Criminal Defense
If you are in jail, call us immediately at (310) 577-2001 or (310) 804-9869. Do not speak with anyone about your matter without an attorney present. If anyone, including other inmates, asks to speak with you about what happened, please politely say out loud, "I invoke my right to remain silent and request to speak with my lawyer."
Feldman & Wallach provides vigorous defense representation for clients accused of state and federal crimes throughout Southern California. When your life and liberty are on the line, you need a skilled criminal defense attorney to stand between you and the government. As a former felony department district attorney and a former public defender, we possess a thorough understanding of the criminal justice system, allowing us to effectively protect your rights. We handle all types of felony and misdemeanor charges and are comfortable in any courtroom.
Search & Seizure Law
Under the Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution, you are protected from unreasonable searches and seizures by police investigators. Accordingly, the first line of defense in many cases is to evaluate whether the police conducted an illegal search of your home, automobile, or person. At Feldman & Wallach, we partner with our client from the outset of criminal proceedings, enabling us to thoroughly investigate and understand the circumstances leading to an arrest. By taking the time to listen to our client's version of events, we are often able to expose search and seizure issues that may lead to a less-restrictive result, or ideally, the conclusion of the case, and our client's freedom to return to their normal lives, without involvement of the oppressive, confusing, and frequently unfair criminal justice system. Our goal is to get you home with this experience behind you.
Drug Offenses
Our attorneys have experience defending clients against a range of drug-related charges, including possession of a controlled substance, possession of drugs for sale, manufacture or cultivation of drugs, and delivery and distribution. In cases of drug use and possession, California law provides two programs to avoid a drug conviction. First, Penal Code Section 1000, or the diversion program, is generally reserved for first time drug offenders whose only charge involves the use or possession of drugs. Those charged with a DUI plus drug use or possession are not eligible for this program. Second, Proposition 36 is a court program for drug users and possessors that allows even persons on probation or parole to participate. Again, the charges cannot include a DUI or any other non-drug offense. In many cases, we are able to work out a plea bargain calling for the dismissal of any disqualifying charges that prevent you from participating in one of these programs.
Violent Crimes
Violent crimes, including assault, battery, robbery, and kidnapping, can result in very serious convictions and punishment, requiring an aggressive defense by an experienced trial lawyer. If you retain our services after being charged with a violent crime, we will immediately conduct an investigation, often utilizing the skills of an experienced professional investigator. A good investigation can often uncover a key alibi witness, reveal fatal weaknesses in a potential eyewitness identification, or establish that you acted in self-defense. Once we are fully aware of all the factors that may impact your case, we are able to prepare and mount your defense from a position of strength and confidence.
Theft Crimes
Theft and fraud-related crimes are particularly threatening to a defendant's permanent criminal record because they are considered crimes of moral turpitude, which are viewed extremely negatively by employers, licensing boards, and government agencies. We help clients mitigate the impact of these charges and minimize damage to their personal and professional lives in the event of conviction. Clients have sought our experienced legal services for a wide array of theft charges, including petty theft, burglary, forgery, fraud, and embezzlement.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in California. If you have been charged with driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you may be facing serious fines, a loss of your driving privileges, probation, and jail time. Our office has helped clients defeat DUI charges, negotiate reduced penalties, and obtain minimum penalties in the event of a conviction.
Seek Experienced, Aggressive Representation
If you or someone you love faces criminal charges, you need zealous advocacy on your side. For a free initial consultation, please contact Feldman & Wallach. In case of arrest, we offer emergency services; refer to our what to do in an emergency page for more information about steps to take after being detained.
