For quality legal guidance at affordable rates, call Haven Law at 310-272-5353

Haven Law
Haven Law
Email

Call

A Holistic Approach To Solving Legal Problems

Arrested Or Charged? You Need An Experienced Defense Attorney Now.

Placing your trust in a criminal defense attorney is a big decision. I am attorney Peter T. Haven, and I defend people in California. At Haven Law, I consider it a privilege to defend the rights of the accused. Here, you will find zealous legal advocacy rooted in 30 years of experience.

Why Choose My Criminal Defense Practice?

As a solo practitioner and veteran trial lawyer based in Manhattan Beach, I offer many advantages that you won’t find at a larger firm. These include:

  • Personal representation: Your case won’t be handed off to a paralegal or associate. I will personally serve as your advocate each step of the way, from pretrial issues through trial and appeals.
  • Direct access to a lawyer: You won’t have trouble getting in contact with me. You can contact me anytime, 24 hours a day, by phone or email, and expect a prompt response.
  • Reasonable rates: Because I don’t have the high overhead costs of a large firm, I can work more efficiently and cost-effectively. I pass these savings on to you.
  • Determination: Here, you won’t have to wonder whether your case is gathering dust on the shelf. You can have the confidence of knowing that I’m working tirelessly to protect your rights and freedom.

My Hallmark Approach To Criminal Defense Representation

Lawyer + Warrior = Lawyrrior

This term encapsulates my approach to the law. Put simply, as your lawyer, I’ll fight like a warrior for your rights and liberties each step of the way.

At my practice, you’ll find a trusted legal ally no matter what type of charge you’re facing. I handle everything from misdemeanors to felonies, including:

  • Drug offenses: I take cases involving cultivation, manufacture, sale or possession of street drugs and illegally used prescription drugs.
  • Homicide charges: You can come to me with these very serious charges, including murder, manslaughter and vehicular manslaughter.
  • Assault and battery crimes: These violent crimes can make it difficult to get housing, employment and other opportunities.
  • Sex offenses: You need a tough defense against charges such as sexual battery, lewd conduct and solicitation.
  • Theft offenses: You may not realize how serious the consequences are for shoplifting, grand theft and embezzlement. Contact me today.
  • DUI and serious traffic-related offenses: Protect your driver’s license and your criminal record when you fight DUI and traffic violations.
  • Appeals: You need a lawyer with experience in appeals. I can help you appeal any type of criminal conviction.

Call me if you do not see your specific criminal charge mentioned above. I may still be able to represent you.

Answers To Your Most Pressing Questions

Every case is different, and so is every person who walks through my door. But with decades of experience defending people in California, I have noticed that certain questions come up frequently. Below, I answer the most common ones to provide you with a clear picture of what to expect.

What is a plea bargain, and how do I know if it’s a good deal?

A plea bargain is an agreement between you and the prosecution. You agree to plead guilty or “no contest” to a charge. In return, the prosecution may reduce or drop charges against you or agree to a lower sentence. It is one of the most common ways criminal cases get resolved without going to trial. Accepting one is not the same as a court finding you guilty after a full hearing.

Whether a plea bargain is a good deal depends entirely on the facts of your case. As your attorney, I will assess the strength of the prosecution’s evidence with you. If the prosecution’s evidence is weak, going to trial may give you a better outcome than accepting a plea.

Can you help get bail reduced or request O.R. release in California?

Yes. If your bail is more than you can afford, those are two options worth pursuing. I can file a motion to reduce bail at a hearing, presenting arguments and evidence that support a lower amount. This could include your ties to the community, your employment history or your record of showing up to past court dates.

I can also request an own recognizance (OR) release. This will allow you to go home without paying bail at all, based on your promise to appear at all future court dates. Judges typically grant OR release for minor crimes or nonviolent misdemeanors. However, they have full discretion to decide if you qualify, even if a standard bail amount exists.

What are my options if the evidence against me seems overwhelming?

Negotiating a plea bargain is often the most effective path forward. A big part of my job in those negotiations is presenting your situation in the most complete and human way possible. Your personal circumstances, your background and the context behind your actions all matter. In some situations, cooperating with prosecutors may also open doors to a more favorable resolution. A productive negotiation can result in reduced charges, a shorter sentence, lower fines or an outcome that keeps you out of prison. If a conviction seems likely, I will focus on building a strong case for mitigation at sentencing. No matter how the evidence looks right now, I will make sure we explore every option before you make any decisions.

I Offer A Free Initial Consultation To Discuss Your Criminal Case

To get started with aggressive legal representation, please call me at 310-272-5353 or send me an email. I represent clients facing criminal charges in Manhattan Beach and across California.