Here for You. There With You. TM
Whether your case involves a federal crime, a state crime, or the need to clear up an old criminal record, we are here to help. Nearly 20 years of experience, a sterling reputation, and the confidence to help you navigate the most difficult criminal case – our team is here for you and we will be there with you.
Here for You. There With You.
Offering Advice on Decisions Concerning Future and Freedom
Whether your case involves a federal crime, a state crime, or the need to clear up an old criminal record, we are here to help. Nearly 20 years of experience, a sterling reputation, and the confidence to help you navigate the most difficult criminal case – our team is here for you and we will be there with you.
Experienced Federal & State Criminal Defense Attorney in San Diego
At the Law Offices of Michael Anthony Hernandez, we specialize in handling federal and state criminal cases.
Our expertise and dedication to providing high-quality legal representation make us a trusted choice for those facing criminal charges in San Diego, California.
As a member of the San Diego Criminal Defense Bar Association and the Board of Governors for California Attorneys for Criminal Justice, we are committed to ensuring our clients receive the best possible defense.
Your Partner in Navigating the Criminal Justice System
When you choose the Law Offices of Michael Anthony Hernandez, you can be confident that you are partnering with a knowledgeable and compassionate federal criminal defense attorney.
We understand that facing criminal charges can be an overwhelming experience, which is why we are committed to being there for our clients every step of the way.
Our practice is focused on people, not just cases. We are available day or night, on weekends and holidays, to answer your questions and alleviate the stress and anxiety that come with facing criminal charges.
Misdemeanors and Felonies
Appeals
The general timeframe for a misdemeanor case is typically about 4 months from filing of the complaint through trial, while a felony case process takes typically about 6 months.
Misdemeanor cases are also less formal than felony cases: with a few exceptions, misdemeanor defendants are not required to be present in court for each court hearing, while felony case procedure requires defendants to be present for every court hearing.
An appeal is remarkably different from a trial. The appellate court reviews the trial court’s proceedings to ensure that they were conducted according to law.
For that reason, the appellate court does not decide guilt or innocence or other factual questions. Appeals take a considerable amount of time to complete, and the major events in the case are often separated by periods of months.
Understanding the Criminal Case Process
Each criminal case is unique, and the process can differ depending on whether it involves appeals, misdemeanors, or felonies.
We will guide you through the complexities of the criminal case process as a San Diego Criminal Defense Attorney & ensuring you understand your rights and options at every stage.
Federal Cases
Common federal cases include:
Transportation of controlled substances (narcotics)
Possession for sale of controlled substances
Distribution of controlled substances
Importation of controlled substances
Alien smuggling
Alien transportation
Possession of firearms
Sale of firearms
Environmental Crimes
Wire Fraud
Securities Fraud
Bank Fraud
The list is too long to include every case type, so call us (or let us call you) and we can discuss the specifics of your case.
State Cases
The California Penal Code (including the penal provisions of other codes) is nearly 2,000 pages long, and the list of offenses is staggering. Whether the offense is an infraction (punishable by a fine only), a misdemeanor (punishable by up to 1 year in custody), or a felony (punishable by more than 1 year in custody), we are confident in our ability to defend you. Give us a call and let’s talk about the specifics of your case.
Post-Conviction Relief
A criminal conviction is not the end of the story. Your life goes on, and for most state cases you can leave your criminal history behind.