Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney
Criminal Lawyer in Los Angeles
The future may seem bleak for an arrestee, defendant or person facing an investigation by state or federal law enforcement. In these situations, it is important to remember that you have legal rights that can be protected with the immediate assistance of an attorney who provides you with the criminal defense representation you need. At Okabe & Haushalter, we represent defendants throughout the Los Angeles area who are dealing with criminal law matters. We are highly experienced attorneys ready to offer you the guidance and legal representation you need to challenge your criminal charges and work toward the best possible result – even when it seems difficult or impossible.
How can Okabe & Haushalter help?
Following are the areas of practice we can help you with. If you have been arrested or charged with a crime in the Los Angeles area, please call us for a free consultation. By clicking on any of the links listed below, you can find out more about the specific offense, potential defenses an attorney may be able to use on your behalf, the penalties that may be imposed, and more. This basic information may go a long way in helping you understand what to expect and whether to seek criminal defense counsel.
Assault & Battery
Although assault and battery are actually two separate offenses, they are often charged together. An assault may be described as an attempt or threat of violence, while battery may be described as the act itself or any unwanted touching of another person.
Bribery
Offering, giving, accepting or agreeing to accept money in exchange for an official act may constitute bribery. A defendant convicted of bribery may face up to one year in jail or up to three years in prison depending on the amount of the bribe.
Child Pornography
It is illegal to possess, produce, sell or distribute any type of pornographic material depicting a minor under the age of 18. Today, many child pornography charges involve possession on a computer and online transactions.
Computer Crimes
Crimes committed on or using computers or the internet may encompass a large number of individual offenses. Fraud, identity theft, luring a minor, child pornography, credit card fraud, hacking and phishing are some examples.
Criminal Street Gangs
You can face additional penalties if the prosecution proves that you committed a crime for the benefit of a criminal street gang. These gang enhancements can result in lenghty prison sentences, which is why you need strong defense.
DMV Hearings
An administrative hearing may be held before the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) regarding the suspension of one's driving privileges after a DUI arrest or other serious traffic violation. Having an attorney by your side in these matters may make a difference in your ability to keep your license.
Domestic Violence
In Los Angeles, a defendant may face domestic violence charges even if the alleged victim does not want to press charges. The prosecuting attorney has sole discretion in determining to move forward with a case, and a conviction may carry harsh penalties.
Drug Cases
Exposing illegal searches is an important part of the criminal defense counsel we provide to clients in drug cases throughout LA. Whether you've been charged with possession, possession with intent or trafficking, we can help.
Drunk in Public
Public intoxication, although one of the lesser criminal offenses that a person may be accused of committing, may still have a serious impact on a defendant who is found guilty. We represent those accused of being drunk in public in the Los Angeles area.
DUI Defense
DUI defense is an important part of our firm's practice. We defend drivers throughout the greater Los Angeles area who have been arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Embezzlement
Embezzlement, also referred to as employee theft or fraud, involves a person in a position of responsibility within an organization who uses their authority or power to unlawfully obtain or misappropriate money or other valuables.
Extortion
Extortion may be defined as using coercion, threats or blackmail to obtain money, goods or services from another. Extortion may be charged at a state or federal level depending on the particular circumstances, and a defendant may face up to 4 years in prison or worse if convicted.
Federal Crimes
When a defendant is accused of committing a crime on federal property, against the federal government or that involves crossed state lines, he or she may face federal charges. Aggressive criminal defense counsel by an attorney who understands federal court proceedings is necessary.
Forgery
Altering a document, forging a signature or creating a false document may be considered forms of forgery, and a defendant accused of these acts may face state or federal charges and serious penalties if convicted.
Fraud Crimes
Fraud is a type of theft crime that involves using deception to unlawfully obtain property, goods or other services from another person or persons. Depending on the scale upon which fraud is committed and the amount of money or property involved, the term of imprisonment and fines imposed may be extreme.
Grand Theft
The value of property taken is a key part of any theft crime charge, and grand theft is an offense that involves the theft of property valued at more than $950. Grand theft may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony in Los Angeles.
Indecent Exposure
Intentionally exposing one's genitalia or a woman's breasts describes the act of indecent exposure, a sex offense that is typically charged as a misdemeanor in California.
Insider Trading
When an individual has access to private information about a company and uses this information to trade stocks, bonds, stock options or other securities, he or she may be charged with insider trading. Protecting one's future, reputation and employment in the face of these charges is crucial.
Juvenile Cases
Although the juvenile court system is geared toward rehabilitation as opposed to strict punishment, there are cases where a minor may be tried as an adult or where the penalties in juvenile court are harsh and life-changing.
Luring of a Minor
Luring or attempting to lure a minor away from his or her home, parent or guardian is a misdemeanor offense. An adult who is accused of communicating with or contacting a minor with the intent of enticing that child into leaving home and meeting with the adult may face misdemeanor charges.
Manslaughter
Although a lesser offense than murder, manslaughter is still a form of criminal homicide and will therefore carry stiff penalties if a defendant is convicted. To avoid years in prison and a future negatively impacted by a criminal conviction, it is crucial to involve a competent criminal lawyer.
Murder / Homicide
A defendant who stands accused of murdering another person may face life in prison or even the death penalty. When your life and future are on the line, you need an aggressive advocate who will work tirelessly to protect you.
Prostitution
Prostitution is a type of sex crime that involves an offer, acceptance or exchange of money for sexual activity. The prostitute or "john" may face criminal charges for an act of this kind, even if an offer was made but no money exchanged hands.
Public Corruption
Public corruption is a term used to describe various criminal acts by or involving individuals in public office. This may include bribery, embezzlement, extortion, fraud and money laundering. Allegations or a conviction for one of these offenses may have a significant impact on one's political career and standing.
RICO Violations
The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) is a federal act that enforces harsh penalties upon those who participate in or run criminal organizations. A member of an enterprise that has committed any two or more of thirty-five specific criminal acts within a ten-year period may face racketeering charges under the RICO act.
Sex Crimes Defense
When a person is accused of a sex crime, their employment, future and reputation will all be at stake. They may be in danger of being labeled as a sex offender for the rest of their lives. We are therefore committed to the aggressive defense of sex crime charges throughout the Los Angeles area.
Sexual Assault / Rape
A person may face criminal charges for engaging in sexual intercourse with another person against their will, without their consent, by force or by fraud. This is typically a felony offense, punishable by time in state prison as well as other serious penalties.
Sexual Conduct with a Minor
It is considered illegal for an adult to have sexual intercourse with a minor. Even when the minor may have agreed to or initiated the sexual activity, the adult may be at risk of facing serious criminal charges.
Weapons Charges
The unlawful use, discharge, possession, distribution or sale of a weapon may result in a serious criminal charge. Our firm handles all types of weapon and gun-related charges for our clients, providing experienced criminal defense counsel.
White Collar Crimes
Crimes committed in a business environment, political setting or involving finances are typically categorized as white collar crimes. Embezzlement, identity theft, bribery, extortion, fraud and money laundering are all examples of these types of crimes.
Find out more about our firm's services and how we can assist you by contacting our law offices at your earliest convenience. Your initial consultation is free and confidential and will be your opportunity to get started in receiving the help you need.