Riverside Criminal Defense Lawyer
A Proven Defense Team with Decades of Experience
If you’re under investigation or facing criminal charges, your career, freedom, and future can all be affected by what happens next. Prosecutors don’t need much time to begin building a case, which is why you shouldn’t wait to build yours.
Our criminal defense attorneys at The Law Offices of Taylor & Taylor have defended clients across Riverside County for decades.
Founded in 1979, our firm is nationally known for high-level criminal defense. We know how to challenge the government’s evidence when it matters most.
From early-stage investigations through courtroom litigation, our goal is straightforward: protect your rights, control the damage, and pursue the best available outcome.
Why People Call Us After an Arrest
- Established California Defense Firm: Founded in 1979, our firm has a long-standing reputation for serious criminal defense.
- Insight from Both Sides: Our team includes former prosecutors and former law enforcement officers who understand how cases are built.
- Technical Support Most Firms Don’t Have: When evidence is scientific or procedure-heavy, we’re built to challenge it.
- Focused, Evidence-Driven Strategy: We don’t rely on generic “one-size-fits-all” defenses—your plan should match your facts.
What to Expect When You Hire The Law Offices of Taylor & Taylor
Most people coming into a criminal case are dealing with uncertainty—what the state is alleging, what the evidence really shows, and what outcomes are realistic.
We keep the process structured and deliberate.
In most cases, you can expect:
- A focused consultation: What happened, what you’ve been told, what paperwork exists, and what deadlines are in play.
- Immediate next-step guidance: What to do (and not do), how communication should be handled, and how to avoid creating new risk.
- A defense roadmap: Exposure analysis, likely paths, and where leverage can be created.
- Evidence and procedure review: Reports, body cam, witness issues, search/seizure questions, and any testing or technical components.
- A resolution strategy that matches your priorities: Minimizing jail exposure, avoiding a conviction when possible, and protecting work/licensing consequences.
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Get Answers to Your Questions
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How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?
It depends on the type of charge, the complexity of the facts, and what the case requires (for example, motions, experts, or trial preparation). Our Riverside criminal defense attorneys can review your situation and clearly discuss fee structure during your consultation.
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Will I Have to Go to Court?
It depends on the charge, the court, and the strategy. Many misdemeanor matters can often be handled with minimal disruption. We’ll tell you what to expect early and plan around your work and responsibilities whenever possible.
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Can Charges Be Reduced or Dismissed?
Yes, depending on the facts, the evidence, and the legal issues. Outcomes often improve when the defense identifies leverage early.
Common ways cases improve include:
- Excluding evidence due to unlawful stops, searches, or flawed procedure
- Reducing charges when the alleged conduct doesn’t match the filing level
- Negotiating alternatives such as diversion or treatment-based resolutions (when available and appropriate)
- Dismissal when evidence is weak, unreliable, or legally defective
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What’s the Difference Between a Misdemeanor and a Felony?
In general terms, felonies carry more severe sentencing exposure and longer-term restrictions, but misdemeanors can still create serious consequences. The charge level doesn’t always reflect the damage a conviction can cause in employment, licensing, or family court.
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Will a Conviction Follow Me, Even After the Case Ends?
Potentially—yes. And it’s not just about “a record.” A conviction can trigger consequences that show up long after sentencing.
Examples include:
- Background checks for jobs, housing, loans, and professional opportunities
- Professional licensing issues (or discipline) for many licensed careers
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens (even in some misdemeanor cases)
- Probation terms and future sentencing exposure if anything happens later
- Firearm restrictions in certain cases or with certain orders/convictions
That’s why we evaluate not only the immediate penalties, but also the downstream impact of pleas, reductions, and record-clearing options when available.
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Do I Need a Lawyer If I Haven’t Been Charged Yet?
Often, yes. The investigation stage is when people unintentionally damage their position, especially by giving statements, consenting to searches, or trying to “clear it up” directly with law enforcement. Early representation helps control exposure and prevents avoidable mistakes.
