1. Law Offices of Mark Anthony Raimondo
Focus Area: Criminal defense with 24+ years trial experience and national recognition
Practice Areas: DUI, drug crimes, murder, domestic violence, assault, theft, sex crimes, violent crimes
Background: Attorney Mark Anthony Raimondo has an impressive record of dismissals, not guilty verdicts, favorable plea agreements, and over 24 years of Criminal Trial experience. A graduate of Pepperdine University School of Law (J.D. 98), Mr. Raimondo does one thing and does it well. The firm has been awarded “Nation’s Top One Percent” by the National Association of Distinguished Counsel (2015-2025), “National Top 100 Trial Lawyers” by TheNationalTrialLawyers.org (2015-2025), and “Client’s Choice Criminal Defense” by Avvo.com (2012-2025). The firm maintains a Google ranking of 4.9 with over 222 five-star reviews. Early intervention and vigorous preparation is emphasized as crucial.
Location: Bakersfield, California (serves Kern County)
Contact: (661) 827-8000 | https://www.raimondolaw.com/
Consultation: Free, no-obligation consultation available 24/7
2. Torres | Torres Stallings, A Law Corporation
Focus Area: Criminal defense at state and federal levels with 35+ years experience
Practice Areas: State criminal defense, federal criminal defense, white-collar crimes, drug crimes, violent crimes
Background: For over 35 years, Torres | Torres Stallings, A Law Corporation, has been serving Bakersfield and providing criminal defense support at the state and federal levels. The attorneys passionately believe that everyone has the right to a fair and just trial and that the innocent are not convicted of a crime. This dedication translates to zealous support and advocacy for clients inside and outside of the courtroom. The attorneys were raised in the San Joaquin Valley and understand the severity of being charged with a crime. They have kept their roots within the community for over 45 years, allowing them to provide much more personalized support and trust among clients.
Location: Bakersfield, California (serves Kern County for state cases and throughout the United States for federal cases)
Contact: (661) 326-0857 | https://www.lawtorres.com/
Consultation: Available for consultation (Habla Español)
3. Campbell Whitten, PC
Focus Area: Criminal defense with team approach and award-winning attorneys
Practice Areas: DUI, drug crimes, assault, theft, domestic violence, sex crimes, violent crimes, felonies, misdemeanors
Background: As Bakersfield’s criminal defense firm, Campbell Whitten provides aggressive, capable defense for clients facing misdemeanor and felony charges alike. The firm uses a team approach where clients get all three of the firm’s attorneys working together to fight for their rights. Attorney Clayton D. Campbell graduated with honors from Oak Brook College of Law in 2002 and has practiced primarily criminal defense law in Kern County. Attorney Jesse Whitten has been his long-time friend and fellow criminal defense attorney. One attorney is always on call, offering 24/7 service to clients. The powerhouse defenders form a dedicated criminal defense team backed by a phenomenal track record.
Location: Bakersfield, California (serves Kern County)
Contact: (661) 771-3077 | https://www.campbellwhitten.com/
Consultation: Available for consultation
4. Shouse Law Group
Focus Area: Criminal defense with statewide presence and former prosecutors on staff
Practice Areas: DUI, drug crimes, domestic violence, theft, assault, violent crimes, sex crimes, record expungement
Background: The Bakersfield criminal defense attorneys at Shouse Law Group fight to get felony, misdemeanor, and infraction charges reduced to lesser offenses or dismissed. Longstanding members of the State Bar of California, the attorneys have perfect 10-point AVVO ratings and have been recognized by the National Trial Lawyers. The legal team consists of former police officers and former prosecutors in the California criminal justice system, using insider knowledge to challenge law enforcement. The firm explains the law, penalties, and best defense strategies for every major crime in California. They serve all of Kern County and Central Valley, including Arvin, California City, Delano, Maricopa, McFarland, Ridgecrest, Shafter, Taft, Tehachapi, Wasco, and more.
Location: 1430 Truxtun Ave, 5th floor, Bakersfield, CA 93301
Contact: (661) 344-1500 | https://www.shouselaw.com/
Consultation: Free consultation available
5. Days Law Firm
Focus Area: Criminal defense with two decades of state and federal experience
Practice Areas: Federal crimes, state crimes, drug charges, violent crimes, DUI, theft
Background: Attorney Marc Days is backed by two decades of extensive state and federal experience. His extensive experience has helped him successfully handle thousands of cases. The firm offers free initial phone consultations and is available 24/7, meeting clients in jail or after hours by appointment. Notable case results include a 2010 case where the client was charged with attempted murder but charges were dismissed following a hung jury based on the defense of insanity, and a 2021 case in Los Angeles Superior Court where kidnapping charges carrying a mandatory life sentence were dismissed after the preliminary hearing. The firm has offices in Bakersfield, Fresno, and San Jose.
Location: 4900 California Ave., Tower B, 2nd Floor, Bakersfield, CA 93309
Contact: (661) 246-3332 | https://dayslawfirm.com/
Consultation: Free initial phone consultation available
Criminal Defense Laws in California
Felony Classifications
California does not use a traditional felony classification system. Instead, each offense has its own specific penalty range:
Straight Felonies: Crimes that can only be charged as felonies, such as murder, rape, and kidnapping. Penalties vary widely based on the specific offense.
Wobblers: Offenses that can be charged as either felonies or misdemeanors at the prosecutor’s discretion, such as assault with a deadly weapon, grand theft, and domestic violence with injury. The decision depends on circumstances and criminal history.
Determinate Sentencing: Most California felonies have a “triad” sentencing structure with low, middle, and high terms (e.g., 2, 3, or 4 years). Judges select within this range based on aggravating and mitigating factors.
Indeterminate Sentencing: Serious violent felonies may carry indeterminate sentences such as 15 years to life or 25 years to life.
Misdemeanor Classifications
Standard Misdemeanor: Maximum penalty of 6 months in county jail and $1,000 fine. Examples include petty theft, simple assault, and trespassing.
Gross Misdemeanor: Maximum penalty of 364 days in county jail and higher fines. Examples include DUI (first offense), domestic battery, and violation of protective order.
Infractions: Not criminal offenses. Punishable only by fine, no jail time. Examples include most traffic violations and minor municipal code violations.
Record Clearing Options
California offers multiple paths to record clearing:
Expungement (PC 1203.4): Available for most misdemeanor and felony convictions after completing probation. The conviction is dismissed but still visible on background checks (employer must ignore it for most purposes).
Proposition 47 Relief: Certain drug and theft felonies can be reduced to misdemeanors and then expunged.
Proposition 64 Relief: Marijuana-related convictions can be reduced, dismissed, or sealed depending on the offense.
Certificate of Rehabilitation: Available for certain felons who have demonstrated rehabilitation. Can lead to a gubernatorial pardon.
Automatic Record Sealing (SB 731): Effective July 2023, California automatically seals arrest and conviction records for eligible offenses after completion of sentence and waiting period (typically 4 years for felonies).
DUI Laws
California DUI applies to driving with BAC of .08% or higher (.04% commercial, .01% under 21). First offense carries 96 hours to 6 months jail, $390-$1,000 fine plus assessments, 6-month license suspension, 3-month DUI school, and 3-5 years probation. California has an implied consent law; refusal results in 1-year license suspension (first offense). Fourth DUI within 10 years is a felony. DUI with injury can be charged as a felony even for first offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where will my criminal case be heard in Kern County?
Criminal cases in Bakersfield and Kern County are heard at the Kern County Superior Court. Felony cases are heard at the Metropolitan Division at 1215 Truxtun Ave in Bakersfield. Misdemeanor cases are typically heard at the Metro Division Criminal Misdemeanor location at 1415 Truxtun Ave. Traffic violations are handled by the Metro Traffic Division at 3131 Arrow Street. Other branch courts handle cases from different parts of the county, including Delano, Ridgecrest, Shafter, and Taft. Having a Bakersfield criminal defense attorney who regularly practices in these courts and knows the local judges and prosecutors provides a significant advantage.
What happens if I am arrested by Bakersfield Police or Kern County Sheriff?
Most people arrested by the Bakersfield Police Department or the Kern County Sheriff’s Department are transported and booked at the Central Receiving Facility at 1415 Truxtun Ave in Bakersfield. After being arrested and booked in jail, you will typically be released to appear later in court. Depending on the case, you may be required to post bail or be released on your own recognizance (OR), meaning you promise to appear for all future court appearances. Eventually, inmates may be transferred to the Lerdo Jail at 17695 Industrial Farm Road. If you are charged with a misdemeanor crime, you can retain a private criminal defense lawyer to appear on your behalf, meaning you may not have to personally appear in court for a misdemeanor offense as long as your lawyer is there to represent you.
What is prefiling intervention and can it help my case?
Prefiling intervention is a process where a criminal defense attorney contacts the prosecutor before charges are formally filed, attempting to prevent the filing of charges altogether. This is possible because there is often a gap between arrest and the filing of charges while the prosecutor reviews the case. During this window, an experienced Bakersfield criminal defense attorney can present evidence favorable to you, challenge the strength of the evidence against you, and argue that charges should not be filed. If successful, you avoid the stress, expense, and public record of being formally charged. Even if charges are still filed, prefiling intervention can sometimes result in reduced charges. This strategy works best when you retain an attorney immediately after arrest, before charges are filed.
What is the difference between state and federal criminal court in Bakersfield?
Criminal cases in Bakersfield can be prosecuted in either state or federal court depending on the nature of the offense. State charges for violations of California law are heard in Kern County Superior Court. Federal charges for violations of federal law are heard in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California, which has an office in Bakersfield (opened in 2015). Federal agencies active in Bakersfield include the DEA, FBI, IRS, and HHS Office of Inspector General. Federal cases typically involve more serious charges with harsher sentences, more resources for prosecution, and different procedures than state cases. If you are facing federal investigation or charges, you need an attorney experienced in federal criminal defense, not just state practice.
Can I get my Kern County conviction expunged?
California allows expungement of many convictions under Penal Code 1203.4. To qualify, you must have completed probation (or been discharged early) and not currently be charged with a crime, on probation, or serving a sentence. If you successfully petition, your plea of guilty or no contest is withdrawn, a not guilty plea is entered, and the case is dismissed. However, expungement does not completely erase the conviction; it remains visible to law enforcement and licensing boards and must still be disclosed in certain circumstances. Proposition 47 allows certain drug and theft felonies to be reduced to misdemeanors. California’s automatic sealing law (SB 731) now seals eligible records after waiting periods without requiring a petition. A Bakersfield criminal defense attorney can evaluate your eligibility and file the appropriate petitions.