It is critical when facing criminal charges in any case involving gang allegations that you obtain expert legal representation from an experienced Van Nuys criminal defense attorney. Schwartz & Weinrieb has over 80 years of combined criminal defense experience defending against gang allegations. Attorney Robert Schwartz is a lecturer on criminal defense in gang cases.

When a criminal offense is determined to be gang-related, California lawmakers have increased the severity of the penalties if an individual is convicted of the offense. Not only must a defendant face a serious charge in court, but any ìgang affiliationsî will be used against the individual to increase the penalty in the event of a conviction.

While some cases have a clear gang component, the gang allegation in many cases is based on very weak evidence that must be vigorously challenged. A crime committed by a gang member does not mean it is a “gang crime.” Many alleged gang members are not members of gangs or no longer associate with a gang — “gang dropouts”. Unfortunately, prosecutors typically treat any crime involving an alleged gang member as a “gang crime,” and jurors are quick to judge alleged gang members.

The legal team at Schwartz & Weinrieb is highly skilled at challenging gang allegations, and will challenge prosecutors and law enforcement who falsely characterize a crime as “gang related”. If you or a loved one has been charged with a criminal offense, including any case involving gang crime allegations, contact a Van Nuys Criminal Lawyer from Schwartz & Weinrieb today at (818) 888-2711.