handled: All criminal cases in San Mateo area
Phone: (650) 363-4711
Traffic Division Southern Branch (Annex)
500 County Center, Redwood City on the corner of Hamilton Street and Middlefield Road
Cases Handled: Traffic offenses
Phone: (650) 363-4300
San Mateo Jail Information
Maple Street Transitional Facility
This is the jail where all inmates in San Mateo are received and processed. Some prisoners will stay here if they remain in custody. There is also a women’s facility here.
Phone: (650) 363-4711
Maguire Correctional Facility
This facility is where male inmates are often sent after booking at Maple Street Transitional Facility.
Phone: (650) 363-4000
Driving Directions to our Office in San Mateo
From the North (Millbrae)
From Millbrae, get into US-101 going South. Follow 101 for just over a mile, driving past Sentient Energy, Yaseen Burlingame Center and It’s-It Ice Cream on your left. Take exit 419B. Upon reaching Hanson’s Auto Body on Broadway, take a left onto Broadway. Broadway will quickly turn into Airport Blvd., follow this past Bayside Park and Burlingame Golf Center until you see our office on the right.
From the East (Foster City)
Merge onto US-101 N for 2 miles, passing Poplar Creek Golf Course and Victoria Park. Take exit 419A for Anza Blvd. Take Anza Blvd. until you reach the Hilton Garden Inn at Airport Blvd. Take a right onto Airport Blvd., passing Sparks Marketing Group and Burlingame Airport Parking on your left. Our office is in the Bay Area Executive Offices building on your right.
From the South
From San Mateo Central Park head North onto S El Camino Real for just over a mile. When you see the Park Royal Apartments on your left, take a right onto Peninsula Ave. Follow Peninsula Ave for a mile, passing Vespa San Mateo and Pacific Rim International School on your right. Once you reach Poplar Creek Golf Course, take a left onto Airport Blvd., passing Peninsula Humane Society. Once you reach Fisherman’s park, take a left, continuing on airport Blvd. for about a half mile. Our office is on your left.
From the West (Hillsborough)
Get on Carmelita Ave driving North-West for about a mile, passing Roosevelt Elementary School. Once you see Burlingame Alignment Center on your right, take a left onto California Dr. Follow California for .1 miles, take a right onto Broadway which quickly turns into Airport Blvd. Follow Airport Blvd., passing Audi Burlingame and then Crowne Plaza San Francisco Airport on your right. Once you see Qlik Technologies and Acumen, our office will be on your right.
Contact a San Mateo Criminal Defense Attorney at Summit Defense Today
If you’re facing steep criminal charges, your entire future is on the line. A criminal conviction could cause you to lose your job, custody rights, and more. Summit Defense is here to fight for your future.
We’ve helped countless individuals just like you navigate the rocky road that is the justice system. We’ll analyze the evidence against you and craft a solid defense to defend your reputation in San Mateo County.
Call now to schedule a free, confidential consultation.
Contact Us Now For a Free Consultation