El Dorado County

Situated between Sacramento and Lake Tahoe, El Dorado County is a scenic region of California bordering the Nevada state line. It is famous not only for its stunning terrain but also for being the site of the gold discovery that sparked the California Gold Rush in the mid-19th century. As in other California counties, people in El Dorado County may be prosecuted for violent crimes, property crimes, or other offenses. Fortunately, defendants have many potential ways to fight the charges against them. A skilled attorney can identify the defenses that may be available to you, as well as ensuring that your legal rights are protected during the proceedings. El Dorado County criminal defense lawyer William J. Routsis brings insights gleaned from over 25 years of experience to assist defendants in a variety of cases, ranging from drug offenses, theft offenses, and white collar crimes to DUI, domestic violence, assault, and homicide. He can represent people in South Lake Tahoe, El Dorado Hills, Placerville, and throughout the surrounding areas.

Vigorously fighting the charges against you involves a careful consideration of the facts and evidence. Relevant details may include the circumstances leading up to the alleged offense, the relationship between the parties, and the subsequent conduct of the police and prosecutors. In almost every criminal case, the burden is on the prosecution to prove each element of the charged offense beyond a reasonable doubt. A defendant often can present evidence to weaken the state’s case against him or her. For example, witnesses or documents may cast doubt on the identification of the defendant as the perpetrator of the crime.

For most offenses, the state must also establish that the defendant specifically intended to commit the crime alleged. If the defendant accidentally injured a victim or did not know that he or she had possession of drugs, for example, a charge may not be sustained. In addition, using force in defense of yourself or another person is legal in California in some situations. The defendant must reasonably believe that immediate physical harm will befall the defendant or another person and use only the amount of force necessary to prevent it.

The U.S. and California Constitutions also offer protection for citizens against unlawful actions by the police and prosecution. If evidence was acquired in violation of these constitutional rights, a judge may rule that the evidence cannot be used against the defendant. All too often, law enforcement searches an individual’s residence without his or her consent or a valid search warrant. In many cases, evidence such as drugs that is obtained as a result of an illegal search or seizure, or other police misconduct, will be suppressed by the court. People in police custody who are interrogated before they are given Miranda warnings may also have their statements suppressed as a violation of their rights. Similarly, if a confession is not provided voluntarily, it may be thrown out.

A capable defense attorney may negotiate with prosecutors to seek a plea agreement that is favorable to the defendant. A plea agreement, or plea bargain, requires the defendant to plead guilty to a criminal charge in order to receive a concession from the prosecutor, which usually consists of a lower charge or reduced penalties. To determine the benefits and potential disadvantages of any plea bargain offered by the prosecution, it is critical to discuss the matter with a defense attorney familiar with the details of your case.

Mounting a strong defense against the prosecution begins by discussing your case with an attorney whom you trust. El Dorado County criminal defense attorney William J. Routsis is passionate in his belief that every person facing charges has the right to vigorous representation. If you are seeking a DUI attorney or representation in fighting a drug, theft, domestic violence, assault, or homicide charge in California, Mr. Routsis is prepared to assist you. To schedule a free consultation, call (775) 337-2609 or contact us online.