Investigation / arrest
The matter may begin before charges are filed—or with a citation, warrant or arrest.
California state criminal defense
A charge is an accusation—not the end of your story.
Mary Ann Bird brings the perspective of a former prosecutor and former public defender to serious misdemeanor, felony and juvenile matters. The work begins by slowing the crisis down, understanding the evidence and protecting the choices still available.
Lead criminal counselMary Ann F. BirdCalifornia Bar #206770
The first hours matter
Protect your rights before trying to prove your point.
After an arrest, fear can create pressure to explain, apologize or answer “just a few questions.” You can clearly say that you wish to remain silent and want an attorney. Do not discuss the facts on recorded jail calls or with anyone other than your lawyer.
Do
- Stay calm and avoid physical resistance
- Ask what agency is involved and where you are being taken
- Write down what you remember when it is safe
- Tell counsel about deadlines and upcoming court dates
Pause
- Do not consent to searches without legal advice
- Do not post, delete or edit social-media content
- Do not contact witnesses or an alleged victim
- Do not assume informal questions are “off the record”
This is general information. Your obligations and best next step depend on the facts, warrants, court orders and conditions in your matter.
Charges we defend
Prepared for the case in front of us.
Defense strategy is never one-size-fits-all. The charge, evidence, history, court and client priorities all shape the work.
01
DUI and driving under the influence of drugs
02
Drug possession, sales, manufacturing and trafficking
03
Domestic violence and protective-order matters
04
Theft, burglary, robbery and fraud allegations
05
Weapons and gang-related enhancements
06
Sex-offense and internet-related allegations
07
Juvenile cases and transfer proceedings
08
Homicide and other serious violent charges
09
Record clearing and post-conviction relief
How the defense takes shape
Preparation turns uncertainty into a plan.
Mary Ann is known for an organized, detail-focused approach to complex files. The goal is not to make flashy promises. It is to understand what the government can prove, what it cannot and what path best protects the client’s future.
- 01Listen and triage
Identify immediate deadlines, custody issues and urgent risks.
- 02Review the evidence
Analyze reports, recordings, digital evidence, testing and witness accounts.
- 03Challenge and investigate
Test searches, statements, identification, credibility and evidentiary gaps.
- 04Choose the path
Prepare for negotiation, motion practice, hearing or trial as the facts warrant.
The California court path
Know what the next doorway may be.
Arraignment
The court addresses charges, plea, custody or release conditions and future dates.
Discovery & motions
Evidence is exchanged, investigated and challenged where legal grounds exist.
Resolution or trial
The path may involve dismissal, negotiation, hearing or trial; no outcome is automatic.
Sentencing / next steps
If applicable, counsel advocates on consequences, alternatives and post-judgment options.
Criminal defense FAQ
Straight answers, without false certainty.
Can a lawyer help before charges are filed?
Sometimes. Counsel may communicate with investigators, preserve evidence, advise about interviews and prepare for the possibility of charges. What is appropriate depends on the investigation.
Will I have to appear in court?
It depends on the charge, court and judge’s order. Counsel can explain which appearances are required and whether an attorney may appear without you in a particular misdemeanor matter.
Can my record be cleared?
California offers several forms of record relief, but eligibility varies by conviction, sentence and later history. A review is needed to identify which remedy, if any, may apply.
A steady first step
The earlier the conversation, the more informed your next move can be.
If you or a loved one has been arrested, charged or contacted by investigators, call the Stockton office for a confidential consultation about next steps.
Call 209-507-0479Free initial consultation