Atascadero Violent Crimes Attorney

57+ Years of Combined Experience

Facing Decades in Prison? Aggressive Defense for Violent Crimes in Atascadero

When you’re facing violent crime charges in Atascadero, you’re confronting accusations that can result in decades in state prison, strikes under California’s Three Strikes Law that double future sentences and lead to 25-years-to-life for any third felony, lifetime firearm prohibition preventing gun ownership forever, permanent violent felon records that destroy employment opportunities in North County’s healthcare and service industries, immigration deportation for non-citizens, and devastating damage to your reputation in Atascadero’s close-knit community—all based on allegations that may involve self-defense, mutual combat where you weren’t the aggressor, false accusations motivated by revenge or custody disputes, or conduct that doesn’t constitute the serious crimes prosecutors are charging. At Central Coast Criminal Defense, we defend clients charged with violent crimes throughout Atascadero—from assault and battery charges arising from bar fights or domestic disputes, to aggravated assault with deadly weapons, to attempted murder and serious felonies carrying life sentences, to gang-related violence allegations that trigger massive sentence enhancements throughout San Luis Obispo County.

Whether you’re accused of simple assault, aggravated assault, attempted murder, manslaughter, or any violent offense, we handle all violent crime cases in San Luis Obispo County Superior Court. Call +1 (805) 621-7181 for a free consultation—protecting your freedom from these life-destroying charges requires immediate, aggressive defense by attorneys experienced in violent crime cases who understand self-defense law and aren’t afraid to fight prosecutors at trial.

Defending Violent Crime Cases at Atascadero Courthouse

San Luis Obispo County Superior Court – North County Branch
1050 Monterey Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93408

All violent crime cases from Atascadero are prosecuted by the San Luis Obispo County District Attorney’s Office and heard at San Luis Obispo County Superior Court. We appear regularly in violent crime cases, know the judges who decide these serious matters, understand how local prosecutors evaluate violence allegations, and know which defense strategies work in San Luis Obispo County. North County defendants—including those from Atascadero, Paso Robles, and Templeton—have their cases heard at this courthouse. Violent crime charges carry the most severe penalties in California’s criminal justice system including decades in prison, strike convictions, and collateral consequences that permanently destroy lives, making aggressive defense and thorough investigation absolutely critical.

Understanding Violent Crime Charges in California

California violent crimes range from misdemeanor assaults to serious felonies carrying life sentences. Simple assault under Penal Code 240 is attempting to use force or violence on another person—it’s a misdemeanor with up to 6 months jail. Battery under PC 242/243 is willful and unlawful use of force or violence—simple battery is a misdemeanor with up to 6 months jail, but battery causing serious bodily injury under PC 243(d) is a wobbler with up to 4 years prison. Assault with deadly weapon (ADW) under PC 245(a)(1) is attacking someone with a weapon or force likely to cause great bodily injury—it’s a serious felony strike carrying 2-4 years prison, or up to 5 years if the victim is a police officer or firefighter.

More serious violent crimes include attempted murder under PC 664/187 (willful, deliberate, and premeditated attempt to kill—felony with 15-years-to-life prison with premeditation finding), voluntary manslaughter under PC 192(a) (killing in heat of passion or based on unreasonable self-defense belief—felony with 3, 6, or 11 years prison), and murder under PC 187 (unlawful killing with malice aforethought—first-degree murder carries 25-years-to-life or death penalty; second-degree murder carries 15-years-to-life). Robbery under PC 211 is taking property from another through force or fear—it’s a violent felony strike with 2-9 years prison depending on circumstances.

California law provides significant enhancements for violent crimes. Great bodily injury (GBI) enhancements under PC 12022.7 add 3-6 years prison when serious injuries occur. Firearm use enhancements under PC 12022.5 and 12022.53 add 10, 20, or 25-years-to-life when guns are used, displayed, or discharged. Gang enhancements under PC 186.22 add 2-15 years for crimes committed to benefit gangs. Personal infliction of GBI during sexual offenses under PC 12022.8 adds 3-5 years. These enhancements are charged separately and run consecutively, potentially adding decades to prison sentences. Three Strikes Law means any serious or violent felony counts as a strike—a second strike doubles your sentence, and a third strike means 25-years-to-life for any felony even if the third offense is non-violent.

Atascadero Bar Fights and Self-Defense Claims: Many violent crime charges in Atascadero arise from confrontations at bars, restaurants, and nightlife establishments along El Camino Real or in downtown areas—fights that begin with arguments, escalate to pushing and shoving, and end with someone injured and police arresting whoever remained at the scene. These cases frequently involve mutual combat where both parties fought willingly, self-defense where defendants responded to aggression, or situations where witnesses can’t clearly identify who started the violence. Prosecutors charge aggravated assault with deadly weapon when bar fights involve bottles, pool cues, or other improvised weapons—but California law allows you to use reasonable force to defend yourself from attacks, and bar fights often involve defensive actions rather than criminal aggression. We defend numerous Atascadero bar fight cases by obtaining surveillance footage from establishments showing who initiated violence, interviewing witnesses who saw the fight start, demonstrating that you defended yourself from aggression, and presenting evidence of your injuries documenting that you were attacked. Many bar fight prosecutions collapse when thorough investigation reveals that alleged victims were actually aggressors and defendants acted in self-defense. Call +1 (805) 621-7181 immediately after violent crime arrests—securing surveillance footage before it’s erased and identifying witnesses before they disappear is critical to proving self-defense.

Types of Violent Crime Charges We Defend

We handle all violent crime charges in Atascadero and San Luis Obispo County:

Simple Assault (PC 240) – Attempting to use force or violence; misdemeanor with up to 6 months jail
Simple Battery (PC 242/243) – Unlawful use of force or violence; misdemeanor with up to 6 months jail
Battery Causing Serious Bodily Injury (PC 243(d)) – Battery resulting in serious injuries; wobbler with up to 4 years prison
Assault With Deadly Weapon (PC 245(a)(1)) – Attacking with weapons or force likely to cause GBI; serious felony strike with 2-4 years prison
Assault With Firearm (PC 245(a)(2)) – Assault using firearms; serious felony strike with enhanced penalties
Assault on Peace Officer (PC 245(c)) – Assaulting police, firefighters, or other protected persons; serious felony with 3-5 years prison
Attempted Murder (PC 664/187) – Willful, deliberate attempt to kill; felony with 15-years-to-life if premeditated
Voluntary Manslaughter (PC 192(a)) – Killing in heat of passion or imperfect self-defense; felony with 3-11 years prison
Involuntary Manslaughter (PC 192(b)) – Unintentional killing during unlawful act or lawful act done unlawfully; felony with 2-4 years prison
Murder (PC 187) – First-degree: 25-to-life or death penalty; Second-degree: 15-to-life
Robbery (PC 211) – Taking property through force or fear; violent felony strike with 2-9 years prison
Carjacking (PC 215) – Taking vehicles through force or fear; violent felony strike with 3-9 years prison
Kidnapping (PC 207) – Moving another person by force or fear; serious felony with 3-8 years prison (or 5-11 years if aggravated)
Mayhem (PC 203) – Unlawfully and maliciously disabling, disfiguring, or removing body parts; serious felony with 2-8 years prison
Criminal Threats (PC 422) – Threatening death or GBI causing sustained fear; wobbler with up to 3 years prison; counts as strike if charged as felony
Elder Abuse (PC 368) – Physical abuse of persons 65 or older; wobbler with enhanced penalties
Child Abuse (PC 273a/273d) – Endangering children or inflicting cruel punishment; wobblers or straight felonies depending on circumstances

Violent Felonies Count as Strikes Under Three Strikes Law: California’s Three Strikes Law dramatically increases punishment for defendants with prior serious or violent felony convictions. Serious violent felonies include murder, attempted murder, voluntary manslaughter, rape, robbery, residential burglary, arson, assault with intent to commit rape or robbery, assault with deadly weapon on peace officer, assault with deadly weapon causing great bodily injury, and kidnapping. Any conviction for these offenses counts as a strike. First strike: no special consequences beyond the conviction itself. Second strike: your sentence for the second felony is doubled—if the second offense normally carries 3 years, you’ll serve 6 years. Third strike: 25-years-to-life mandatory minimum for ANY felony conviction, even non-violent offenses like petty theft. This means one violent crime conviction puts you one strike away from doubled sentences, and two violent convictions mean any future felony—shoplifting, drug possession, receiving stolen property—results in 25-to-life. Avoiding strike convictions is critical. We fight aggressively to reduce charges to non-strike offenses, negotiate strike dismissals as part of plea agreements, and win trials to avoid convictions entirely. Call +1 (805) 621-7181 if you’re facing violent crime charges—strikes devastate your entire future.

Consequences of Violent Crime Convictions

Violent crime convictions create immediate decades-long prison sentences and permanent life-altering consequences.

Criminal Penalties

Decades in State Prison – Assault with deadly weapon: 2-4 years; attempted murder: 15-to-life; murder: 25-to-life or death penalty; enhancements add 10-25 years
Strike Convictions – Most violent felonies count as strikes under Three Strikes Law; second strike doubles sentences; third strike means 25-to-life
85% Custody Time – Violent crimes require serving 85% of sentences before parole eligibility; no early release
Lifetime Parole – Violent felons face lifetime parole supervision after prison release
Great Bodily Injury Enhancements – Add 3-6 years for serious injuries
Firearm Enhancements – Add 10 years (use), 20 years (discharge), or 25-to-life (causing injury or death)
Gang Enhancements – Add 2-15 years for gang-related violence
Substantial Fines – Up to $10,000 plus victim restitution for medical bills, lost wages, and other losses

Life-Destroying Collateral Consequences

Lifetime Firearm Prohibition – Violent felons cannot own or possess firearms ever; federal prohibition under 18 USC 922(g)(1)
Employment Impossibility – Background checks reveal violent felon status; unemployable in healthcare, education, government, and most professional fields in Atascadero
Professional License Revocation – Violent convictions trigger automatic license suspension or revocation for nurses, contractors, and other licensed professionals
Immigration Deportation – Violent crimes are aggravated felonies triggering mandatory deportation, inadmissibility, and permanent bars to re-entry
Housing Discrimination – Landlords universally reject violent felons; public housing prohibited
Custody Loss – Family courts presume violent felons unfit for custody; lose all contact with children
Voting Rights Loss – Cannot vote while in prison or on parole
Reputation Destruction – Violent felon label destroys personal and professional reputation permanently
Future Sentencing – Any future felony means doubled or life sentences under Three Strikes Law

Self-Defense Is Complete Defense to Violent Crime Charges: California law allows you to use reasonable force to defend yourself, others, or your property from imminent danger—and self-defense is a COMPLETE defense meaning you cannot be convicted of any crime if you acted in lawful self-defense. You have the right to defend yourself when you reasonably believed you or someone else was in imminent danger of suffering bodily injury or being touched unlawfully, you reasonably believed immediate use of force was necessary to defend against that danger, and you used no more force than reasonably necessary to defend against the danger. You don’t have a duty to retreat—you can stand your ground and defend yourself even if you could have safely walked away. Many violent crime prosecutions in Atascadero involve legitimate self-defense situations where defendants responded to aggression but prosecutors charge them because alleged victims sustained more serious injuries, because alleged victims lie about who started fights, or because police arrested whoever remained at the scene without investigating who was the aggressor. We prove self-defense by obtaining surveillance footage showing you were attacked, photographing your injuries documenting you were defending yourself, interviewing witnesses who saw alleged victims initiate violence, and presenting expert testimony on threat perception and defensive reactions. Self-defense cases are winnable—but only with thorough investigation and aggressive advocacy. Call +1 (805) 621-7181 immediately if you acted in self-defense—we’ll investigate thoroughly and present compelling self-defense evidence.

Common Defenses to Violent Crime Charges

Violent crime charges are defensible through multiple strategies. Many allegations involve self-defense, mutual combat, or false accusations:

Self-Defense and Defense of Others

Self-defense is the most common and powerful defense to violent crime charges. We prove self-defense by presenting evidence that alleged victims attacked you first, you reasonably feared imminent harm, you used only force necessary to defend yourself, and you had no duty to retreat. Evidence includes your injuries documenting you were attacked, witness testimony about who started the fight, surveillance footage showing self-defense, and expert testimony about threat perception. We also defend others charged with defending third parties—California law allows you to defend anyone from unlawful violence using the same standards as self-defense.

Mutual Combat and Equal Participants

Many violent crime cases involve mutual combat where both parties willingly engaged in fighting—neither person was a victim and neither was an aggressor. When fights are mutual combat, prosecutors struggle to prove assault charges because both parties consented to fight. We present evidence showing both parties participated equally, neither was clearly the victim or aggressor, and both contributed to the violence. Mutual combat evidence can result in dismissed charges or substantially reduced outcomes.

False Accusations and Mistaken Identity

False violent crime accusations occur motivated by revenge after relationship breakups, custody disputes where accusers seek advantages, gang retaliation or pressure, or attempts to avoid criminal liability by blaming others. We expose false allegations by investigating accusers’ motives, obtaining contradictory statements, presenting alibi evidence, and demonstrating witnesses’ bias or unreliability. Mistaken identity is also common in chaotic fight situations—we challenge identifications through cross-examination and presentation of alibi evidence.

Lack of Intent or Accident

Many violent crimes require specific intent. If injuries were accidental—you pushed someone during argument who fell and was injured, you swung at someone who moved into your path, or contact was unintentional during struggle—you lacked criminal intent. We present evidence showing accidents, lack of intent to harm, and circumstances inconsistent with deliberate violence.

Challenging Injury Severity and Enhancement Allegations

Great bodily injury enhancements add 3-6 years prison and require proof of “significant or substantial physical injury.” We challenge GBI allegations by presenting medical evidence showing injuries were minor, arguing injuries don’t meet GBI threshold, and demonstrating injuries resulted from other causes. Successfully defeating GBI enhancements eliminates years of prison time. We also challenge weapon allegations, gang enhancements, and other allegations that add prison time.

Why Choose Central Coast Criminal Defense for Violent Crimes

Not Afraid to Take Cases to Trial

Violent crime cases often require trial—prosecutors rarely offer favorable plea deals for serious violence charges, and some cases must be fought to verdict. We’re experienced trial attorneys who’ve tried violent crime cases throughout California. We know how to select favorable juries, present self-defense evidence effectively, cross-examine alleged victims exposing lies, and argue reasonable doubt. Many attorneys avoid trials and pressure clients into unfavorable pleas—we fight cases to verdict when necessary to protect clients’ freedom.

Immediate Investigation and Evidence Preservation

Violent crime defense requires immediate investigation before evidence disappears. We act quickly to obtain surveillance footage from bars, restaurants, and businesses before it’s erased (typically 30-60 days), identify and interview witnesses before they disappear, photograph defendants’ injuries documenting self-defense, and preserve physical evidence. Early investigation often reveals evidence prosecutors don’t have—footage showing self-defense, witnesses supporting innocence, or physical evidence contradicting allegations. Call +1 (805) 621-7181 immediately after violent crime arrests—time is critical.

Understanding Strike Consequences and Negotiation

We understand Three Strikes Law consequences and prioritize avoiding strike convictions by reducing serious felonies to non-strike offenses, negotiating strike dismissals as part of plea agreements, and fighting for acquittals at trial. We explain strike consequences clearly and never recommend pleas that unnecessarily add strikes. For clients with prior strikes, we fight even more aggressively because second and third strikes mean doubled sentences or 25-to-life.

Working With Expert Witnesses

Violent crime cases often require expert testimony. We work with use-of-force experts who testify about reasonable defensive actions, medical experts who challenge injury severity and GBI allegations, forensic experts who analyze physical evidence, and psychologists who testify about threat perception and fear. Expert testimony is often critical in self-defense cases and in challenging enhancements. We retain qualified experts and present testimony effectively at trial.

How We Defend Atascadero Violent Crime Cases

1. Immediate Evidence Preservation

When you contact us after violent crime arrest, we immediately send preservation letters to businesses demanding surveillance footage preservation, photograph your injuries documenting self-defense, identify witnesses needing interviews, and begin investigation. Time is critical—call +1 (805) 621-7181 immediately after arrest, preferably within hours.

2. Comprehensive Investigation

We conduct exhaustive investigations including obtaining all surveillance footage from bars, restaurants, and businesses, interviewing all witnesses who saw fights or confrontations, investigating alleged victims’ backgrounds and credibility, documenting your injuries and medical treatment, and obtaining police reports and evidence. We often discover evidence proving self-defense or exposing false allegations.

3. Expert Witness Retention

We retain appropriate experts including use-of-force experts, medical experts, forensic specialists, and psychologists. Experts analyze evidence, prepare reports, and testify at preliminary hearings and trials. Expert testimony often makes the difference between convictions and acquittals in violent crime cases.

4. Aggressive Preliminary Hearing Defense

We use preliminary hearings strategically to cross-examine alleged victims under oath, lock in testimony for trial impeachment, test self-defense theories, and sometimes achieve dismissals or reduced charges when evidence is weak. Preliminary hearings provide valuable discovery and preview of trial.

5. Strategic Negotiation When Appropriate

We negotiate with prosecutors for favorable outcomes including dismissals when self-defense evidence is strong, reductions to non-strike offenses, elimination of enhancements, and minimized prison time. We only recommend pleas when trial outcomes would likely be worse and after explaining all consequences including strikes.

6. Vigorous Trial Defense

When cases proceed to trial, we present comprehensive self-defense cases including thorough cross-examination of alleged victims, presentation of defense witnesses and experts, evidence of your injuries and defensive actions, and powerful closing arguments on self-defense and reasonable doubt. We’ve won numerous violent crime trials throughout California.

Self-Defense Cases Are Winnable: Many violent crime prosecutions involve legitimate self-defense that prosecutors ignore because alleged victims were more seriously injured or lied to police. Thorough investigation and aggressive trial advocacy can prove self-defense and achieve acquittals. Call +1 (805) 621-7181 now for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7. During your consultation, we’ll review allegations, discuss self-defense evidence, explain strike consequences, and provide honest guidance about defending charges. All consultations are strictly confidential. Don’t let false accusations or ignored self-defense destroy your life—call now.

Areas We Serve in San Luis Obispo County

We defend violent crime charges throughout Atascadero and San Luis Obispo County, including:

Atascadero – Bar fights, domestic violence, and all violent crime charges
Paso Robles – North County violent crime defense
Templeton – Violent crimes throughout Templeton
San Miguel – Small community violent crime defense
Santa Margarita – Rural violent crime cases
San Luis Obispo – County seat violent crime defense
Morro Bay, Los Osos, Cambria – Coastal community violent crimes
Arroyo Grande, Grover Beach, Pismo Beach – South County violent crime defense
Countywide – We defend violent crime charges from all San Luis Obispo County communities

All violent crime cases are prosecuted by the San Luis Obispo County District Attorney’s Office and heard at San Luis Obispo County Superior Court. We represent clients arrested by any law enforcement agency in San Luis Obispo County.

Get Your Free Consultation – Atascadero Violent Crimes Defense

If you’re facing violent crime charges in Atascadero, you need experienced defense attorneys who aren’t afraid to take cases to trial, understand self-defense law, work with expert witnesses, and will fight aggressively to protect you from strikes and decades in prison. At Central Coast Criminal Defense, we’ve successfully defended violent crime cases—proving self-defense, exposing false allegations, defeating enhancements, and winning trials prosecutors were confident they’d win.

Call +1 (805) 621-7181 now for a free, confidential consultation. We’re available 24/7. During your consultation, we’ll review allegations, discuss self-defense and other defenses, explain strike consequences, and provide honest guidance about fighting charges. There’s no obligation—just straight answers about protecting your freedom. Violent crime charges are defensible—call now and start building your defense.

Don’t let false accusations or ignored self-defense destroy your life. Contact Central Coast Criminal Defense today.

Call +1 (805) 621-7181 Now

Request Free Consultation

Available 24/7 for emergencies. All consultations are strictly confidential. Serving Atascadero, Paso Robles, Templeton, and all of San Luis Obispo County. Se habla español.

Free Case Evaluation

Kit Westbrook and his team are extremely competent, skilled and compassionate lawyers. As an attorney practicing in a different area of the law, I have referred several cases to their office over the years. I know I can always trust the Central Coast Criminal Defense team to provide top-notch representation of clients in need.

Derek Waldron

I don’t even know where I begin with how grateful I am for Central Coast Criminal Defense, specifically Kit and Adrienne. From the moment we first spoke on the phone to when I got the call that they got my case dismissed I truly felt the dedication and support from Kit and Adrienne. Possibly the best part of this experience for me was feeling that these two genuinely cared about me as an individual and believed in my story. I do not have enough great things to say about this firm! They were hard-working, prompt, informative, and affordable! I HIGHLY recommend them to anyone in need of an attorney.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart Kit and Adrienne!!

Hannah Clingerman

I recommend Adrienne Haddad & CCCD to anyone in need of representation in a criminal case. I hired this firm to represent a family member facing a new charge, 2 probation violations & a CPO. The odds were stacked, but Adrienne knocked it out of the park. Our entire family is so grateful 🙏 Worth every penny!

Ashley DiNapoli

Very very satisfied with Adrienne! She has helped out my case more than I could imagine.They make situations very efficient and affordable to anyone in desperate need. My recommendation to anybody who has a tricky DUI situation would to give her a call!

Jose Campoverde

I wanted to hire an attorney to win a court case. After much research, I found Kit Westbrook. I liked his reviews and the help that he has provided in many different situations. After I hired him, he worked his hardest to help me. It did not take long, maybe a week, for him to change the outcome of of my situation. Kit has done for me, something a majority of lawyers would not be able to do. My future will be better because of him. I’m glad he is in this profession and highly recommend him. Also, if you are concerned about money, his prices at Cccd are very affordable.

Kieffer Taylor

I want to let anyone know who needs a criminal attorney on the Central Coast this is the firm to hire. I was in a tough spot arrested for domestic violence when all I did was defend myself against an alcoholic wife who was physically abusing me. Luckily, I took pictures of my injuries and gave them to Kit and Adrienne. These two attorneys are supremely knowledgeable in criminal law and are tenacious for the rights of their clients. Believe me, they will fight for you and never give up. They know the court system here from top to bottom. My case was dismissed. Kit and Adrienne, thank you from the bottom of my heart for all your help

Michael Cody

We are so thankful we chose Central Coast Criminal Defense to represent our son! His case was complicated and took a lot of patience and time to complete. The fees were very reasonable compared to other attorneys. The team went above and beyond what is normally expected including ultimately getting the charges dismissed. Billy and Jamie were awesome and very patient with us while we worked through this process together. Having never been through anything like this as a family they always kept us informed even during the Pandemic. We cannot express how grateful we are to them for all of their hard work!

Paul Lee

In a time of uncertainty and great need, I was fortunate to meet Kit from Central Coast Criminal Defense. After explaining my situation, he explained to me what our options were and how he recommended proceeding. He was always understanding and supportive throughout this entire process. I couldn’t be more grateful for Kit’s knowledge and help. I would recommend Kit and his team to anybody looking for help.

Jason Varley

Adrienne Haddad is the best. I was able to get the legal assistance in a professional and timely manner.

I would highly recommend Central Coast Criminal Defense.

Pale Rider

I contacted CCCD the morning after receiving a DUI. They immediately got to work, and we’re able to save my license from being suspended. During a time when my options appeared limited and the likelihood of a satisfactory resolution seemed almost impossible, Adrienne Haddad was especially helpful to me. Not only was she able to defend me from an unjust accusation, her calm and empathetic demeanor always helped me remain hopeful. I am eternally grateful for her service and I recommend her for legal defense.

Positive

Responsiveness, Quality, Professionalism, Value

Andrea D

I am very pleased with my outcome the staff here are very friendly. Also I want to thank Adrienne for handling my case. Also to James and Kit, You’re awesome .I have refereed friends to this law firm. As a first time dealing with lawyers, It was a good experience. They have Great comminication and were there for me every step of the way and accommodating to my financial situation. So Thank you :)!!!!!!

R3con R3con

I was in need of a consultation regarding a review of court documents for an issue from 20 years ago. I found Central Coast Criminal Defense online and contacted them based on their great reviews. After ringing the firm, I was quickly transferred to attorney Kit Westbrook, who was not only knowledgeable about the legal system, but gave me sound advice about my situation moving forward. Kit immediately reviewed my documents and contacted me right away. I highly recommend this firm to anyone in need of professional legal services.

Rich L

Our first contact with CCCD was with Kit Westbrook. He fully explained the representation they can provide in my son’s situation and was genuinely sympathetic with the stress and anxiety of being charged with a DUI. After explaining their team structure, my son was very fortunate to have been represented by Adrienne Haddad at CCCD. She established an excellent working relationship with me and my son, she communicated very timely and clearly in setting expectations and was highly responsive to calls and emails from us. As a client, we appreciate that level of service and attention. Adrienne is very knowledgeable and experienced in matters of criminal law. The court’s judgement in my son’s case was exactly as she had explained and anticipated in his particular situation. I also want to say that I appreciate that there was no scope creep in their fees…i.e. we paid only what we were originally told. I highly recommend CCCD for anyone needing defense counsel. Thank you Adrienne and Kit.

Victoria Santos

Having lived on the Central Coast since 1979, I can say with complete confidence that Central Coast Criminal Defense represents the best legal defense team in this area. Call them. Kit and Cody literally provided the finest counsel you could ask for and resolved my dilemma to my satisfaction. For your loved ones–or yourself–get in touch with them if you need legal defense. Call them NOW. This paralegal team treated my case with great care and myself and family with dignity at all times. Communication–whether by telephone, email, or in person–was always clear, straightforward, and structured to meet my needs. This team got to know me and my case intimately from the very beginning, and acted with great speed to resolve the situation. Cody Christiansen, my defense attorney, met my legal needs every step of the way. Cody did everything possible to make sure I was secure and safe, leaving no stone untouched in his defense strategy. It was greatly reassuring to partner with a truly professional attorney. Cody acted with intense energy from the moment I met him. This is an attorney who won’t let up for a single moment in service to his client. From my first contact with Central Coast Criminal Defense all the way up to my case dismissal and afterwards, this team was there to support me. Young or old, this is the team you NEED to have representing your interests with professionalism and integrity. They are the real deal.

Alexander Chakshiri

Kit and the whole team at Central Coast Criminal Defense were top-notch experts when it came to the specifics of my charge. I called Kit and was shortly thereafter presented with defense options. Kit went right to work. Thankfully, do to the competent and aggressive counsel by the legal team at Central, my case was dismissed. If you ever run into the unfortunate necessity of having to hire a criminal attorney, I highly recommend Kit and the entire team at Central Coast Criminal Defense. Thanks again.

James Childress

Not enough good things I can say about this law practice from top to bottom. From my first call, the head lawyer was just so good at setting my mind at ease. My assigned lawyer and the support staff continued to be responsive, stress reducing and at the end of the day, utterly effective. Case dismissed! I couldn’t have asked for a better outcome. Needless to say, highly recommend, though hope I never need them again! 😉

Brad Altfest

I needed a criminal defense attorney. I found CCC and they were able to clearly instruct me on the best strategy, and they accomplished everything they said they would.

Cody perfectly handled my situation completely. I felt at ease and that I was in good hands throughout the ordeal. Before Hiring him, I felt the system was completly against me & there wasn’t anything I could do about it… it was scary.
In court, both the judge and the DA treated him with respect. I was very pleased with how well he navagated my case through the court.

Also– I experienced an unexpected hiccup a year down the road and went back to them with this new development… I was totally broke– they helped me again because they felt it was the right thing to do. And again they were able to accomplish what would have been impossible for me to do on my own.

I am very happy I hired them, as the entire team is knowledgable, supportive and agressivly fought for me.

I highly recommend you bring your situation to them & let them give you the best defense possible.

Melvin Kryger

Cody Christianson and his staff provided me with top notch service. My nephew, Jr, was in a bind because the attorney he had hired was doing a poor job of representing him, so we decided to drop that attorney and call Cody. The difference was like night and day. Cody took the case on short notice, with limited amount of time and won. Cody battled for us and we’re grateful to him for everything he did. I would highly recommend him to anyone. I won’t go anywhere else. Thanks guys!!

Steve M

Central Coast Criminal Defense is a reputable and professional entity that assisted me in a very difficult time. The legal ramifications of errant choices can be overwhelming at best. Much appreciation is given to the attorneys who provided consultation and stood up for our family in court. The law is impossible for the lay citizen to navigate. I will be forever grateful for Kit Westbrook and his skill, knowledge, and support. I would recommend him for any legal need you may have. He will solve the problem in the best way possible.

David Becar

Kit Westbrook and Central Coast Criminal Defense provided the best legal representation I could have asked for. Kit was very understanding and made sure to communicate with me frequently while resolving the case. He is incredibly knowledgable and showed genuine kindness towards me during a difficult time. He made the case process much easier and exemplifies everything you hope for in an attorney. Trustworthiness and dependability, thats what you get from Kit and CCCD.

Robin Ruddell

I was charged with DUI so I hired the team at Central Coast Criminal Defense. Although the odds were not on my favor and every piece of evidence was against me, my Attorney, Adrienne Haddad was able to have my DUI reduced to a reckless driving. If I could give them more than 5 stars I would do it.

Sam Damon

I just got a call from Adrienne Haddad at Central Coast Criminal Defense… I hired her to represent me in a charge that I felt was completely unwarranted and I needed help to get it dismissed off my record. I met with her and knew right away she was the attorney I wanted representing me. I was very surprised that the retainer fee was affordable and she was willing to let me make payments. I never even had to step foot into a court room. She did about 5 times for me which saved me from having to take time off work and drive almost 2 hours to each court date. She always called me right after and filled me in on how it went. Just like she did today, and let me know she got it dropped and there will be no record of it. I cant imagine how badly it could have gone if I didnt have her on my side. So Thank you Adrienne! Hopefully I wont ever need an attorney again but if I do I know who I’m calling!!!

Amber Ligon

We have no words to express our gratitude for the incredible work that my criminal attorney did for our father’s case, especially at a time when our options appeared limited. He went above and beyond to get the situation resolved. Hands down the best attorney and law firm!

Clark Murphy

Kit and Adrian were able to give me peace of mind and were very professional. They were able to get my case dismissed before my arraignment. I appreciate them and everything they did for me. Thank you Kit and Adrian!

M M

A few weeks ago, I needed help and had many specific questions. Kit Westbrook took time out of his busy day not only to call me back, but to answer my ALL of my questions. Mr. Westbrook was straight forward, very professional and polite. I would recommend him to anyone who is in need of legal help. Thank you Mr. Westbrook for all of your help.
Respectfully,
Grace Weddle

Positive

Professionalism

Gracie Weddle

Needing a good lawyer is not something we deal with on a daily basis, so when I had a need for one I read reviews from other people. The reviews for CCCD were good so I gave them a call. I was not disappointed . Our case was dealt with in a professional manner and at no time did we feel we were just another case number. Thank you thank you Jimmie for a job well done. I highly recommended CCCD.

Debi Johnson

If you find yourself in need of a great lawyer and a team of legal advisors to help guide you through a difficult and confusing legal system and get you the best possible outcome, then I highly recommend CCCD. This is exactly what Kit and Cody did for my family. Thanks to all the previous great reviews of CCCD for leading me to them.

Teresa J

Without saying to much on my case. I contacted central coast criminals defense for some legal help and “KIT”who represented me was professional, honest and experienced on my case. I highly Recommend this company to anyone who needs a professional lawyer with a friendly caring staff. Thanks kit…

Renee Macias

I am so happy to have found my criminal lawyer and his firm. He was amazing in court and I was glad I had him by my side during the most stressful time of my life. In the end, I wouldn’t have to serve any jail time and would be able to continue with my life, all thanks to my lawyer and this law office!

Paulina Komza

I had a relatively minor legal matter, but Kit was able to successfully advocate the DA on my behalf so no charge was pressed and I simply had to take 2 classes. Kit is effective and will do whatever necessary to make his clients feel they were treated well.

David L

I couldn’t be any happier with Central Coast Criminal Defense. Adrienne was very helpful on explaining and representing me. From now on I’m recommending Central Coast Criminal Defense to any one who needs a lawyer! Thank you Adrienne for all your hard work.

Jose Albarran

I called in regarding advice on a court issue. I had Mr. Kit Westbrook on the phone after nearly no wait time. He reviewed my circumstances and got back to me within an hour with all the information I needed. Super friendly, professional and empathetic. Fantastic!

Micah

I just wanted to write a quick review to CCCD to thank them for going about and beyond to help me with a my legal matter. Adrienne Haddad was super professional and handled my issue quickly and without any headaches. Thank you again for helping me get the best outcome that was possible!!

JIMMY CRUTCHFIELD

Anyone with legal issue should definitely use this law office. My DUI attorney and his team are always available to answer questions, very professional and on point. Highly recommended!

Anna Gratel

This awesome attorney Kit was Truly a man who goes over and beyond to help people. My wife and I are Very thankful for his help and I am Very confident and grateful in expressing my humble feelings about him. This is the Man

josh cruz

Very pleased with my experience with CCCD and specifically Adrienne. Great outcome and pleasure to work with throughout the process.

Chris Rooney

The outcome can never be guaranteed when working with the judicial system. The affordable rates to fit my budget without compromising the quality of service I received, I have and will continue to recommend to others.

Evelynne Griffith

Kit and his crew were amazing. They were there when I needed help and have continued to guide me through a very tough time. Their fees are on par with the services provided and well worth the investment.

Brian Roberts

i was happy with my experience Kit and his team are honest hard working attorneys i would highly recommend them to anyone.

Daniel Costa

I have the highest regard for Kit Westbrook. He has integrity and knows how to navigate through a difficult situation. He is responsive to client needs because he really cares.

Sheri Becar

I was very pleased with the help I received here. Adrienne was very helpful. I had a lot of legal questions and she was very easy to get ahold of. Had very informative answers and I would recommend her to anyone

Melanie Garay

I was visiting friends & family in California and needed some legal help all while I was in Michigan. I called these guys and they helped me out big time, great organization, great people, would use their services again.

Ali Kasra

Kit was great! Helped me with my case in SLO county and made me feel less stress.

Stacy Myers

Loved all of the staff at CCCD, especially Ms. Haddad. Impeccable work! Great outcome! Affordable price!

Martha Stromberg

sincere and honest man you can trust his experience and expect the best outcome possible …thanks Cody ….

Don Laucella

Adrian and Kit really care about their clients and will go the extra mile to help them.

Carlos Leyva

Thank you Adriana you are always very helpful.

K Mabry

Very nice people.

Richard

Atty Kit just saved us from a 1 point driving record conviction, unnecessary attorney’s fees, and certain increased premiums on my young daughter’s car insurance rates.

We were mistakenly under the impression that if she took an illegal left turn (there was poorly posted and confusing signage) citation to court, and lost, that she’d still have the option for traffic school. And we we have been trying for weeks to retain an attorney to represent her, or to get feedback. We even turned to the free bar assn legal referral service who also could not get any help for her. Turns out most attorneys will only take cases involving misdemeanor or felony charges…

Today, we had the fortune of calling Central Coast Criminal Defense and were surprisingly patched through to Atty Kit.

Within 5 minutes at no cost to us – Atty Kit listened to the details and counseled us to save the attorneys fees and for her to go directly to traffic school because the odds are likely that the police officer will appear in court and that the judge will hold up the police officer’s reasoning for the citation.

Once convicted, my daughter would have (i) a guilty verdict with no chance of traffic school (traffic school is off the table when you take a ticket all the way through to trial); (ii) a point on her record; (iii) a guaranteed increase on insurance costs; (iv) a hefty court fine, and, (v) incurred the cost of his attorney fees.

Super appreciate Atty Kit and his office’s business model of screening calls with the opportunity for a quick free consultation. No other attorneys we spoke to boiled it down for us like this and we were very much on the wrong track.

I wish all attorneys were like this, felt like ‘old school’ lawyering!

Stacy Merrill

News and Blogs

12
Jul
San Luis Obispo Felony DUI Cases
The vast majority of DUI cases in California and likewise in San Luis Obispo are misdemeanor cases. Your typical DUI will be charged as a misdemeanor by the San Luis
July 12, 2023
12
Jul
San Luis Obispo DUI Refusal Cases
In Section 23612, the California Vehicle Code states:

“(a) (1) (A) A person who drives a motor vehicle is deemed to
have given his or her consent to chemical testing
July 12, 2023
12
Jul
San Luis Obispo Proposition 47 Attorney
New Law, Proposition 47, Will Have a Big Impact in San Luis Obispo Courts by Reducing Some Common Felonies to Misdemeanors.

Proposition 47 is a powerful new State law in
July 12, 2023

VIEW ALL BLOGS