Aggressive Ventura Criminal Defense Attorney with Proven Results
If you’ve been charged with a crime, you need an experienced attorney who will work hard to defend your rights and preserve your freedom.
Ventura criminal defense lawyer Robert M. Helfend has been aggressively fighting for his clients for more than 40 years. With more than 4,000 successful cases under his belt, he has earned his reputation as one of Ventura County’s most fearless and dedicated defense lawyers.
Mr. Helfend has represented clients facing some of the most serious charges from federal crimes to homicides and major felonies. His expert legal skills in defense cases have earned him numerous honors, including:
- A place on the National Trial Lawyers Top 100 List,
- Recognition as a SuperLawyers Rated Attorney,
- A Lead Counsel Attorney,
- An Expert Network Distinguished Attorney, and
- An Expertise.com Top Attorney.
His clients know him as dedicated and communicative attorney who works hard to keep them informed of their rights and options and put their minds at ease during a stressful time. The district attorney’s office knows him as a relentless advocate who won’t back down.
Combined with his legal experience, Robert M. Helfend’s commitment to protecting his clients’ rights and challenging the prosecution at every turn has earned him the respect of colleagues and the reputation of being a formidable opponent in the courtroom.
With his thorough knowledge of criminal law and tenacious approach, Mr. Helfend is prepared to fight for the best possible outcome in every case he takes on.
Call today for your free consultation
Regardless of your charges or circumstances, you are entitled to an aggressive legal defense. When you work with Robert M. Helfend, you’ll have the peace of mind of knowing you have someone on your side who knows how to navigate the criminal justice system and who will fight for you every step of the way.
Call today for your free case evaluation – 805-273-5611
Why choose Ventura criminal defense lawyer Robert M. Helfend?
There are hundreds of criminal defense attorneys offering legal representation in the Ventura area, but not all law firms are created equal.
Robert M. Helfend has been exclusively practicing as a California criminal defense attorney since 1984. Since receiving his Juris Doctorate from Pepperdine University, he has successfully defended more than 4,000 criminal cases, attaining the best possible results for his clients.
His exceptional skills and knowledge of the criminal justice system have earned him recognition from some of the country’s most prestigious organizations.
In addition to recognition from professional organizations, Robert M. Helfend has received countless reviews and testimonials from satisfied clients who know him as a confident, knowledgeable, and dedicated attorney.
A proven track record of success
If you’re facing criminal charges, you need an attorney who offers more than a promise of good results.
You need an attorney with a track record that shows they have the skills and experience to help you get the best possible outcome in your case.
In his four decades practicing as a criminal defense attorney, Robert M. Helfend has successfully defended clients facing all kinds of charges including misdemeanors, felonies, violent crimes, drug crimes, and more.
Below are just a few real results from his previous clients:
- Homicide – Client was accused of homicide after being identified by an eyewitness as the person who shot her boyfriend. The jury was unable to reach a verdict and the client was charged with voluntary manslaughter and given credit for jail time served.
- Attempted Murder – Client was accused of passing a firearm to his co-defendant just prior to the co-defendant who shot the victim. Case was dismissed at the preliminary hearing after Mr. Helfend convinced the victim to exonerate the client of his involvement.
- Criminal Threats – Client was accused of threatening to kill someone if he did not turn off his car headlights. Mr. Helfend conducted a thorough investigation and brought new evidence to the prosecution who offered to reduce the charges to an infraction.
- Assault with a Deadly Weapon – Client was charged with felony assault with a firearm and criminal threats, including the special enhancement of “using a firearm in the commission of the offense.” Through an aggressive defense strategy used during the five-day trial, the jury only took one hour to come back with a “not guilty” verdict.
- Commercial Burglary – Client spent 18 years as a fugitive after being charged with felony second-degree commercial burglary. Mr. Helfend negotiated a reduced sentence.
Legal services and practice areas
A good defense attorney will fight with integrity to achieve a positive outcome, no matter the charges.
Criminal defense lawyer Robert M. Helfend specializes in legal defense for some of the most serious crimes including murder, federal crimes, violent crimes, sex crimes, drug crimes and financial crimes.
Practice areas include:
- Child molestation
- Child pornography
- Cryptocurrency
- Domestic violence
- Embezzlement
- Expungements
- Federal defense
- Felony murder
- Fraud
- Identity theft
- Indecent exposure
- Insider trading
- Rape
- Sex crimes
- Soliciting a minor
- Soliciting a prostitute
- Statutory rape
- Theft crimes
- White collar crimes
Please note that, as a specialist in federal crimes, violent crimes and sex crimes, Robert M. Helfend does not provide help with traffic tickets or DUI cases. If you are seeking legal representation for a driving under the influence case, we’d recommend browsing Avvo’s database of Ventura DUI defense lawyers.
Legal defense against California murder and homicide charges
Facing a murder or homicide charge in California is an extremely serious matter, carrying the possibility of life imprisonment or even the death penalty. In such critical situations, it’s imperative to have an experienced and dedicated criminal defense attorney by your side.
Robert M. Helfend brings over four decades of experience in criminal defense, including the successful representation of clients in complex homicide cases. He is committed to providing a vigorous defense, ensuring that every client receives personalized attention and a strategic approach tailored to their unique circumstances.
Understanding California Homicide Charges
California law categorizes unlawful killings into various degrees, each with specific legal definitions and penalties:
First-Degree Murder – Penal Code § 189
First-degree murder involves a willful, deliberate, and premeditated killing. It also includes killings committed during the commission of certain felonies, such as arson, rape, robbery, burglary, or kidnapping . Conviction can result in 25 years to life in prison, life without parole, or the death penalty, depending on the circumstances.
Second-Degree Murder
Second-degree murder refers to intentional killings that are not premeditated or planned, nor committed during the commission of a felony. Penalties include 15 years to life in prison, with possible enhancements based on specific factors.
Felony Murder Rule – Penal Code § 189
Under California’s felony murder rule, a person can be charged with murder if a death occurs during the commission of certain felonies, even if the death was unintended. Recent legislative changes, such as Senate Bill 1437, have limited the application of this rule, requiring a showing of intent to kill or participation in the underlying felony with reckless indifference to human life.
Capital Murder – Penal Code § 190.2
Capital murder, or first-degree murder with special circumstances, includes cases involving multiple victims, murder for financial gain, or the killing of a law enforcement officer, among others. Convictions can lead to life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty.
Voluntary Manslaughter – Penal Code § 192(a)
Voluntary manslaughter involves the intentional killing of another person in the heat of passion or during a sudden quarrel, without prior intent to kill. This offense carries a penalty of 3, 6, or 11 years in state prison.
Involuntary Manslaughter – Penal Code § 192(b)
Involuntary manslaughter occurs when a person unintentionally kills another while committing a non-felony unlawful act or a lawful act with criminal negligence. Penalties include up to 4 years in prison.
Vehicular Manslaughter – Penal Code § 192(c)
This charge applies when a death results from negligent or unlawful driving. Depending on the level of negligence and whether alcohol or drugs were involved, penalties can range from up to one year in county jail to six years in state prison.
Aiding and Abetting – Penal Code § 31
Individuals who assist, encourage, or facilitate the commission of a crime can be charged as principals under California law. This means they face the same charges and penalties as the person who directly committed the crime.
Strict approaches to homicide in Ventura County
Under the leadership of District Attorney Erik Nasarenko, the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office has maintained a firm stance on prosecuting homicide cases.
The Major Crimes Unit is tasked with handling murders, cold-case homicides, and similar unlawful killings, ensuring that serious offenses receive focused attention.
Emphasis on Sentencing Enhancements
The Ventura County DA’s Office continues to apply sentencing enhancements in homicide cases, particularly when aggravating factors are present.
For instance, in March 2023, David Flores was convicted of two counts of first-degree murder and three counts of second-degree robbery, with all special allegations, including gun enhancements, found to be true. Such enhancements can significantly increase the severity of the sentence, reflecting the office’s commitment to holding offenders fully accountable.
Prosecution of Cold Cases
Ventura County has demonstrated a commitment to resolving cold cases, utilizing advancements in forensic technology.
In 2023, Tony Garcia was charged with the 1981 murders of Rachel Zendejas and Lisa Gondek after DNA evidence linked him to the crimes. Although Garcia died before trial, the case exemplifies the DA’s dedication to pursuing cases, regardless of the time elapsed.
Handling of High-Profile Cases
The DA’s Office has also managed high-profile cases with diligence.
For example, in 2024, Loay Abdelfattah Alnaji, a college professor, was ordered to stand trial for involuntary manslaughter and battery in connection with the death of Paul Kessler during a protest in Thousand Oaks.
24/7 support throughout Ventura County
Ventura criminal defense attorney Robert M. Helfend serves clients across Ventura County, bringing top-tier criminal defense to communities in Ventura, Oxnard, Santa Barbara, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, Camarillo and beyond.
We handle a wide range of cases, from misdemeanors to complex felonies, including drug offenses, theft, violent crimes, and federal cases. Whether you’re facing serious charges or need guidance on navigating the criminal justice system, we are committed to delivering a strong defense tailored to your unique situation.
If you’re in Ventura County and need a dedicated advocate who knows the local landscape, reach out today. We’re here to protect your rights and fight for your freedom every step of the way.
Need help in Los Angeles County? We’ve got you covered. View our website with contact info for our law offices in the Los Angeles area.
Contact Robert M. Helfend today for a free, confidential case review
The sooner you hire a competent, experienced criminal defense attorney, the sooner you will be able to feel confident that you are doing everything you can to protect your rights, your freedom and your future.