Payment Plans
Orange, CA Criminal Defense Lawyers
Our Orange Office is located at:
Law Offices of David S. Chesley, Inc.
Orange Criminal Defense Attorneys and DUI Lawyers
Orange, CA 92868
(714) 442-2601
Orange, CA Criminal Defense Attorney
When you hire an Orange criminal defense attorney from the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, you gain a team of experienced, aggressive trial lawyers who have successfully defended thousands of clients across Southern California. Our attorneys know the Orange County courts, judges, and prosecutors inside and out—and we use that knowledge to fight for your best possible outcome.
Whether you’ve been arrested in Orange, detained at the Orange Police Department Jail, or transferred to the Central Men’s or Women’s Jail in Santa Ana, the steps you take next can determine the rest of your case.
Case types our Orange, CA criminal defense lawyers include:
- DUIs
- Domestic Violence
- Violent Crimes
- Sex Crimes
- Drug Crimes
- Theft Crimes
What to Do If You’re Arrested in Orange, CA
Most Orange arrests begin with a traffic stop or domestic disturbance call—and escalate quickly. Once you’re booked, it’s vital to act fast to protect your rights. Here’s what to do immediately after an arrest in Orange:
- 1. Stay calm and invoke your rights.
Don’t argue or resist. Anything you say can be used against you. Politely tell officers you are invoking your right to remain silent and want to speak with an attorney before answering any questions. - 2. Do not consent to searches.
Unless police have a warrant, you are not required to let them search your car, home, or phone. In DUI cases, chemical testing is mandatory only after arrest—not before. Ask to speak with a lawyer before consenting to any additional searches or questioning. - 3. Contact a defense lawyer immediately.
Early legal intervention can make all the difference. Our Orange criminal defense attorneys can contact investigators or the Orange County District Attorney’s Office before charges are filed—sometimes preventing a case altogether. - 4. Handle bail strategically.
After booking, bail is typically based on the Orange County Bail Schedule. Our firm can file a motion for bail reduction at the Central Justice Center in Santa Ana to lower your bail and get you released faster. - 5. Preserve all evidence.
Write down everything you remember—officer names, badge numbers, times, and witnesses. Save any texts, videos, or call logs. Early evidence preservation can be the key to beating your case. - 6. Appear with an attorney.
Within 48 hours, you’ll appear at your first court hearing (arraignment) at the Central Justice Center. Having a lawyer with you from day one can impact bail, plea discussions, and how seriously prosecutors treat your case.
Bail and Pre-Trial Release in Orange, CA
After an arrest in Orange, your release depends on the charges, your record, and local court practices. The Central Justice Center handles nearly all Orange-area criminal cases. Judges there follow the county bail schedule but have wide discretion to modify bail based on individual circumstances.
- Posting Bail: Misdemeanor defendants can often post bail directly through the Orange Police Department Jail. Felony defendants are usually transferred to the Central Jail in Santa Ana, where bail must be posted through the Sheriff’s cashier or a licensed bondsman.
- Bail Reduction Hearings: Within days of arrest, we can request a bail review hearing to argue for lower bail or release on recognizance (O.R.).
- O.R. Release: First-time or low-risk defendants may qualify for O.R. release—no bail required if you promise to appear in court.
- Pre-Trial Conditions: Courts may impose travel restrictions, no-contact orders, or monitoring. Violations can lead to immediate re-arrest.
Our Orange criminal defense team acts fast to secure your release and begin building your case before prosecutors gain the upper hand.
Common Criminal Charges We Defend in Orange, CA
From DUIs to violent felonies, our attorneys defend clients in every type of criminal case prosecuted at the Central Justice Center. Common charges include:
- DUI and Drunk Driving: Challenging chemical tests, field sobriety errors, and unlawful stops.
- Domestic Violence: Allegations of abuse, corporal injury, or threats against family members or partners.
- Violent Crimes: Including homicide, manslaughter, and assault with a deadly weapon.
- Sex Crimes: Defense against charges like sexual battery, lewd conduct, or statutory rape.
- Drug Crimes: Possession, sales, trafficking, and prescription-related offenses.
- Assault and Battery: Self-defense arguments, mistaken identity, or lack of intent defenses.
- Weapons Charges: Illegal possession, concealed carry, or firearm use enhancements.
- Theft, Burglary, and Robbery: Property-related crimes from shoplifting to armed robbery.
Consequences of Criminal Convictions in Orange, CA
A conviction in Orange can lead to jail, fines, and lifelong repercussions. Beyond incarceration and financial penalties, criminal convictions can cause loss of professional licenses, damage to your reputation, and limitations on housing and employment.
How Our Orange Criminal Defense Attorneys Can Help
Our legal team includes former judges and prosecutors who know how the Orange County DA’s Office builds cases—and how to dismantle them. Whether negotiating a plea or fighting at trial, we tailor a defense strategy designed to minimize charges, reduce penalties, and protect your record.
- Over 50 Years of Combined Experience
- Former Prosecutors and Judges on Staff
- 24/7 Availability for Emergency Calls
- Proven Results in Orange County Courts
- Personalized, Strategic Defense in Every Case
Don’t wait until charges are filed. Contact the Law Offices of David S. Chesley today at (714) 422-6766 or reach out online to schedule a confidential case review. We represent clients in Orange and throughout all Orange County criminal courts.
Helpful Orange, CA Criminal Defense Resources
Orange Police Department
1107 North Batavia Street, Orange, CA 92867
(714) 744-7444
Orange City Hall
300 E Chapman Ave, Orange, CA 92866
(714) 744-2225
Central Justice Center (Criminal Court)
700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701
(657) 622-6878
Orange Public Library
407 E Chapman Ave, Orange, CA 92866
(714) 288-2400
Crime in Orange
The most common arrests in Orange involve DUI, theft, and assault. Neighborhoods near major intersections such as Chapman Ave & Glassell St and Katella Ave & Main St see higher police activity. Use the Orange Police Department crime map for current reports and trends.
