Criminal Defense Attorney in Murrieta

Defense for Misdemeanor & Felony Charges

We handle California criminal matters ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies. Our attorneys defend cases in state and federal court, where the procedures and potential consequences can differ significantly.

Whether an accusation is filed as a misdemeanor or felony affects the possible penalties and how the case proceeds. The appropriate defense strategy also depends on the allegations, available evidence, prior history, and procedural posture.

Our criminal defense practice includes:

• DUI
• Drug crimes
• Property crimes
• Violent crimes
• Domestic violence matters

Our criminal defense attorneys serving Murrieta review what the prosecution must prove and identify the legal and factual issues that may shape the case. We evaluate each accusation based on the evidence and the court where the case is pending.

Criminal Cases at the Southwest Justice Center in Murrieta

After a Temecula-area arrest, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department processes the arrest. Booking and release decisions generally occur before the first court appearance, and most initial appearances for area cases take place at the Southwest Justice Center in Murrieta.

Local agencies often move within 48 hours of an arrest, making early legal guidance important. Release conditions and court timing depend on the circumstances of the case. Our 24/7 availability allows people facing legal emergencies to reach us day or night.

The First Court Appearance

The courthouse handles criminal cases for southwest Riverside County, and the District Attorney maintains an office on-site. At the first appearance, commonly called a criminal arraignment, the court addresses the pending charge and establishes the next stage of the case. We explain what’s happening and prepare clients for the decisions ahead.

Alternative Court Programs

When appropriate, we can request consideration for Mental Health Court, Drug Court, or Veterans’ Treatment Court. These diversion programs and alternative court options aren’t automatic. Availability depends on the charge, the client’s eligibility, and court approval.

Expungement After a Case

We assist eligible clients with expungements after their cases have been resolved. Expungement is a court process that can provide qualifying individuals with post-conviction relief. Eligibility depends on the case disposition and other legal requirements.

Former-Prosecutor Insight Applied to Your Defense

Our litigation team includes a former prosecutor who understands how the state develops criminal cases against defendants. That perspective informs how we assess charging theories, examine evidence, and anticipate the prosecution’s arguments.

Defense preparation can include reviewing the allegations and evidence, identifying legal issues, and evaluating procedural options. We provide honest, realistic advice without creating false expectations. You receive an assessment grounded in the facts and law affecting your case.

Attorneys Joseph Camarata and Justine Fuller work with paralegals Krista Strohman, Brandi Shoemaker, and Yiselle Martinez on case preparation, research, and analysis. This hands-on approach supports the detailed work required in complex state and federal cases.

Across our practice areas, we have achieved favorable results for thousands of clients, including reduced charges and dismissals. Each case depends on its own evidence, legal issues, and circumstances, so prior results don’t guarantee a similar outcome.

Discuss Your Murrieta Criminal Case Confidentially

Contact us for a free, confidential consultation with a criminal attorney serving Murrieta. For a legal emergency, you can reach us at any hour or use our contact form to tell us how to contact you. We can assess the immediate situation, explain the next court-related steps, and discuss how we may assist.

Call (951) 225-1540 to speak with our criminal defense team about your charges and available options.