Benefits of Hiring a Criminal Defense & Family Law Attorney

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You’ve just decided to part ways with your spouse, but your divorce process will not be an ordinary divorce proceeding. That’s because you’ve also decided to file a restraining order against your soon-to-be-ex. Or, perhaps you’re the one who has had a restraining order filed against you, or you have been charged with a crime, such as domestic battery, in the midst of the divorce proceeding. Now, you’re worried about how you’ll navigate both of these challenges from a legal standpoint in California.

That’s where a family and criminal law attorney—an attorney specializing in both family law and criminal defense with trial experience—comes in. This type of attorney can help with navigating highly contested family law cases that have criminal legal matters tied to them. These criminal matters may range from restraining orders to reported abuse and even the alleged poor treatment of a couple’s children. 

Here is an overview on the multiple benefits of hiring a family defense lawyer to handle your case right away.

Knowledge About Both Family Law and Criminal Law

One of the top reasons to hire a family and criminal law attorney is that he or she will have a deep understanding of both of the cases you’re dealing with. With this knowledge, your criminal defense and family law attorney can easily develop a strategy that will not adversely impact your family law rights or criminal law rights. In this situation, you can weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each possible decision based on how they could impact your domestic or criminal matter. 

Also, you don’t have to worry about coordinating how your divorce case and criminal law case will be handled between two attorneys. Streamline the process of resolving your legal matters by working with one lawyer. In fact, getting information from police can be extremely difficult in some family law cases, whereas obtaining this same information may be easier in criminal law cases, so having an attorney who can assume both roles might make the information gathering process easier for you.

Understanding Criminal Charge Implications in Contested Divorce with Child Custody Issues

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Let’s say that your future ex-spouse is facing a criminal charge during your divorce proceeding. Your family defense lawyer can explain to you what your future ex might be facing from a criminal standpoint, as well as how this will impact your divorce proceeding, particularly if children are involved. This is another reason why hiring a family and criminal law attorney, especially a child custody lawyer, is generally a smart move in these situations.

Also, let’s say that you’re the one facing a restraining order or facing an allegation of domestic violence. In this case, your family law court judge might modify the conservatorship you have with your children. This will limit your rights when it comes to making decisions on your child’s behalf.  

If you are facing criminal charges, remember that you are innocent until and unless you are found guilty.

Cost Savings Associated with Using a Criminal and Family Defense Lawyer  

Having one lawyer handle both matters could save you money in the long run. That’s because your attorney can handle the preparation work for both cases as well as communicate with possible witnesses more effectively and efficiently.

Reach Out for a Free Consultation

If you are involved in both a divorce proceeding and a related criminal matter at the same time, I can help. I am committed to making your divorce and/or custody process as fair and effortless as possible for you. The stress that comes with dealing with criminal matters that can adversely impact your freedom and your future, and I will fight to protect your rights and best interests. 

When you choose me as your criminal defense and family law attorney, I will always be your point of contact; there will be no receptionist or assistant between us. In addition, you don’t have to worry about being subject to unethical practices, such as foot-dragging to increase billable hours. I will put your needs and interests first.

Schedule a free consultation today so that we can start going over all of your options for tackling your divorce and criminal matter with confidence.

About Michael MacNeil

Michael C. MacNeil is a San Diego Family Law and Criminal Defense attorney. With a Juris Doctor degree from the University of San Diego School of Law, MacNeil has a solid understanding of our justice system. As a member of the State Bar of California, MacNeal can practice before all courts in the state. MacNeil believes that the law should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial status. With over 20 years of experience, Michael C. MacNeil is passionate about the law and will work tirelessly to get the best possible outcome for you. Call Mr. MacNeil at 858-922-7098.