Salinas Criminal Defense Attorney
Defending Against Criminal Charges in Monterey County
Our Salinas-based criminal defense law firm is proud to be led by R. Christian Scott, who is a highly rated Avvo lawyer committed to lending a helping hand to individuals with crimes that need it the most throughout Monterey County.
When you entrust your case to our law firm, you can rest assured in knowing you have a dedicated and reputable team defending your rights every step of the way.
Reach out to our Salinas Criminal Defense Lawyers. We offer free consultation - Call (888) 315-0588 or contact us online today!
When Should You Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney?
If you are facing criminal charges in Salinas or Monterey County, hiring criminal defense lawyer is critical. In a perfect scenario, having an attorney present during the time you are arrested would be helpful. However, that rarely happens in the actual moment, so you should try to talk to an attorney as soon as you can after your release from being arrested.
Our Salinas criminal defense lawyers team can defend you from charges involving:
When it comes to challenging criminal charges, there is not a moment to lose. The sooner you seek out assistance from one of our attorneys, the higher the possibilities that you will obtain the most successful outcome possible, perhaps in the form of a dismissal of your case or a reduction of the charges.
The testimonials of our clients in Salinas serve as a testament to the quality of our services.
What are the Potential Penalties For Criminal Charges in California?
The potential penalties for criminal charges in Salinas, CA, can vary widely based on the nature and severity of the offense, as well as other factors such as prior criminal history and the specifics of the case.
Here’s a general overview of the potential penalties for different types of criminal charges in Salinas:
- Drug Offenses: Penalties can vary based on the type and amount of drug involved. Penalties may include fines, probation, mandatory drug treatment programs, and imprisonment.
- Theft Crimes: Penalties depend on the value of the stolen property. Petty theft (for property under $950) is a misdemeanor, while grand theft (for property over $950) is a felony.
- Violent Crimes: Crimes such as assault, battery, and domestic violence can result in severe penalties, including long prison sentences and substantial fines. Sentences may also be enhanced for aggravating factors like the use of a weapon or causing serious injury.
- Sex Crimes: Convictions for sex crimes can result in lengthy prison sentences, registration as a sex offender, and other serious consequences.
- DUI: Penalties for driving under the influence can include fines, license suspension, mandatory DUI education programs, and jail time. Repeat offenders face more severe penalties.
Our Salinas criminal defense attorneys can help you prepare a defense strategy to obtain the best outcome. You can trust our experience!
Enhancements and Aggravating Factors
Enhancements and aggravating factors in criminal defense cases include:
- Prior Convictions: Having a prior criminal record can result in enhanced penalties or longer sentences.
- Use of a Weapon: Using a weapon during the commission of a crime can lead to increased penalties.
- Hate Crimes: Offenses that are motivated by bias or prejudice may carry enhanced penalties.
- Severity of Harm: Crimes that cause significant injury or damage are considered more severe.
- Vulnerability of the Victim: Targeting vulnerable individuals, such as children or the elderly, can lead to increased penalties.
- Premeditation: Crimes planned in advance are typically punished more severely than those committed impulsively.
Why Choose Lavorato & Scott
Our Salinas criminal defense lawyer is known for delivering aggressive criminal defense for the men and women we represent.
We have the well-versed knowledge required to provide strategic criminal defense legal counsel.
Should you choose to entrust us with your criminal case, our dedicated and professional legal team will thoroughly review all the evidence that is being used against you.
- Proven Case Results & Client Testimonials
- Aggressive Legal Strategies
- We Push for the Best Possible Outcome
- We're Never Afraid to Take a Case to Trial
- Free, Confidential, In-Office Consultation
Contact Our Criminal Defense Lawyer in Salinas Today
If you were recently arrested for any crimes, you are undoubtedly aware of the serious situation you are in at the moment.
Depending on the severity of the charges you face, you could be punished with expensive fines, time behind bars, and a criminal record that will follow you around for the rest of your life.
Our law firm at Lavorato & Scott can provide you with the results-driven criminal defense you need to regain control over the direction of your life.
Contact our office today at (888) 315-0588 to get started with our Salinas criminal defense attorney.
Commonly Asked Questions on Criminal Defense
What is the Difference Between a Felony and a Misdemeanor in California?
Felonies are more serious crimes punishable by imprisonment in state prison or, in some cases, life imprisonment. Examples include robbery, murder, and drug trafficking. On the contrary, misdemeanors are less severe offenses typically punishable by less than one year in county jail or probation. Examples include petty theft, minor drug offenses, and certain assault charges.
How Does the Legal Process Work in a Criminal Case?
The legal process begins with an arrest or citation, followed by an arraignment where the accused is formally charged and enters a plea. If the case is not resolved through a plea deal, it proceeds to pre-trial motions and hearings, where evidence is reviewed and legal arguments are made. The case then goes to trial, where both the prosecution and defense present their evidence and arguments. After the trial, the judge or jury delivers a verdict.
Can a Criminal Record Be Expunged or Sealed in California?
Yes, in California, certain criminal records can be expunged or sealed under specific conditions. Expungement involves withdrawing a conviction from your criminal record, essentially treating it as if it never happened, while sealing a record prevents the public from accessing it but does not erase the record entirely.
What are My Rights During a Criminal Investigation?
You have the right to remain silent and not answer questions from law enforcement, which helps prevent self-incrimination. You also have the right to an attorney, who can advise you and represent you during questioning and legal proceedings. Additionally, you have the right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures, meaning law enforcement generally needs a warrant or probable cause to search your property or seize your belongings.
Our Client Testimonials
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"When I say they are the BEST, believe me they are!"Christian is the best! He helped me in a very difficult custody situation. My son was getting physically abused. It was so difficult to see the court system not trying to protect my son. But Christian never gave up and fought for my son like he was his own. I will forever be grateful to him and his Wonderful paralegal Jana. So when I say they are the BEST, believe me they are! My son is now out of harms way because of Christian never giving up. So don't waste your time on other attorneys that will not care for the BEST interest of your child. You cannot put a price on peace of mind.Angie
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"Mr. Scott is highly knowledgeable, ethical, and will fight hard in the court room."Christian Scott is one of the few attorneys in Monterey County who can fight sleazeballs like David Parnie. Mr. Scott is highly knowledgeable, ethical, and will fight hard in the court room.Bill
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"I had the best experience!"Mr. Scott represented me in my divorce action. It was a difficult time in my life and dealing with the custody of my children and support issues, Mr. Scott and his team really came through for me. He was aggressive when he needed to be but was able to settle all of my issues outside of the courtroom. I met with other attorneys before I met with Mr. Scott. I am very glad that I waited until I found Christian and at the end of my interview, I hired Mr. Scott. We went to court and everything, but there was no arguing in the courtroom like many of the other cases. Mr. Scott had 4 other cases the morning of my case. When he showed up it was like he was a celebrity. Other attorneys came up to him and greeted him. His other clients greeted him. I even saw the investigator and some mediator come up to him and speak with him. I saw him argue against another attorney when he was unable to work something out and the Judge ruled in his favor on everything. Gave him everything he asked for. It was very impressive. After he argued that case, he went out in the hallway spoke with the attorney on the other side, came over to me and spoke with me about the negotiations and I was very happy with where I stood. I happily agreed to what Mr. Scott worked out. We went into the court room, Mr. Scott told the judge the agreement and I was out of there. Now that the divorce is over with, I am very happy. I have a great custody situation, 50/50. My ex wife and I have gone to co-parent counseling at the suggestion of Mr. Scott and have a working co-parent relationship. I am very happy with the property division as well. The case took about 6 months from start to finish. I am very happy with my choice. I hope I never need Mr. Scott's services in the future, but if I have a problem, I would go straight back to him and his team. I have recommended him to my friends and co-workers and have never heard a complaint.Anonymous
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"Great results, very satisfied with his help!"I had a criminal case involving a DUI. Christian got me through it and was very helpful. I will recommend him to any of my family or friends that get into a jam.Anonymous
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"Christian is a very good attorney all around."Christian is a very good attorney all around. He is knowledgeable and doesn't sugarcoat things. He is real and his advice is always helpful. I have referred many people to him and they are all very happy with his advice and representation.Anonymous
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"I would highly recommend working with Mr. Scott and his firm!"It was an absolute great experience working with Mr. Scott. The moment I entered the office, staff greeted me and made sure I was comfortable and had what needed for my meeting. Mr. Scott was very professional and paid attention to detail in my situation. His ability to hear the situation, allowed for a great outcome. Mr. Scott’s recommendations and ability to get things done was phenomenal!Alex M.
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"Prompt, professional, and responsive, the attention to detail on our case was unparalleled."The way that Christian, Jana, and the team at Lavorato & Scott navigated the complicated maze of family court was clearly an example of his refined skill and understanding of what needed to be done to ensure the best outcome for the children involved. I would highly recommend this firm to anyone that has a family court matter and wants a team of professionals in which the children's well being to be the center focus of their representation.Stafford B.
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"Thank you Christian. And to the staff, thank you All for always being such a pleasure. You are such a wonderful Team."Christian Scott came highly recommended. From our first consultation together back in 2019 I knew I would be in good hands. It has been a long journey together. Despite all the difficulties and never ending battles with my case, I have always been able to trust that Mr. Scott has and continues to do what is in the best interest of my case. He has always listened, takes into consideration what I've presented, yet still offers his own recommendations and guidance that is based on his many years of experience. Offering his open, fair, honest and genuine realistic input has been been like having a family member fight for you when you have needed it in the lowest times of your life.Cynthia G.
