An arrest is not a conviction. Get a prepared, strategic defender on your side before your first court date.
Criminal Defense
Being arrested or learning you are under investigation is frightening. Within days you may face an arraignment, bail or release conditions, and pressure to talk to police or accept the first offer from the prosecutor. The decisions made in those first days can shape the rest of the case, which is why getting a lawyer involved early matters.
Attorney George L. Fernandez defends people charged with misdemeanors and felonies in Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino and Riverside Counties, and is admitted to practice in the federal Central District of California. We start by listening to your side, then we dig into the police reports, video, lab results and witness statements to find weaknesses in the case against you. From there we build a strategy that fits your goals — whether that means negotiating a reduction, filing motions to suppress evidence, or preparing for trial.
Your first consultation is free, and we can meet in English or Spanish at our Long Beach or Newport Beach office.
What We Handle
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More Areas of Defense
Every charge has its own rules, defenses and possible outcomes. Here is a brief look at several areas we handle.
Drug charges range from simple possession to possession for sale, transportation and manufacturing. Many cases turn on how the drugs were found: an unlawful traffic stop, a search without a valid warrant or consent, or a weak link between you and the substance. Depending on the charge and your history, California may also offer diversion or treatment-based programs that can lead to a dismissal. We review every option before you decide.
Federal cases are investigated by agencies like the FBI, DEA or HSI and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney's Office under federal sentencing rules. Attorney Fernandez is admitted to the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, which covers Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. If you have received a target letter or been contacted by federal agents, talk to a lawyer before you answer questions.
When a minor is accused of a crime, the case usually goes to juvenile court, where the focus is meant to be rehabilitation rather than punishment. That does not make it less serious — a juvenile case can affect school, future jobs and immigration status. We guide parents and young clients through detention hearings, petitions and disposition, and look for outcomes like informal probation or diversion when they fit.
A sex crime accusation can carry heavy penalties and, for certain convictions, a requirement to register with the state. These cases often depend on credibility, digital evidence and forensic testing. We handle them with complete discretion, investigate the full context of the allegation, and challenge evidence that was gathered improperly or does not hold up to scrutiny.
Theft charges include petty theft, shoplifting, grand theft, burglary, embezzlement and robbery. The value of the property, whether force was alleged, and your prior record all affect whether a charge is filed as a misdemeanor or a felony. Questions of intent, mistaken identity and unreliable surveillance video are common defenses, and some first-time cases may be resolved through diversion or civil compromise.
An old conviction can follow you into job interviews, housing applications and licensing. California law allows many people who completed probation to petition to have a conviction dismissed under Penal Code section 1203.4, and some felonies can be reduced to misdemeanors. Other relief may be available depending on your case. We review your record and explain what you typically qualify for.
Our Process
We hear your side, explain the charges in plain English and walk through what happens next.
We obtain police reports, body-cam and lab results, and look for constitutional and factual problems.
We file motions where they fit and negotiate with prosecutors from a position of preparation.
If the case should not settle, we are ready to present your defense in court.
Why It Matters
Public defenders work hard but often carry very large caseloads. A private attorney can spend more time investigating your specific case.
You work directly with Attorney Fernandez, who knows the details of your case and your goals.
You get straight answers and regular updates — in English or Spanish — so you are never left guessing.
Client Reviews
“My husband and I are very thankful for all of the help that Mr. Fernandez gave us with representing my husband in a case where he was innocent. We live in GA but the case was in LA and Mr. Fernandez helped ease our mind that our case could very easily be handled. He was very professional, his team was always there to help guide us and answer our questions during the process of this very stressful time for us.”
“Attorney George Fernandez returned my phone call promptly and represented me in court on short notice. He did a 5-star stellar job on a complicated case. I will definitely retain him in the future. I'm very grateful to Attorney Fernandez for his expertise and willingness to represent me on such short notice, and with such a positive outcome.”
“Attorney George L Fernandez has helped I and my family tremendously with our eviction case. He is a very professional and great attorney it was a pleasure doing business with him. I would definitely recommend attorney George Fernandez to anyone in need.”
Reviews reflect individual experiences; prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
FAQ
Stay calm, do not resist, and politely say you want to remain silent and speak to a lawyer. Do not discuss the case with officers, cellmates or on jail phones, which are usually recorded. Call a defense attorney as soon as you can.
In California, a misdemeanor is generally punishable by up to one year in county jail, while a felony can carry a longer sentence in county jail or state prison. Some offenses, called wobblers, can be charged either way depending on the facts and your history.
Even a first offense can lead to jail, fines, probation and a permanent record. A lawyer can often identify defenses or alternatives, such as diversion, that you may not know about. It is worth at least a free consultation.
Sometimes. Charges may be reduced or dismissed when evidence was obtained illegally, the facts do not support the charge, or the prosecutor agrees to a negotiated resolution. Every case is different, and no lawyer can promise a particular result.
Many people can. If you completed probation, you may be eligible to have the conviction dismissed under Penal Code 1203.4, and some felonies can be reduced. We can review your record and explain your options.
The arraignment is typically your first court appearance. You are formally told the charges, you enter a plea, and the judge addresses bail or release conditions. Having a lawyer at the arraignment helps protect your rights from the start.
Your first consultation is free. Call or book online and we will review your options with you in plain English — en español también.
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