Know Your Rights in a Criminal Case

Pasadena Criminal Defense Lawyer

Have you been charged with a crime in Pasadena? You can get help from The Law Offices of Matthew Cargal. We have been representing people in your position for over 20 years and we know how frightening it can be to face prosecution for a criminal offense. Being arrested places you at risk of serious criminal penalties; but when you retain a Pasadena criminal defense attorney to represent you as soon as possible, your chances of successfully fighting the charges can be greatly increased.

How do you know if your case can be won? Each case is different, but there are issues common to most criminal defense cases that if properly attacked may help to secure an acquittal. Some of those issues are:

• Probable Cause - Under the Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution, you are guaranteed protection against unreasonable search and seizure. If the police officer who made your arrest can't prove that he had objective reasons to suspect that you had committed a crime, the case could be thrown out on the grounds that the evidence was gained by violating your rights.

• Miranda Violations - The Fifth Amendment provides you a right against acting as a witness against yourself, and you don't have to make statements that would incriminate you. If the police officer didn't read you the standard Miranda Warning, including your right to remain silent and the fact that "anything you say or do can and will be held against you," the evidence could be deemed inadmissible.

• Improper Investigation Procedures - Errors in gathering, handling and preserving evidence must be determined. Your attorney can study the police reports and other aspects of your case to determine whether investigative mistakes may have jeopardized the validity of the evidence. You have a right to challenge the evidence in your case.

Facing criminal charges in Pasadena?

An attorney from our firm can consult with you about the circumstances of your arrest to determine whether your rights may have been violated. Your chances of having the charges reduced to a less serious crime or of securing an acquittal will be better if you take action now. We will stand by you throughout the case to provide guidance and advice, as well as represent you in court. By exercising your legal rights with skilled and knowledgeable legal counsel, your freedom can be protected.

Contact a Pasadena criminal defense attorney who will help you fight to defend your rights throughout the case.