Protecting Your Future With A San Diego Felony Defense Attorney

Being arrested for a felony is a heavy burden that affects more than just your legal status. It impacts your family, your career and your sense of security. Under the California Penal Code, felony charges are the most serious offenses. It often carries the threat of significant prison time and life-altering consequences.

At Overholt & Cremeans, APC, we understand how deeply personal these concerns are. We stand between you and the power of the government to protect your dignity and tell your side of the story.

Our lead attorney, Jill Cremeans, brings a rare level of trial experience to your corner. As a member of the elite federal defense panel, she is frequently hired by the federal government to handle the most complex cases. Whether you are facing a violent crime allegation or a nonviolent felony, we bring that same level of precision to every client we serve in San Diego.

Move Through The Felony Process With Confidence

The road from an arrest to a resolution is complex, but we stay at your side through every critical stage:

• Arraignment and bail: This is your first court appearance, where you hear the formal charges. We fight for a bail reduction or an “own recognizance” release so you can return to your family while your case proceeds.
• The preliminary hearing: In many felony cases, a judge must decide if there is enough evidence to move forward. We use this hearing to cross-examine witnesses and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
• Grand jury proceedings: In some federal or high-profile state cases, a grand jury may be involved. We provide the guidance you need to make it through these secretive proceedings.
• Motions to suppress: If the police violated your rights during a search or arrest, we file a motion to suppress evidence, which can often lead to a dismissal of the entire case.

We focus on these procedural steps to weaken the prosecution’s case before it ever reaches a jury.

Defend Against Serious Charges And Enhancements

California law includes harsh penalties like strike offenses and sentencing enhancements that can double or triple your time in custody. We focus on strategic plea negotiations to reduce charges or pursue probation instead of incarceration. We also address collateral issues like a restraining order or the requirement to pay restitution to reach an outcome that is as fair as possible.

Our firm often manages cases involving:

• Violent felonies: Defending against homicide, robbery or assault with a deadly weapon
• Drug offenses: Handling cases involving possession for sale or large-scale trafficking
• Property crimes: Defending against grand theft, burglary or arson charges
• White collar crimes: Protecting those accused of fraud, embezzlement or identity theft

Our goal is to protect your criminal record so that a single event does not dictate your entire life.

Common Questions About Felony Defense In San Diego

When you are facing the possibility of a permanent record, you need clear answers to help you make the best decisions for your future. We have provided these responses to help clarify the road ahead.

What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in California?

In California, a misdemeanor is punishable by up to one year in county jail. A felony is more serious, punishable by death or time in state prison. Prosecutors can charge certain crimes, known as “wobblers,” as either a felony or a misdemeanor. We often fight to secure a misdemeanor charge for our clients.

What happens at a felony arraignment in San Diego?

At your arraignment, the judge formally advises you of the charges and your constitutional rights. You enter a plea – usually “not guilty” – and the judge determines your custody status. We use this opportunity to argue for your release and begin the process of reviewing the evidence the police have against you.

Can a felony be reduced or dismissed in California?

Yes, under California Penal Code Section 17(b), many felonies can be reduced to misdemeanors, even after a conviction occurs. We also pursue dismissals during the pretrial phase through successful negotiations or by winning a motion to suppress evidence.

Protect Your Freedom With Overholt & Cremeans, APC, Today

We believe that a single mistake or a false accusation should not destroy your life. If you are facing felony charges in San Diego, you need a dependable partner who knows how to fight for your liberty.

Call us at 619-908-1563 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation with a felony defense lawyer. We are ready to stand at your side.