Criminal Defense Lawyers in Sacramento, CA

As former police officers, we know exactly how cases are built — and how they fall apart.
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"Unquestionably the best defense trial attorney in the Sacramento area. His record speaks for itself!"

EXPERIENCE MATTERS

Undefeated Record in Jury Trial 4 Years in a Row

Over 70 Jury Trials and Thousands of Cases Handled for Our Clients

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Attempted Murder

Case Dismissed

Client was charged with five serious felonies, including attempted murder, and was facing life in prison.

Embezzlement

Charges Dropped

Client was arrested for embezzling from her employer. All charges dropped.

DUI - 2nd Offense

Charges Dismissed

Client arrested for their 2nd offense DUI. All charges were dismissed, no DMV or criminal consequences.

3 Felonies with 2 Strikes

Not Guilty

At jury trial, jury returned verdicts of NOT GUILTY on all felony counts.

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The Criminal Defense Process

  • Free Consultation: We offer a confidential consultation to discuss your case, charges, and potential defense strategies at no cost.
  • Case Investigation: Our team thoroughly reviews evidence, interviews witnesses, and identifies weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
  • Defense Strategy: We develop a comprehensive approach, whether negotiating plea agreements or preparing for trial.
  • Court Representation: Our experienced trial lawyers advocate aggressively for your rights throughout the legal process.

Understanding Your Rights

Being arrested doesn't mean you're guilty. California law provides important protections, and having skilled legal representation ensures these rights are upheld. Common defense strategies include:

  • Challenging evidence collection procedures
  • Questioning witness testimony reliability
  • Negotiating reduced charges or alternative sentencing
  • Presenting mitigating factors to minimize penalties

Serving Sacramento and Surrounding Areas

Our criminal defense practice serves clients throughout:
  • Sacramento
  • Stockton
  • Sacramento County
  • Placer County
  • Northern California
  • Roseville
  • Antioch
  • Concord
  • El Dorado County
  • Yolo County
  • Solano County
  • San Joaquin County
  • Sutter County
  • Yuba County
  • Vacaville
  • Fairfield
  • Elk Grove
  • Folsom
  • Citrus Heights
  • Rancho Cordova
  • Fair Oaks
  • Carmichael
  • Arden-Arcade
  • Modesto
  • Davis
  • Woodland
  • West Sacramento
  • Auburn
  • Rocklin
  • Lincoln
  • Granite Bay
  • El Dorado Hills

The Stakes Are High - Act Quickly

Criminal charges can result in jail time, hefty fines, permanent criminal records, and damage to your reputation and career. Early intervention by an experienced criminal defense lawyer is crucial for achieving the best possible outcome.

Contact Our Sacramento Criminal Defense Team

Don't face criminal charges alone. Our experienced attorneys are ready to protect your rights and fight for your future.

We Don’t Just Defend. We Deconstruct the Prosecution’s Case

Reasons to Choose Gonzales Law Office

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Former police officer with experience in the DUI Unit at the Public Defender’s Office

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Our attorneys have successfully defended hundreds of cases in Sacramento courts, with extensive jury trial experience and a track record of favorable outcomes.

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We understand the Sacramento County legal system, local prosecutors, and court procedures. This knowledge helps us develop effective defense strategies tailored to your specific case.

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Licensed to practice in all California and Federal courts

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A dedicated trial lawyer with an undefeated record of results for 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019

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We offer free and confidential case evaluations.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT CRIMINAL DEFENSE

A comprehensive consultation with an experienced Sacramento criminal defense lawyer typically includes:

Consultation Process (30-60 minutes):

  • Case review - Discussion of charges, arrest circumstances, and evidence
  • Legal assessment - Explanation of potential penalties and defense strategies
  • Rights protection - Overview of your constitutional protections
  • Next steps - Timeline and action plan for your defense
  • Fee discussion - Clear explanation of costs and payment options

What to Bring:

  • All legal documents and court papers
  • Police reports (if available)
  • Notes about the incident and witnesses
  • List of questions for your attorney

Most Sacramento criminal defense attorneys offer these consultations at no charge (include our law firm) to help you make an informed decision about representation.

Experienced Sacramento criminal defense attorneys use various strategies to achieve favorable outcomes:

Common Defense Strategies:

  • Evidence challenges - Questioning illegally obtained evidence or police procedure violations
  • Witness credibility - Examining prosecution witness reliability and motives
  • Constitutional violations - Identifying Miranda rights violations or unlawful searches
  • Plea negotiations - Working with prosecutors to reduce charges or penalties
  • Alternative sentencing - Seeking probation, diversion programs, or community service instead of jail

Potential Outcomes:

  • Complete dismissal of all charges
  • Reduced charges (felony to misdemeanor, misdemeanor to infraction)
  • Alternative sentencing avoiding jail time
  • Sealed or expunged records protecting your future

An experienced attorney's knowledge of local prosecutors, judges, and court procedures can significantly improves your chances of a favorable resolution.

Sacramento criminal defense attorneys handle a comprehensive range of cases throughout Sacramento County, Placer County, and Northern California:

Most Common Criminal Charges:

  • DUI/DWI - Including administrative license suspension hearings
  • Drug crimes - Possession, sales, trafficking, and drug program eligibility
  • Assault and battery - Both misdemeanor and felony charges
  • Domestic violence - Protective order violations and related charges
  • Theft crimes - Shoplifting, burglary, robbery, and white collar offenses
  • Traffic violations - Reckless driving, suspended license, hit and run

Serious Felony Cases:

  • Violent crimes and weapons charges
  • Sex offenses and registration requirements
  • Homicide and manslaughter cases
  • Federal criminal charges

Geographic Coverage: Sacramento defense attorneys typically serve clients throughout:

  • Sacramento County and Sacramento metropolitan area
  • Placer County including Roseville, Auburn, and Lincoln
  • El Dorado County and foothills communities
  • Yolo County including Davis and Woodland

Former Police Officer Lends Insight to Your Case

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As a former Police Officer, Attorney Gonzales has valuable insight into how cases are handled and how charges are pursued, giving you an advantage at trial. He also understands how law enforcement can make mistakes, which could benefit your defense.

Sacramento criminal defense lawyer Gonzales, will investigate your case, collect evidence, and create a strong defense strategy to either get your entire case dismissed or your charges/penalties significantly reduced.

In fact, he has maintained an undefeated track record as a criminal defense lawyer at trial for the last three years by providing his clients with aggressive and personalized legal solutions. If you are facing criminal charges, our defense attorney in Sacramento can effectively advocate for your future.

Have a Legal Question or Criminal Defense Case You'd Like to Discuss with One of Our Attorneys?

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Get answers to your questions and concerns.

Learn how Jonathan's extensive experience can be used to your advantage.

Discover how you can fight charges brought against you.

Educate you about your rights and all of your options.

Help you make a clear decision on your best course of action.