Why Select Us

If you are currently charged with a crime in Long Beach, California, it’s essential that you have a skilled criminal defense attorney on your side advocating for you. At Chudnovsky Law, our legal team is composed of former prosecutors and experienced criminal defense attorneys. We have collectively fought over 9,000 criminal jury trials and cases, and we have decades of experience handling these matters. We can pursue a favorable plea deal on your behalf or take your case to trial and fight for a dismissal.

Long Beach Criminal Charges

In Long Beach, California, people can face many different types of criminal charges depending on their actions. Some of the most common criminal charges include DUI, domestic violence, assault and battery, theft, drug crimes, and vehicular manslaughter. Each charge involves different behaviors that the law prohibits.

One of the most frequent charges is DUI, which stands for driving under the influence. This happens when someone operates a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Law enforcement officers may stop a driver if they suspect impairment, and tests are used to determine if the person is over the legal limit.
Domestic violence charges are also common in Long Beach. This type of charge occurs when a person harms or threatens to harm a spouse, partner, family member, or someone they live with. Domestic violence can involve physical injury, threats, or other aggressive behaviors intended to control or hurt another person within a close relationship.

Assault and battery charges often arise from fights or attacks. Assault generally means threatening or attempting to cause harm to another person, while battery involves actually touching or striking someone in a harmful or offensive way. These charges can occur in many different situations, such as arguments that turn violent.

Theft charges involve taking someone else’s property without permission. This can include shoplifting, burglary, robbery, or stealing a vehicle. Theft crimes vary based on the value of what was taken and how the crime was committed.

Drug crimes are another common charge in Long Beach. These involve possession, sale, or distribution of illegal drugs or controlled substances without proper authorization. Drug charges can range from small amounts for personal use to large amounts linked to trafficking.

Vehicular manslaughter is a serious charge that happens when a person causes the death of another while driving, often due to reckless or negligent behavior. This charge can result from accidents involving speeding, driving under the influence, or other unsafe driving practices.

Potential Penalties of a Long Beach Criminal Conviction

In Long Beach, California, the potential penalties for a conviction of common crimes like DUI, domestic violence, assault and battery, theft, drug crimes, and vehicular manslaughter vary depending on the severity of the offense and the specific circumstances involved. While the exact punishment depends on many factors, understanding the general types of penalties that can be imposed is important.

For a DUI conviction, penalties can include fines, mandatory alcohol education or treatment programs, and license suspension. Courts may also require community service or probation. In some cases, jail time may be part of the sentence, especially for repeat offenders or if the DUI caused injury.

Domestic violence convictions often result in penalties such as probation, fines, or jail time. A court may also require counseling or anger management classes. Protective orders can be issued to keep the convicted person away from the victim, and violations of these orders can lead to additional penalties.

Assault and battery convictions carry penalties based on the level of injury caused and whether the crime is charged as a misdemeanor or felony. Penalties can include fines, probation, mandatory anger management classes, and jail or prison time. More serious cases, especially those involving serious injury or a weapon, tend to result in harsher sentences.

Theft penalties depend on the value of the stolen property and the type of theft committed. Petty theft, which involves smaller amounts, usually results in fines and probation, but more serious thefts like burglary or robbery often lead to jail or prison time. Restitution to the victim may also be ordered.

Drug crimes can carry a wide range of penalties depending on the amount and type of drug involved, as well as whether the charge is for possession, sale, or trafficking. Penalties can include fines, probation, drug treatment programs, and jail or prison sentences. Repeat offenders usually face tougher penalties.

Vehicular manslaughter is one of the most serious charges and often leads to significant jail or prison time. Courts consider whether the driver was reckless, under the influence, or negligent. Fines and probation may also be part of the sentence.

Collateral Consequences of a Long Beach Criminal Conviction

Criminal convictions in Long Beach, California, can lead to many collateral consequences beyond the direct penalties imposed by the court. These consequences can affect different areas of a person’s life and often last long after the sentence is completed. Understanding these potential impacts is important for anyone facing criminal charges.

One common collateral consequence is the loss of certain civil rights. For example, a person convicted of a felony may lose the right to vote while they are serving their sentence or even after release, depending on the type of conviction. In some cases, people with felony convictions cannot serve on juries or hold certain public offices.

Employment can also be affected by a criminal conviction. Many employers conduct background checks, and a criminal record may make it harder to get hired or keep a job. Certain professions, such as those involving work with children, health care, or law enforcement, often have strict rules that disqualify individuals with specific convictions from working in those fields.

Housing opportunities might become limited after a conviction. Landlords and property managers sometimes deny applications from people with criminal records. This can make finding a safe and affordable place to live very challenging.

A criminal conviction can impact a person’s ability to obtain professional licenses or certifications. For example, someone with a drug conviction might find it difficult to get a license to work in health care, education, or other regulated industries. This can affect career advancement and long-term financial stability.

Certain convictions can also affect immigration status. Non-citizens convicted of crimes might face deportation or be barred from becoming U.S. citizens. Immigration laws are complex, and a criminal conviction can create serious legal problems for immigrants.

Finally, people with criminal records may have difficulty obtaining loans, financial aid, or public benefits. Banks and government programs sometimes have rules that limit access based on criminal history.

While these collateral consequences are not part of the court’s sentence, they can have a lasting impact on many aspects of life.

Defenses to a Criminal Charge in Long Beach

The best legal defense to a criminal charge in Long Beach, California, depends on the specific facts of the case and the type of crime involved. A strong defense can help protect a person’s rights, reduce the chances of a conviction, or even lead to the charges being dismissed.

One of the most important defenses is showing that the accused did not commit the crime. This is called an alibi. If a person can show they were somewhere else when the crime happened, it can create reasonable doubt about their guilt. Witnesses, video footage, or other evidence can support an alibi.

Another common defense is that the police or investigators violated the accused person’s rights during the arrest or investigation. For example, if the police conducted an illegal search without a warrant or proper consent, the evidence found may be excluded from the case. This is called the exclusionary rule and can weaken the prosecution’s case significantly.

In cases like DUI, the defense can challenge the accuracy of the breathalyzer or blood tests. These tests must be administered correctly and under certain conditions. Mistakes or errors in testing procedures can cast doubt on whether the person was truly impaired.

Self-defense is a powerful defense in cases involving assault or battery. If a person can show they used force only to protect themselves from harm, the charges may be reduced or dropped. The force used must be reasonable and not excessive in relation to the threat faced.

For theft or drug charges, the defense may argue there was no intent to commit a crime. Intent is an important part of many criminal offenses, and without it, a conviction may not be possible.

The best defense is often a combination of strategies tailored to a specific case.

How We Can Handle Your Long Beach Criminal Case for You

The skilled Long Beach criminal defense attorneys at Chudnovsky Law are ready to handle your case with experience and dedication. Facing criminal charges can be overwhelming, but our team is here to guide you through every step of the legal process. Whether you are charged with DUI, domestic violence, assault, theft, drug offenses, or vehicular manslaughter, we have the knowledge and resources to defend your rights aggressively.

At Chudnovsky Law, we start by carefully reviewing all the facts related to your case. This includes examining police reports, evidence, and witness statements to understand exactly what happened. By thoroughly investigating, we can find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and use them to your advantage. We know that every case is different, so we create a defense strategy tailored to your unique situation.

Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who communicate with prosecutors and judges to seek the best possible outcomes for you. When appropriate, we work to reduce charges or secure alternative sentencing options. If your case goes to trial, we will prepare a strong defense to fight for your freedom and future.

We also believe in keeping our clients informed. At Chudnovsky Law, you will always understand your rights and what to expect as your case moves forward. We are available to answer your questions and provide updates, so you never feel alone during this difficult time.

Choosing the right criminal defense attorney can make a big difference in the outcome of your case. Our Long Beach defense lawyers have a strong track record of protecting clients’ rights and achieving positive results. If you are facing criminal charges, trust Chudnovsky Law to handle your case with skill, care, and commitment. We are here to help you through this challenging situation and fight for your best outcome.

Most Important Steps to Take if You’re Arrested for a Crime in Long Beach

If you are charged with a crime in Long Beach, California, taking the right steps quickly is very important. The decisions you make early on can greatly affect the outcome of your case. One of the most important things to do right away is to contact the skilled Long Beach criminal defense attorneys at Chudnovsky Law. Our experience can help protect your rights and build a strong defense from the start.

After being charged, avoid talking to the police or anyone else about the case without having one of our Long Beach criminal defense lawyers present. Anything you say can be used against you, so it’s best to remain silent until you have legal advice. The attorneys at Chudnovsky Law will guide you on what to say and how to act during this stressful time.

Also, make sure you keep all documents related to your case, including police reports, court papers, and any evidence you receive. Organizing this information will help our defense team prepare for your case.

It’s also important to attend all court dates and meetings with us. Missing court can lead to additional problems like arrest warrants or increased charges. The lawyers at Chudnovsky Law will help you understand the court process and what to expect.

By contacting Chudnovsky Law as soon as possible and following these steps, you can improve your chances of a favorable outcome. Our team is dedicated to helping people in Long Beach face criminal charges with confidence and strong legal support.

Contact an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer in Long Beach Today

At Chudnovsky Law, our team is dedicated to fighting for your rights and pursuing the best possible result available in your criminal case. For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a skilled Long Beach criminal defense attorney, please call us at (562) 800-4080 or contact us online for more information.

Schedule A Free Consultation

---

Chudnovsky Law · Criminal & DUI Lawyers - Long Beach Office

Address: 309 Pine Ave, Suite 200, Long Beach, CA 90802

Contact No: (562) 800-4080