Criminal Defense FAQS
Do I need a lawyer for a first DUI charge?
If you want to reduce the potential damage to your future and your life from a DUI conviction, it is strongly advised that you contact an experienced criminal defense attorney for assistance in defending you. If you do not defend yourself and simply plead guilty, you are at the mercy of the court regarding the sentence you receive. Attorney Brian Andritch can assist you by fighting the charge, seeking to reduce the charge, or pursuing alternative sentencing options, depending on the circumstances of your case. DUI cases are a high priority for law enforcement agencies in the Fresno and surrounding areas, and they are taking a hard stand against anyone cited for or charged with driving while intoxicated. However, this does not mean that you cannot successfully fight the charge, depending on the circumstances of your case. Your choice of attorney can be critical to the outcome of your case.
What if I already have a previous DUI conviction and am arrested again?
This is potentially a very serious situation. In California, the penal code provides for enhanced penalties against repeat offenders, and if convicted, you may face jail time and a steep fine, in addition to community service and a court ordered alcohol treatment program. It is advised that you contact attorney Brian Andritch for a consultation and to obtain legal assistance in fighting this potentially serious charge. Your first call after your arrest should be to an experienced criminal defense attorney, who can begin taking the legal steps necessary to protect your rights and minimize the potential for serious damage to your future and life.
What if I am being investigated for a serious crime, but have not been arrested?
If you are under investigation for committing a criminal offense, you will most likely be arrested at some point. Do not speak to any state or federal investigators without first retaining an attorney to protect your rights. That seemingly friendly investigator is definitely not on your side. He or she is looking for information to use to arrest you. If you have been contacted by a law enforcement investigator or otherwise become aware that you are under investigation, you need to contact an experienced Fresno criminal defense lawyer without delay.
Do I still need an attorney if I am not guilty of the crime?
If you have been arrested and charged with a crime, you cannot assume that you will not be convicted even though you did not commit the crime. If you have been charged with a crime, the District Attorney's Office believes that there is sufficient evidence to convict you of that crime. You would not be the first person found guilty of a crime you did not commit. The failure to obtain legal counsel increases your risk of being convicted, regardless of your innocence. If you have been arrested and charged with a crime in Fresno County or a neighboring county, it is critical that you obtain legal representation to protect your rights, and that you do so as quickly as possible after you are arrested. A strong defense begins immediately after arrest.
I have an earlier felony conviction and have been arrested again. What will happen?
If you have a past felony conviction on your criminal record and are convicted of a new criminal charge, you may face enhanced penalties at sentencing. This is potentially a very serious situation that exposes you to the possibility of being sentenced under California's Three Strikes law. Attorney Brian Andritch will review and evaluate your case, and advise you on how to best proceed to protect your rights and minimize your risk of facing harsh penalties, including prison time. It is imperative that you seek the assistance of a skilled lawyer with the experience to properly assess your case and present the best defense possible against the charges.
What can the Law Office of Brian C. Andritch help me with?
The firm assists clients charged with all types of criminal offenses, from misdemeanor DUIs to serious felonies, including the following:
DUI Defense:
Criminal Defense:
Contact a Fresno Criminal Defense Attorney from the Law Office of Brian C. Andritch if you have been arrested and charged with a DUI or criminal offense in the Fresno area.