Criminal Defense Attorney in San Bernardino

Your Trusted Defense Team for Criminal Charges in San Bernardino

When you need a criminal defense lawyer in San Bernardino, our team at Newman & Allen brings years of experience to protect your rights and future. We serve individuals throughout San Bernardino County, delivering clear guidance, steady support, and strong advocacy.

Common Criminal Charges Handled by Our Firm in San Bernardino

• DUI & DUID – Alcohol-related DUIs, drug-related DUIs, and cases involving refusal of chemical tests.
• Drug Crimes – Possession, possession for sale, trafficking, prescription fraud, and marijuana-related offenses.
• Domestic Violence – Assault on a partner, criminal threats, protective order violations, and related charges.
• Theft Crimes – Shoplifting, petty theft, grand theft, embezzlement, and burglary.
• Sex Crimes – Sexual battery, indecent exposure, child pornography, and internet-related sex offenses.

We recognize the heavy impact a criminal case can have on your life, reputation, and personal relationships. Our knowledge of San Bernardino court procedures allows us to anticipate local expectations and developments. We use our experience to provide you with greater peace of mind and a clear path forward.

Call (909) 328-6101 or contact us online today to schedule your free consultation. Choose our criminal defense lawyer in San Bernardino with over 40 years of combined legal experience—we are former prosecutors ready to defend you.

Understanding California Criminal Law and the Defense Landscape

California’s Penal Code (PC) governs nearly every criminal offense, establishing definitions, classifications, and potential sentences. Because the term criminal defense covers all crimes, understanding the fundamental framework of California law is essential to recognizing the gravity of your situation.

Classification of Crimes in California

In California, criminal offenses fall into three primary categories, and your San Bernardino criminal defense lawyer must be prepared to defend all of them:

• Infractions: These are non-criminal violations (e.g., speeding tickets) punishable only by a fine, with no possibility of jail time.
• Misdemeanors: Punishable by up to one year in county jail, a fine, or both. Common examples include DUI (first offense), shoplifting, and domestic battery.
• Felonies: Punishable by imprisonment in state prison (or sometimes county jail, under California's realignment laws) for more than one year, or by death. Felonies include crimes like murder, rape, serious theft offenses, and drug sales.
  • "Wobblers": Many offenses in California can be charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor (a "wobbler") depending on the severity of the offense and the defendant's criminal history. A core strategy of our firm is arguing for a reduction of "wobbler" felonies to misdemeanors.

The severity of the consequences depends entirely on this classification. We intervene immediately to ensure that, if possible, the charge is filed or reduced to the least severe level.

Criminal Justice Process in San Bernardino

The criminal justice process in San Bernardino follows California law, yet every county handles cases with its own procedures and schedules. Cases usually begin with an arrest and review by the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office. 

The Stages of Felony Defense in San Bernardino

• Arrest and Arraignment: The first court appearance where charges are formally filed and bail is set. We are there to enter a plea of not guilty and argue for reduced bail or release on your own recognizance.
• Pre-File Intervention: If we are retained before charges are officially filed, we use our firm’s standing to contact the District Attorney’s office directly, presenting mitigating evidence to persuade them to reject the case or file lesser charges.
• Discovery: We compel the prosecution to provide all evidence they have, including police reports, body camera footage, witness statements, and forensic reports. Our firm then reviews this material with the seasoned eye of a San Bernardino criminal defense lawyer who is also a former prosecutor.
• Preliminary Hearing (for Felonies): A critical hearing where a judge determines if there is sufficient probable cause to hold the defendant for trial. We treat this as a mini-trial, cross-examining key State witnesses to secure critical testimony and expose weaknesses in their case.
• Pre-Trial Motions: We file motions to suppress evidence (e.g., Penal Code § 1538.5 motions to challenge illegal searches) or to dismiss charges for constitutional violations (e.g., lack of speedy trial).
• Trial and Negotiation: We always negotiate from a position of strength, built on the threat of taking the case to trial. If negotiation fails, our firm is prepared to aggressively represent you before a jury.

Early court dates take place at local courthouses where judges consider charges, discuss bail, and determine the next steps. Having a criminal attorney in San Bernardino who knows local practice helps you better understand what to expect during each stage—from arraignment and bail to possible plea discussions or trial preparation.

Why Clients Choose Our Criminal Defense Lawyers in San Bernardino

Our clients choose us for the unique perspective we bring as former prosecutors and as dedicated criminal defense attorneys. We understand strategies used by the prosecution and develop strong legal defenses to protect your interests. 

We take the time to hear your story and craft a defense tailored to your individual needs. Since 1996, our commitment has been to respect every client, maintain their privacy, and prepare for every case with the focus it deserves.

Over the years, our reputation for careful preparation and communication has made us a respected part of the San Bernardino legal community. Our criminal lawyers combine direct courtroom experience with one-on-one service, so you never feel lost or left behind. When you need a criminal defense attorney in San Bernardino who approaches each case seriously and personally, we are ready to listen and advocate for you.

Defense Services from San Bernardino Criminal Lawyers Who Know the System

If you are facing charges ranging from misdemeanor to felony offenses, you need direct advocacy from a criminal lawyer in San Bernardino who pays attention to every detail. Our attorneys defend clients against many types of criminal charges, including DUI, theft, drug offenses, and more. 

We create a plan that reflects your unique circumstances and keeps you informed throughout your case.

• Comprehensive case review: We carefully examine your situation, review all the evidence, and clearly outline your possible legal paths.
• Personalized defense strategy: We draw on our past prosecution work to identify any weaknesses in the case against you and develop a tailored response.
• Clear communication: We provide regular updates and answer your questions promptly so you always know where your case stands.
• Thorough preparation: We plan for every step, paying close attention to your best interests throughout the defense process.
• Trusted advocacy: We present the full scope of your story to judges and prosecutors to ensure your perspective receives fair consideration.

Our proactive approach means we address issues early and do not overlook critical details in your case. We support clients from all walks of life—whether you are navigating a first-time charge or more serious allegations. Our knowledge of San Bernardino court practices allows us to guide you through local rules, help you avoid missteps, and prepare you for each hearing as your case advances.

Key Benefits of Working with a San Bernardino Criminal Defense Lawyer

• Local insight into San Bernardino County court procedures, reducing unexpected issues.
• Support from a team with decades of combined criminal law experience, including former prosecutors.
• Personalized legal strategies that always prioritize your needs and objectives.
• Ongoing, transparent communication about your case and potential next steps.
• Complimentary and confidential consultations to provide clear guidance with no obligation.

Attorneys who regularly appear in San Bernardino courts know the tendencies of local judges and court personnel. This practical experience lets us advise you on everything from how the court schedules hearings to what judges look for when setting bail.

Contact a San Bernardino Criminal Defense Attorney for Guidance

If you or a family member faces criminal charges, contact Newman & Allen for a confidential, no-cost evaluation with an experienced criminal defense lawyer in San Bernardino. Our team takes the time to listen to your concerns, explain your options, and pursue a thorough defense built around your goals. Reach out today to protect your future with personalized support from attorneys who treat you as more than just a case file. 

Call (909) 328-6101 or fill out our secure contact form to start the conversation with a trusted criminal attorney serving San Bernardino and the surrounding area.