Berkeley Criminal Defense Lawyer

Berkeley Criminal Defense Attorney

Berkeley, CA, is a city known for its forward-thinking values, vibrant culture, and historic commitment to justice. The Law Office of Louis J. Goodman is proud to be a part of that tradition by offering Berkeley citizens access to a qualified Berkeley criminal defense lawyer when the going gets tough. As a former deputy district attorney, Louis J. Goodman knows exactly what is required to steer criminal proceedings to the optimal outcome for clients.

From DUI arrests to major drug charges to accusations of serious violent crimes, it’s important to have a reputable and adept lawyer in your corner. Working out of our offices in Alameda County, we offer swift, cost-effective legal services to those charged with crimes in Berkeley, CA, and the surrounding areas.

The Law Office of Louis J. Goodman: Defending the People of Berkeley, CA

Berkeley’s rich history as a hub for various forms of activism and civil rights discourse only underscores the importance of ensuring that the constitutional rights of all residents are upheld, especially in volatile or high-profile situations.

When your rights are disrespected or neglected by an arresting officer, prosecutor, or some other state official, an experienced criminal defense attorney can be one of your most effective tools for fighting back against the system or for negotiating a fair plea, whichever the case may be.

If you have been arrested in Berkeley, CA, or a nearby town, you don’t just have the right to remain silent. Remember that you also have the right to:

• Due process
• A fair trial
• Legal representation

How an Attorney Can Help

At the Law Office of Louis J. Goodman, we go beyond merely making sure our clients know their rights. We fight diligently to ensure those rights are upheld throughout all phases of legal proceedings, and that our clients benefit from any and every legal protection afforded them by state and federal law.

Our Unique Approach

Our unique, client-focused approach to criminal defense is informed by the unique background of our founding attorney Louis J. Goodman, who had a successful career as a deputy district attorney before pivoting to a criminal defense practice that would allow him to focus on protecting the rights of his fellow Californians in their moments of greatest need.

Louis J. Goodman leverages his deep familiarity with the Alameda County judicial system and other local courts and offices to ensure that our clients are always empowered by the law and never abused by it. Attorney Goodman understands how a state prosecutor builds cases, and he uses that unique insight to craft the most effective and compelling defense possible, whether the charges stem from a routine traffic incident or a high-profile homicide investigation.

Whether your arrest took place in downtown Berkeley, West Berkeley, Northside, Elmwood, the iconic UC Berkeley campus area, or some other local neighborhood, please reach out to our offices at your earliest convenience for fast and effective legal help that can assist you through this challenging period in your life and mitigate the consequences of serious criminal accusations.

Criminal Cases We Handle

Some examples of the types of criminal cases for which we can provide quality defense services include:

• DUI and Other Traffic-Based Offenses – Whether it’s a first-time DUI, a wrongful accusation, or a repeat offense with your driving privileges hanging in the balance, the Law Office of Louis J. Goodman is well-equipped to defend you and mitigate the consequences of DUI charges to the greatest degree possible.
• Drug Possession, Sale, and Trafficking – Even in progressive cities like Berkeley, the government’s crackdown on drugs rages on, sweeping citizens up and inducting them into a lifetime of courts and jails unless the cycle is broken with effective criminal defense intervention.
• Violent Crimes – No matter how serious the charges against you are or how impossible the odds may seem, we will work diligently to steer your case to the most optimal outcome possible, whether that means an effective plea bargain for a reduced sentence or having a fraudulent accusation thrown out of court.
• Theft and Property Crimes – Courts in California and other states take property crimes very seriously. Whether you’ve been accused of shoplifting, carjacking, or arson, the potential consequences of a conviction can be severe, calling for the services of a trusted criminal defense attorney.

FAQs

What Is the Highest Retainer Fee for a Lawyer?

The highest retainer fee for a lawyer is not set by law in the state of California. Rather than being subject to legally mandated maximums, retainer fees for legal services are based on free market principles. Your specific legal goals, the complexity of your case, and the quality of your chosen legal representation can all play a role in the total amount of retainer fees.

How Much Do Lawyers Take From a Settlement in California?

Lawyers take a percentage fee from settlements in California. The exact percentage a lawyer receives for their services will vary from case to case and will depend on the lawyer’s fee structure, the nature of the case, the likely outcome of the case, and other factors. Use the initial consultation to ensure you understand your chosen attorney’s fees.

How Long Does It Take to Get Money After a Settlement in California?

The length of time it takes to get money after a settlement in California will vary from case to case, sometimes quite significantly. Often, there will be specific legal language within a settlement that outlines when payments should be made. You should consult with your attorney, who can give you an accurate timeline for when you can expect payments.

How Do You Respond to a Low Settlement Offer?

You can respond to a low settlement offer with a counteroffer or by rejecting the settlement outright and proceeding to a court trial. The exact strategy used in response to insufficient settlements will be a matter for you and your attorney to discuss. Your attorney can help you weigh the pros and cons of each decision.

The Law Office of Louis J. Goodman – Comprehensive Criminal Defense for Berkeley, CA

If you are wrapped up in a criminal case in the Berkeley, CA, area, it can feel like the entire world has suddenly turned against you. Our legal team is here to help. No matter what you’ve been accused of or how complex the circumstances are, we encourage you to reach out for a confidential, judgment-free consultation to learn more about what we can do for you.