Facing a murder charge in Union City can turn your entire life upside down in an instant. The stakes are as high as they come, and every decision you make from this point forward can affect your freedom, your family, and your future. At the Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed, our criminal defense team helps people across Alameda County navigate some of the most serious accusations in California courts. This page explains how murder cases work, what to expect, and how a thoughtful defense strategy can protect your rights.
Union City murder cases are prosecuted aggressively by local law enforcement and the Alameda County District Attorney. You may be dealing with intense police questioning, confusing court dates, and overwhelming evidence claims. You do not have to go through this on your own. Our firm focuses on violent and serious crimes, including all degrees of homicide, and works to build defenses that fit the facts of each case. The information below is designed to give you clarity, reduce uncertainty, and help you take informed, strategic steps forward.
When you are charged with murder in Union City, the outcome of your case may affect whether you ever return home or spend decades in prison. Having a focused murder defense attorney on your side helps level the playing field against the resources of the state. A dedicated defense can challenge how evidence was collected, question witness credibility, and identify legal issues that could reduce or dismiss charges. With thoughtful guidance, you gain someone to interpret complex laws, negotiate with prosecutors, and present your story in a clear, compelling way to the court.
The Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed is a criminal defense law firm based in Oakland, representing clients throughout Alameda County and Contra Costa County, including Union City. Over many years, the firm has handled a wide range of violent and serious crime cases in California courts, including homicide, attempted murder, robbery, and weapons charges. We understand how local judges, prosecutors, and law enforcement approach serious felony cases. That background allows our team to evaluate evidence quickly, anticipate courtroom tactics, and craft defense strategies tailored to the facts and to your goals.
Murder charges in Union City fall under California’s homicide laws, which are among the most complex parts of the state Penal Code. Not every death is treated the same under the law, and the specific charge you face can dramatically affect potential penalties. You might be accused of first-degree murder, second-degree murder, or another form of homicide such as manslaughter or felony murder. Each has different legal elements the prosecution must prove, and each opens up different defenses. Knowing which type of charge applies to your situation is a key starting point.
Union City murder cases typically begin with an arrest, followed by a formal filing of charges by the Alameda County District Attorney. You may face a bail hearing, arraignment, preliminary hearing, motions, and possibly trial. Along the way, the prosecution gathers evidence such as witness statements, forensic reports, and digital data. A defense attorney’s role includes reviewing that evidence, requesting additional discovery, and filing motions to suppress unlawful searches or unreliable statements. Understanding this process helps you stay prepared, avoid missteps, and make decisions that protect your long-term interests.
Under California law, murder is generally defined as the unlawful killing of a human being with malice aforethought. This legal phrase refers to the mental state the prosecution must prove, and it can be implied or express depending on the circumstances. First-degree murder often involves allegations of premeditation, lying in wait, or certain felony contexts, while second-degree murder covers other killings committed with malice but without pre-planning. Union City cases may also involve special allegations, such as firearm use or gang enhancements, that can increase potential prison terms if not aggressively challenged in court.
In a Union City murder case, prosecutors must prove several elements, including that a person died, that the death was caused by the defendant’s act, and that the act was committed with the required mental state. The defense can challenge any of these points, as well as how investigators gathered statements, physical evidence, and digital records. The process often includes pretrial motions focused on suppressing unlawful searches or excluding unreliable identifications. Plea negotiations may occur during this time, but you also have the right to take your case to trial and require the state to prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt.
Murder charges involve technical language that can be confusing when you first hear it in a Union City courtroom. Prosecutors and judges often use terms like malice, felony murder, enhancement, and premeditation without explaining what they mean in everyday language. Understanding these concepts is important because they affect the potential sentencing range and shape the defense strategy your attorney may suggest. The brief glossary below breaks down common homicide-related terms that often appear in Alameda County murder cases, helping you follow what is happening and make informed decisions about your defense.
Malice aforethought is a legal concept used in California homicide cases to describe the mental state required for murder. It does not always mean hatred or anger. Instead, it can include an intent to kill, an intent to cause serious bodily injury, or acting with a conscious disregard for human life. In Union City murder prosecutions, the district attorney must show this mental state existed at the time of the act. A defense attorney may challenge whether malice was present, arguing that the conduct fits a lesser offense, such as voluntary or involuntary manslaughter.
The felony murder rule allows prosecutors in California to charge someone with murder if a death occurs during the commission of certain underlying felonies, even if the person did not intend to kill. Although recent changes to state law have narrowed its application, the rule still appears regularly in Union City and Alameda County cases involving robberies, burglaries, and other serious offenses. A careful review is necessary to determine whether the felony murder rule applies, whether it has been overstretched, or whether resentencing or reduction may be available under updated California legislation.
Premeditation and deliberation are terms often used to distinguish first-degree murder from other forms of homicide in Union City. Premeditation refers to thinking about a killing in advance, while deliberation involves weighing options and making a considered decision, even if that process happens quickly. Prosecutors may argue these elements exist based on planning behavior, prior statements, or the nature of the act itself. A defense strategy may focus on showing that any conflict happened suddenly, without advance planning, which can support a reduction from first-degree to second-degree murder or manslaughter.
Sentence enhancements are additional allegations that, if proven, can significantly increase the prison term in a Union City murder case. Common enhancements include gun use, gang involvement, great bodily injury, and prior strike convictions under California’s Three Strikes law. These enhancements often carry mandatory additional years or even life terms. A strong defense approach not only addresses the underlying murder charge but also challenges whether enhancements were properly alleged and supported by reliable evidence. Success in limiting or defeating enhancements can make a major difference in the overall outcome.
When facing a murder allegation in Union City, you may be presented with different legal paths, including going to trial, negotiating a plea to a reduced charge, or filing motions that seek to dismiss or limit the case. Each route carries benefits and risks, and no single strategy fits every situation. The strength of the evidence, your criminal history, and your personal priorities all matter. A thoughtful attorney will explain the impact of potential outcomes, such as life sentences or strike convictions, and help you weigh your choices rather than pushing you into a quick decision.
In some Union City homicide cases, the facts may clearly support that a death occurred but raise reasonable questions about the appropriate charge. For example, there may be strong indications of heat of passion, self-defense, or lack of malice that support a reduction from murder to manslaughter. In these situations, a more limited defense approach might focus on negotiating a favorable plea rather than preparing for a lengthy trial. The goal may be to secure reduced penalties, avoid a life term, or eliminate strike consequences, while still pushing back firmly against the most serious accusations.
Sometimes, a Union City murder case turns on a specific, focused legal issue, such as an unlawful search, an improper confession, or a single unreliable witness identification. If that issue can be clearly presented to the court through a targeted motion, it may significantly weaken or even eliminate the prosecution’s case. In these circumstances, a streamlined approach that emphasizes key motions and negotiations, rather than a fully contested jury trial, can be appropriate. The defense still works hard, but efforts are carefully directed toward the specific legal leverage points that offer the greatest potential benefit.
In Union City murder prosecutions where you face the possibility of life imprisonment or decades behind bars, a comprehensive defense strategy is often essential. These cases may involve complex forensic evidence, multiple witnesses, and extensive digital records. A thorough approach can include independent investigation, consultation with forensic and mental health professionals, and detailed preparation for trial. The defense team may reconstruct events, analyze phone and surveillance data, and carefully review every report for inconsistencies. This level of attention is aimed at uncovering weaknesses in the state’s case and presenting a full, human picture of your life and circumstances.
Many Union City murder cases come down to conflicting accounts about what actually happened. Witnesses may remember events differently, have motives to shade the truth, or be influenced by stress, bias, or outside pressure. In these situations, a comprehensive defense goes beyond reading police reports. It can involve interviewing witnesses, gathering surveillance footage, collecting social media content, and locating physical or digital evidence that supports your version of events. By thoroughly investigating and presenting these details, your attorney works to show the jury there is reasonable doubt, or to persuade prosecutors to reduce or dismiss the most serious charges.
A comprehensive defense strategy in a Union City murder case offers multiple potential benefits that go beyond the final verdict. By carefully reviewing every piece of evidence, filing targeted motions, and preparing witnesses, your attorney may uncover legal errors, unreliable statements, or alternative explanations for key facts. Even when a complete dismissal is not possible, this work can lead to reduced charges, fewer enhancements, or more favorable sentencing options. A thorough approach also ensures that your personal history, family responsibilities, and positive contributions are presented to the court, not just the allegations in the police reports.
Taking a comprehensive approach in murder defense also helps you feel informed and supported throughout the case. Serious felony proceedings can stretch on for months or even years in Alameda County, and uncertainty adds to the stress. When your defense team keeps you updated, explains legal developments, and involves you in strategy decisions, you gain a sense of control. This communication, combined with careful preparation for each hearing, can influence how judges and prosecutors view the case. It demonstrates that you are taking the matter seriously and that the defense is ready to challenge the prosecution’s narrative.
When your Union City murder defense is built on thorough investigation and detailed legal analysis, you often stand in a stronger position, whether you choose to negotiate or proceed to trial. Prosecutors are more likely to consider reductions when they know the defense has identified weaknesses in their case and is prepared to highlight them in court. If a trial becomes necessary, a comprehensive approach means witnesses have been carefully prepared, exhibits are organized, and potential juror concerns have been anticipated. This preparation allows your attorney to tell your story clearly and respond effectively to the state’s arguments.
Facing a murder allegation in Union City is overwhelming, and uncertainty about the legal process can make things even harder. A comprehensive defense approach emphasizes frequent communication, clear explanations, and thoughtful guidance at each stage. By walking you through the evidence, potential outcomes, and upcoming hearings, your attorney helps reduce confusion and anxiety. You can ask questions, understand why certain decisions are being made, and participate in shaping your defense. This level of involvement not only supports your emotional well-being but also leads to more informed choices that align with your priorities and long-term goals.
If you are arrested or questioned about a murder in Union City, it is vital to exercise your right to remain silent until you have spoken with a defense attorney. Police officers and detectives are trained to ask questions in ways that may lead you to say things that can later be used against you. Even casual comments or attempts to explain yourself can be misinterpreted. Clearly and calmly state that you want an attorney present before answering questions, and avoid discussing the case with anyone else, including on phone calls that may be recorded in jail.
While you should not investigate the case on your own, it can be helpful to gather basic information for your lawyer as early as possible. This may include names and contact details for potential witnesses, timelines of your activities in Union City, and any documents, photos, or messages that may support your side of the story. Share these materials directly with your attorney so they can be preserved and reviewed. Acting quickly can make it easier for your defense team to locate evidence, secure surveillance footage before it is deleted, and build a more complete picture of events.
If you are under investigation or have been charged with murder in Union City, speaking with a murder defense lawyer as soon as possible can make a meaningful difference. Early representation allows your attorney to communicate with detectives and prosecutors, protect you during questioning, and challenge improper procedures before they become harder to undo. Even if you have not been formally charged yet, signs like police visits, search warrants, or repeated calls about an incident suggest it is time to get legal help. Waiting to see what happens can leave you at a disadvantage.
A Union City murder defense attorney can also evaluate whether alternative charges, such as manslaughter or self-defense, may be more appropriate in your case. They can explore options for bail, work to secure your release, and advise you on how to avoid making things worse while the case is pending. By having a professional guiding your decisions, you reduce the risk of missteps that could harm your future. Even if the evidence seems strong, there may be legal defenses, weaknesses, or negotiation opportunities you cannot see without knowledgeable legal representation.
Murder charges in Union City arise from a wide range of real-world situations, many of which begin as arguments, misunderstandings, or sudden confrontations rather than planned events. Law enforcement responds quickly to reports of violence, and serious accusations can follow before all the facts are known. Understanding how these cases often start can help you recognize why you may be under investigation and why fast legal help is important. Below are some of the most common circumstances that lead people in Alameda County to seek a murder defense lawyer at the Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed.
Many Union City murder cases begin as verbal arguments at homes, parking lots, parties, or bars that unexpectedly escalate into physical confrontations. Alcohol, fear, and high emotions can cloud judgment, leading to split-second decisions that have devastating consequences. Police arriving after the fact may receive conflicting accounts and quickly decide who to arrest based on limited information. In these scenarios, self-defense, defense of others, or lack of intent may be important issues. A murder defense attorney can work to uncover what truly happened and present a fuller picture to prosecutors and the court.
Cases involving guns, knives, or other weapons are common sources of murder charges in Union City and throughout Alameda County. Sometimes, a firearm is discharged during a struggle or in a crowded area, and detectives must determine who actually fired and why. There may be questions about who owned the weapon, whether it was lawfully possessed, and whether the person charged even pulled the trigger. Forensic evidence such as gunshot residue, fingerprints, and ballistics can be complex to interpret. A defense attorney can scrutinize this evidence and explore defenses related to intent, identity, and self-defense.
Some Union City murder charges arise from alleged involvement in another felony, such as robbery, burglary, or a drug-related offense, where someone tragically dies. Under California’s laws, including the felony murder rule, individuals accused of participating in the underlying crime can face murder charges even if they did not plan or intend a killing. These cases often involve multiple defendants and complex questions about who did what, who knew what, and what each person reasonably expected. A careful defense can focus on your actual role, challenge broad claims of shared responsibility, and argue for reduced charges or resentencing.
At the Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed, we understand how frightening and isolating it can feel to face a murder charge or investigation in Union City. Our Oakland-based defense team works closely with clients and their families to provide guidance, support, and strong advocacy throughout the process. From the first call, we listen to your side of the story, review available information, and begin developing a strategy tailored to your situation. Whether you are in custody or out on bail, we are committed to standing with you and fighting for the best outcome possible.
Choosing the right attorney for a murder case in Union City is a deeply personal decision. The Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed is a criminal defense law firm that focuses on protecting people accused of serious felonies in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties. We are familiar with local courtroom practices, jury attitudes, and the strategies prosecutors rely on in homicide cases. Our approach centers on careful investigation, thorough legal research, and clear communication with clients. We take the time to explain your options so you can actively participate in decisions about your defense.
When you hire our firm for a Union City murder matter, you are not just hiring someone to appear at your court dates. You gain a legal team that works to uncover the facts, challenge the state’s evidence, and highlight your humanity beyond the charges. We coordinate with investigators and, when appropriate, forensic professionals to analyze the prosecution’s case in depth. Throughout the process, we remain accessible to you and your family, answering questions and providing updates. Our goal is to protect your rights, safeguard your future, and pursue the most favorable resolution available.
At the Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed, we follow a structured yet flexible process for murder cases arising in Union City. From the moment you contact us, we focus on gathering information, protecting your rights, and identifying immediate steps that may improve your situation. Over time, we refine our strategy as more evidence becomes available, always balancing legal options with your personal goals. The overview below explains the general stages we follow, so you can understand what to expect when you work with our Oakland criminal defense law firm on a homicide case.
The first step in any Union City murder case at our firm is a detailed intake and emergency rights protection. Whether you call from jail, a police station, or your home, we gather basic details about the allegations, current charges, and upcoming court dates. We then step in to protect you during questioning, address immediate bail concerns when possible, and begin requesting police reports and other discovery. This early stage is critical for preventing avoidable mistakes, preserving evidence, and ensuring that law enforcement and prosecutors respect your constitutional rights from the start.
Before making recommendations, we take time to listen carefully to your account of what happened in Union City and how the investigation has unfolded so far. You can share your concerns, questions, and goals in a confidential setting. We ask targeted questions to clarify timelines, potential witnesses, and any physical or digital evidence that may exist. By understanding your background, relationships, and the context of the incident, we can begin to identify possible defenses, such as self-defense, mistaken identity, or lack of intent, and tailor our approach to your unique situation.
Once we have a basic understanding of the Union City murder allegations, we move quickly to protect your rights and secure important records. This includes requesting discovery from the Alameda County District Attorney, obtaining court documents, and reviewing any available police reports or incident logs. If you are still being questioned, we assert your rights and ensure that further communication goes through our office. We may also advise you on avoiding contact with certain individuals, preserving messages or photos, and maintaining privacy, all to prevent the state from gaining an unfair advantage in the case.
After the initial stage, our focus shifts to in-depth investigation and legal analysis of your Union City murder case. We review every piece of evidence disclosed by the prosecution and look beyond those materials to find additional information that may support your defense. This may involve working with investigators, examining forensic reports, and exploring legal issues that could lead to suppression of evidence or dismissal of certain charges. Throughout this phase, we continually reassess your options, from negotiation to trial, based on how the evidence is developing and what outcomes you prioritize.
We carefully review the police reports, witness statements, surveillance videos, and forensic records in your Union City murder case, looking for inconsistencies, gaps, and errors. This may include comparing different witness accounts, analyzing timelines, and scrutinizing how evidence was collected or stored. If there are questions about the legality of a search, the reliability of an identification, or the voluntariness of a statement, we prepare targeted motions to challenge those issues in court. The goal is to weaken the prosecution’s narrative and create leverage for negotiations or a stronger defense at trial.
In many Union City homicide cases, we go beyond the reports provided by law enforcement and conduct our own independent investigation. This can involve interviewing defense witnesses, visiting the scene, and seeking surveillance footage or digital records that were never collected by the police. When appropriate, we may consult with forensic, medical, or mental health professionals who can help interpret complex evidence or provide alternative explanations. Their insights can be vital in challenging the state’s theories about cause of death, intent, or the sequence of events, and in presenting a more complete defense.
As your Union City murder case progresses, we work toward the most favorable resolution possible, whether through negotiation or trial. This stage builds on everything learned during investigation and analysis. We discuss potential outcomes with you, including the risks and benefits of going to trial versus accepting an offer. If negotiation is in your best interest, we present mitigation, highlight weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and push for reduced charges or sentencing terms. If trial is necessary, we prepare thoroughly to present your defense in a clear, persuasive way to a judge or jury.
When negotiating a Union City murder case, we do more than simply react to offers. We prepare a strategic presentation that may include evidence of your positive character, family responsibilities, work history, and efforts to change your circumstances. We also emphasize legal and factual weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, such as unreliable witnesses or contested forensic findings. By presenting a well-developed picture of both the case and the person behind the charges, we work to persuade prosecutors to consider charge reductions, removal of enhancements, or more reasonable sentencing options that better reflect the full story.
If your Union City murder case goes to trial, we invest significant time in preparation to make sure your defense is clearly presented. This includes developing themes, organizing exhibits, preparing cross-examinations, and working with you and other witnesses on how to testify effectively. We also focus on jury selection, seeking jurors who will fairly evaluate the evidence and follow the law. During trial, we challenge the prosecution’s narrative through careful questioning and strong legal arguments. Our goal is to raise reasonable doubt, protect your rights, and pursue a verdict that avoids the harshest consequences.
If you are arrested for murder in Union City, the most important first step is to remain calm and assert your right to remain silent. Do not discuss the facts of the case with officers, other inmates, or anyone else except your attorney. Anything you say can be used against you later, even if you believe you are helping yourself. Politely state that you want to speak with a lawyer and will not answer questions until your attorney is present. After asserting your rights, contact a murder defense lawyer as soon as possible or have a family member call on your behalf. An attorney can help you navigate the booking process, advise you about bail, and begin protecting your legal interests immediately. Early representation allows your lawyer to step in before critical decisions are made, preserve important evidence, and potentially limit the charges or allegations you face in Alameda County Superior Court.
Self-defense is a recognized legal theory in California homicide cases, including those arising in Union City. To successfully raise self-defense, there must be evidence that you reasonably believed you or someone else faced imminent danger of being killed or suffering great bodily injury, and that you used no more force than necessary under the circumstances. The specific facts of your situation, including prior threats, the presence of weapons, and witness accounts, will all matter when evaluating a possible self-defense strategy. A murder defense attorney can review the reports, physical evidence, and your own account to determine whether self-defense or defense of others might apply. Even if full self-defense is not supported, related concepts such as imperfect self-defense may reduce a murder charge to manslaughter. Because self-defense cases often hinge on details and perceptions, it is important to share your story with your lawyer candidly so they can explore every available legal argument in your favor.
In California, first-degree murder typically involves a killing that is willful, deliberate, and premeditated, or that occurs during certain listed felonies, such as robbery. Second-degree murder covers other intentional killings with malice that do not meet the strict requirements for first-degree. The charge filed in your Union City case can significantly affect potential penalties, including whether you face life with the possibility of parole and how many years you must serve before being eligible. The distinction between first and second-degree murder often turns on questions of planning, motive, and the circumstances leading up to the incident. Prosecutors may initially charge first-degree murder but later consider reductions based on the evidence and legal arguments presented by the defense. A murder defense lawyer can analyze the allegation to see whether the elements of first-degree are truly supported or whether the case more accurately fits second-degree murder or manslaughter, which carry different sentencing ranges.
Bail rules for murder charges in California are strict, and in many Union City cases, judges initially set bail extremely high or may order someone held without bail. However, recent changes in the law and evolving court practices mean that each case must be evaluated individually. Factors such as the strength of the evidence, alleged risk to public safety, and your ties to the community can all influence whether bail is granted and under what conditions. Your defense attorney can request a bail hearing and present arguments, evidence, and mitigation to the judge, including community support, employment history, and lack of prior serious crimes. Even when full release is not possible, the court may consider supervised release or other less restrictive options depending on the circumstances. It is important to have a lawyer who understands local Alameda County practices and can advocate for the least restrictive conditions consistent with your situation.
Murder cases in Alameda County, including Union City, often take many months or even years to resolve. The timeline can be affected by the complexity of the evidence, the court’s schedule, whether forensic testing is needed, and whether the case proceeds to trial. There are usually multiple pretrial hearings, including arraignments, motions, and conferences, before a trial date is even set. While delays can be frustrating, they can also provide valuable time for your defense attorney to investigate, file motions, and negotiate. Rushing to resolve a serious homicide case may lead to decisions that are not in your best interest. A dedicated lawyer will keep you informed about the reasons for any delays, the status of discovery, and how each stage of the case affects your options. This communication helps you stay engaged and make informed choices throughout the process.
Even if you firmly believe you are innocent of a Union City murder accusation, talking to the police without a lawyer present can still be risky. Investigators may misinterpret your statements, overlook important context, or focus on inconsistencies that naturally occur when people are stressed. Once something is recorded in a report or interview, it can be difficult to correct later, and prosecutors may use it to argue against you in court. By having a lawyer present, you ensure that your rights are protected during questioning and that you do not accidentally waive important protections. Your attorney can advise you on whether it makes sense to give a statement at all, and if so, under what conditions. In some cases, it may be better to present your side of the story later, after your attorney has reviewed the evidence and developed a strategy that takes into account the full context of the allegations.
Even when the evidence in a Union City murder case appears strong, a defense lawyer can still play a critical role. Police reports and initial summaries do not always tell the whole story, and evidence that seems damaging at first glance may be challenged or interpreted differently once carefully examined. Witnesses may have biases, forensic methods may have limitations, and some evidence may have been obtained in violation of your rights, making it subject to exclusion. A defense attorney can identify legal and factual issues that the prosecution may have overlooked, explore whether lesser charges or alternative theories apply, and present mitigation that may influence negotiations or sentencing. The goal is not only to contest the state’s case but also to ensure that your background, circumstances, and potential for rehabilitation are fully considered. Even when a complete acquittal is unlikely, effective representation can still significantly improve the outcome compared to facing the system alone.
Penalties for a murder conviction in California are among the harshest in the criminal justice system. Depending on the degree of murder and any enhancements, a Union City conviction can result in a sentence of fifteen years to life, twenty-five years to life, or even life without the possibility of parole. Firearm use, gang allegations, or prior serious or violent felony convictions can add years or decades to a potential sentence under the Three Strikes law and related statutes. Beyond prison time, a murder conviction carries long-term consequences that affect nearly every part of life. These can include a permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, immigration consequences for non-citizens, and serious challenges finding employment or housing after release. Because the stakes are so high, it is essential to have a defense attorney carefully review the charges, enhancements, and potential sentencing ranges in your specific case and discuss strategies to avoid the most severe outcomes.
In some situations, a murder conviction from Union City may later be reduced or overturned, but this usually requires a strong legal basis. Appeals focus on errors that occurred during the trial, such as improper evidence, incorrect jury instructions, or violations of constitutional rights. Post-conviction relief can also depend on new evidence, changes in the law, or proof that prior legal representation did not meet acceptable standards. Recent reforms in California have opened doors for resentencing or reduction of certain homicide convictions, especially in cases involving the felony murder rule or accomplice liability. A post-conviction attorney can review your case records, trial transcript, and sentencing documents to determine whether you may qualify for relief under current law. While no outcome is guaranteed, exploring these options can be an important step for those seeking a second chance after a serious conviction.
Choosing the right attorney for a Union City murder case involves more than scanning advertisements or looking at a few reviews. You should look for a criminal defense lawyer who regularly handles serious felony cases in Alameda County courts and is comfortable with the complexities of homicide litigation. It can be helpful to ask about their approach to investigation, communication with clients, and willingness to take cases to trial when necessary. During a consultation, pay attention to whether the attorney listens carefully, answers your questions clearly, and provides realistic expectations rather than quick promises. You should feel that they understand the local court system and have a plan for how to move forward in your case. The Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed invites you to ask questions and learn how our Oakland-based firm approaches violent and serious crime defense, including murder charges originating in Union City.
