Los Angeles Criminal Threats Lawyer
Being accused of making a criminal threat can quickly turn a single statement into a serious felony charge. California treats these cases aggressively, and convictions carry life-altering consequences.
If you are under investigation or have been charged, experienced legal representation is critical from the start.
Speak with a criminal threats defense attorney today to protect your future
What is Criminal Threats in California
Criminal threats are defined under California Penal Code § 422. A person may be charged if they willfully threaten to kill or cause great bodily injury to another person, and the threat is made in a way that is specific, credible, and intended to be taken seriously.
The law does not require that the defendant intended to carry out the threat, only that the statement caused the alleged victim to reasonably fear for their safety or the safety of their family. These cases often arise from arguments, emotional confrontations, text messages, emails, or social media posts.
What Are the Penalties for Criminal Threats
Criminal threats is a wobbler offense, meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. Misdemeanor charges may result in up to one year in county jail, fines, and probation. Felony charges can lead to up to four years in state prison.
Additional penalties may include restraining orders, mandatory counseling, and restrictions on firearm ownership. Sentencing depends on factors such as prior criminal history, use of weapons, and the alleged victim’s level of fear.
The Consequences of a Criminal Threats Conviction
Beyond jail or prison time, a criminal threats conviction can follow you for life. It may:
- result in a permanent criminal record
- difficulty finding employment
- loss of professional licenses
- immigration consequences for non-citizens
- strained personal relationships.
A felony conviction may also count as a “strike” under California’s Three Strikes Law, significantly increasing penalties for any future offenses.
Why You Should Have a Criminal Threats Lawyer
Criminal threats cases often rely on interpretation rather than physical evidence. Statements can be taken out of context, exaggerated, or misunderstood, especially during emotionally charged situations.
Law enforcement and prosecutors may treat remarks made in anger as serious criminal conduct. An experienced Criminal Threats Lawyer can intervene early, communicate with prosecutors, protect your rights during questioning, and work to reduce or dismiss charges before they escalate.
Common Defenses to Criminal Threats Charges
- The statement was made in anger, sarcasm, or frustration and was not intended as a real threat
- The alleged threat was vague, conditional, or lacked specificity
- The alleged victim did not reasonably fear for their safety
- False accusations arising from personal disputes or retaliation
- Lack of intent to cause fear or intimidation
Why Choose Us
Our firm has extensive experience defending clients accused of serious violent and threat-based offenses. We understand how prosecutors build criminal threats cases and how to dismantle them.
We carefully analyze recordings, messages, witness statements, and the surrounding circumstances to expose weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Clients choose us because we act quickly, communicate clearly, and fight relentlessly to protect their freedom and reputation.
Work with expert lawyers
Unlike many law offices that assign client cases to young associates, attorney Ardalon Fakhimi will personally handle all significant aspects of your case from start to finish, including all settlement discussions, negotiations, and the trial. He will personally answer all of your questions and navigate you through every stage of your case. We never use inexperienced associates who are just learning the practice of DUI law and criminal law. Similarly, we are NOT a high volume law office. Rather, we emphasize a very personalized attorney-client relationship where our clients are in continuous contact with their DUI and criminal lawyer; not their lawyer’s assistant. Finally, we are a detail-oriented law office that meticulously strategizes every case. That means no stone remains unturned during the course of our representation and through the final disposition of your case.
We serve clients from Sherman Oaks, Van Nuys, Torrance, for Domestic Violence, Petty Thefts, DUI Under-21 Cases.
Areas We Serve:
We defend our clients throughout California, including: Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, Irvine, Inland Empire, Ventura, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to intend to carry out the threat to be charged?
No. Prosecutors only need to prove that the threat was intended to be taken seriously and caused reasonable fear.
Can text messages or social media posts be criminal threats?
Yes. Written and electronic communications can qualify if they meet the legal requirements under Penal Code § 422.
Can criminal threats charges be dismissed or reduced?
Yes. With strong legal representation, charges may be reduced to misdemeanors or dismissed entirely based on lack of evidence or intent.
Final Thought
A criminal threats charge is not something you can afford to ignore. Early legal action can prevent harsh penalties and long-term consequences. If you are under investigation or facing charges, do not speak to law enforcement alone.
Contact our office today for a confidential consultation and strong legal defense.