Criminal Law

Mr. Suarez represents clients of all ages, in both juvenile and adult courts. In addition, he represents clients from California’s immigrant community, both documented and undocumented, and is well-versed in the specificities of being charged as an immigrant in the California court system.

Francisco Suarez covers many types of California criminal and defense law, from minor misdemeanors to serious felonies. He has a wide range of areas of practice, including:

• Assault and Battery
• Arson
• Domestic Violence
• Drug Charges
• DUIs and DWIs
• Fraud
• Forgery and Bad Checks
• Rape
• Robbery
• Theft

What’s next?

What should I do if I am under investigation?

If it has been made clear that you are under investigation for a crime, or you suspect that you are under investigation for a crime, keep the following guidelines in mind:

• Don’t panic. Just because you are under investigation does not mean you will ever be charged with a crime. Keep calm and do not act rashly.
• Avoid social media. Many people make the mistake of saying or posting things on social media that can incriminate or implicate them in a crime. If you are under investigation, it is best to stay off of all social media whenever possible. You should definitely not post about anything about the investigation or the crime in question.
• Do not contact people associated with the crime. If you know or know of other people involved in the crime or the investigation, do not contact them under any circumstances—be it over social media, over text or messenger, over the phone, or in person.
• Assemble all documents and related materials. If there are any relevant documents, pieces of information, digital records, pictures, or screenshots related to the crime or investigation—including information that proves you were somewhere else at the time—make sure you have it on-hand and ready.
• Call an attorney. It is absolutely crucial that you contact an attorney as soon as you find out you are under investigation. Do not wait until you are arrested or charged. An attorney can get a crucial head-start on building a case on your behalf and preventing you from making key early-stage mistakes. Even if you ultimately decide not to hire an attorney, you should definitely call and get a consult on your case. The sooner you call an attorney, the better your chances for a positive ultimate outcome.

What should I do if I have been arrested? What should I know if I get arrested?

• Don’t talk. You have the right to remain silent. Use it. During an arrest, anything you say can and will be used against you, even if you believe you are helping yourself. No matter how angry you are, do not talk back or answer questions. Calmly tell the police that you want your attorney and say nothing more. Do not consent to questioning until your attorney is present, no matter what the police say.
• Don’t run. Don’t resist. If you are being arrested, resisting and/or running will only hurt you. It never, ever helps to run from or resist an arrest, and often results in additional charges and/or incriminating evidence to use against you in court. Comply with the demands of the arresting officer and be very clear that you are doing so.
• Don’t consent to searches. If the police ask if they can enter or search anything (including your home, vehicle, property, residence, or person), do not consent. Clearly and calmly decline, no matter how aggressive their request.
• Call an attorney as soon as possible. It is absolutely essential that you call an attorney as soon as possible. Do not say or consent to anything before your attorney is present.

Are you or a loved one facing criminal investigation or charges? Don’t wait. Get help now. Call (909) 330-4403 or contact us online.