Tag: criminal defense attorney

After Arrest: What to Do Following Police DUI Arrest

Posted by Brianna Wilkins on September 24, 2012

Arrest for DUI can be a scary thing: don’t panic. There are things you can do to work to ensure your fair treatment. First things first, hire an experienced criminal defense attorney. A great attorney will work to get you the best outcome possible from your case.

What to Do First After DUI Arrest

There is an lot of circumstances that lead to an arrest for a California DUI / DWI or drunk driving. For example, maybe you and your date shared a bottle of wine at dinner. Sadly, in your excitement to get home, a police officer pulled you over for speeding. If the officer detected the smell of alcohol on your breath, now you’re in trouble. Or, let’s take another situation, maybe you had one too many at a friend’s wedding. A police officer pulls you over when you fail to come to a complete stop somewhere. The point is that a drunk-driving arrest happens to almost anyone at any time. When it does happen, a call for a California DUI attorney is a must.

While you may have feelings of distress or anger following your arrest, do not bury your head. Waste no time in hiring qualified California criminal defense lawyers or a DWI criminal defense lawyer. Wasting time will likely result in a suspension of your driver’s license by the Department of Motor Vehicles. If you or someone you know is facing a charge of driving under the influence, you need legal assistance. You may need to locate someone who remains in custody, and you will need to locate a bail bondsman. Consequently, a lawyer that specializes in California DUI laws can help you navigate the confusing California system.

Custody and Bail

It is not always simple locating a friend or loved one who is in custody. Without the right information, it can feel downright impossible. When attempting to locate someone it is helpful to have the individual’s full name, birth date, and booking number from the arrest.

Most often, one is released on their own recognizance (OR) following an arrest for a DUI / DWI in California. This means that a person is free to go but must return to court for their arraignment. There is a great deal of trust here, as there is no bail paid. However, this does not mean that they are not in need of California criminal defense lawyers.

With this said, there are circumstances in which a person is held in custody until they pay bail. In such cases, locating a dependable bail bondsman is crucial. The bondsman can help secure the rapid release of the suspect. Additionally, the bond helps speed up the beginning to his or her defense. Typically a bail bondsman requires a down payment equal to ten percent of the total amount of bail.

DMV Case and California Criminal Case

A DUI / DWI charge in California actually results in two separate cases. You will face a California Department of Motor Vehicles case and a California criminal case. Each case needs to happen as soon as possible in order to avoid unnecessary negative repercussions.

In California DMV cases a person accused of drunk driving has ten (10) days from the date of arrest to request a DMV hearing. If this doesn’t happen, the DMV automatically begins a process of suspending the person’s license to drive.

In the criminal case involving driving under the influence, the first step is the arraignment. At the arraignment, you enter a plea of Guilty, Not Guilty, or No Contest. Remember, you don’t have to enter a guilty plea. An experienced California DUI attorney can fight your case and win. However, they must know the California DUI laws in every detail.

Hire Great Counsel

Oftentimes, it takes costly resources to fight a CA DUI / DWI case, and the issues are complex. It is possible to win a case with the right legal counsel with a great strategy. Success can happen in both the DMV hearing and the criminal drunk driving case.

The Kavinoky Law Firm employs the best DUI lawyers in Los Angeles. Call for a free consultation anytime with a top criminal defense attorney in California. Call 24/7 – 365 days a year. We’re here to fight for you.

Cocaine

Posted by Brianna Wilkins on September 24, 2012

Cocaine is a Schedule II drug under California Health & Safety code 11055 (b) (6)), and it’s illegal to use, possess, sell, possess for sale, and manufacture. Violation of California’s cocaine laws can result in felony charges that carry significant prison time. Consequently, if you’re facing a California cocaine charge, you should have an experienced defense lawyer fighting for your freedom. Additionally, a skilled California drug lawyer from The Kavinoky Law Firm will do everything possible to protect you from the serious consequences of a cocaine charge.

Cocaine Penalties

What is especially relevant here is that sentencing changes based off of the crime. California’s determinate sentencing laws spell out a lower term, a middle term, and an upper term for felony offenses spelled out in months or years.

In fact, the punishment handed down after a cocaine conviction will be determined by the facts of your case and by aggravating and mitigating factors. These factors are circumstances that prompt the judge to treat you more harshly leniently. Mitigating factors are almost always very helpful in a case. You’re probably going to talk to your attorney about these following your arrest.

The following charges can be brought in a California cocaine case:

Section Number	Charge	Sentence
11350	Cocaine possession	16-2-3
11351	Possession for sale	2-3-4
11352	Sale (transport, import, furnish, administer, give away, etc.)	3-4-5
11379.6	Manufacture (process, prepare, etc.)	3-5-7 plus $50,000
11355	Agrees to sell, then sells another substance in lieu of	Misdemeanor or 16-2-3
11366.8a	Possess or use false compartment in vehicle to store or transport	Misdemeanor or 16-2-3
11366.8b	Design or construct false compartment in vehicle to store or transport	16-2-3
11401	Analog of cocaine (controlled substance) (i.e. substantially similar chemical structure or effect)
PC 182a1	Conspiracy to do any or all of the above (same as substantive charge)
11532	Loitering in a public place	Misdemeanor
	with the intent to commit a drug offense

Sentencing Enhancements

In addition to the charges in a California cocaine case, there are also numerous sentencing enhancements that can be filed that, if proven, can substantially increase your punishment. Another penalty can add include more time for weight enhancements, prior convictions, firearms, locations, and minors.

Therefore, if you’re facing a California drug charge, you could see substantial prison time. Additionally, there are other significant repercussions to this conviction. However, it’s entirely possible to aggressively fight your charge. Hence, you need a lawyer – and you need one quickly. Luckily, a skilled California criminal defense attorney from The Kavinoky Law Firm is ready to review your case and help you plan your next move. Please contact us today at 1.800.NO.CUFFS for a free consultation.

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About Darren Kavinoky and The Kavinoky Law Firm.

Darren Kavinoky receives recognition over and over for his commitment to clients and for being a top California defense lawyer. The Los Angeles Magazine repeatedly regards him as a Super Lawyer , and the American Trial Lawyers Association highlighted him as one of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers in California. Additionally, he is the legal analyst and special correspondent for the syndicated television program The Insider, and is a sought-after guest on shows that include Entertainment Tonight, Dr. Phil, NBC’s Today Show, and various programs on CNN and the Headline News Channel. Follow Darren on Twitter @DarrenKavinoky or www.DarrenKavinoky.com.

Bail Bonds – Release on Recognizance

Posted by Brianna Wilkins on August 27, 2012

Bail bonds can feel like an overwhelming and complicated part of the arrest process.

Whether you or a loved one is facing conviction for DUI (drunk driving) or murder, a misdemeanor or a felony, you want out of jail. Therefore, one of the first priorities is to get the accused released from custody.

Bail, Bail Bonds, and O.R.

Release may be by way of a simple promise to appear, also known as being released O.R., or on one’s own recognizance. However, for more serious misdemeanors or felonies, or where the accused has a prior record, posting bail may be required to secure release.

Most counties have a “bail schedule”, which is simply a list of various Penal Code, Vehicle Code, and Health and Safety Code violations, and a corresponding bail amount. These are the “presumptive” bail bonds amounts, but the actual amount of bail can be deviated either higher or lower, depending upon the facts of the case and the background of the accused.

The purpose of setting bail is two-fold: it is to ensure the presence of the accused at future court proceedings, and it is also to safeguard the community. There are many factors to consider:

The bail schedule,
Seriousness of the offense,
Previous criminal record of the defendant, and/or
Whether the defendant has ties to the community, owns property, or has a job, and many others.

Types of Bail

Bail is a complex issue, and there are many special rules that apply to certain types of cases. For example, in a DUI (drunk driving) case, an person cannot go home until a sufficient period of time. The person must allow their blood alcohol concentration to drop below certain levels. In domestic violence cases, even misdemeanors, O.R. release is not allowed by the arresting agency. In cases involving drugs, or criminal enterprises, a source of bail hearing must occur. This is a hearing where the defendant must show that the money used to secure his or her release is not the fruit of criminal activities.

Once you know bail prices, it amount shows up in one of several ways:

Cash bail,
Government bonds,
Real Property, or
Bail Bonds. This last option is the most popular of all four.

Bail Bondsmen

A good bail bondsman provides an invaluable service. In exchange for the bondsman’s fee (which is usually 10% of the amount of the bond, with or without collateral), a good bondsman will forego sleep in favor of going to a police station or county jail, filling out necessary paperwork, and even driving the accused home and ensuring that they have a hot meal on the way.

We work with some of the best, most dedicated bail bondsmen in the business. Like our offices, these bondsmen dedicate themselves to providing the best possible service. They give their clients excellent value for their investment. If someone you care about needs to bail out of jail, you can call on them for immediate help.

Hire an Attorney

If you should find yourself arrested for DUI, talk to a criminal defense lawyer at The Kavinoky Law Firm right away. 1.800.NO.CUFFS is the number to call – we don’t sleep – so you can. Don’t wait to get a free consultation from one of the best criminal defense attorneys in the state of California.

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Consent and Character Evidence

Posted by Brianna Wilkins on May 4, 2012

Consent and character evidence can be huge issues with respect to California sex offenses.

Consent and Character Evidence

There are many offenses where consent becomes the critical issue in the case. Consequently, it is up to a savvy criminal defense attorney to show that the alleged victim did indeed consent. In order to successfully defend his or her client, the attorney works to prove this was an agreed-upon act.

California law, however, makes it difficult for anyone to prove consent. Additionally, it also makes it challenging to initiate evidence regarding the alleged victim’s character. As such, there are only a few ways that these issues can be legally argued and admitted into evidence. This is just one of the reasons why it is so important for the defendant to hire a criminal defense lawyer. Not just any lawyer, hire one who specializes in California sex crime defense. Truly, no other type of attorney will be as qualified to defend against these highly controversial cases.

Consent

California sex crimes such as rape, spousal rape, oral copulation, sodomy and penetration with a foreign object often focus on the issue of consent.

“Consent” with respect to this area of the law refers to positive cooperation in act or attitude pursuant to an exercise of free will. So, it basically means that a person must freely and voluntarily act with knowledge of the nature of the act. The issue is not only critical to the alleged offense, but it necessarily calls into question the nature of any relationship. The relationship, either past or present, between the accused and the alleged victim is important here. Additionally, the alleged victim’s sexual history also comes into question.

Since the alleged victim is not the individual charged with an offense, the law generally regards his or her past sexual conduct as irrelevant. It only allows it to be called into question under a few different limited circumstances.

To be clear, evidence of sexual conduct between the accused and the alleged victim is admissible to establish consent, but it is not sufficient to do so alone.

Consent Claims that are Admissible and Not Admissible

In one instance, the accused may rebut evidence of sexual history. This happens if the prosecution or the alleged victim raises the issue of the alleged victim’s sexual conduct or history. Evidence of prostitution is generally inadmissible as to the issue of consent. However, it may be relevant and admissible with respect to the alleged victim’s credibility. Another instance, along these same lines, is whether the alleged victim has previous false accusations of rape or other sexual offenses. In turn, those facts are generally admissible evidence to attack his or her credibility or character.

Certain instances of rape, spousal rape, oral copulation, sodomy, and penetration with a foreign object arise when a victim is unable to consent. The state must rule on this inability, of course, but it is important to note that the inability to consent can contribute to assault.

This inability to consent is likely due to a mental or physical condition. Additionally, the defendant either knew that fact or reasonably should have known that fact. When these facts exist, it is up to the prosecutor to prove that the victim suffered from such a condition. It is also up to the attorney to prove that such condition rendered him or her incapable of giving legal consent.

Clearly, the issues surrounding consent and character evidence are brief and technical. This is exactly why hiring a great sex crime defense attorney is the key to the best defense.

Hire the Best Defense

The outstanding criminal defense attorneys at The Kavinoky Law Firm know all the complexities related to California sex crime defense. They are also able to effectively tackle any evidentiary and/or defense issue that arises or applies. They keep up-to-date on the latest legal rulings and receive ongoing training and education with respect to this area of the law. Consequently, this provides their clients with unparalleled representation.

They have law offices conveniently located throughout Los Angeles and California. This enables them to provide their exceptional services to those in need. For the most trusted legal advice and unsurpassed representation, contact them today for a free consultation.

Statutory Rape Laws and Penalties in California

Posted by Brianna Wilkins on May 4, 2012

Statutory rape, by definition in California, is for the governance and protection of minors.

This charge encompasses unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor. In California, a minor is anyone under the age of 18. An individual under the age of 18 years isn’t legally capable of giving consent. Of course, this law is regardless of how physically, emotionally, or mentally mature he or she is or appears.

Additionally, the courts may convict anyone of any age this crime. Therefore, adults are not the only ones capable of arrest for statutory rape. It’s true, depending on the circumstances, even two minors involved in a relationship may find themselves under arrest.

The Difference Between Rape and Statutory Rape

Knowing the above, it is clear the main differences between rape and statutory rape is age. Even if no force, threat, or duress occurs. In fact, this act is still a sex crime solely because of the age of the alleged victim.

Since statutory rape offenders face a haunting social stigma and serious penalties, it is imperative that the accused hires a qualified criminal defense lawyer as quickly as possible so that the attorney has an opportunity to develop the most effective defense possible. The skilled criminal attorneys at The Kavinoky Law Firm have mastered this difficult field of law and know what it takes to successfully defend their clients.

Penalties for Statutory Rape Convictions

The penalties that are imposed in connection with a statutory rape conviction will vary, depending mostly on the age of the accused and on the age of the alleged victim.

There are three major categories of penalty in which this conviction falls:

First: A Misdemeanor Charge. When the accused is no more than three years older or younger than the alleged victim.
Second: Misdemeanor or Felony Charge. If the accused is more than three years older than the alleged victim. This misdemeanor conviction carries up to 1 year in county jail or state prison.
Third: Misdemeanor or Felony Charge. If the accused is 21 years old and has sexual intercourse with a minor younger than 16. This misdemeanor conviction carries a penalty of up to 1 year in county jail. If it is a felony conviction, it carries 2 to 4 years in state prison.

An adult facing a statutory rape charge will likely also face further civil penalties. This person may be civilly liable for up to $2,000. Additionally, the punishments increase based upon age difference. For example,

If the minor is at least two years younger than the adult, the accused looks at up up to $5,000 in fines.
Furthermore, if the minor is at least three years younger, the accused may face up to $10,000.
Finally, if the accused is an adult over the age of 21, they face the most severe penalties. If this adult engages in an act of unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor under 16, they’re facing a $25,000 penalty.

The Importance of Criminal Intent

The primary defense in a statutory rape case will be a lack of criminal intent, where the accused reasonably believed that the alleged victim was over the consenting age. Statutory rape was once a strict-liability crime. This meant a defendant faced conviction of this crime even if they were genuinely ignorant. If a person did not know a factor which makes the act or omission criminal, it did not matter.

However, California now recognizes ignorance as a defense where the accused participated in a mutual, sexual act. This is true only if the defendant believed their partner was of legal age. Of course, the attorney must prove the accused has reasonable grounds for such belief. However, committing lewd or lascivious acts with a child under the age of 14 is still a strict-liability offense. (California Penal Code 288)

The experienced lawyers at The Kavinoky Law Firm dedicate themselves to help their clients defend against this devastating charge. Their excellent legal advice and outstanding representation are available to those in need of a California sex crime defense attorney, and they have law offices in Los Angeles and throughout the state. Contact the firm today for a confidential, free case evaluation.

About Darren Kavinoky and The Kavinoky Law Firm

Darren Kavinoky receives recognition over and over for his commitment to clients and for being a top California defense lawyer. The Los Angeles Magazine repeatedly regards him as a Super Lawyer , and the American Trial Lawyers Association highlighted him as one of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers in California. Additionally, he is the legal analyst and special correspondent for the syndicated television program The Insider. He is also a popular guest on shows that include Entertainment Tonight, Dr. Phil, NBC’s Today Show, and various programs on CNN and the Headline News Channel. Follow Darren on Twitter @DarrenKavinoky or www.DarrenKavinoky.com.

Bigamy

Posted by John Devendorf on May 4, 2012

Bigamy is considered a sex crime in California. It takes place when a married individual marries more than one person concurrently.

Bigamy Conviction in California

If convicted of this offense, the accused faces either a misdemeanor or a felony. It is punishable by up to one year in county jail or state prison. Conversely, the defendant may receive a maximum $10,000 fine.

Probation and community service or labor typically also accompany the punishments of this conviction. This crime is typically regarded as a “socially unacceptable crime.” As such, it is important that the accused to hire an experienced criminal attorney. Hire one who knows how to get through to the judge and jurors by effectively arguing the defenses that are applicable to this offense. The attorneys at The Kavinoky Law Firm excel in California sex crime defense.

Burden of Proof

Every person who has a living husband or wife and who marries another is guilty of bigamy. A defendant charged with bigamy is in an unusual situation. Since, the burden of proof lies in his or her hands, it’s unusual.

Typically, a prosecutor works to prove the entirety of a criminal charge. Then, a defendant need not say anything at all. In a bigamy case, the prosecutor must only prove that there were two marriages. Also, he must prove the first spouse is still living. However, he is not required to prove that the first marriage was still in force at the time of the second marriage. In turn, it is up to the defendant to prove otherwise.

Bigamy Defense

The individual charged with bigamy offers a defense essentially by proving absenteeism. That is, the defendant proves his or her first spouse was absent for five successive years. During this time, there was no indication that he or she was still living.

Another option is to show that the first marriage is:

Void,
Annulled, or
Dissolved by the court. It therefore follows that no bigamy exists where a court grants legal termination of a first marriage by annulment or divorce prior to the second marriage. However, a defective or fraudulent divorce is not a defense to a charge of bigamy. A good faith belief in divorce or unlawful marriage is not a defense either.

A bigamy charge may also be filed against an individual who knowingly and willfully marries the husband or wife of another, in any case in which that husband or wife could be prosecuted for bigamy. Such an individual also faces a felony, punishable by a minimum fine of $5,000 or by imprisonment in state prison.

Bigamy laws are serious and carry heavy fines and possible state prison sentences.

In order to best avoid serious penalties and the social stigma that results a bigamist/sex offender conviction, it is imperative to hire a criminal defense lawyer. Hire a lawyer who focuses on the unique issues and emotions that are commonly come in this field of law.

Hire an Experienced Attorney

The unparalleled criminal defense attorneys at The Kavinoky Law Firm firmly grasp the complexities related to California sex crime defense. They know what it takes to obtain favorable outcomes for their clients. Additionally, they understand how to critically analyze a sex crime police report. They know how to examine percipient witnesses. Due to this, this know how to spot the weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Of course, all of which are in an effort to have the client’s case either reduced or dismissed.

Contact one of their many Los Angeles or other California law offices today. Request a free consultation and help for an unsurpassed bigamy defense.

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Abducting and Selling Others

Posted by Brianna Wilkins on May 4, 2012

Human trafficking involves the kidnapping, sale, transportation of an individual.

Human Trafficking and Sex Crimes

The abduction and/or sale of others for purposes of:

marriage,
illicit relations,
cohabitation and/or
custody for immoral purposes are all sex crimes in California.

All of these are felonies in the eyes of the state. Consequently, the state vigorously prosecutes these crimes. If facing one of these offenses, it is crucial that the accused immediately contacts and hires a criminal defense lawyer. Make sure he specializes in California sex crime defense. This is most noteworthy – the attorney must know California sex crime defense. This is in order to secure the most qualified representation. Additionally, its the best tactic to best avoid the severe penalties that result from these charges.

Abduction

Abduction for marriage or defilement (sexual intercourse) takes a few routes to arrive at conviction.

Abductions charges come to those who takes a person unlawfully, against their will, and by force, menace or duress, and

Compels them to marry, or defiles them or;
Compels him or her to live with the accused in an illicit relationship, against his or her consent, or to so live with another.

If convicted of these offenses, the accused faces imprisonment in state prison for 16 months or two or three years.

With respect to these charges, it is not necessary to prove force when the accused “takes any woman or takes another.” In fact, if improper solicitations or inducements accomplished the act, this is sufficient. Also unnecessary is a showing where the accused “took” the individual. Whether they went out of the city, county, state or country, it is only pertinent that he or she intended to detain and conceal the individual.

When sentencing these charges, it will be up to the judge to decide whether to concurrently sentence (that is, to allow the accused to serve both sentences at the same time) or consecutively sentence (that is, to require that the defendant serve both sentences back-to-back) any other crimes that were simultaneously committed.

Valuation for Trade of Humans

Receiving money for placing a person for purposes of cohabitation is another possible charge. This charge goes against any individual who receives money or any other valuable thing for, or on account of, placing in custody another for the purpose of causing that person to live with any person to whom he or she is not married.

If convicted of this offense, the accused faces imprisonment in state prison for 16 months or two or three years. Restraint of the alleged victim’s liberty is essential to constitute a crime under this section. The punishment will be the same for the individual who sells any person or receives money or any other valuable thing for or on account of his or her placing in custody, for immoral purposes, another person (regardless of whether that individual consented).

Regardless of which charges you face, only a criminal attorney who really understands human trafficking can help. This complex and specific area of the law truly needs a lawyer equipped to handle these types of offenses.

Hire the Best Defense

The exceptional criminal defense attorneys at The Kavinoky Law Firm have a firm knowledge of the law. They know the complexities involved in human trafficking and California sex crime defense. Therefore, they’re the most qualified to help an individual avoid the devastating consequences. Furthermore, they apply all applicable defenses to the court in a way that effectively casts reasonable doubt.

To speak to a trusted attorney at one of their conveniently located Los Angeles or other California law offices, contact The Kavinoky Law Firm today for a free consultation.

About Darren Kavinoky and The Kavinoky Law Firm.

Misdemeanor or Felony – The Difference You Need to Know

Posted by Brianna Wilkins on May 4, 2012

Misdemeanor or Felony

What’s the Difference and Why Does it Matter?

In California, most sex crimes are felony offenses. Although, there are some lesser offenses that the prosecution treats as misdemeanors.

To further explain, it’s important to know what a wobbler is in the court system. When a charge can go either way – a misdemeanor or a felony, the crime is a wobbler. Unfortunately, the discretion with which to file this wobbler rests in the hands of the prosecution. The prosecuting attorneys make the decision here: Misdemeanor or Felony.

The main difference between a misdemeanor and a felony

is the punishment.

Now, both convictions carry the possibility of probation, heavy fines, restraining orders, and community service. However, a skilled criminal attorneys will vigorously fight to dismiss all charges. Additionally, and at the very least, will fight to have any felony charges reduced to lesser offenses.

Based on a meticulous review of the facts, great attorneys clearly recognize discrepancies. They see them in witness statements and police reports. Furthermore, they know exactly what evidence to look for. This, allows them to highlight the weaknesses in the prosecutor’s case.

Felonies are the most serious types of crimes. At times they are punishable by death or imprisonment in the state prison.

Felony prison sentences are at least one year in duration. When not otherwise specified, a felony is punishable by imprisonment in any state prison for 16 months, or two or three years. Felony sex offenses, which include rape and most cases that involve minors, can carry prison sentences of up to eight years and, under a variety of circumstances, a defendant can be sentenced to consecutive sentences, resulting in lifetime imprisonment. Wobblers will generally be filed as felonies if the defendant has prior convictions for similarly charged crimes, if the facts of the particular offense were aggravated or if the alleged victim suffered an injury as the result of the defendant’s conduct.

Essentially, misdemeanors are crimes that don’t

rise to the level of felonies.

Possession or distribution of obscene materials (so long as children aren’t depicted in the materials) and indecent exposure are examples of two less-serious, misdemeanor sex crimes.

Misdemeanors typically carry a maximum six-month county jail sentence and a maximum $1,000 fine. Although, there are many misdemeanors that carry a maximum one-year jail sentence and a maximum $2,000 fine. An individual serving a misdemeanor sentence serves his or her time in a county jail, not a state prison.

Although misdemeanors are less serious than felonies, they can still do serious lifetime damage. These convictions appear on background checks, making it more difficult to secure employment. Additionally, these convictions label the defendant as a criminal forever. Lastly, some misdemeanor sex offenses require a convicted defendant to register as a sex offender/ This is pursuant to California penal code 290.

Hire an Outstanding Attorney

The outstanding criminal defense lawyers at The Kavinoky Law Firm specialize in sex crime defense and dedicate their careers to protect the rights of their clients. They understand the seriousness of a sex offense accusation. They work tirelessly to help their clients avoid the harsh penalties associated with this class of crimes.

With law offices in Los Angeles and throughout California, they have several convenient locations. If you need an aggressive California sex-crime lawyer, we will passionately defend your case. We defend your rights with skill and integrity. Contact the California Attorney today for a free consultation, for the most trusted legal advice, and for unparalleled representation.

Darren Kavinoky – Honors and Recognition

Posted by Brianna Wilkins on May 4, 2012

Darren Kavinoky is your shot at protecting your rights in California.

If you are currently facing a criminal offense charge in California, you need a great attorney. It’s important to have best defense attorney available on your side. Yet, how do you select the right lawyer? Additionally, how do you know who will do the best job? The answer is: Find a lawyer with a great reputation. Let others tell you how great your attorney is and why he or she is the best.

Great Reputation

Honors and recognition from the community are a strong indication that your prospective attorney great. You want an attorney commands respect of peers and gains it from clients. This is an excellent indicator of a good lawyer. Therefore, California defense attorney Darren Kavinoky is clearly your best choice. Not only does he own a firm with a team of talented attorneys, but, he is also a skilled practitioner. Kavinoky is the recipient of countless honors celebrating his legal knowledge, integrity, and commitment to fighting for his clients’ rights.

A History of Success

In 1994, California defense lawyer Darren Kavinoky began his career. Practicing law for over two decades, he now how has a bevvy of recognition for his skills as an attorney. Martindale-Hubbel awarded him the coveted AV Rating. To clarify, the AV Rating is a status that only attorneys who meet the highest standards of legal competence and ethics receive.

Los Angeles Magazine twice named Kavinoky a SuperLawyer Rising Star (Top Lawyers Under 40). Additionally nominated as a SuperLawyer three times, and named one of the top 100 Trial Lawyers. This last designations comes from the California by the American Trial Lawyers Association. Kavinoky wins this award every year – and has since 2007.

Furthermore, Kavinoky participated in the Conference of Delegates of the Resolutions Committee of the California State Bar. He’s also a Life Member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. What’s more, he’s an active member of countless bar associations and organizations dedicated to protecting the rights of criminal defendants.

High in Demand

Along with being a reputable criminal defense attorney, California lawyer Darren T. Kavinoky is in demand. As a legal expert on national television and radio programs, he often lends his voice where its needed. He is also quoted in numerous magazine and newspaper articles around the United States.

Darren has been a frequent and popular guest on many national media outlets, including the Today show, Entertainment Tonight, The Insider, The View, Dr. Phil, Dr. Drew. He also makes appearances on various programs on CNN, HLN, and truTV (formerly Court TV).

You Desrve Great Defense – Darren Kavinoky

If you’re facing a California criminal charge, it’s imperative to have a defense lawyer at your side. But what’s more, you want a lawyer with the respect of peers and clients. California defense attorney Darren Kavinoky is consistently recognized for his work as an attorney and advocate for the rights of criminal defendants.

For more information about California defense attorney Darren T. Kavinoky and the skilled lawyers of The Kavinoky Law Firm. To schedule a free consultation, please contact us today at 1-800-NO-CUFFS.

Drug Charges in California – Substance Abuse Evaluation Included

Posted by Brianna Wilkins on May 4, 2012

Drug charges in California are serious for several reasons. Of course, there is the legal concern, but secondly, there is the emotional well-being of yourself or your loved ones.

Drug Charges – Substance Abuse Expert

Many California criminal offenses involve alcohol and/or drugs. However, not many defense lawyers include an evaluation by a qualified substance-abuse expert as part of their fee. The Kavinoky Law Firm is unique. We include an evaluation and court appearance by Dan Cronin from Assessment Intervention Resources (AIR). Of course, this is included in the retainer on cases involving alcohol or drugs.

Dan Cronin is AIR’s president and founder. He is an alcohol and drug counselor who worked with a psychologist and psychiatrist to develop a brilliant system. The three experts developed a unique care-management model for individuals with alcoholism and drug addiction.

This treatment method is incredibly effective. In fact, it is so effective that many organizations work with this system to help their members. These groups include the NHL, MLS and numerous public corporations in the United States and Canada. These organizations choose AIR as their care management provider for drug and alcohol problems.

Benefits of Evaluation

Of course, not everyone facing a California alcohol- or drug-related crime has a substance-abuse problem, but many do. An assessment by substance-abuse expert Dan Cronin provides tremendous benefit to the defense. This evaluation is beneficial for those who are suffering from substance abuse issues and those who aren’t.

For example, a driver arrested for California DUI who receives a substance-abuse evaluation that recommends treatment for alcoholism may be able to receive the alternative sentence of rehabilitation rather than jail.

In another scenario, a substance-abuse evaluation that concludes that someone facing a narcotics offense exercised poor judgment rather than having a drug problem may persuade the court to treat the defendant more leniently because a repeat offense appears to be less likely.

Hire Great Defense

The participation of a nationally renowned substance-abuse expert can make a tremendous contribution to your defense. Consequently, and The Kavinoky Law Firm includes an evaluation by substance-abuse expert, Dan Cronin. For more information about the role of a substance-abuse expert in a California criminal defense, please contact The Kavinoky Law Firm today. Reach out at 1-800-NO-CUFFS for a free consultation or to contact an attorney in your area.