What types of criminal defense cases does Wallin & Klarich handle in Tustin?

Our criminal defense attorneys represent clients in cases involving DUI, drug crimes, domestic violence, theft, assault, federal crimes, sex crimes, white collar crimes, juvenile offenses, murder, manslaughter, and all other criminal charges in Tustin and throughout Orange County.

Why should I choose Wallin & Klarich for my defense in Tustin?

With over 40 years of experience and a proven track record of success, Wallin & Klarich provides aggressive, knowledgeable, and compassionate defense. We offer free consultations, payment plans, 24/7 availability, and have successfully handled thousands of cases with favorable outcomes.

How much does a Tustin criminal defense attorney cost?

The cost varies based on case complexity, typically ranging from $2,500 to $15,000+. We offer free consultations, flexible payment plans, and financing options to make quality defense affordable. Many cases can be handled for a low down payment with monthly payments.

Can a criminal defense lawyer help me avoid jail time in Tustin?

Yes, an experienced criminal defense lawyer can often help you avoid jail through negotiating reduced charges, alternative sentencing programs, diversion programs, probation, or by presenting strong defenses that result in dismissal or acquittal. Our attorneys have kept thousands of clients out of jail.

Do you offer free consultations for criminal cases in Tustin?

Yes, we offer completely free initial consultations for all criminal cases. During this consultation, we'll review your case, explain your options, and provide honest advice about the best path forward. There's no obligation to hire us after the consultation.

What should I do if I'm arrested in Tustin?

If arrested: 1) Remain silent except to request an attorney, 2) Do not consent to searches, 3) Contact Wallin & Klarich immediately at (714) 500-8508 (available 24/7), 4) Do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney, 5) Write down everything you remember about the incident.

How quickly can you start working on my case?

We can begin working on your case immediately. We offer same-day consultations and can appear in court as early as the next business day. For arrests, we're available 24/7 and can often intervene before charges are filed.

Do you handle federal criminal cases in Tustin?

Yes, we handle both state and federal criminal cases. Our attorneys are licensed to practice in all California state courts and the federal courts in the Central District of California. Federal cases require specialized expertise which our team possesses.

Can you help clear my criminal record in Tustin?

Yes, we help clients with expungements, record sealing, certificates of rehabilitation, and pardons. Many convictions can be dismissed under PC 1203.4, allowing you to legally say you were not convicted. We offer free eligibility assessments.

What languages does your Tustin office speak?

Our Tustin office provides services in English, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, and Vietnamese. We ensure clear communication with all clients regardless of language preference and provide interpreter services when needed.

Orange County Robbery Attorney

At Wallin & Klarich, our Orange County robbery attorney defends people who face one of the most serious criminal charges under California law. Robbery is a violent felony that carries severe prison time and a permanent strike on your record. In 2024, robberies in California dropped by 7.5% compared to 2023, according to the Public Policy Institute of California's crime trends analysis. Yet the violent crime rate remains 9.8% above pre-pandemic levels, and firearms were involved in about 22.9% of all robberies statewide.

Our law offices bring over 40 years of criminal defense experience to clients facing robbery charges across Orange County and Southern California. Understanding the difference between first-degree robbery and second-degree robbery is critical to your defense, and knowing the legal process can help you prepare for what lies ahead.

Our Orange County Robbery Attorney and Criminal Defense Attorney Team Fight for Your Rights

At Wallin & Klarich, our criminal defense attorney team mounts an immediate, aggressive defense for clients facing robbery charges. We begin working on your criminal case from the first call because early action shapes outcomes. Our law offices bring over 40 years of extensive experience and deep familiarity with Orange County courts, judges, and prosecutors. We know what it takes to build a strong defense against a robbery charge.

Our firm has earned recognition for decades of criminal defense work:

Avvo 10.0 rating
Super Lawyers recognition
BBB A+ rating

Robbery is a strike offense under California's Three Strikes Law. Under Penal Code 667, a robbery conviction counts as a strike that can double the sentence for any future felony, so the stakes could not be higher. We offer a free consultation, flexible payment plans, and treat every client like family. Our goal is to fight for a favorable outcome in every robbery case we handle.

First Degree Robbery vs. Second Degree Robbery Under California Law

California law divides robbery into two categories. The degree of the charge depends on where the crime took place and who the victim was.

What Constitutes First Degree Robbery in Orange County

Under California Penal Code 211, robbery is the felonious taking of personal property from another person through force or fear. First-degree robbery applies when the alleged robbery occurs in specific circumstances.

The following situations lead to a first-degree robbery charge:

The crime occurs in an inhabited dwelling or inhabited home.
The taking happens near an ATM.
The victim is a taxi driver, bus driver, or other transportation operator.

First-degree robbery carries a prison sentence of 3, 4, or 6 years. Sentencing enhancements can increase this term. Great bodily injury adds 3 to 6 years, firearm use adds 10 to 20 years, and criminal street gang involvement can add more time. First-degree robbery counts as a strike under California's Three Strikes Law, which means a conviction follows you for life.

Second Degree Robbery and How It Differs From First Degree

All robberies that do not meet the criteria for first degree are charged as second degree robbery under California law. Second-degree robbery carries a prison sentence of 2, 3, or 5 years. Both first-degree and second-degree robbery are felonies. There is no misdemeanor robbery in California.

Our criminal defense attorney reviews every robbery case to ensure the prosecution has filed the correct charges. If the prosecutor proves only a second-degree robbery, the penalties are lower than for first-degree robbery. The critical element in any degree robbery charge is whether the prosecution's evidence shows force or fear. Without proof of force or fear, the charge should not stand as robbery at all.

How Force or Fear Defines County Robbery Criminal Charges

Force or fear is the element that separates robbery from theft. Without it, the prosecutor cannot prove a robbery charge under California Penal Code 211.

The Legal Standard for Force or Fear Under California Law

California law requires the prosecutor to prove that the defendant used force or fear to take property from another person's possession or immediate presence. "Force" includes any physical act beyond what is needed to take the property. "Fear" means the defendant threatened the victim with injury to themselves, their family, or their property. The threat must cause real fear in the victim's mind. The specific elements the prosecution must prove are detailed in CALCRIM 1600, the California jury instruction for robbery.

Our defense attorney challenges the prosecution's evidence of force or fear in county robbery cases. If we can show that no force or fear was present, the charge may be reduced to petty theft or another lesser offense. This distinction can mean the difference between years in state prison and a much lighter sentence. Every detail matters when your freedom is at stake.

Common Criminal Defense Strategies Our Defense Attorneys Use in Robbery Cases

Our criminal defense attorney team uses several potential defenses based on the specific circumstances of your robbery case:

Lack of force or fear: The taking did not involve intimidation or violence, which may reduce the charge to a theft offense
Mistaken identity: Challenging eyewitness testimony with surveillance footage, alibi evidence, and expert analysis
False accusation: Exposing motives for fabrication, such as personal disputes or revenge
Claim of right: The defendant had a genuine belief that the property belonged to them, which negates the intent required for robbery

We build a tailored defense strategy for every county robbery case. Our skilled attorney team reviews the prosecution's case, examines every piece of evidence, and identifies the strongest path to raise reasonable doubt. A strong defense begins with understanding the facts and applying the right legal strategy to your circumstances.

Possible Consequences of a Criminal Conviction for Robbery in Orange County

A robbery conviction carries penalties that extend far beyond prison time. The impact of a criminal conviction for this violent crime can follow you for the rest of your life.

Sentencing and Long-Term Impact of a Robbery Criminal Conviction

Prison time for robbery ranges from 2 to 6 years, depending on the degree of robbery classification. With sentencing enhancements, the sentence can reach up to 9 years. A convicted person may spend significant time in state prison, and there is no option for probation in many robbery cases.

A robbery criminal conviction also creates lasting consequences beyond your prison sentence:

Strike offense: A robbery conviction counts as a strike under California's strike law, which doubles sentences for any future felony conviction
Restitution: The court orders the convicted person to pay the victim for losses
Permanent criminal record: Loss of firearm rights, immigration consequences for non-citizens, and barriers to employment
Housing and licensing: Landlords and licensing boards screen for violent felony convictions, which can block housing and professional licenses for an extended period

For non-citizens, a robbery conviction may be classified as a crime involving moral turpitude or an aggravated felony under federal immigration law, which can trigger deportation, bar admission, or prevent naturalization. These consequences show why experienced criminal defense is critical to avoid or minimize a criminal conviction. An experienced attorney can fight to reduce charges, challenge the prosecution's evidence, and pursue the best possible outcome for your case. Do not face an Orange County criminal charge of this severity without a strong legal team.

Frequently Asked Questions About Robbery Criminal Charges in Orange County

What is the difference between first-degree robbery and second-degree robbery?

First-degree robbery involving an inhabited dwelling, an ATM, or a transit operator carries a 3- to 6-year prison sentence. Second-degree robbery carries a sentence of 2 to 5 years.

Is robbery always a felony under California law?

Yes. Under California law, all robbery charges are felonies. This applies to both first-degree and second-degree robbery. There is no misdemeanor robbery charge in California.

Can robbery charges be reduced to theft in Orange County?

Yes, in some cases. If our defense attorney shows that no force or fear was used in the taking of property, the criminal charges may be reduced to petty theft.

Does a robbery conviction count as a strike in California?

Yes. Robbery is a violent felony and counts as a strike under California's Three Strikes Law. This doubles the sentences for any future felony criminal conviction.

What should I do after being arrested for robbery?

Stay silent and contact our law offices right away for a free consultation. Early legal representation from a criminal defense attorney protects your rights from the start.

How does Wallin & Klarich defend clients against county robbery charges?

Our defense attorneys challenge evidence of force or fear, dispute witness identifications, and expose false accusations. We fight to reduce or dismiss criminal charges in your case.

Contact Our Orange County Robbery Attorney for a Free Consultation

Robbery is a strike offense. Your freedom and future depend on the defense team you choose. At Wallin & Klarich, our team of robbery defense attorneys brings over 40 years of criminal defense experience to clients across Orange County and Southern California. We have the extensive experience and resources to take on the toughest county robbery cases. As the California Department of Justice's crime data confirms, robbery remains one of the most aggressively prosecuted violent offenses in the state, making experienced legal defense essential.

We make it easy to take the first step:

Free consultation to review your robbery case and explain your options
Flexible payment plans to fit your budget.
A dedicated criminal defense attorney assigned to your case

Call us today at (877) 466-5245. Our law offices provide the aggressive legal representation you need to fight robbery criminal charges. Do not face a robbery charge alone. Call Wallin & Klarich today and let our experienced attorney team begin building your defense strategy for the best possible favorable outcome.