1. The Bogan Law Firm
Focus Area: Criminal defense with California State Bar Certified Criminal Law Specialist and 500+ contested proceedings
Practice Areas: DUI, domestic violence, drug crimes, theft, assault, sex crimes, robbery, serious felonies, Three Strikes cases, juvenile crimes
Background: Now in his 20th year of practice, California State Bar Certified Criminal Law Specialist Tai C. Bogan has served as lead counsel in more than 500 contested proceedings, including criminal and civil jury trials, preliminary hearings, DMV hearings, and restraining order hearings throughout California’s Central Valley. The firm proudly serves clients in Stanislaus, San Joaquin, Merced, Tuolumne, and Alameda Counties, including the cities of Modesto, Stockton, Turlock, Merced, Tracy, Manteca, Dublin, Livermore, and beyond. Certified by the California State Bar, fewer than 1% of attorneys statewide hold this distinction in criminal law. Recognized for excellence in criminal defense, an honor awarded to no more than 5% of attorneys in Northern California each year. Attorney Tai C. Bogan also holds AV Preeminent and Super Lawyers honors for consistent excellence in criminal defense.
Location: Modesto, California (serves Central Valley and Northern California)
Contact: (209) 565-3425 | https://www.209legal.com/
Consultation: Available for consultation
2. Law Offices of Richard A. Meyer
Focus Area: Criminal defense with 21+ years experience and extensive trial record
Practice Areas: DUI, drug charges, gun charges, assault, theft, domestic violence, sex crimes, felonies
Background: For more than 21 years, Modesto criminal defense attorney Richard A. Meyer has fought to protect those accused of serious crimes. From criminal and administrative DUI proceedings to felony drug charges, gun charges, and more, the firm has a long track record of success in helping thousands of people from all walks of life defend against all types of criminal charges. The firm knows what strategies work, and has achieved countless acquittals, case dismissals, and reduced charges for clients. Attorney Meyer brings a wealth of knowledge and skill backed by two decades of criminal defense experience. The firm fights tirelessly and aggressively for the rights clients may not know they have. When you hire the Law Offices of Richard A. Meyer, the team will take the time to explain charges, rights, and the various legal options available. Attorney Meyer makes it his mission to ensure clients are prepared for what comes next.
Location: Modesto, California
Contact: (209) 529-1112 | https://www.duifightermeyer.com/
Consultation: Free and confidential consultation available (English and Spanish)
3. Scott Mitchell Law Incorporated
Focus Area: Criminal defense with flexible payment arrangements and federal case experience
Practice Areas: Federal crimes, drug crimes, DUI, theft, assault, white collar crimes, felonies, misdemeanors
Background: If you have been contacted by investigators from any federal agency, it is not in your interests to submit to questioning without having an attorney present to advise you, as you are at risk of making self-incriminating statements which could make your defense difficult or impossible. Contact Scott Mitchell Law Incorporated as early as possible, whether you are currently being investigated or you have already been formally charged by the federal government. The firm represents clients from Modesto and the Central Valley and services are available through flexible payment plans. The firm has helped people with a wide variety of criminal charges, and is prepared to take on even the most challenging cases. The firm offers payment arrangements, flat fee contracts, and traditional retainer agreements. The attorneys understand legal representation is necessary for all, and yet difficult for most to pay the fees all at once.
Location: Modesto, California
Contact: (209) 529-7406 | https://www.scottmitchelllaw.com/
Consultation: Free and confidential consultation available
4. Law Office of Jared Jordan
Focus Area: Criminal defense with former prosecutor experience and decade of courtroom experience
Practice Areas: DUI, drug crimes, assault, theft, domestic violence, sex crimes, felonies, misdemeanors
Background: Are you seeking a true champion in the courtroom? With over a decade of experience in the legal trenches of Modesto and Bakersfield, CA, Mr. Jordan has witnessed firsthand the rough tides of the legal system and is ready to defend your rights. As a former prosecutor with over a decade of time serving the community, Attorney Jordan has a strong understanding of how to structure a defense to protect clients’ rights and time. The goal is to get the facts together as soon as possible. With insights of the law and how the courts view these instances, the goal is to ensure that clients understand the implications and possible outcomes of such offenses. At Law Office of Jared Jordan, the firm understands the importance of transparent pricing. If you find yourself under arrest or facing criminal charges, it’s crucial to exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately.
Location: Modesto, California (also serves Bakersfield)
Contact: Available through website | https://jjordanlaw.com/
Consultation: Available for consultation
5. Rien, Adams & Cox, LLP
Focus Area: Criminal defense with aggressive representation and local court familiarity
Practice Areas: DUI, drug crimes, assault, theft, domestic violence, juvenile dependency, felonies, misdemeanors
Background: The firm provides aggressive and passionate criminal defense in the Modesto area. Finding a good criminal defense lawyer near you involves researching local attorneys, checking their experience in criminal law, reading client reviews, and scheduling consultations to discuss your case. The qualifications of a criminal defense lawyer include a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school, a valid license to practice law, and specialized experience in criminal law, demonstrating their ability to effectively defend clients against criminal charges. The role of a criminal defense lawyer in your case is to provide expert legal representation, protect your rights, and develop a strong defense strategy tailored to your specific charges and circumstances. The firm also handles juvenile dependency matters.
Location: Modesto, California
Contact: (209) 832-0202 | https://www.criminalaw.net/
Consultation: Initial consultation available
Criminal Defense Laws in California
Felony Classifications
California felonies are categorized by potential prison sentences:
Life Felonies: Includes first-degree murder, kidnapping for ransom, and certain sex offenses. Penalty is 25 years to life, life without parole, or death penalty.
Felonies with Specified Terms: Most felonies have a low, middle, and high term. For example, robbery carries 2, 3, or 5 years. Courts typically impose the middle term unless aggravating or mitigating factors exist.
“Wobblers”: Many offenses can be charged as either felonies or misdemeanors depending on circumstances. Examples include assault with a deadly weapon, grand theft, and certain drug offenses.
Misdemeanor Classifications
Standard Misdemeanor: Maximum 6 months in county jail and $1,000 fine.
Gross Misdemeanor: Maximum 364 days in county jail and $1,000 fine. Examples include DUI, domestic battery, and petty theft with prior.
Infractions: Non-criminal offenses punishable by fine only. Examples include minor traffic violations.
Expungement (Dismissal)
California allows expungement under Penal Code 1203.4:
Eligibility: Available after completing probation (or early termination) for most misdemeanors and felonies. Not available for certain sex offenses, offenses involving minors, and offenses where prison time was served.
Effect: Conviction is dismissed and set aside. You can legally state you were not convicted of the offense on most job applications. Does not restore gun rights or eliminate sex offender registration.
Felony Reduction: Some “wobbler” felonies can be reduced to misdemeanors under Penal Code 17(b) before expungement.
DUI Laws
California DUI applies to driving with BAC of .08% or higher (.04% commercial, .01% under 21). First offense carries 3-5 years informal probation, $390-$1,000 in fines plus penalty assessments (total often $1,800+), DUI school, and 6-month license suspension. Second offense within 10 years carries 96 hours to 1 year jail, 18-30 month DUI school, and 2-year license suspension. Third offense within 10 years carries 120 days to 1 year jail and 3-year license suspension. Fourth offense within 10 years can be charged as a felony with 16 months to 3 years state prison.
Frequently Asked Questions
What courts handle criminal cases in Modesto?
Criminal cases in Modesto are handled by the Stanislaus County Superior Court. The main courthouse is located at 800 11th Street in Modesto. Misdemeanor cases and felony arraignments are typically handled at this location. Preliminary hearings and felony trials are also conducted here. Traffic matters may be handled at the traffic division. Federal criminal cases are handled by the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California. Having a Modesto criminal defense attorney familiar with local judges and prosecutors in Stanislaus County provides an advantage in navigating your case.
What is Proposition 47 and how does it affect criminal charges in Modesto?
Proposition 47, passed in 2014, reduced many non-violent property and drug crimes from felonies to misdemeanors. Under Prop 47, shoplifting (theft from a store while open for business) under $950 is a misdemeanor. Theft under $950 is petty theft (misdemeanor). Forgery and bad checks under $950 are misdemeanors. Personal use possession of most controlled substances is a misdemeanor. Those previously convicted of these offenses as felonies may petition for resentencing or to have their records redesignated as misdemeanors. A Modesto criminal defense attorney can evaluate whether Prop 47 applies to your charges or previous convictions.
What are the consequences of a DUI conviction in Stanislaus County?
A DUI conviction in Stanislaus County carries serious consequences. First offense includes 3-5 years informal probation, $390-$1,000 fine plus penalty assessments (total often $1,800+), DUI school (3-9 months), 6-month license suspension, and possible jail time. Enhanced penalties apply for high BAC (.15%+), causing injury, or having a minor in the vehicle. Second offense within 10 years carries mandatory jail time, 18-30 month DUI school, and 2-year license suspension. Third offense carries 120 days to 1 year jail. Fourth offense can be charged as a felony. A Modesto criminal defense attorney can challenge the traffic stop, field sobriety tests, and chemical test results.
What diversion programs are available in Stanislaus County?
Stanislaus County offers several diversion programs for qualifying defendants. Penal Code 1000 Deferred Entry of Judgment is available for certain first-time drug offenders. Mental Health Diversion under Penal Code 1001.36 is available for defendants with qualifying mental health conditions. Military Diversion under Penal Code 1001.80 is available for current or former military members with service-related conditions. Proposition 36 provides treatment alternatives for certain drug offenders. Successful completion of these programs results in dismissal of charges. A Modesto criminal defense attorney can evaluate eligibility and negotiate for diversion.
Can I get my California criminal record expunged after a conviction in Modesto?
California allows expungement (dismissal) under Penal Code 1203.4 for most misdemeanors and felonies after completing probation. The conviction is dismissed and set aside, allowing you to legally state you were not convicted on most job applications. Some felonies can first be reduced to misdemeanors under Penal Code 17(b). California also now has automatic record clearing under AB 1076 for eligible arrests and convictions. Recent legislation has expanded eligibility and created automatic expungement for certain marijuana offenses. A Modesto criminal defense attorney can evaluate your eligibility, petition for early termination of probation, and file the appropriate expungement petition.