Oakland Criminal Defense Attorneys and DUI Lawyers

Our Oakland Office is located at:

Law Offices of David S. Chesley, Inc.
Oakland Criminal Defense Attorneys and DUI Lawyers

Oakland Criminal Defense Attorneys

Were You Arrested in Oakland? If So, You’re Not Alone, and Our Oakland Criminal Defense Attorneys and DUI Lawyers Will Fight for You

At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, we know that you deserve a fighting chance after you’ve been arrested or charged with a criminal offense in Oakland, CA. We believe that Oakland citizens deserve an opportunity to move forward with their lives after troubled times, and we’re here for you when you need an experienced and aggressive legal advocate to help you do so.

The stakes are never higher than after you’ve been accused of a violent crime. You risk your freedom and any chance of moving forward to make a better life for you and your loved ones. Examples of some of the types of crimes that can land you in jail or prison for a very long time if you don’t have highly competent defense attorneys are outlined below.

Serious Offenses and Violent Crimes

Murder: Under California Penal Code 187, first-degree murder convictions often result in prison sentences of 25 years to life. First-degree murder is the most serious murder offense and requires that the homicide occurred (1) through use of torture, a weapon of mass destruction, armor-piercing bullets, poison, or destructive device, or (2) through an act committed willfully, deliberately, or through premeditation, or (3) during the commission of a felony—aka “felony murder.”

Attempted Murder: Under California Penal Code 664, attempted murder occurs when two conditions are met. First, the accused must have taken at least one direct step toward murder, and second, when they took that step, they intended to commit the murder.

Battery: Under California Penal Code 242, “A battery is any willful and unlawful use of force or violence upon the person of another.” While first offenses may be charged as a misdemeanor, once the charge is elevated to a felony, the sentencing can bring up to three years in prison. It’s critical to note that a third felony conviction in the state of California can result in imprisonment of 25 years to life.

Domestic Violence: Under California Penal Code 13700, domestic violence is a serious and often nuanced crime that is often alleged during emotionally charged disagreements between individuals who may live together as roommates, be former spouses, or even siblings. Depending on the accuser’s age and the seriousness of their alleged injuries, those accused can face up to six years in state prison if convicted.

Carjacking: Under California Penal Code 215, carjacking is “the felonious taking of a motor vehicle in the possession of another, from his or her person or immediate presence, or from the person or immediate presence of a passenger of the motor vehicle, against his or her will and with the intent to either permanently or temporarily deprive the person in possession of the motor vehicle of his or her possession, accomplished by means of force or fear.” Carjacking crimes can carry prison sentences of up to nine years, and even if you’re attempting to take back your own vehicle, the prosecutors can still pursue the conviction.

Firearm Possession: California has some of the nation’s toughest gun laws, and a commonly charged crime falls under California Penal Code 25850. This law prohibits anyone from carrying a loaded firearm in public or their vehicle, and those accused of the charge can be charged for a felony in certain situations. For example, if prosecutors suspect the gun has been stolen or the accused is already a convicted felon, the charges can be elevated to a more serious offense.

Gang Crimes and Related Enhancements:

Under California law, certain crimes may be elevated in seriousness when the prosecutors suspect gang-related activity. Under California Penal Code 186.22, This activity may be evidenced by the following three elements:

• A group of three or more people.
• The group has a common name, an identifying sign, or a symbol.
• The group’s members engage in, or have engaged in, a pattern of criminal gang activity.

Ultimately, if you’ve been charged with certain felony offenses, but the prosecutor wants to allege that the offense constitutes “criminal gang activity,” then you face the very serious and very real threat of multiple years of additional jail time. The prosecutor will show up to your case armed with gang experts, and it is your constitutional right to defend yourself against those accusations.

Local Court Resources:

Dublin – East County Hall of Justice
5151 Gleason Drive
Dublin, CA 94568
(925) 227-6700

Fremont Hall of Justice
39439 Paseo Padre Parkway
Fremont, CA 94538
(510) 818-7500

Oakland – René C. Davidson Courthouse
1225 Fallon Street
Oakland, CA 94612
(510) 891-6000

Oakland – Wiley W. Manuel Courthouse
661 Washington Street
Oakland, CA 94607
(510) 627-4700

At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, we know the best ways to counter these gang experts and the prosecutors assigned to your case. We know the law, and, just as important—we know the strategy.

The Law Offices of David S. Chesley Can Help You

Our dedicated team of experienced defense attorneys comprises former judges, police officers, and prosecutors. We know the legal strategy required to reduce or eliminate jail time for those facing serious charges that carry life-changing penalties. We’re tough on our opponents, but we also know that our clients are experiencing some of the most terrifying times of their life. We prioritize clear and honest communication about your case and our billing practices.

At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, more than 25 of our attorneys are listed by Avvo as “Supurb” criminal defense lawyers, and 90% of our clients receive favorable results. When you’re facing criminal charges in Oakland, don’t hesitate. Contact our office right away so we can get started on your case. Call us at (510) 519-9200 at any time of any day.