What types of criminal defense cases does Wallin & Klarich handle in Tustin?

Our criminal defense attorneys represent clients in cases involving DUI, drug crimes, domestic violence, theft, assault, federal crimes, sex crimes, white collar crimes, juvenile offenses, murder, manslaughter, and all other criminal charges in Tustin and throughout Orange County.

Why should I choose Wallin & Klarich for my defense in Tustin?

With over 40 years of experience and a proven track record of success, Wallin & Klarich provides aggressive, knowledgeable, and compassionate defense. We offer free consultations, payment plans, 24/7 availability, and have successfully handled thousands of cases with favorable outcomes.

How much does a Tustin criminal defense attorney cost?

The cost varies based on case complexity, typically ranging from $2,500 to $15,000+. We offer free consultations, flexible payment plans, and financing options to make quality defense affordable. Many cases can be handled for a low down payment with monthly payments.

Can a criminal defense lawyer help me avoid jail time in Tustin?

Yes, an experienced criminal defense lawyer can often help you avoid jail through negotiating reduced charges, alternative sentencing programs, diversion programs, probation, or by presenting strong defenses that result in dismissal or acquittal. Our attorneys have kept thousands of clients out of jail.

Do you offer free consultations for criminal cases in Tustin?

Yes, we offer completely free initial consultations for all criminal cases. During this consultation, we'll review your case, explain your options, and provide honest advice about the best path forward. There's no obligation to hire us after the consultation.

What should I do if I'm arrested in Tustin?

If arrested: 1) Remain silent except to request an attorney, 2) Do not consent to searches, 3) Contact Wallin & Klarich immediately at (714) 500-8508 (available 24/7), 4) Do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney, 5) Write down everything you remember about the incident.

How quickly can you start working on my case?

We can begin working on your case immediately. We offer same-day consultations and can appear in court as early as the next business day. For arrests, we're available 24/7 and can often intervene before charges are filed.

Do you handle federal criminal cases in Tustin?

Yes, we handle both state and federal criminal cases. Our attorneys are licensed to practice in all California state courts and the federal courts in the Central District of California. Federal cases require specialized expertise which our team possesses.

Can you help clear my criminal record in Tustin?

Yes, we help clients with expungements, record sealing, certificates of rehabilitation, and pardons. Many convictions can be dismissed under PC 1203.4, allowing you to legally say you were not convicted. We offer free eligibility assessments.

What languages does your Tustin office speak?

Our Tustin office provides services in English, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, and Vietnamese. We ensure clear communication with all clients regardless of language preference and provide interpreter services when needed.

Law & Information Archives

When is Unconsciousness a Valid Legal Defense?

August 24, 2015
Paul Wallin

When is Unconsciousness a Valid Legal Defense? Unconsciousness can be considered a valid legal defense to crimes of both specific and general intent. In a criminal case, it is assumed that the defendant was conscious when he or she performed the alleged criminal act as long as it appeared that person was in a state of consciousness. If your criminal defense attorney is using unconsciousness as a defense in your…

Can a Public Defender Properly Handle Your Criminal Case? Think Twice Before Asking for a Public Defender

August 3, 2015
Paul Wallin

Can a Public Defender Properly Handle Your Criminal Case? Think Twice Before Asking for a Public Defender Public defenders in California are unable to provide an adequate defense due to a shortage of lawyers and being assigned too many cases, the American Civil Liberties Union said in a recent lawsuit filed by three defendants. In the suit filed against the Fresno County Public Defender’s Office, the ACLU claims defendants in…

Can Police Seize Your Money if You Haven’t Been Charged with a Crime? (PC 186.1)

July 24, 2015
Paul Wallin

Can Police Seize Your Money if You Haven’t Been Charged with a Crime? (PC 186.1) You probably know that police officers can confiscate your property if it is used for or acquired through criminal activity under California PC 186.1. For example, if you use your vehicle as a get-away car when you rob a bank, it is safe to assume your vehicle will be confiscated by law enforcement under civil…

Consequences of Mayhem (PC 203) What exactly constitutes mayhem in California? Although mayhem is more commonly used in everyday language to describe a scene of general chaos or commotion, the legal definition of mayhem is much more complicated. Mayhem is defined under California Penal Code Sections 203-205. Pursuant to PC 203, mayhem is defined as unlawfully and maliciously: Depriving a human being of a member of his or her body Disabling,…

Consequences of Falsely Reporting a Crime in California (PC 148.5)

May 8, 2015
Paul Wallin

Consequences of Falsely Reporting a Crime in California (PC 148.5) We’ve all heard the story of the boy who cried wolf. Well as adults, it turns out that story is true. If you falsely report a crime in California, you may actually be charged with a crime. Under PC 148.5, it is a misdemeanor to knowingly make a false report or statement to any of the following: Police or peace…

Consequences of Driving Alone in the Carpool or HOV Lane

May 6, 2015
Paul Wallin

Consequences of Driving Alone in the Carpool or HOV Lane The High Occupancy Vehicle lane, better known as the carpool lane or HOV lane, was designed to “relieve traffic congestion … conserve fuel and lessen emission of air pollutants.” The state requires that vehicles using the lane have two or more individuals inside or are “qualified clean alternative fuel vehicles.” That doesn’t mean that all solo drivers can resist using…

What Happens to Commercial Drivers Who Get Traffic Tickets in California?

April 20, 2015
Paul Wallin

What Happens to Commercial Drivers Who Get Traffic Tickets in California? In California, commercial drivers like truck drivers, bus drivers, and limo drivers are held to higher legal licensing requirements and stricter driving regulations than non-commercial drivers. They generally put in far more time on the road than drivers of passenger vehicles, which may increase the odds of commercial drivers getting traffic tickets. What Happens When Commercial Drivers Get Traffic…

Traffic Misdemeanor or Infraction? The Choice in Penal Code Section 17(d)

April 17, 2015
Paul Wallin

Traffic Misdemeanor or Infraction? The Choice in Penal Code Section 17(d) You may have heard the term “wobbler,” which is the nickname given to laws in California that can be charged as either as felonies or misdemeanors.But did you know there is also such a thing as a “wobblette?” A “wobblette” is a violation that can be charged either as a misdemeanor or an infraction. In California, a misdemeanor is an…

Staying in the U.S. as an Immigrant with a Criminal Conviction

April 15, 2015
Paul Wallin

Staying in the U.S. as an Immigrant with a Criminal Conviction The U.S. government is actively looking for immigrants with criminal pasts. Recently, the Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement Bureau (ICE) conducted Operation Cross Check, a nationwide sweep of immigrants with criminal pasts. This is the sixth time that ICE has conducted the sweep since 2011. It resulted in the arrest of more than 2,000 immigrants from…

How Orange County’s DNA Bank Can Actually Help Your Case

April 6, 2015
Paul Wallin

How Orange County’s DNA Bank Can Actually Help Your Case Orange County is the only county in California to maintain its own DNA bank. For those arrested of misdemeanor crimes, the District Attorney is asking offenders to voluntarily provide a DNA sample in exchange for a dismissal of their case. This is called deferred entry of judgment. Deferred Entry of Judgment – PC 1000 Under California Penal Code Section 1000,…