Criminal defense representation grounded in 13 years of practice, serving clients in San Bernardino, CA and the surrounding region.
If you’ve been arrested or charged with a crime in San Bernardino, it is imperative that you seek legal representation immediately. Our San Bernardino, CA criminal defense lawyer has been defending clients against a wide range of criminal charges for over a decade. At Seyb Law Group, we offer a free consultation to learn more about your situation, before you decide whether to retain our services. Contact us now to reserve your consultation appointment.
Criminal Defense Lawyer San Bernardino, CA
A criminal defense attorney examines every piece of evidence the prosecution plans to use against you, identify procedural errors, evaluate whether your constitutional rights were violated during the arrest or investigation, and build a defense strategy aimed at getting charges dismissed, reduced, or resolved in the most favorable way possible. We handle everything from first-time misdemeanor arrests to serious violent crimes.
Types of Criminal Defense Cases We Handle in San Bernardino
We represent clients facing a broad range of criminal charges in San Bernardino courts. Below are the primary case types our firm handles.
- DUI. A DUI arrest in California triggers two separate proceedings, including a criminal case and a DMV hearing. Whether it’s a first offense or a situation involving prior convictions, we examine breathalyzer calibration, field sobriety test administration, and whether the stop itself was lawful.
- Drug Crimes. Possession, trafficking, and related charges carry serious penalties under California law. These cases often hinge on search and seizure issues, chain of custody, and lab analysis accuracy. We also advise eligible clients on California’s drug diversion program as an alternative to conviction.
- Domestic Violence. We review all available evidence, including how digital communications like texts and social media may be used by prosecutors, and we build the strongest possible defense from the outset.
- Felony Charges. Felonies carry potential state prison sentences, lifetime consequences on your record, and the loss of certain civil rights. We handle violent crimes, weapons charges, and other serious felonies, and we pursue every avenue, including reducing a felony to a misdemeanor where facts allow.
- Misdemeanor Charges. Misdemeanors are often dismissed or resolved before trial with the right representation. We assess whether charges can be dismissed and pursue diversion or expungement where appropriate.
- Theft Crimes. Petty theft, grand theft, embezzlement, and related offenses each carry different exposures. Theft charges are fact-intensive, and the outcome often turns on intent, value, and prior record. We’ve secured results ranging from charge dismissal to reduction to an infraction.
- Probation Violations. A probation violation can land you back in custody even when the underlying charge has already been resolved.
- Federal Crimes. Federal charges carry mandatory minimum sentences, different procedural rules, and prosecutors with significantly more resources. We represent clients facing federal charges including drug trafficking, wire fraud, money laundering, and more.
- Assault and Battery. Simple assault and aggravated assault are treated very differently in California. We analyze the facts, evaluate self-defense claims, and work to get charges reduced or dismissed.
Why Choose Seyb Law Group for Criminal Defense in San Bernardino, CA?
Experience Defending Clients in California Courts
Attorney Spencer Seyb believes that every person facing criminal charges deserves a real defense. He started the firm with a specific focus on criminal law. At Seyb Law Group, we have been defending clients against criminal charges in California for 13 years. We handle cases across the full spectrum, from misdemeanor arrests to serious felony matters, and are familiar with courts in San Bernardino County.
Proven Results
The outcome of any criminal case depends on its specific facts, and we never make guarantees. Our proven track record reflects what we have achieved for clients, and what thorough defense work can produce. We’ve secured full charge dismissals in DUI cases involving high BAC readings, had felony domestic violence charges reduced to misdemeanors with no jail time, felony drug sales and transportation charges have been reduced to misdemeanors, and spousal battery with injury became simple battery with no jail. We offer payment plans, so the cost of legal representation is more affordable for those in need of legal services.
Understanding Criminal Defense Cases in San Bernardino
Charges, Penalties, and Defense Strategies
Criminal charges in California fall into three categories, including infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies. The distinction isn’t just about severity, as it shapes the entire legal process, what court handles your case, and which penalties apply if you’re convicted.
Misdemeanors are generally punishable by up to one year in county jail, fines, probation, and other conditions. Felonies can result in state prison sentences ranging from a year or more, depending on the charge and any enhancements. Certain enhancements, such as prior convictions, use of a weapon, or injuries to a victim, can substantially increase the potential sentence. Defense strategy depends entirely on the facts, and our common approaches include:
- Challenging the legality of the stop, search, or arrest.
- Contesting the admissibility of evidence obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment.
- Disputing the sufficiency or reliability of forensic evidence.
- Presenting affirmative defenses such as self-defense, consent, or mistaken identity.
- Negotiating for reduced charges or alternative sentencing when the facts support it.
Important Aspects of a Criminal Defense Case
The strength of a criminal defense depends on factors that aren’t always obvious at the outset. Here are a few aspects that consistently matter:
- Early intervention. The earlier a defense attorney is involved, the more options remain available. Evidence can be preserved, witnesses can be interviewed before their memories fade, and in some cases, the filing of charges can be addressed before the case moves forward.
- The nature of the evidence. Whether the state’s case depends on eyewitness testimony, physical evidence, digital records, or informant cooperation shapes how the defense is built.
- Your prior record. Prosecutors and judges weigh criminal history heavily. A first offense situation may result in outcomes that aren’t available to those with a prior conviction on record.
- Procedural compliance. Law enforcement must follow specific rules. Violations can lead to suppression of evidence or dismissal of charges entirely.
Criminal Defense Case Timeline
No two cases move at exactly the same pace, but here’s a general outline of how criminal cases progress in California:
- Arrest and booking. You’re taken into custody, processed, and a bail determination is made.
- Arraignment. Your first court appearance, charges are formally read, and you enter a plea. This typically occurs within 48 hours for in-custody defendants.
- Pre-trial proceedings. Motions to suppress evidence, discovery disputes, and plea negotiations all happen here. This phase can last weeks or months.
- Preliminary hearing (felonies). For felony charges, the prosecution must show there’s probable cause to take the case to trial.
- Trial. If no plea is reached, the case goes to jury or bench trial. The prosecution bears the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Sentencing. If convicted, sentencing follows. Probation, fines, jail, or prison are all possibilities depending on the charge.
What to Bring to Your Criminal Defense Consultation
Before we meet, it helps to gather what you have. You don’t need to have everything prepared yet, as we can request records and documentation through the legal process. But bringing the following information with you can make the initial conversation more useful:
- Any paperwork you received at the time of arrest or since, including citations, bail paperwork, or court notices.
- Any charging documents if they’ve been issued.
- Your recollection of the events in detail, including who was present and in what order things happened.
- Any communications, such as texts, emails, or otherwise, that you believe are relevant to your situation.
California Legal Resources for Criminal Defense Cases
California law is the framework your case operates within. Here are some starting points for finding relevant statutes and legal information:
- California Courts Self-Help Center: Provides information on criminal procedure and how California courts function.
- California Legislative Information Portal: Where you can find the full text of California Penal Code provisions relevant to your charges.
- California Department of Justice: Publishes information on criminal records, background checks, and related matters.
- U.S. Courts Website: Covers federal court procedures if your matter involves federal charges.
- San Bernardino Superior Court: Handles criminal cases arising in San Bernardino County.
Reach Out to Seyb Law Group to Schedule a Consultation
A criminal charge is serious, but being charged is not the same as being convicted. At Seyb Law Group, we offer a free initial consultation with no obligation or pressure. We’ll review the facts of your situation, answer your questions directly, and tell you where we think the case stands currently. We also offer payment plans so that cost isn’t a barrier to getting real representation. Contact us to schedule your consultation.
