Bakersfield Criminal Defense Lawyers: Protect Your Rights with Christopher Martens

Being charged with a crime is a serious offense that can lead to stress and anxiety. Hiring the right lawyer is essential to ensure your rights are protected and your case is handled diligently. At Martens Law Firm, with offices in Bakersfield and Visalia, our experienced attorneys represent clients throughout California's Central Valley.

Understanding the Criminal Defense Process

At Martens Law Firm, we provide comprehensive legal counsel through every stage of a criminal case. Here's a breakdown of the process:

1. Right to an Attorney

You have the right to legal representation. Having a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

2. Detention and Arrest

Understanding your rights during detention and arrest is crucial. Our attorneys will guide you through what to expect and how to respond.

3. Search Warrants

We will explain the legalities of search warrants, ensuring that any search conducted is lawful and that your rights are not infringed upon.

4. Arraignment

The arraignment is your first court appearance. We'll help you understand the charges against you and ensure you enter the appropriate plea.

5. Trial

From presenting evidence to cross-examining witnesses, our attorneys will vigorously defend you at trial, upholding your right to a fair proceeding.

6. Appeals

If necessary, we can assist with the appeals process, challenging any legal errors that may have occurred during your trial.

Your Rights During Trial

Many defendants are unaware of their rights during a trial. Our attorneys will ensure you understand and can exercise the following rights:

• Right to a Speedy Trial
• Pitchess Motions
• Discovery Motions
• Motions to Suppress Evidence
• Motions to Dismiss Charges
• Motions to Quash a Search Warrant
• Motion to Disqualify a Judge

Do You Need a Private Investigator?

Our attorneys will help you determine if hiring a private investigator is necessary for your case. Private investigators can be crucial in gathering evidence and uncovering facts that law enforcement may have overlooked.

Avoid Common Mistakes When Hiring an Attorney

Choosing the right attorney is crucial to the outcome of your case. Here are the top ten mistakes to avoid:

1. Hiring a Non-Specialist Lawyer
2. Choosing an Attorney Based on Promises
3. Selecting the Least Expensive Option
4. Not Asking Questions
5. Hiring Based on Social Connections
6. Trusting Former Prosecutors' Claims
7. Agreeing to Police Questioning
8. Believing the Police Report is Final
9. Ignoring Personal Comfort with the Lawyer
10. Choosing an Inaccessible Attorney

The 4th Amendment: Protecting Your Rights

"The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized." - 4th Amendment of the United States Constitution.

Contact Martens Law Firm

For expert criminal defense in Bakersfield, Visalia, and throughout California's Central Valley, contact Martens Law Firm. Our dedicated attorneys are here to defend your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case.

Call us today at (559) 372-0942 or (661) 336-9335.