Once police arrest you and you are charged with a crime, your fate lies in the competence of your attorney and the criminal justice system. At no point should you attempt to dissuade a witness from speaking to police or testifying against you. Doing this can only hurt your case and increase the charges against you.

What is Dissuading a Witness?

According to California Penal Code 136.1, you may be charged with the crime of dissuading a witness for knowingly and maliciously preventing or dissuading any witness or victim from attending or giving testimony at any trial, proceeding, or inquiry authorized by law. In order for the prosecution to convict you of this crime, they must be able to show that you knew the victim was a witness to a crime. Additionally, the prosecution must show that you intended harm to a witness of a crime to prevent him or her from attending or giving testimony.

Dissuading a witness is commonly seen in domestic violence cases. If accused of the crime, you may be charged with a felony or misdemeanor. It is important to realize that you need not physically harm someone to be charged with dissuading a witness -- simply threatening to hurt a witness is a crime.

Penalties for Dissuading a Witness

If you have prior felonies for domestic violence or for causing serious injury to a victim, the penalties you face for dissuading a witness are harsh, especially if you cause actual harm to the victim. The prosecution charges individuals who physically injure a witness with an automatic felony. If convicted, you face up to four years in prison and must pay up to $10,000 in fines. At the firm of David Lehr Law, we are ready to stand by your side and combat these charges fiercely.

Combat Charges for Dissuading a Witness

Being charged with a violent crime can cause anxiety, stress and fear, and rightfully so. If convicted, you could face costly fines and a lengthy prison sentence. However, the best thing you can do to protect your freedom and your future is to contact a reputable defense law firm. The moment you seek our help at David Lehr Law, our lawyers begin formulating a solid defense for you.

Experienced Team of Defense Attorneys

David Lehr Law is comprised of a skilled team of attorneys, clerks and investigators who are dedicated to defending you. We proudly serve clients charged with dissuading a witness in Ventura, Camarillo, and Oxnard. Hablamos español.