DUI Defence by San Diego Lawyer

Being arrested and charged with a DUI can be a very serious offense and may result in harsh punishments. There are a variety of factors and circumstances that lead to certain types of DUI charges. The number of DUI offenses you have previously acquired, whether there was injury to the other party, or the level of that person’s injury are all factors that determine what type of DUI classification you could be charged with. It is important to know the different types of DUI charges so you are educated on what constitutes each type, the available defenses that could be applicable in your case, and the scope of possible penalties and sentences you could be facing.

Different Levels of DUI Offenses

Each time a person has been arrested and charged with a DUI, the level of offense increases.  Meaning, for example, if it is your first offense, you will be charged with a 1st Offense DUI, and if it is your third, you will face 3rd Offense DUI charges. However, this only applies if the prior conviction was within 10 years of the new offense that you are charged with. The level of penalty and amount of fine also increases with each offense. Some possible consequences an individual may be faced with are suspension of driving privileges, lofty fines, probation, and jail time. Whether it is your 1st offense, or you have multiple DUI’s on your record, you have options and an experienced San Diego DUI Defense Lawyer can help you achieve the most favorable outcome.

Vehicular Manslaughter DUI and Felony DUI

Regarding Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated, the level of charge classification depends on the level of negligence with which a person acted. If you acted with gross negligence, you will be charged with a felony under Penal Code 191.5(a), which leads to a sentence in state prison of four (4), six (6) or ten (10) years. However, if you acted with ordinary negligence, you will be charged with Penal Code 191.5(b) ordinary vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. Ordinary Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated under 191.5(b) is what California calls a “wobbler” charge; meaning, it can be classified as either a misdemeanor (up to one (1) year in county jail) or a felony (16 months, two (2) or four (4) years in prison).

Felony DUI with Injury

You may also be charged with a Felony DUI. A Felony DUI occurs if another person suffers injury or death because you (1) drove under the influence, and (2) either committed an additional vehicle code violation or drove in an otherwise negligent manner which caused someone to be injured. In other words, both elements have to be present, and the additional vehicular violation had to have been committed while you were driving under the influence and your driving caused injury to another person.

Contact Qualified San Diego DUI Defense Lawyer – Ashby C. Sorensen Today 

Despite the type of DUI you have been charged with, or whether or not it is your first offense, our law firm is here to help. If you want the best possible outcome for your case, contact a San Diego DUI Defense Lawyer who has the experience you need today. You have legal rights and we are here to protect them. Call (858) 999-6921 now for your free consultation with a qualified DUI Defense Lawyer who will fight vigorously for your rights.

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California Drug Offense Defenses – Reviewed by a San Diego Drug Lawyer

Most people who are arrested for a drug offense in California are unaware that there may be a variety of possible defenses used to drop or lessen their charges. The impact of a drug charge can be heavy in both personal/professional consequence and punishment. If you are facing drug charges and would like an experienced San Diego Drug Lawyer to review your case and your options with you, Attorney Ashby C. Sorensen is here to help. With years of experience assisting clients in dropping or lowering their charges, he understands the system and knows what it takes to be successful. He is incredibly knowledgeable of California’s Drug Laws and consequently the defenses that are applicable in receiving the best possible outcome.

Possession of a Controlled Substance

If you were in possession of cocaine, heroin, crack, ketamine, GHB, ecstasy or some prescription drugs, Health & Safety Code 11350 states that this violation is a misdemeanor. This type of misdemeanor drug charge may be punishable to up to three (1) year in the county jail. However, most people are unaware that they may be eligible for a Proposition 36 or Penal Code 1000 drug diversion. Proposition 36 modifies California’s drug laws as applicable to some repeat offenders, and PC 1000 allows eligible drug offenders to be "diverted" into an outpatient drug counseling program rather than become part of the criminal court system. An experienced and knowledgeable drug lawyer will be able to assess your circumstances and inform you of your options and qualifications in this regard.

Possession for Sale of Narcotics

Although Health & Safety Code 11351 makes it a felony to possess illegal drugs for the purpose of selling them, some offenders may have options regarding their defense. Proposition 36 and PC 1000 do not apply in terms of possession for sale, however many police officers assume certain quantities are intended for sale when in actuality they are in possession for personal use. Cops can sometimes use faulty information when accusing people of HS 11351 and an attorney who knows the law can aggressively fight in your defense. Attorney Sorensen has also punched holes in many prosecutors cases and had evidence suppressed by showing a warrant was unjustified or improperly obtained.

Call San Diego Drug Lawyer Ashby C. Sorensen Today

If you are facing charges for the possession or possession for sale of drugs, you need an attorney by your side that will fight for your defense. You have legal rights and the justice system is not always easy to believe your side. San Diego Drug Lawyer Ashby Sorensen is experienced in drug law, and has fought for many individual’s rights and rigorously works for the best possible outcome of his clients. Call (858) 999-6921 today for a free consultation and learn what your options are, and how you can drop or lessen your drug charges. 

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Criminal Defense Strategies Discussed by a San Diego Defense Attorney

The most important part of combating criminal charges is the strength of your defense. The prosecutor’s job is to pursue the state’s charges against you as vigorously as possible to ensure a ruling in their favor. If you and your attorney are not doing the same, your legal rights may not be adequately defended and you may receive punishment you don’t deserve. How an attorney builds a defense for their client is what measures their value and the benefit they can provide you. You don’t want a defense attorney who simply shuffles through cases and takes any plea bargain they are offered. Every case is different, and every defense should be handled differently; therefore, you need an attorney who will represent you adequately throughout the entire process.

Defending Your Side of the Story

A talented defense attorney such as Ashby Sorensen understands exactly how the prosecution is formulating their case, and as such, will proactively prepare to defend yours. The value of an experienced and knowledgeable defense attorney lies in knowing how to best portray your side of the story given the facts at hand. Many juries tend to favor the prosecution’s side of the story, whereas defense attorney Sorensen knows how to show the jury your side, gain their sympathy, and create balance in the scales of justice. A criminal case essentially comes down to who can tell the best story based on the facts and portray the most believable truth.  With this in mind, it is essential to retain an attorney who knows both the law and the system and can defend your legal rights aggressively.

A Counselor, Advisor and Coach

A good defense attorney will represent their client in court; however, a great defense attorney will be a representative, a counselor, an advisor and a coach – all in one. There are many stages to a criminal case and you want an attorney who you trust to be at your side throughout the entire process. The sign of a truly valuable defense attorney is one who assesses your case with you, advises you of your options, coaches you through the process in the most effective way and is a zealous counselor on your behalf in the courtroom when it is most needed. A criminal defense attorney’s job is to act as a safeguard between you and the court system. They are there to privately and confidently listen to anything you have to say and provide you with encouragement that they will aggressively defend your legal rights. Defense Attorney Sorensen has successfully fulfilled this role with many clients and is ready to do the same for you.

Contact an Experienced Defense Attorney in San Diego – Ashby C. Sorensen – Today

If you are facing criminal charges, your attorney and your defense are the only two things working in your favor. It is important to hire a Defense Attorney San Diego who has your best interest in mind and will work for the best outcome to your case. Help us help you protect your legal rights. Call (858) 999-6921 now for your free consultation and to start building your defense today. 

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The Difference Between Petty Theft and Grand Theft – Answered by a San Diego Theft Lawyer

Many people are unaware of the scale of theft charges and the difference between petty theft and grand theft. These differences can be helpful when discerning which type of theft charge is applicable to the situation you are dealing with, what defenses may be applicable, and what consequences you may be facing. The main distinctions specifically pertain to the amount of property that has been allegedly stolen and the type of penalty associated with the crime. If you are facing charges of theft, it is important you are educated on the type of charge and you have armed yourself with an experienced attorney who will stand by your side and fight avidly for your defense.

What is Petty Theft in California

According to California Penal Code §§484 and 488, the main difference between petty theft and grand theft is that petty theft applies to a lesser amount of stolen property. If the amount of stolen property’s value is less than $950 total, the alleged perpetrator will be charged with petty theft. This charge is generally categorized as a misdemeanor, which is a lesser offense than a felony. Considering petty theft is categorized as a misdemeanor rather than a felony, it also carries less serious penalties than grand theft. For example, if convicted of petty theft a perpetrator could be facing probation, up to six 6 months in county jail, and/or a fine of up to $1,000. The California Penal Code also states that petty theft involves property that was not taken directly from the owner, such as from the person’s clothing, body, or a container held or carried by the person. This type of criteria is usually applicable during a mugging or robbery, which is a different classification of theft.

What is Felony Theft in California

On the greater scale of theft is felony theft as it involves stolen property greater than $950 in total value and could result in greater penalties or punishment. These charges are usually seen as Commercial Burglary, Vehicle Theft, Theft From Person, or Fraud. There are factors that can automatically result in a charge of felony theft as well, regardless of the value of the item(s) stolen. For instance, if the perpetrator used a gun or has stolen a vehicle, they will automatically be charged with a felony rather than petty theft. Most felony theft charges are unique in the sense that it can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony. If charged as a misdemeanor, a perpetrator could be facing up to one (1) year in county jail, however if charged as a felony they could be facing probation and jail for up to one (1) year, or  16 months, two (2) years, or three (3) years in state prison.

Contact Experienced San Diego Theft Lawyer – Ashby C. Sorensen Today 

If you have been charged with a theft related crime, you need to act quickly and obtain the legal representation you can trust to safeguard your legal rights. The sooner you can work on your defense and retain an experienced San Diego Theft Lawyer, the more confident you can be when facing your charges. Call (858) 999-6921 now to schedule your free consultation or ask Attorney Ashby Sorensen any questions you may have about your charges.

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Criminal Defense Attorney San Diego

Whether you or a loved one are facing charges, or you need to bail someone out of jail, Criminal Defense Attorney Ashby Sorensen is here to help. Our firm will give you and your loved ones the peace of mind you need during these traumatizing times. When faced with criminal charges, the last thing you need is to worry about whether or not you will be getting a fair trial, whether your attorney genuinely has your best interests in mind, or questioning the amount of experience and knowledge they have to get you the best possible outcome.

Protect Your Legal Rights

Our law firm fully understands the stresses you are facing, and the freedoms you could be losing. We believe in a hands-on, proactive approach, and treating every client with the respect and attention they deserve. We don’t wait for offers to come our way or for the first court date to take action. From day one we are advocating and taking steps to defend your rights and freedom. Our goal is to educate you on your options throughout the process, to adequately advise you and aggressively represent you every step of the way.  We strive to get you back home to your family and living a normal life as soon as possible.

Finding Flaws in the Prosecution’s Case

San Diego Criminal Defense Attorney Ashby Sorensen’s job is to advocate on your behalf and essentially defend you as if he were in your shoes. This means looking through the police report line by line to ensure no detail is left overlooked or no mistake or flaw goes unnoticed. He will do whatever it takes to find every hole in the prosecution’s case against you and be sure the court is aware of it. His job is to ensure the prosecution’s case doesn’t hold up and the court hears an aggressive defense on your behalf. From start to finish, he will fight for you with that goal in mind.

Need a Second Criminal Defense Legal Opinion?

Perhaps you already have a criminal defense attorney san diego, but you are unsure if they are doing all they can for your case. You may be frustrated and unable to reach them and you want and need answers now. Our firm is happy to evaluate your case and advise you on whether or not your attorney is on the right track or you may have better options. Whether your case has been pending for awhile or you want reassurance that your attorney’s strategy is going to result in the best possible outcome for your charges, we are here to help. We have represented thousands of clients, gotten countless charges dropped and decreased punishments and sentencing. We look forward to doing the same for you and your matter.

Contact an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney in San Diego - Ashby C. Sorensen - Today

Facing criminal charges can be traumatizing, and our firm knows the stresses you are facing. Let Criminal Defense Attorney Ashby Sorensen ease your fears and give you confidence that your matter is being handled by an experienced criminal defense attorney who knows the law and the system. Protect Your Legal Rights. Call (858) 999-6921 now for your free consultation.

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San Diego Theft Lawyer Have Many Specialties

If you have been charged with a theft crime in San Diego, you probably have many questions and concerns regarding your case. Understandably, this can be a stressful and scary time considering the punishment you may be facing and how intricate theft law can be. It is important with these types of charges that you don't wait to take action in order to protect yourself and your legal rights.

Many people are not aware of the many types or levels of theft crimes that you can be charged with. Each come with varying elements and can result in varying punishments based on severity and circumstance. It is important that you educate yourself on the type of charge you are facing and also, hire a San Diego Theft Lawyer who is familiar with the penal code regarding these charges so they can fight vigorously for you at all stages of your case.

The following are types of theft you could be charged with, and brief qualifiers of each charge:

Shoplifting – entering a commercial establishment while it is open for business with the intent to steal items worth nine hundred fifty ($950) or less.
Robbery – Taking the personal property in the possession of another, from his or her possession with the use of force or fear.
Carjacking - felonious taking of a motor vehicle in the possession of another, from his or her person or immediate presence with intent to deprive of possession through force or fear.
Receiving Stolen Property – Knowingly buying, receiving, selling or concealing property that has been stolen from another person.
Petty Theft – Property valued at $950.00 or less, or property that is not taken from the person of another.
Grand Theft – Property valued at $950.00 or more, or property that was taken from the person of another, of an automobile or firearm.
Burglary – Entering the property of another with the intent to commit a felony.
Unlawful Taking or Driving of a Vehicle – driving or taking a vehicle without the consent of the owner with intent to deprive the owner of possession or ownership.
Identity Theft – Taking personal information and using it for an unlawful purpose.

If you are facing theft crime charges in California, a qualified San Diego Theft Lawyer with extensive knowledge of the relevant laws pertaining to your case, can be a huge asset to you. With deep knowledge of theft law comes the ability to provide a defense to your matter that can help you receive the best possible outcome for your case. Whether the result is dropping the charges completely, lessening the charges or decreasing possible punishment or jail time, your defense may be your only hope.

Contact Experienced San Diego Theft Lawyer – Ashby C. Sorensen Today

Being charged with a theft crime is nothing to take lightly. It is important that you arm yourself with an experienced san diego theft lawyer and protect your legal rights. Call (858) 999-6921 now to schedule your free consultation or ask Attorney Sorensen any questions you might have about your charges.

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How to Find & Hire a San Diego Criminal Defense Lawyer

Criminal Defense law encompasses a wide range of charges and includes many areas of the law. Whether you have been charged with petty theft or possession of marijuana, you need a San Diego Criminal Defense Lawyer you can trust. Along with a wide range of possible charges comes a broad spectrum of punishment levels. When it comes to criminal defense, your defense may be all you have so it is important to prepare yourself accordingly.

                                                                    

The prosecution will come down hard on your case and may not be merciful when it comes to your punishment. It is important to know the law and the elements of the charges you are facing.  It is equally critical to hire a qualified criminal defense lawyer who is knowledgeable about the laws and who is willing to stand beside you and aggressively fight for your rights. An experienced lawyer will have knowledge of the laws and experience with the criminal defense system to ensure your best defense is brought forward.

Vigorous Representation from a Criminal Defense Lawyer in San Diego

If you have been charged with a crime or are being investigated, the last thing you want is a passive lawyer who will take whatever “deal” or offer the prosecution is suggesting. Ashby Sorensen is a criminal defense lawyer in san diego that will aggressively fight for your rights and your freedom and work hard to keep you happy with the results. A great lawyer will conduct thorough analysis of the details of your case, compare them to their in-depth knowledge of the relevant laws pertaining to your charges, and provide the court with a strong defense that will help result in the best possible outcome for you. Attorney Sorensen is that type of lawyer and treats each case with the focus and effort that it is deserves. He understands that your freedom and quality of life are on the line and will judiciously fight for both on your behalf.

Types of Criminal Defense Charges Handled by San Diego Criminal Defense Lawyer

There are many kinds of criminal charges one could be facing, and San Diego Criminal Defense Lawyer Ashby Sorensen can handle them all. He has vast experience and success in many areas and would be happy to put that knowledge to work for your benefit. If you are facing any of the following charges, contact our firm today to see how we can help.

• Domestic Violence, Spousal Abuse or Domestic Battery
• Gang Related Activity or Enhancements
• Drug Crimes (possession, sale, distribution)
• Violent Crimes
• Theft Crimes (shoplifting, burglary, auto, petty, grand, robbery, carjacking)
• DUI, DWI or Driving on Suspended License

There are also areas of criminal defense that may not exactly be tied to charges, but seek to change or decrease your criminal record. Criminal Defense Lawyer Ashby Sorensen also handles expungement matters and will be able to assess whether you are eligible or whether expungement is a possible for you. He also handles resentencing cases, which allows for certain felonies to be reclassified as misdemeanors under California’s new Prop 47 that was recently passed in November of 2014.

Contact Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer in San Diego - Ashby C. Sorensen - Today

Don’t let this time become more stressful or scary than it already is and call our law firm today. We will give you the confidence and peace of mind you need, knowing your case is being handled by a criminal defense lawyer you can trust. You have legal rights, and we are here to protect them. Call (858) 999-6921 now for your free consultation with Criminal Defense Lawyer Ashby Sorensen.

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