Santa Barbara Criminal Defense Law Firm

Former Deputy District Attorneys Defending Your Rights

A criminal charge has the power to derail the life you’ve worked so hard building, as you could lose your job, housing, financial aid, college education, and even your relationships with friends and family. These devastating outcomes can best be avoided when you hire an experienced, reliable criminal defense attorney.

At Appel & Morse, our Santa Barbara defense lawyers are skilled former prosecutors backed by 40+ combined years of legal experience on both sides of the court system. As a result, we have the know-how, resources, and strategies needed to craft a high-caliber defense strategy on your behalf.

Whether you’re facing misdemeanor or felony charges in state or federal court, you can count on our diligent attorneys to go above and beyond for you. Our priority is to help get your charges reduced or dropped altogether, so allow us to fight for that possibility today.

Let’s get to work! To arrange a free consultation, contact us online or at F:P:Sub:Phone}!

What Criminal Charges Can Our Lawyers Defend?

Our experience on both sides of the criminal justice system has given us extensive, well-versed knowledge in resolving even the most complex accusations. In addition to appeals, expungements, and arrest warrants, our attorneys handle a broad range of criminal charges, including:

• Alcohol Offenses
  • Disorderly Conduct
  • Public Intoxication 
• Drug Crimes
  • Drug Possession
  • Possession with Intent to Sell
  • Drug Distribution
  • Drug Trafficking
  • Prescription Drug Crimes
• Federal Crimes
• Felony Crimes
• Internet Crimes
• Misdemeanor Crimes
• Sex Crimes
• Theft Crimes
• Violent Crimes
• White Collar Crimes 

What to Do After an Arrest

Whether or not it’s your first time getting arrested for a crime, you know that it can be a frightening and humiliating experience, nonetheless. The police may be unpredictable in how they handle your situation, but the bottom line is you must remember certain steps following your arrest.

The last thing you need is to make a bad situation worse, so our lawyers encourage you to be mindful of the information below:

Be respectful: As you may already know, police interactions can escalate to a dangerous point if an arrestee doesn’t cooperate. A person may talk down to the arresting officer, attempt to flee the scene, or try to hide evidence of their suspected crime. However, these actions will only make your situation worse. As much as you may disagree with your arrest, be respectful and cordial with the police at all times.

You have rights: You have the right to remain silent, have an attorney, and if you can’t afford one, you have the right to a public attorney. Know that anything you say can and will be used against you, so exercise your right to remain silent. The police officer may not inform you of these Miranda Rights after arresting you, but it’s important to exercise these rights at all times, whether or not they are read to you.

Don’t answer questions: There are certain situations in which police officers are allowed to ask for certain information from you, but other than that, you are better off NOT answering further questions. To clarify, the police are allowed to ask for your ID, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance if they pull you over, and if they stop you on the street and give you a ticket, you are only required to give your name, birth date, and signature (on the ticket).

In all other instances, you have the right to remain silent. Therefore, you should avoid answering questions from the police. They may try to pressure and threaten you into answering further questions, but stand your ground and respectfully say, “I want to remain silent.”

Call a lawyer: You should always call a lawyer if you are arrested or believe you are being investigated. Your attorney can inform you of your rights, help you navigate the process, and provide the legal counsel you need to help minimize the impacts of your situation. Remember, you have the right to an attorney, so be sure to hire one right away.

Gather evidence: Documenting the reported crime scene will help your defense strategy. Take photos and videos, write down anything you think is important to your case, and get information from any witnesses. Write down the witnesses’ names, contact information, and any statements they can give regarding the alleged crime. The more details you can remember and record, the better.

Why Choose Appel & Morse for Your Defense?

There are many law firms in Santa Barbara, but not all provide the advantages that we do. With so much on the line, including your freedom and reputation, you want a legal team that has the “full package.” You’ve come to the right place.

Our criminal defense lawyers bring the following benefits to the table:

• Free case consultations
• Extensive trial experience
• Flexible appointment availability
• Strong husband and wife duo
• Prosecutorial insights
• 40+ years of combined legal experience
• Proven track record for successful outcomes 

Ready to begin your defense? So are we. Get in touch with our lawyers online or at (805) 467-6060 to schedule your complimentary consultation!