Santa Rosa Criminal Defense Lawyer
Experienced, Powerful & Exceptional Criminal Defense Lawyer
Facing a criminal charge, jail, or even state prison can feel incredibly stressful to you and your family. In this tough time, it is essential for you to have a criminal defense attorney with the experience, knowledge, and exceptional working relationships with prosecutors and judges to get the best possible result on your case. The Law Office of Amy Chapman represents clients in Santa Rosa, Sonoma County, and throughout the North Bay accused of any criminal offense. We will vigorously represent people facing a wide variety of criminal charges including DUI, domestic violence, drug and marijuana offenses, sex offenses, and all serious or violent felonies. If you or a loved one are accused of a crime, you need skilled legal counsel to advocate on your behalf.
Established and well known criminal defense attorney in Sonoma County
Attorney Amy Chapman is a personable and thoughtful advocate. She can anticipate judges’ and prosecutors’ thought patterns and prepare to counter any negative impressions they may have of the accused to present her clients in the best light possible. You need an attorney to examine and criticize each step and aspect of the government’s case against you. Procedural deficiencies in your case could lead to your freedom! Find a Santa Rosa criminal defense attorney who can take apart the government’s case against you!
Achieve the best result possible for your case
A top criminal defense lawyer will look at every aspect of your case to check if the police, the prosecution, and the judge follow the law and respect your rights. In some instances, it is possible to get illegally obtained evidence suppressed which could mean the government is left with insufficient evidence to prove their case and they must dismiss. If each and every element of the crime you are charged with cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt, the Law Office of Amy Chapman can take your case all the way to jury trial and argue for a full acquittal. However, not every criminal case can end in an acquittal or a dismissal. When the government can prove the case against you, you still need to fight for the most favorable outcome possible. If it is possible to get your charges reduced to save you from jail or prison time, the Law Office of Amy Chapman will fight for your freedom. We can work with the prosecutors and the judges to reach a fair and reasonable disposition that you can live with.
Exclusive practice of criminal defense
The Law Office of Amy Chapman only handles criminal law matters. This focus allows for intense specialization and expertise that a client could not get from a general practitioner. By limiting our practice to criminal law, we have the attention to detail you need to fight your case. Whether you need representation because you are under investigation or you seek skilled trial counsel to litigate your case, you need to hire an experienced, knowledgeable, and compassionate attorney. Attorney Amy Chapman also serves the Sonoma State University Community where she enjoys representing the college students in order to help them protect their rights and their future. Many times, the students are searching for a skilled Sonoma County DUI lawyer.
Contact the Law Office of Amy Chapman today to schedule a free consultation and get started on your defense right now. Call to speak to a live person 24/7 or fill out the online form on this web page.
Criminal Defense Cases We Handle
At the Law Office of Amy Chapman, we represent individuals facing various criminal charges in Santa Rosa and throughout Sonoma County.
Drug Charges
In California, even convictions for relatively minor drug offenses can result in significant consequences. We represent clients facing all types of drug-related charges, including, but not limited to:
- Possession of controlled substances, such as cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, and prescription drugs without a prescription.
- Possession for sale of a controlled substance – a felony offense punishable by up to life in prison, depending on the quantity and type of drug confiscated.
- Transportation for sale of a controlled substance – A felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison, with higher penalties for aggravating factors.
- Manufacturing a controlled substance – A felony punishable by up to 7 years in prison and up to $50,000 in fines.
Many drug charges stem from illegal searches and seizures, questionable police tactics, and violations of constitutional rights. We evaluate how the evidence was obtained and challenge any unlawfully gathered evidence in court. In some cases, we may seek diversion programs or drug rehabilitation as an alternative to jail time.
DUI
A DUI conviction can carry penalties like license suspensions or revocations, heavy fines and court fees, mandatory DUI education programs, and jail time. We evaluate each case for potential flaws, such as unlawful traffic stops, breathalyzer or blood test errors, improper field sobriety administration, and whether medical conditions could have affected the test results.
Manslaughter
Both involuntary and voluntary manslaughter are serious criminal offenses in California. These cases are complex and require a thorough investigation into intent, potential self-defense claims, and mitigating circumstances.
At the Law Office of Amy Chapman, we carefully examine every piece of evidence, work with forensic experts, and build a strong defense to get charges reduced or dismissed whenever possible.
Serious and Violent Felonies
Under California’s Three Strikes Law, a conviction for a serious or violent felony may be punishable by a lengthy prison sentence or even life in prison for repeat offenders. Our firm represents clients facing serious felony charges like robbery, assault with a deadly weapon, attempted murder, and kidnapping.
Serious felony charges are often filed based on eyewitness testimony, forensic evidence, and police reports, all of which may be flawed or biased. We challenge weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, negotiate for reduced charges, and represent our clients in court, when necessary.
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence allegations can result in criminal charges, restraining orders, and damage to your reputation and career. Some cases involve false claims. Without the right legal defense, you could face jail or prison time, loss of firearm rights, difficulty securing housing or employment, and restraining orders that limit contact with loved ones.
Theft Crimes
California theft charges range from misdemeanors like petty theft, to felonies like grand theft and white-collar crimes like fraud and embezzlement. The severity of the charge depends on the value of the stolen property, whether force was used, and prior criminal history.
A conviction for a theft crime can have serious consequences, including incarceration, fines, and a permanent criminal record. We develop defense strategies based on lack of intent, mistaken identity, or insufficient evidence to help our clients fight the charges against them.
Criminal Traffic Violations
While most traffic violations are summary offenses, there are also more serious criminal traffic offenses that are punishable by jail time and license suspensions. Common charges include reckless driving, hit-and-run accidents, and driving with a suspended license. We fight to mitigate penalties, protect your driving privileges, and avoid jail time whenever possible.
Probation Violations
If you are accused of violating probation, you may face extended probation terms, hefty fines, and incarceration. Many probation violations occur due to misunderstandings, clerical errors, or minor infractions. We advocate for fair treatment and alternative solutions, such as modifying probation terms instead of imposing harsher penalties.
Criminal Record Expungement
A past conviction does not have to define your future. California allows certain criminal records to be expunged, which can improve employment, housing, and educational opportunities. Our firm helps clients determine eligibility and provides legal guidance throughout the California expungement process.
Discuss Your Case With a Santa Rosa Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you are facing criminal charges in Santa Rosa or elsewhere in Sonoma County, the Law Office of Amy Chapman is here to help. We can guide you through each step of the criminal justice system and will work tirelessly to secure the most favorable outcome possible based on the circumstances of your unique case. Contact us today at 707-636-3207 to discuss your case in a free consultation.
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