Criminal Defense Lawyer San Bernardino, CA

If you are charged with a criminal act, it's imperative that you retain a skilled attorney to protect your rights and to advocate for your defense. Vincent S. Hughes is an experienced, talented criminal defense lawyer in San Bernardino who meticulously investigates, advocates, and represents criminal defendants throughout Southern California.

Vincent Hughes, lawyer in San Bernardino

The right lawyer matters.

Mr. Hughes understands the anxiety and fear of a criminal charge and will focus on developing a defense strategy to pursue the most favorable outcome. His track record in criminal cases has led to many honors and accolades, including being listed as a Super Lawyers Rising Star for 2023, Top 40 Under 40 by National Black Lawyers, Elite Lawyer, Criminal Law, Lawyer of Distinction, and the Avvo Client's Choice Award.

Misdemeanor Charges Felony Charges State Charges Federal Charges DUI / DWI Traffic Violations Firearms Charges Drug Offenses Domestic Violence White Collar Offenses

Vincent Hughes: A criminal attorney who works harder and smarter.

Finding yourself charged as a criminal defendant has a wide-ranging impact on life, including emotionally, professionally, financially, and at home. Being accused of a criminal offense is a stressful situation, and extremely difficult to navigate. The threat of incarceration, fines, and a blot on your criminal record is real, particularly in San Bernardino, where career prosecutors focus on achieving the highest conviction rate possible.

Why choose us?

Vincent Hughes is not an average criminal defense lawyer. He has a reputation as being among the most talented criminal defense attorneys in San Bernardino and beyond.

His accomplishments reflect his deep and abiding commitment to the people he serves, his creative mind, and his breadth of legal knowledge and skill, and the inner workings of the legal system. He brings a remarkable ability to persuade when delivering well-crafted arguments or negotiating with the prosecuting attorney to reduce or dismiss the charges.

The lawyer you can trust at costs you can afford.

His approach is personalized, attentive, and personal – when represented by Mr. Hughes, you and your case matter. You have the right to an attorney but may be worried about the cost. Mr. Hughes offers his clients a rare option, with financing through "Client Credit." With this option, you can gain professional representation without paying upfront.

Criminal Cases We Handle: The Law Offices of Vincent Hughes

DUI, DWI

If you are charged with a drunk driving offense, don't assume you will be found guilty. Many DUI offenses can be successfully defended, the charges reduced, or a charge dismissed. The outcome of a charge reflects the skills and knowledge of your DUI defense lawyer. Don't take any chances with your freedom, right to drive, and permanent criminal record. Ensure you are represented by a DUI defense attorney who will do everything possible to reduce the damage.

Criminal traffic violations

Some traffic violations reach the level of being a criminal charge, either misdemeanor or felony, and are not addressed in traffic court, but in criminal court. Misdemeanor criminal traffic violations include DUI charges, reckless driving, and hit and run. Felony traffic violations include hit and run with serious bodily injury or property damage, DUI causing serious injury or death, and some others. These crimes can lead to severe penalties, including years in state prison and fines.

Firearms charges

Possession of a firearm, under some circumstances, can result in a criminal charge. The types of cases that must be resolved through the criminal justice system include carrying a concealed weapon, improper handling of a firearm in a motor vehicle, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, firing at an object inside an occupied building, owning some classes of firearms, brandishing or assault with a firearm, carrying a loaded gun in public, and others.

Drug offenses

While marijuana is legal for individual use in the state, many drug-related crimes are heavily punished under state law. The types of crimes that could lead to incarceration and fines include drug manufacturing, drug possession of some substances, illegal marijuana cultivation, trafficking (drug distribution), drug transportation, or crimes associated with drugs and children. When facing accusations for a drug-related crime, whether misdemeanor or felony, the quality, knowledge, and talent of your drug crime defense attorney has everything to do with the outcome of the charge.

Domestic violence

In the state of California, it is a crime to harm or threaten to harm a spouse, co-habitant, dating partner, intimate partner, or co-parent. The individuals protected by these laws include parents, children, and relatives. Charges of domestic battery, inflicting corporal injury on an intimate partner, spousal battery, or other domestic violence-related offense results in severe consequences, including jail or prison time, restriction from contacting your children, entering your own home, and the long-term impact of a criminal record.

White collar offenses

White-collar crimes are generally financially motivated and include public corruption, corporate fraud, embezzlement, mortgage fraud, credit card fraud, bank fraud, money laundering, securities fraud, accounting fraud, and many others. Defending against charges requires a depth of understanding of technology and access to professional resources such as computer experts, financial experts, and others who can present evidence to counter the arguments presented by the prosecutor.

As a defendant, you have rights.

The Constitution of the United States of America affords certain rights to those who are accused of committing a criminal act. Under both federal and state law, the accused individual has the right to an attorney, the right to confront their accusers, and the right to be free from self-incrimination.

The Fourth Amendment

Your rights don't only begin following an arrest; the Fourth Amendment also provides protections against unreasonable searches and seizures – a common rights violation. Under the Constitution, you are protected from being searched without a valid warrant or probable cause.

The Fifth Amendment

The Fifth Amendment provides many protections for those accused of committing criminal acts, including the right against self-incrimination as well as the right to an attorney during questioning.

The Sixth Amendment

The Sixth Amendment provides the right to an attorney during adversarial proceedings, including arraignment and all stages of criminal proceedings.

Other constitutional rights afforded to criminal defendants include the right to a speedy trial, the right to be free of cruel and unusual punishment, and the right against being tried for the same crime twice (Double Jeopardy).

What to know if you’ve been arrested

Being arrested can be a daunting and stressful experience, but knowing your rights and what to do can significantly influence the outcome of your case:

Remain Calm: Stay composed and avoid making any statements or decisions under duress. Your actions and words can impact your case, so staying calm and focused is crucial.
Invoke Your Right to Silence: You have the right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself. Only discuss the details of your case with law enforcement once you have legal representation present.
Request an Attorney: Immediately request to speak with a criminal defense attorney who will protect your rights, provide legal advice, and represent your interests throughout the legal process.
Understand Charges: Understand the charges against you. Your attorney will explain the nature of the charges, potential penalties, and legal strategies to defend against them.
Do Not Consent to Searches: Do not consent to searches of your person, property, or belongings without a warrant. Assert your Fourth Amendment right against unreasonable searches and seizures.
Document Everything: Take note of the circumstances surrounding your arrest, including the time, location, officers involved, and any witnesses present. This information can be valuable for your defense.
Follow Legal Guidance: Follow the legal guidance provided by your attorney. Cooperate with legal proceedings, attend court hearings as required, and adhere to any conditions of release if applicable.
Exercise Caution with Communications: Be cautious about what you say or do, especially in written or electronic communications. Avoid discussing your case on social media or those not involved in your legal defense.
Explore Defense Options: Work closely with your attorney to explore defense options, gather evidence, identify witnesses, and build a strong defense strategy tailored to your case.
Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your constitutional rights, including the right to legal representation, the right to a fair trial, and protections against self-incrimination.

Programs/jails in San Bernardino

San Bernardino County operates several programs and facilities:

San Bernardino County Jail

The San Bernardino County Jail comprises facilities like the West Valley Detention Center, Central Detention Center, and High Desert Detention Center. Each facility has its own visitation, inmate communication, and release procedures.

Alternative Sentencing Programs

San Bernardino offers programs such as the Work Release Program, which allows eligible individuals to serve their sentences while maintaining employment during the day and returning to the facility at night.

Another example is the Electronic Monitoring Program, where individuals may serve their sentences at home with electronic monitoring devices.

Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Programs

The San Bernardino County Alcohol and Drug Services (ADIS) provides substance abuse treatment programs, including the following:

Outpatient counseling
Residential treatment
Detoxification services

The Drug Court Program offers eligible individuals the opportunity to undergo rehabilitation instead of traditional sentencing for drug-related offenses.

Mental Health Services

San Bernardino's Behavioral Health department offers the following mental health services for those in the criminal justice system:

Crisis intervention
Case management
Psychiatric evaluation

Access to mental health treatment facilities such as the Arrowhead Regional Medical Center's Behavioral Health Unit

Probation Services

The San Bernardino County Probation Department oversees probation services for individuals on probation. These services are:

Monitoring compliance with court-ordered conditions
Providing rehabilitation referrals
Offering support programs to help probationers successfully complete their terms

Legal Aid and Advocacy Groups

Organizations like the Legal Aid Society of San Bernardino, Inland Counties Legal Services, and Public Counsel provide legal assistance, representation, and advocacy for low-income individuals in the criminal justice system. They offer services such as legal consultations, defense representation, and help with accessing resources.

Reentry Programs

The San Bernardino County Reentry Collaborative coordinates returning to the community after incarceration. Programs include the following:

Job training
Employment placement assistance
Housing support through organizations like Inland Empire Job Corps and Housing Authority of the County of San Bernardino
Educational opportunities through local community colleges and vocational training centers

What Does a Criminal Defense Attorney Do?

A criminal defense attorney plays a crucial role in protecting the rights and interests of individuals accused of criminal offenses.

Vincent S. Hughes of the Law Office of Vincent S. Hughes in San Bernardino exemplifies the responsibilities and actions of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Here's what a criminal defense attorney like Mr. Hughes does:

A criminal defense attorney assesses the details of each case to understand the charges, evidence, and potential legal strategies
They review police reports, witness statements, and forensic evidence to build a defense strategy tailored to each client's situation
A criminal defense attorney will appear in court on behalf of their clients, present legal arguments, cross-examine witnesses, and advocate for favorable outcomes, such as reduced charges or case dismissals
They negotiate with prosecutors to reach plea agreements or settlements that benefit their clients

Finally, criminal defense attorneys like Mr. Hughes develop effective defense strategies based on legal principles, precedents, and the specific circumstances of each case. For instance, he may challenge the legality of evidence, raise constitutional violations, or present mitigating factors to support his clients' innocence or reduce culpability.

Understanding the California criminal process

The California criminal process follows a series of stages that individuals accused of crimes must navigate:

Investigation

The process often begins with an investigation by law enforcement agencies. This may involve gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and identifying suspects.

Arrest

If law enforcement believes they have sufficient evidence, they may make an arrest. During the arrest, you have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. It's crucial to exercise these rights and only make statements with legal representation.

Booking

After the arrest, you'll be taken to a booking facility, where your personal information, including fingerprints and photographs, will be recorded. It's crucial to provide accurate information but only discuss the details of your case with your attorney present.

Arraignment

At the arraignment hearing, you'll be formally informed of the charges against you and asked to enter a plea. The plea must be guilty, not guilty, or no contest. This is a critical stage where having legal representation is essential to understand the charges and make informed decisions.

Pretrial Proceedings

During pretrial proceedings, both the prosecution and defense exchange evidence, file motions and may negotiate plea agreements. This stage involves legal arguments, motions to suppress evidence, and other procedural matters.

Trial

If your case proceeds to trial, the prosecution presents evidence and arguments to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Your defense attorney challenges the prosecution's case, presents evidence and witnesses in your favor, and advocates for your innocence or reduced liability.

Sentencing

If you're found guilty or enter a plea agreement, the court imposes penalties such as fines, probation, community service, or incarceration. Your attorney may argue for leniency, present mitigating factors, or explore alternative sentencing options.

Appeals

In cases of unfavorable outcomes or legal errors, you may have the right to appeal the verdict or sentence. The appeals process involves reviewing legal arguments, challenging convictions, and seeking relief from higher courts.

Collateral consequences of a criminal conviction

A criminal conviction can have far-reaching collateral consequences beyond the immediate legal penalties. For example:

A criminal conviction can impact employment opportunities, as many employers conduct background checks. Certain professions may be off-limits for individuals with certain convictions, affecting career advancement and job prospects.
Landlords and property managers may deny housing based on criminal history, making it challenging to secure a place to live. This can lead to housing instability and difficulties in finding suitable accommodation.
Some educational institutions may deny admission or financial aid based on criminal convictions. This can hinder educational opportunities and limit access to higher education.
Certain professions require licenses that may be revoked or denied based on criminal convictions. These include licenses for healthcare professionals, lawyers, real estate agents, etc.
Non-citizens may face deportation or immigration consequences due to criminal convictions, including inadmissibility for visas or green cards.
In some states, individuals with felony convictions may lose their voting rights temporarily or permanently.
Beyond legal and practical consequences, social stigma can be associated with criminal convictions, impacting personal relationships and societal perceptions.

It's essential to recognize that these collateral consequences can vary based on the nature of the conviction, jurisdiction, and individual circumstances. Seeking legal guidance from a skilled criminal defense attorney like Vincent S. Hughes can help navigate these consequences and work towards mitigating their impact.

Cases we handle

Whether you're facing an infraction, misdemeanor, or felony charge, the Law Office of Vincent S. Hughes will fight for you to guarantee that you receive a fair shake and that your constitutional rights remain intact. Attorney Vincent S. Hughes is a skilled criminal defense attorney, handling many types of criminal charges, including, but not limited to:

Infractions: Infractions are typically associated with traffic offenses; however, they can also be other criminal charges, including disturbing the peace, driving on a suspended license, and others. Infractions have no possibility of jail time; however, they do have the possibility of hefty court-imposed fines, or, when they add up – losing the legal right to drive.
Misdemeanors: A misdemeanor charge carries a maximum possible jail sentence of 364 days in prison and a court-imposed fine. Misdemeanor offenses include petty theft, DUI, vandalism, shoplifting, trespassing, drug possession, disturbing the peace, child endangerment, assault and battery, and many others.
Felonies: A felony is a more serious crime, which can be either violent offenses, or those that are non-violent. Felonies carry the possibility of incarceration in the state prison for a period of over one year and expensive, court-imposed fines. Examples of felonies include murder, attempted murder, rape, grand theft, burglary, assaults, and many drug offenses.

For a defense attorney you can trust to go the distance in defending your case, we invite you to reach out to our firm immediately after your arrest and speak with us about what we could do to help you fight back. We offer financing that allows you to have high-quality defense counsel without paying in full upfront. Call us – your freedoms, rights, and interests are our primary concern.