Ventura County Criminal Defense Attorney
Being charged with a crime is a daunting situation. Many are left feeling helpless and vulnerable as they’re forced to sit back and watch their case work its way through the judicial system. In these moments of uncertainty it’s all too easy to dwell on the ramifications that your case might have on your life and loved ones.
This is why it’s absolutely critical to have an experienced Ventura County criminal defense attorney help you navigate the complicated legal environment.
I’m attorney Robert M. Helfend, and I have proudly practiced as a criminal defense attorney here in Ventura County since 1984. With more than three decades of experience, I have tried hundreds of cases — everything from run-of-the-mill misdemeanors to murder. Each case is unique, and so is my dedication to my clients. My focus and determination in seeking justice for my clients is unmatched.
It’s true, facing off against prosecutors and criminal investigators can be intimidating. I am an aggressive advocate for my clients, and I will ensure that your rights are not abused by intrusive investigators.
Areas of Practice – Ventura County Criminal Defense Attorney
Serving clients from my office here on California Street in downtown Ventura, I provide criminal defense to clients in state and federal courts here in Ventura County and throughout Southern California. These are some of my practice areas:
Armed Robbery or Robbery
In California, robbery carries a wide range of legal outcomes. Robbery is legally defined as forcibly stealing something from another person via intimidation, violence, or threats. If convicted of robbery, you could be facing anywhere from two years to a lifetime in prison.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
In California, you may be charged with DUI or enhanced DUI if law enforcement merely suspects you of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Breathalyzers and other blood alcohol tests oven aren’t used since they aren’t required. Field sobriety tests can be biased, and sometimes equipment can produce inaccurate results.
Burglary
You can be charged with criminal breaking and entering or burglary if you enter a home without the owner’s permission, with the intent to steal. If convicted, one of three strikes will be applied to your record.
Murder
As you are probably aware, homicide or manslaughter charges are the most serious criminal charges a person can face. With your life on the line, it is not enough that you have a skilled and experienced lawyer fight the charges against you. You also need someone with unparalleled dedication and single-mindedness in order to defend you and ensure your right to a fair trial.
Drug Crimes
California may seem like a marijuana-friendly state, but that doesn’t change the fact that over half a million people have been arrested on drug crimes since 2006. Don’t become part of this statistic. I defend anyone accused of distribution, possession, manufacturing and trafficking, for ALL drug types. This includes marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, and prescription painkillers.
Identity Theft
Identity theft carries serious consequences upon conviction. Charges here can result from something as simple as using another person’s credit card or identifying information, or more complicated situations such as Internet fraud or securities fraud.
Sex Crimes
Sex crimes are unique in that they often lack the same level of evidence that other crimes do. You may be charged with rape, statutory rape, abuse, molestation or a related crime based solely on accusations and circumstantial evidence. If convicted of a sex crime in California you must register as a sex offender, which has far reaching implications. Not only will you have to deal with the shame of such a title, but problems with employment and housing could impact the rest of your life.
Child Pornography
The FBI takes an aggressive stance when prosecuting child pornography charges. This includes all activities related to the distribution, possession, production, promotion, creation and/or the sale of photographs, videos, digital and/or drawn representations that are sexual in nature or otherwise promote sexual abuse of a person under the age of 18.
National Federal Crime Defense
I, Robert Helfend, proudly defend those accused of federal crimes across the country. Federal crimes are different in that they are prosecuted by the U.S. Government instead of the state or county. When going up against the United States government, you need the skills of a lawyer experienced in challenging the evidence and collection methods used by federal investigators.
Have you been charged with a crime? If so, every second is critical. As you read this, investigators and prosecutors are working to build a case against you. That’s why it’s so important that you receive a consultation from a seasoned criminal defense attorney as soon as you can.
The legal system is confusing and often times stressful. I pride myself in helping my clients get the peace of mind they deserve.
Call today at 800-834-6434 to schedule your free consultation.