When your freedom, reputation, and future are on the line, you cannot afford to take chances. Criminal charges in Beverly Hills, whether for a misdemeanor, felony, or federal offense, can change your life in an instant. You may be facing jail or prison time, substantial fines, and permanent damage to your personal and professional reputation. At RP Defense Law APC, we bring over 18 years of criminal defense experience, a 99% success rate in avoiding maximum penalties, and a commitment to fighting harder for our clients than anyone else.
We don’t just defend cases, but we also protect people. From the first moment you contact us, we work to preserve your rights, your reputation, and your future. Whether you’ve just been arrested, learned that you’re under investigation, or have a loved one in custody, our criminal defense attorney is ready to take immediate action.
Call (818) 646-3443 or contact us online to schedule your consultation.
Why You Need an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer in Beverly Hills
Beverly Hills is known for its high-profile residents, luxury lifestyle, and celebrity culture, but it’s also an area where law enforcement and prosecutors are especially aggressive. Local police departments, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, and even federal agencies have significant resources to investigate and prosecute criminal cases. This means you’re often up against a team of experienced professionals working to secure a conviction.
Having a skilled criminal defense attorney by your side levels the playing field. We understand how Beverly Hills cases are investigated, how the courts operate, and how to navigate both the legal and public-relations aspects of your situation. The earlier we get involved, the better our chances of shaping the outcome in your favor.
Types of Criminal Cases We Handle
At RP Defense Law APC, we defend clients in a wide range of criminal matters. No case is too big or too small for our full attention, and every client receives the same level of strategic, aggressive representation. Our practice areas include, but are not limited to:
DUI and Driving Offenses
Driving under the influence charges can threaten not only your freedom but also your driver’s license, career, and insurance rates. We represent clients facing all types of DUI allegations, from first-time offenders to those with prior convictions. This includes cases involving alcohol, prescription drugs, marijuana, or illegal substances, as well as felony DUIs resulting from accidents with injuries or fatalities. We also defend commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders, who face stricter standards and career-ending consequences. Our defense strategies include challenging field sobriety tests, the accuracy of breath and blood tests, and the legality of the traffic stop.
Drug Crimes
We handle everything from simple possession cases to large-scale state and federal drug trafficking prosecutions. Our representation covers charges involving prescription medications, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, fentanyl, and marijuana, including cultivation and distribution cases. We understand that many drug-related arrests involve constitutional issues, such as unlawful searches or violations of your Fourth Amendment rights, and we work aggressively to suppress illegally obtained evidence. In appropriate cases, we also pursue treatment-focused alternatives and diversion programs that can help clients avoid a criminal record.
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence accusations can result in immediate arrest, mandatory protective orders, and long-term consequences for your family life and career. We defend clients against charges of spousal abuse, child abuse, elder abuse, criminal threats, stalking, and related offenses. Beyond the criminal penalties, we know these allegations can affect custody arrangements, employment, and professional licensing. Our approach involves carefully examining the credibility of the accusations, uncovering inconsistencies, and ensuring that your side of the story is fully heard. We also work to challenge or modify restraining orders when they are unjustified.
Theft and Property Crimes
Theft-related offenses range widely in severity, from petty theft and shoplifting to grand theft, burglary, robbery, and complex embezzlement or fraud schemes. We represent clients accused of taking property, money, or services through force, deception, or without consent. In Beverly Hills, where high-value property crimes often receive heightened scrutiny, we bring meticulous attention to detail to challenge the prosecution’s version of events, dispute valuations, and negotiate for charge reductions or dismissals when possible.
Violent Crimes
Violent crime charges such as assault, battery, homicide, and weapons offenses carry the possibility of lengthy prison sentences and life-altering consequences. We handle cases ranging from simple assault to attempted murder, manslaughter, and first-degree murder. In weapons cases, we challenge the legality of searches and seizures, the accuracy of forensic testing, and whether the weapon in question actually meets the statutory definition of a prohibited firearm or device. In high-stakes cases, our Beverly Hills criminal defense attorneys work with forensic experts, investigators, and witnesses to dismantle the prosecution’s case.
White Collar Crimes
Beverly Hills is home to many executives, entrepreneurs, public officials, and entertainment professionals who may face allegations of financial wrongdoing. We defend against complex white collar charges such as embezzlement, wire fraud, securities fraud, forgery, identity theft, insider trading, money laundering, and bribery. These cases often involve extensive financial records, digital evidence, and regulatory compliance issues. We take a proactive approach—engaging forensic accountants, analyzing paper trails, and negotiating with prosecutors to limit or avoid criminal charges before they are filed.
Sex Crimes
Sex crime allegations are among the most serious and stigmatizing charges a person can face. We represent clients accused of offenses including sexual assault, statutory rape, indecent exposure, internet sex crimes, child pornography, solicitation, and sexual battery. We understand the sensitive nature of these cases and the importance of protecting your privacy while mounting a strong defense. Our strategies often focus on challenging witness credibility, disputing forensic evidence, and addressing constitutional violations in the investigative process.
Juvenile Crimes
When a minor is accused of a crime, the stakes involve more than just immediate penalties—they include the child’s education, reputation, and long-term opportunities. We defend minors facing charges for offenses such as theft, vandalism, assault, drug possession, and sex-related allegations in the juvenile justice system. Our goal is to keep cases out of the adult system, prioritize rehabilitation over punishment, and protect the child’s future through record-sealing or expungement when possible.
What to Do If You’re Arrested or Under Investigation in Beverly Hills
Whether you’ve been formally charged or just learned that you’re under investigation, your actions in the early stages can make a big difference in the outcome of your case.
- Do Not Speak to Investigators Without a Criminal Defense Lawyer – Anything you say may be used against you. Politely refuse to answer questions and request your criminal defense attorney immediately.
- Avoid Discussing Your Case – Don’t talk about your case with friends, family, or on social media. Even casual comments can harm your defense.
- Gather Any Relevant Information – If possible, collect documents, photographs, or witness information that may support your defense.
- Contact RP Defense Law APC Right Away – Early intervention allows us to protect your rights, challenge improper evidence, and even prevent charges from being filed.
How We Approach Criminal Defense Cases in Beverly Hills
Our Beverly Hills criminal defense attorneys believe in aggressive, strategic, and personalized defense representation. Every client’s case is unique, so we never rely on cookie-cutter solutions. Here’s how we work:
Confidential Consultation
We start with a private meeting where you can explain your side of the story. We listen without judgment, assess the charges or investigation, and outline your legal options.
Comprehensive Case Review
Our team examines every detail—police reports, witness statements, physical evidence, digital records, and forensic analyses—to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Strategic Defense Planning
We design a defense strategy tailored to your situation, whether that means challenging the legality of a search, questioning the credibility of witnesses, or presenting alternative explanations.
Relentless Action and Advocacy
From pre-filing negotiations through trial, we pursue an aggressive defense. We negotiate for reduced charges or alternative sentencing when possible, and we are fully prepared to fight in court when necessary.
The Stakes in Beverly Hills Criminal Cases
California law imposes some of the harshest penalties in the nation, and a conviction can have lifelong consequences. Depending on the nature of the offense, you could face:
- Jail or prison time
- Heavy fines and restitution
- Probation or parole
- Loss of professional licenses
- Immigration consequences, including deportation
- Damage to your reputation and personal relationships
For high-profile Beverly Hills residents, intense media scrutiny can magnify these consequences. Our firm understands how to manage both the legal and reputational aspects of your case, ensuring that your public image is protected while we fight for your legal rights.
State vs. Federal Charges
Criminal charges in Beverly Hills can originate from two very different systems: the California state court system or the federal court system. Understanding the distinction is critical because each operates under its own set of laws, procedures, and potential penalties.
State charges are prosecuted by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office or, in some misdemeanor cases, the Beverly Hills City Attorney. These cases often involve violations of the California Penal Code, Vehicle Code, or Health and Safety Code. Examples include DUI, domestic violence, theft, assault, and most drug possession charges. Sentencing in state court can consist of jail time in a county facility, probation, fines, and court-ordered programs.
Federal charges, on the other hand, are prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office and investigated by federal agencies such as the FBI, DEA, IRS, ATF, or Homeland Security Investigations. Federal jurisdiction applies when an alleged crime:
- Crosses state or international borders
- Violates federal statutes (e.g., wire fraud, bank fraud, tax evasion)
- Involves large-scale drug trafficking or conspiracy
- Concerns federal property, programs, or officials
Federal court operates under the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure and use the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which can impose significantly harsher penalties than those seen in state courts. Federal prosecutors also have more investigative resources, access to grand juries, and the ability to coordinate with multiple agencies over extended investigations, sometimes for years before charges are filed.
Because the stakes in federal cases are so high, you need a Beverly Hills criminal defense attorney who understands the nuances of both systems. At RP Defense Law APC, we are equipped to handle both state and federal criminal cases, providing seamless, comprehensive representation regardless of where the charges are filed. Our experience allows us to navigate jurisdictional issues, develop tailored defense strategies for each court system, and protect your rights at every stage, from the earliest investigative steps to trial and, if necessary, appeal.
Common Questions About Criminal Defense in Beverly Hills
What Should I Do If the Police Want to Question Me?
If law enforcement contacts you, whether they show up at your home, call you, or ask you to “come in and talk,” you should immediately invoke your right to remain silent and clearly state that you want an attorney
present before answering any questions. This is not an admission of guilt; it is a smart legal move that protects you from unintentionally saying something that could be misinterpreted or taken out of context.
Can Charges Be Reduced or Dismissed?
Yes. Many criminal cases never make it to trial because they are resolved through strategic negotiations, pretrial motions, or evidentiary challenges. Charges can be reduced or dismissed if we can show that:
- The prosecution lacks sufficient evidence to meet its burden of proof.
- Key evidence was obtained illegally and must be excluded.
- Witness testimony is unreliable, inconsistent, or improperly obtained.
- The alleged conduct does not meet the legal definition of the charged offense.
Our criminal defense attorneys have a proven record of achieving favorable pretrial outcomes, from complete case dismissals to reducing serious felonies to misdemeanors. In some situations, our criminal defense lawyers can secure diversion agreements or alternative sentencing that allows you to avoid a criminal conviction altogether.
How Long Can Prosecutors Wait to File Charges?
The statute of limitations sets the time limit for filing criminal charges. In California:
- Most misdemeanors must be filed within one year of the alleged offense.
- Most felonies have a three-year limit, though some have longer deadlines.
- Fraud and certain theft offenses can often be filed up to four years after the offense is discovered.
Federal crimes frequently have longer statutes of limitations, often five years, and in some cases, much longer for serious offenses like terrorism or certain sex crimes. Because statutes of limitations can be extended in certain circumstances, and because prosecutors often file charges close to the deadline, it’s essential to seek legal advice as soon as you suspect you may be under investigation.
Will My Case Go to Trial?
Not all criminal cases end up in trial. Many are resolved through plea agreements, pretrial diversion, or dismissal before a jury is ever seated. However, our Beverly Hills criminal defense lawyers prepare every case as if it will go to trial. This approach strengthens our negotiating position, shows prosecutors we are ready to fight, and ensures we are fully prepared if a trial becomes necessary.
Trials are unpredictable, and many factors can influence a jury’s decision. Our preparation includes building a strong defense narrative, preparing witnesses, challenging evidence, and anticipating the prosecution’s strategy. By being trial-ready from the outset, we maximize your chances of a favorable resolution at any stage.
What If I’m Convicted?
A conviction is not necessarily the end of the road. Depending on your circumstances, we may be able to:
- File an appeal to challenge legal errors made during your trial.
- Pursue a motion for a new trial if new evidence emerges.
- Seek sentence modification to reduce penalties.
- Apply for expungement to clear your record, if eligible.
- Explore post-conviction relief such as habeas corpus petitions.
At RP Defense Law APC, we believe in exhausting every legal avenue to protect your future, even after a verdict. Whether that means overturning a wrongful conviction or reducing the long-term impact of a criminal record, we remain committed to your defense until every option is explored.
Take Control of Your Defense Today
If you are facing criminal charges or under investigation in Beverly Hills, your next steps are critical. Do not wait for the situation to escalate. Contact RP Defense Law APC today so we can begin protecting your rights, reputation, and future. Call (818) 646-3443 or contact us online to schedule your confidential consultation.