Facing a felony or misdemeanor charge in Oakland can impact nearly every part of your life, from your job and housing to your immigration status and family relationships. Whether the accusation involves shoplifting, burglary, fraud, or another theft-related offense, the prosecutor is already working to build a case against you. You deserve a legal defense that carefully examines the evidence, protects your rights at every stage, and looks for ways to reduce or dismiss the charges whenever possible under California law.
The Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed represents individuals charged with felony and misdemeanor theft and related offenses in Oakland, Alameda County, and throughout nearby communities. Every case is different, and your circumstances, history, and goals matter. From the moment you reach out, our firm focuses on what can be done right now to limit the damage, explore defenses, and protect your future. If you are being investigated or have already been arrested, speaking with a defense attorney as early as possible can make a meaningful difference.
Felony and misdemeanor accusations in Oakland carry far more than potential fines and jail time. A conviction can appear on background checks for years, follow you when you apply for work or housing, and sometimes affect professional licenses or immigration status. Having a lawyer who understands local courts and California theft laws helps you avoid saying or doing things that hurt your case and opens the door to options you might not know about, such as diversion, charge reductions, or alternative sentencing that can protect your record and your future opportunities.
The Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed is a criminal defense law firm focused on protecting people facing charges in Oakland, Alameda County, and Contra Costa County. Over years in local courts, the firm has handled a wide range of theft and related cases, from petty theft and shoplifting to robbery and complex fraud matters. That experience gives the firm insight into how judges and prosecutors view specific charges and what strategies may work best in a given courtroom. Clients receive direct communication, clear guidance, and strong advocacy aimed at securing the most favorable outcome available.
In California, theft and other property crimes can be filed as misdemeanors or felonies depending on the value of the property, the circumstances of the incident, and a person’s prior record. A simple accusation of shoplifting or minor theft might begin as a misdemeanor, but it can still carry jail exposure and a damaging criminal record. More serious allegations, such as burglary, robbery, or grand theft, may be charged as felonies, exposing a person to state prison and long-term consequences that extend well beyond the courtroom.
Oakland police and Alameda County prosecutors often rely on witness statements, surveillance footage, loss prevention reports, and sometimes digital evidence to support their cases. The way those details are collected and presented can make a significant difference. A strong defense digs into whether the stop, search, or seizure was lawful, whether identification procedures were fair, and whether the evidence truly supports the charges. Understanding how these cases move through the local system gives you a clearer picture of what to expect and how your lawyer can push back against the accusations.
Under California law, a misdemeanor is a crime that can be punished by up to one year in county jail, while a felony can lead to more than a year of incarceration and other serious penalties. Some theft offenses are wobblers, meaning the prosecutor can choose to file them as either a misdemeanor or a felony. This charging decision often has enormous impact on your exposure and future. Your lawyer’s role includes challenging the evidence used to justify felony charges, seeking reductions to misdemeanors where possible, and pushing for resolutions that minimize long-term consequences.
A felony or misdemeanor theft case in Oakland usually moves through several stages, beginning with an investigation or arrest, followed by arraignment, pretrial hearings, and sometimes trial. At the arraignment, the court advises you of the charges and your rights, and bail or release conditions may be addressed. During the pretrial phase, your attorney reviews police reports, videos, and other evidence, files motions to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence, negotiates with the prosecutor, and prepares for trial if needed. Understanding these steps can relieve some anxiety and help you make informed choices.
When you are arrested or charged with a felony or misdemeanor in Oakland, you may hear unfamiliar terms that affect your rights. Words like arraignment, bail, diversion, and plea bargain can sound technical, but they reflect real decisions about your freedom and future. Knowing what these terms mean allows you to participate actively in your defense and ask better questions during meetings with your lawyer. This brief glossary highlights several important concepts that commonly arise in theft and other property crime cases in Alameda County courts.
Arraignment is typically your first formal court appearance after an arrest or citation for a felony or misdemeanor. During this hearing, the judge tells you what charges have been filed, advises you of your constitutional rights, and asks for a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Bail and release conditions may also be discussed. Having a lawyer at this stage helps ensure that you do not unintentionally waive rights, and allows immediate advocacy about bail, release, and early defense strategy tailored to your situation.
Diversion is a program that can allow some people charged with certain offenses, often including lower-level theft crimes, to complete counseling, classes, community service, or restitution in exchange for a dismissal or reduction of charges. Not everyone qualifies, and eligibility rules can change over time. In Alameda County, diversion programs may vary depending on the type of offense and your prior record. A lawyer can evaluate whether diversion is realistic in your case, negotiate with the prosecutor, and guide you through the requirements if a diversion plan is approved.
A wobbler offense is a crime that can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony under California law, depending on the circumstances and the prosecutor’s decision. Many theft-related crimes, such as certain grand theft or burglary charges, fall into this category. Whether your case is filed as a misdemeanor or a felony greatly affects potential penalties, plea options, and long-term consequences. Your attorney may work to persuade the prosecutor or judge to treat the wobbler as a misdemeanor, which can significantly reduce your exposure and impact on your record.
A plea bargain is a negotiated agreement between the defense and the prosecution that typically involves pleading guilty or no contest to certain charges in return for reduced charges, fewer counts, or a lighter sentence. In felony and misdemeanor theft cases, plea bargaining can sometimes lead to a reduction from a felony to a misdemeanor, or even a dismissal of some counts. While a trial is always an option, many cases resolve through negotiation. A thoughtful plea strategy weighs the risks of trial against the benefits of a negotiated resolution.
When you are facing a theft charge in Oakland, it can be tempting to just plead guilty to “get it over with,” especially if the prosecutor offers what sounds like a quick deal. However, you may have defenses that have not been explored, or options such as diversion, dismissal of certain counts, or reductions from felony to misdemeanor. Other times, taking a case to trial may be the best way to challenge weak evidence. Comparing these paths with a lawyer’s guidance helps you choose an approach that aligns with your goals and tolerance for risk.
In some situations, particularly when a person has no prior record and the allegation involves a lower-value item, a limited legal approach may adequately protect their interests. For example, shoplifting or minor theft charges might be resolved through diversion, civil compromise, or other alternatives that focus on restitution and rehabilitation rather than harsh punishment. In these cases, your lawyer may be able to focus on negotiating a favorable resolution quickly, keeping court appearances manageable, and working to avoid a lasting conviction that could interfere with employment and housing opportunities.
If the evidence in a misdemeanor case appears strong and your primary goal is to minimize penalties rather than contest guilt, a more limited approach centered on negotiation may make sense. This can include seeking reduced charges, shorter probation, alternative sentencing, or arrangements that protect immigration status where possible. A streamlined strategy still requires careful review of the case, but it may avoid the time, stress, and expense of extended litigation. Your attorney can explain how this kind of focused representation might help you move forward sooner with fewer long-term setbacks.
When you are facing felony theft charges, multiple counts, or allegations that could trigger significant jail or prison time, a comprehensive defense becomes especially important. These cases often require in-depth investigation, consultation with witnesses, review of surveillance footage, and analysis of financial or digital records. The defense may need to challenge the legality of searches, identification procedures, or statements made to police. By taking a broad, thorough approach, your attorney can identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and build a strategy aimed at dismissal, acquittal, or substantial charge reductions.
Some felony and misdemeanor theft convictions carry consequences far beyond fines and custody, particularly for noncitizens or people who hold professional or occupational licenses. Certain theft offenses may be considered crimes involving moral turpitude, which can trigger immigration problems or licensing board scrutiny. In these circumstances, a comprehensive defense strategy focuses not only on the immediate criminal case but also on protecting immigration status and professional standing. Your attorney can coordinate with immigration or licensing counsel when necessary to pursue outcomes that limit long-term harm while addressing the charges in Oakland court.
A comprehensive defense strategy means looking at more than just the police report and initial charges. It involves understanding your personal history, employment, family responsibilities, and any underlying issues that may have contributed to the situation, such as addiction, mental health, or financial stress. By presenting a fuller picture to the prosecutor and judge, your attorney can advocate for solutions that emphasize rehabilitation, treatment, and second chances. This approach often opens doors to diversion programs, reduced charges, or alternative sentencing that a narrow, rush-to-plead strategy might overlook.
Taking the time to thoroughly evaluate your case also helps protect your rights at each stage of the process. A comprehensive approach includes challenging unlawful searches, unreliable identifications, and questionable statements, as well as scrutinizing how evidence was collected and preserved. In some cases, this work leads to key evidence being excluded or charges being dismissed. Even when a plea is ultimately the best option, a strong investigative foundation provides leverage during negotiations and increases the chances of achieving a result that truly reflects the facts and your circumstances.
When your attorney has carefully investigated your felony or misdemeanor theft case, reviewed every report, and consulted with potential witnesses, it sends a clear message to the prosecutor and the court. A well-prepared defense can point to specific weaknesses in the evidence, inconsistencies in witness accounts, or legal problems with the stop or search. This preparation often improves your bargaining position, making it more likely that the prosecution will consider dismissals, reductions, or favorable sentencing terms that might not have been offered if the case appeared unchallenged or underdeveloped.
Many people charged with felony or misdemeanor theft are most worried about immediate jail time, but the long-term impact of a conviction can be just as damaging. A comprehensive approach looks closely at background checks, immigration issues, student aid, housing, and career goals. Your attorney can aim for resolutions that avoid certain types of convictions, reduce the severity of charges, or position you for future record-clearing options. By planning ahead, your defense is not just about surviving today’s court date, but about preserving your opportunities years down the road.
After an arrest or when you learn that you are under investigation, it can be tempting to explain your side of the story to police, store security, or alleged victims. Unfortunately, statements made in the heat of the moment are often misunderstood or used against you. In Oakland, anything you say to law enforcement or prosecutors can appear later in reports, hearings, or trial. A safer approach is to politely decline to answer questions, request a lawyer, and let your attorney communicate on your behalf while protecting your rights.
Missing a court date or ignoring release conditions can lead to a warrant, additional charges, or harsher treatment from the court. As soon as you are released, keep every notice, record your court dates, and confirm them with your lawyer. Follow any no-contact orders, stay-away orders, or other conditions set by the judge. Showing the court that you are taking the process seriously can improve how your case is viewed and may help your attorney argue for more favorable terms, including reduced bail, shorter probation, or alternative sentencing options.
If you have been arrested, received a citation, or learned that you are under investigation for theft or another property crime, it is wise to speak with a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Early advice can help you avoid mistakes, such as making statements to police or signing documents you do not fully understand. A lawyer can evaluate the strength of the allegations, explain the charges, and outline realistic goals. Even if you believe the matter is minor, timely legal guidance can help protect your record and reduce stress.
People also reach out to the Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed when they have pending court dates in Oakland, probation violations, or concerns about how a case could affect immigration or professional licenses. Others contact the firm after trying to handle matters on their own and realizing the process is more complicated than expected. Whatever stage your case is in, getting a clear assessment now allows more time to develop a defense strategy, preserve evidence, and pursue options that might not be available later in the process.
Felony and misdemeanor theft charges in Oakland arise in many ways, from misunderstandings at retail stores to serious accusations involving homes, vehicles, or financial accounts. Some people are stopped by store security and accused of shoplifting; others are arrested after a traffic stop or during a broader police investigation. There are also cases involving alleged embezzlement from an employer, disputes among friends or family members, or accusations tied to addiction or financial hardship. No matter how your situation began, you deserve a defense that looks at the full context rather than just the police version.
Many Oakland misdemeanor cases start with accusations of shoplifting or retail theft at malls, big-box stores, or local businesses. Loss prevention officers may detain someone, question them, and call the police. Sometimes, the incident reflects a misunderstanding at the register, a mistake, or a momentary lapse in judgment. In other cases, people dealing with addiction or mental health concerns find themselves in trouble after a difficult day. A defense lawyer can examine whether the detention was lawful, whether the alleged value is accurate, and whether diversion, counseling, or other alternatives might be available.
Burglary and more serious theft allegations often involve claims of entering a home, business, or vehicle with intent to steal. These accusations can quickly lead to felony charges and significant penalties. Sometimes, people are swept into cases based on association, mistaken identity, or being present in the wrong place at the wrong time. Oakland law enforcement may rely heavily on eyewitness accounts, surveillance footage, or circumstantial evidence. A strong defense looks at whether the prosecution can actually prove intent, identity, and entry beyond a reasonable doubt and whether any statements or searches can be challenged.
Some of the most stressful theft cases involve accusations tied to work, online activity, or financial accounts. These may include alleged embezzlement, fraudulent use of credit cards, or misuse of company resources. The consequences can extend beyond the criminal case, affecting employment, reputation, and professional relationships. In Oakland, these cases sometimes involve complex records, bank statements, and digital trails. Your attorney can help gather documents, review the evidence for inaccuracies, and work with you to develop explanations or defenses that challenge the prosecution’s narrative and protect your future employment prospects.
Facing felony or misdemeanor theft charges in Oakland can feel overwhelming, especially if this is your first experience with the criminal courts. You may be worried about jail, your job, your family, or immigration status. The Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed is committed to guiding you through each step, explaining your options in clear language, and fighting for the best outcome available. From investigating the facts to appearing in court on your behalf when possible, the firm’s goal is to help you move past this chapter with your rights and future protected.
When you choose the Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed, you get a criminal defense firm that focuses its work on helping people charged with crimes in Oakland, Alameda County, and Contra Costa County. The firm understands how local judges and prosecutors tend to handle theft and related cases and uses that knowledge to shape negotiation and courtroom strategy. Clients receive honest assessments, realistic expectations, and a dedicated advocate who takes the time to understand their goals, whether that means fighting charges in trial or working toward a carefully negotiated resolution.
The firm values accessibility and communication, returning calls promptly and keeping clients updated on new developments in their cases. Every felony or misdemeanor matter is approached with careful preparation, from reviewing discovery to filing motions that challenge improper searches or unreliable evidence. The Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed knows that your case is more than a file number—it is about your life, your family, and your future. The firm works hard to secure outcomes that protect what matters most, one step at a time.
From the first phone call to the final court date, the Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed follows a structured process designed to protect your rights and reduce uncertainty. It starts with learning your story, reviewing any paperwork or notices you have received, and identifying urgent concerns like upcoming court dates, warrants, or immigration issues. From there, the firm obtains discovery from the prosecutor, investigates the allegations, and discusses strategy options with you. Throughout the process, you receive clear explanations about each step so you can make informed decisions about your future.
Your defense begins with a thorough consultation where you can talk openly about what happened, how you were arrested, and what you are most worried about. The firm reviews any citations, charging documents, or court notices you have, as well as details about your background and prior record. This stage is about understanding the charges, potential consequences, and any immediate deadlines. By the end of this step, you should have a clearer sense of what you are facing, the likely path of your Oakland case, and how the firm can help.
In the first part of this step, the focus is on you. The firm listens carefully as you describe how the incident unfolded, what law enforcement did, and how the charges are affecting your life. Many clients feel a sense of relief simply from being heard without judgment. The details you provide can reveal defenses or issues with the police conduct that might not appear in a report. This conversation also allows the attorney to understand your priorities—whether that is avoiding jail, protecting immigration status, or keeping your job or license.
Next, the firm reviews the citation, complaint, or other documents you received from the court or police. These papers list the specific felony or misdemeanor charges and sometimes the alleged facts. Your attorney explains what each charge means under California law, the potential penalties, and how prior convictions, probation status, or other factors might influence the case. This is also when any urgent issues, such as upcoming arraignments or warrants, are identified and addressed. By clarifying the charges early, you are better prepared for the hearings ahead.
Once the case is underway, the firm obtains discovery from the prosecutor, including police reports, witness statements, and any video or audio recordings that exist. At the same time, your attorney may conduct an independent investigation, gather additional evidence, or talk to witnesses who support your version of events. If there are concerns about how evidence was obtained, your lawyer may file motions to suppress or challenge that evidence. This stage lays the groundwork for negotiations and prepares your case for trial if a fair resolution cannot be reached.
During this phase, your attorney examines every piece of discovery to see whether it truly supports the felony or misdemeanor charges. That includes reading police narratives for inconsistencies, comparing witness statements, reviewing surveillance footage, and evaluating any physical evidence. The firm also considers how your account lines up with or challenges the official reports. Sometimes, this process reveals weaknesses in the prosecution’s case that can be leveraged for dismissal, charge reductions, or improved plea offers. You will be kept informed so you understand how the evidence affects your options.
If the investigation uncovers problems with the stop, search, arrest, or other aspects of the case, your attorney may file motions asking the court to exclude certain evidence or even dismiss charges. At the same time, the firm engages with the prosecutor to discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the case, present mitigating information about you, and explore potential resolutions. Negotiations may address charge reductions, diversion, alternative sentencing, or other creative outcomes. This dual track approach keeps pressure on the prosecution while positioning you for the most favorable resolution possible.
The final step focuses on resolving your case through a negotiated plea, dismissal, or trial. Your attorney walks you through the pros and cons of each path and gives candid advice based on the evidence and local Oakland courtroom dynamics. If you choose to accept an offer, the firm ensures you understand every term and how it may affect your record. If you go to trial, your lawyer presents your defense to the judge or jury. After resolution, the firm can also advise on probation compliance and potential future record-clearing options.
As your case approaches resolution, your attorney helps you weigh any plea offers against the risks and potential benefits of trial. This includes reviewing the evidence, discussing likely outcomes, and considering collateral consequences such as immigration, employment, and licensing concerns. If you are leaning toward trial, the firm works with you to prepare testimony, identify witnesses, and organize exhibits. If you decide to accept a plea, your lawyer ensures that the agreement is clearly written, fairly reflects the negotiations, and does not contain unexpected or hidden terms.
At sentencing, a strong presentation can influence the judge’s decisions about jail, probation, fines, and conditions. Your attorney may present letters of support, evidence of treatment or counseling, employment history, and your plans moving forward. When probation is imposed, it is important to understand your obligations and avoid violations that could bring you back to court. After your case ends, the firm can discuss options like early termination of probation, expungement eligibility, or other relief that may help you rebuild and move past the felony or misdemeanor charge.
In California, the difference between felony and misdemeanor theft charges usually depends on the value of the property, the circumstances of the alleged crime, and your prior record. Misdemeanors are punishable by up to one year in county jail, while felonies can carry longer terms and more serious consequences. Some theft offenses are wobblers, meaning the prosecutor can choose to file them as either felonies or misdemeanors based on the facts and their discretion. This charging decision often has a major impact on your potential penalties. Beyond jail or prison, felonies and misdemeanors can both lead to probation, fines, restitution, and a criminal record that affects future opportunities. Felony convictions typically bring more lasting consequences, including limits on certain rights and greater stigma during background checks. Because of this, one of the goals in many Oakland cases is to seek dismissal, negotiate for a misdemeanor instead of a felony, or otherwise reduce the long-term damage whenever the facts and law support it.
Many first-time theft cases in Oakland resolve without significant jail time, especially when the alleged value is low and there are no aggravating factors, such as violence or prior convictions. Options like informal diversion, formal diversion, community service, restitution, or counseling are sometimes available. However, outcomes are never guaranteed. The specific facts of the case, the judge, and the prosecutor all influence what is possible. Having an attorney who understands local practices helps you pursue alternatives that can limit custody and protect your record where feasible. Even if jail seems unlikely, a theft conviction can still carry serious consequences, including probation, fines, and a lasting mark on your criminal history. It may also affect immigration status, professional opportunities, or housing. That is why it is important not to simply plead guilty to “get it over with” without first understanding your options. A lawyer can evaluate whether there are defenses, evidence issues, or diversion programs that might help you avoid a conviction or reduce the impact of the case.
If you are under investigation for theft, it is generally safer not to speak with police or investigators without a lawyer. Officers may appear friendly or suggest that explaining your side will help, but their primary role is to gather evidence for potential charges. Statements made during these conversations can be taken out of context, misquoted in reports, or used to fill in gaps in the prosecution’s case. Once something is said, it is very difficult to undo the damage, even if you later clarify or contradict it in court. Instead, you have the right to remain silent and to request an attorney before answering questions. Exercising this right does not make you look guilty; it simply protects you from unintentionally harming your defense. A criminal defense lawyer can speak with law enforcement on your behalf, help you decide whether any communication is in your best interest, and make sure that your rights are respected throughout the investigation and any later court proceedings in Oakland or Alameda County.
Yes, in some cases a felony theft charge can be reduced to a misdemeanor in Alameda County, either through negotiation with the prosecutor or by motion to the judge. Many theft offenses are wobblers, which means they can be treated as either felonies or misdemeanors. Factors that influence this decision include the value of the property, whether anyone was injured, your prior record, and efforts to make restitution. Your lawyer’s job is to highlight favorable facts, expose weaknesses in the case, and argue for the lowest reasonable classification. Reduction may occur at several stages, such as during early plea negotiations, at preliminary hearing, or even at sentencing. In some situations, a felony can also be reduced to a misdemeanor later under Penal Code section 17(b), depending on the offense and outcome. A reduced charge can significantly lessen the long-term impact on employment, housing, and rights. It is important to discuss the possibility of reduction with your attorney early so that your defense strategy keeps that goal in mind.
The length of a felony or misdemeanor theft case in Oakland varies widely. Some misdemeanor cases resolve within a few months if a suitable offer is reached early and there are no significant disputes about evidence. Felony cases, especially those involving multiple counts, high-value property, or complex financial records, may take many months or longer. Court calendars, discovery delays, and motion practice all influence the timeline. While it is understandable to want a quick resolution, rushing can sometimes lead to worse outcomes than taking time to build a strong defense. Your attorney can give you a more specific estimate after reviewing the charges, the evidence, and the judge’s calendar. They can also work to move your case forward while protecting your rights, seeking important discovery, and filing motions when appropriate. Throughout the process, you should receive updates about upcoming court dates, what to expect at each appearance, and whether there are opportunities for early resolution that still protect your long-term interests and goals.
Your first court date in a theft case is usually the arraignment. At this hearing, the judge informs you of the charges, advises you of your rights, and asks you to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Bail and release conditions may also be addressed, especially in felony cases or when there are concerns about public safety or future court attendance. This is not the time when evidence is presented or witnesses testify, but it sets the stage for what comes next in your case. Having a lawyer at the arraignment helps ensure that you understand the charges, your rights, and any proposed conditions. Your attorney may argue for your release on your own recognizance or for lower bail, depending on the circumstances. They will usually enter a not guilty plea to preserve your rights and request discovery from the prosecutor. After the arraignment, you and your lawyer will begin working on a defense strategy, including investigating the facts and discussing potential resolutions.
Certain theft convictions can have serious consequences for noncitizens and for people who hold or hope to obtain professional or occupational licenses. Some theft offenses are considered crimes involving moral turpitude, which may trigger immigration problems, including potential removal or denial of future benefits. Licensing boards for nurses, teachers, contractors, and other professions may also scrutinize theft-related cases closely, viewing them as raising questions about honesty or trustworthiness. Even a misdemeanor conviction can create difficulties in these contexts, depending on the specific facts and governing rules. Because these consequences can be severe, it is important to tell your criminal defense lawyer about your immigration status and any licenses or applications you have. Your attorney can work to avoid particular types of convictions or sentencing terms that might cause added harm, and may suggest consulting with an immigration or licensing lawyer when necessary. Keeping these collateral consequences in mind during plea negotiations and strategy decisions is often just as important as addressing the immediate criminal penalties.
For your first meeting with a criminal defense lawyer, bring any paperwork related to your case, including citations, release documents, court notices, and bail paperwork. If you have contact information for witnesses, copies of text messages, emails, receipts, or other materials related to the incident, gather those as well. It is helpful to write down a timeline of what happened, including dates, times, and locations, while the events are still fresh in your mind. The more information you can provide, the easier it is for the lawyer to evaluate your situation. You should also bring a list of questions and concerns so you do not forget to address them during the meeting. Be prepared to discuss your background, any prior cases, employment, family obligations, and immigration or licensing issues. This information helps the attorney understand what is at stake for you and identify potential defenses or mitigation. Everything you share should be kept confidential, so it is generally better to be open and honest about the circumstances surrounding your felony or misdemeanor charge.
In many cases, it is possible to seek relief that helps limit the impact of a theft conviction on your record. California offers options such as expungement for certain convictions once you successfully complete probation and meet other requirements. Expungement does not erase all history, but it can allow you to tell most private employers that you have not been convicted of that offense, which can significantly improve employment prospects. The availability of relief depends on the type of conviction, your sentence, and your subsequent conduct. For some felony convictions, reduction to a misdemeanor may also be possible, either at sentencing or later, which can make additional forms of relief accessible. Not all cases qualify, and immigration, licensing, and government background checks may still see the original conviction. An attorney can review your record, explain what relief you might qualify for, and guide you through the process when the time is right. Planning for this possibility early can influence how your current case is resolved.
The cost of hiring a felony and misdemeanor lawyer in Oakland varies depending on the seriousness of the charges, the complexity of the evidence, and how far the case is likely to go. Misdemeanor theft cases often involve lower fees than complex felony matters, especially those that may require multiple motions, extensive investigation, or trial. Many criminal defense firms, including the Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed, offer initial consultations so you can discuss your situation and receive a clear explanation of anticipated fees and payment options before deciding how to proceed. Legal fees are an important consideration, but they should be weighed against the potential long-term consequences of a conviction, including lost employment, immigration problems, or damage to your record. A lower upfront cost is not necessarily a better value if it leads to a rushed or inadequate defense. When you meet with a lawyer, ask how fees are structured, what services are included, and whether there are additional costs such as investigators, experts, or filing fees so you can budget and plan accordingly.
