Criminal law is the prosecution of a person by the government for an act that has been classified as a crime

When accused of a criminal offense in California, people are faced with the possibility of going to jail. In terms of legal defense, there are three options available:

• The defendant may hire a private criminal attorney at their own expense
• The defendant may personally represent themselves
• The defendant may utilize the criminal defense services provided by the federal or state court system “Public Defender”.

The United States Constitution guarantees every criminal defendant a criminal attorney. Crimes are classified into one of two categories. The more serious crime, such as murder or rape, is considered a felony. Felonies are usually punishable by imprisonment of a year or more. The other type of a criminal offense is a misdemeanor, such as petty theft. This type of crime is less serious and is punishable by less than a year in county jail.

For a criminal conviction in California, prosecutors must prove each and every element of the crime to gain a conviction. In addition, a prosecutor must persuade the judge or jury “beyond a reasonable doubt” of every fact necessary to constitute the criminal offense.

Our criminal justice system can be overwhelming and at times frightening. The incarceration rate in the United States is much higher than that of other industrialized countries. Prison sentences are getting longer and more frequent. If you face the possibility of being accused of a crime, contact a criminal defense lawyer as early in the process as possible, preferably even before questioning or investigation by the police. A criminal attorney can fight for your legal and constitutional rights.

A person who is convicted of a crime in general faces societal stigmas and potentially irreparable damage to his or her reputation. It is almost always unwise to represent yourself. Retain the services of a seasoned and experienced criminal defense attorney.

Based in the historical Pasadena, California, criminal defense attorney, Tom R. Medrano has defended the rights-and records-of clients for more than 30 years. We represent people throughout Southern California and surrounding areas (currently representing clients in Los Angeles County, Riverside County, San Bernardino County, San Diego County, San Francisco County and Alameda County), utilizing the most current technologies and resources available to get the job done with favorable results. Our Law Office has an emphasis in Criminal Defense. We specialize in tailoring legal solutions to meet your needs today.

Our area of expertise - Criminal Defense Practice

Limited to Criminal Defense Only.

Representation in cases involving murder, assault, drug possession, theft, burglary, disorderly conduct, and white collar crimes, such as forgery and embezzlement. We also defend people in cases of vehicular manslaughter,unreasonable search and seizure, disorderly conduct, and shoplifting, as well as cases involving criminal litigation.

We are committed to having an understanding of each detail in every case. Our preparation pays off when we get to court.