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Palo Alto Criminal Defense Attorney

Palo Alto is known for its low crime rates, and facing criminal charges can be especially jarring in this family- and career-oriented community. If you have been charged with a crime or have a warrant out for your arrest, you need an attorney who understands the city’s unique cultural dynamics and can represent you well at every stage on the road ahead. 

At the Law Offices of Dean Johnson, Attorney Dean Johnson has been practicing as a criminal defense attorney since 1998. With prior experience as a prosecutor for the DA’s office and a national reputation as a legal commentator and strategist, Mr. Johnson has the skills, experience, and dedication to advocate vigorously on your behalf.

Request a consultation today to start building your case. 

Criminal Charges and Your Professional Career

Palo Alto’s position as the epicenter of Silicon Valley means that many of its residents work top-tier tech jobs. If you were recently charged with a crime, you may be concerned about how these charges will impact your career, among other aspects of your life. 

As an at-will employment state, California employers can choose to terminate employment for virtually any reason, which means you may be at risk of immediate job suspension or termination even if you are ultimately acquitted. Arrests can show up on your criminal record for years to come and negatively impact your employment prospects. 

Attorney Dean Johnson will explore your options for minimizing the impact of your charges. If you were charged and acquitted or your charges were ultimately dropped, you may be eligible for record sealing.

Types of Criminal Cases We Represent in Palo Alto

Mr. Johnson has extensive experience representing clients across a wide range of criminal charges. While Palo Alto’s violent crime rate is extremely low, Mr. Johnson is well-versed in defending clients charged with homicide, domestic violence, and other violent crimes. 

Our experience spans all of the following case types:

Mr. Johnson also commonly represents clients through criminal appeals.

Whether you are looking for a skilled domestic violence defense lawyer or an attorney with experience defending federal charges, Attorney Dean Johnson is prepared to approach your case with legal prowess. 

What Happens After an Arrest in Palo Alto

The process of being arrested and charged with a crime can feel extremely distressing. Sometimes, knowing what to expect can provide a small amount of relief. 

After a person is arrested in Palo Alto, they are generally booked at the Palo Alto Police Department headquarters, or at the Santa Clara County Main Jail for more serious charges. California law requires police to allow at least three completed phone calls within three hours of being booked, which can include calling an attorney. 

The individual may then be released on bail or on their own recognizance (O.R.). If they remain in custody, the arraignment will generally occur within 48 to 72 hours. Palo Alto criminal charges are generally heard at the Santa Clara County Superior Court. 

Having an attorney with you through this process can help you feel more confident and avoid mistakes that could hurt your case.

Local Experience in the Palo Alto Region

Palo Alto is considered a very safe city, which means local law enforcement and prosecutors take violent crimes extremely seriously. No matter your charges in Palo Alto, retaining an attorney with local experience can be valuable. 

Attorney Dean Johnson has defended clients in Palo Alto for several decades. Before opening his practice in 1998, he served as a prosecutor for five years at the San Mateo County District Attorney’s Office. Mr. Johnson brings a unique local perspective to his clients’ cases and leverages diverse experience to develop strong litigation strategies.

Request a Consultation With a Palo Alto Criminal Defense Attorney Today

If you are facing criminal charges in Palo Alto, now is the time to retain a criminal defense attorney. The Law Offices of Dean Johnson provides local representation, compassionate legal support, and aggressive defense. Contact us today using the form below to request a consultation with Attorney Dean Johnson. 

Call (650) 216-7155 for a free consultation, or reach out online.

Ready To Appeal Your Conviction?

Time limits on appeals are strict, so do not wait. Call the Law Offices of Dean Johnson for a free consultation and let 30 years of trial and appellate experience work for your case.