Aggressive Criminal Defense

Criminal Defense Lawyerin Fresno

If you are facing criminal charges in Fresno County, you need an experienced defense attorney who will fight for your rights at every stage. Crown Law Firm provides aggressive criminal defense representation throughout Fresno, Clovis, Madera, and the entire Central Valley. Attorney Yan Shrayberman brings years of courtroom experience defending clients against misdemeanor, felony, and federal criminal charges.

Case Results

Federal Gun ChargesDISMISSED
Federal Drug CaseDISMISSED
DUI Fresno SuperiorNOT GUILTY
Assault ChargesREDUCED

Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Each case is unique.

Quick Answer

A criminal charge in California is classified as a misdemeanor (up to one year in county jail), a felony (state prison exposure exceeding one year), or an infraction (fine only) under Penal Code §17. Many offenses are "wobblers" — chargeable as either misdemeanor or felony at the prosecutor's discretion. The Fifth and Sixth Amendments guarantee the right to remain silent and the right to counsel before any custodial questioning. After an arrest in Fresno County, you face arraignment at Fresno County Superior Court within 48 business hours, where bail is set and you enter a plea. Crown Law Firm represents clients facing misdemeanor and felony charges throughout Fresno County, the Central Valley, and federal court in the Eastern District of California.

Key California Statutes Governing Criminal Cases

The statutory framework that controls charge classification, sentencing, and procedure in every Fresno County criminal case.

Penal Code §17

Felony / Misdemeanor / Infraction

Defines the three classes of California crimes by maximum punishment. Wobblers under PC §17(b) can be reduced from felony to misdemeanor by the court — a critical sentencing tool for first-time offenders.

Penal Code §1203.4

Expungement

Allows withdrawal of a guilty plea (or set-aside of a verdict) and case dismissal after successful completion of probation. Removes the conviction from most background checks though it remains visible to law enforcement.

Penal Code §1170

Determinate Sentencing

California uses a three-tier sentencing structure (lower, middle, upper term) for most felonies. SB 567 (2022) made the middle term presumptive — the upper term now requires aggravating-factor findings beyond a reasonable doubt or admission.

Penal Code §667 (Three Strikes)

Sentencing Enhancements

Prior "serious" or "violent" felony convictions double the sentence on a second strike and trigger 25-to-life on a third. Romero motions (People v. Superior Court) allow strikes to be dismissed in the interest of justice.

Penal Code §859b

Preliminary Hearing Right

Felony defendants are entitled to a preliminary hearing within 10 court days of arraignment to test whether the prosecution can establish probable cause. Strong motions at this stage can result in reduced or dismissed charges.

Penal Code §1538.5

Suppression Motion

Mechanism for excluding evidence obtained through unlawful search and seizure under the Fourth Amendment. Successful 1538.5 motions frequently result in case dismissal when the suppressed evidence was essential to the prosecution.

Primary sources: California Penal Code · California Courts — Criminal self-help · CDCR — California Department of Corrections · Fresno County Superior Court

Criminal Defense Representation in Fresno County

When you are charged with a crime in Fresno County, the entire weight of the government's resources is arrayed against you. The Fresno County District Attorney's office employs dozens of prosecutors whose sole job is to secure convictions. Law enforcement agencies have investigators, forensic labs, and unlimited access to evidence gathering tools. Without an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side, you are at a severe disadvantage.

Criminal defense representation is about leveling the playing field. An aggressive defense attorney conducts an independent investigation of the facts, identifies weaknesses in the prosecution's case, challenges improperly obtained evidence, and holds the government to its constitutional obligation to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Every person accused of a crime in Fresno County — whether charged with a misdemeanor, felony, or federal offense — deserves competent, aggressive representation.

Crown Law Firm provides that representation. Attorney Yan Shrayberman has defended clients in Fresno County Superior Court, Madera County Superior Court, Kings County Superior Court, and the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California. From the moment of arrest through trial and sentencing, we fight to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future. Every criminal case we handle receives the same level of attention, preparation, and commitment — because the stakes are always too high for anything less.

Whether you are facing your first criminal charge or have prior convictions that increase the potential penalties, Crown Law Firm is prepared to defend you. We handle cases involving DUI, drug crimes, violent offenses, sex crimes, white collar crimes, and federal charges. Call (559) 779-2315 to schedule a free consultation.

Criminal Charges We Handle

Crown Law Firm defends clients facing a wide range of criminal charges in Fresno County Superior Court, federal court in the Eastern District of California, and throughout the Central Valley. Every case receives thorough investigation and an individualized defense strategy.

DUI Defense

First-time DUI, multiple DUI, commercial DUI, DUI with injury, DMV hearings, and license suspension defense under California Vehicle Code 23152. We challenge field sobriety tests, breathalyzer accuracy, and traffic stop legality.

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Drug Crimes

Drug possession (Health & Safety Code 11350), sales and trafficking (HS 11351/11352), manufacturing, prescription fraud, and federal drug conspiracy charges. We pursue dismissals, diversion programs, and Proposition 36 alternatives.

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Violent Crimes

Assault and battery (PC 240/242), robbery (PC 211), homicide defense, criminal threats (PC 422), and weapons charges. We investigate self-defense claims, witness credibility, and forensic evidence.

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Sex Crimes

Sexual assault, indecent exposure, internet sex crimes, sex offender registration defense, and related charges. We provide discreet, experienced representation to protect your rights and reputation.

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White Collar Crimes

Fraud, embezzlement (PC 503), money laundering, identity theft (PC 530.5), tax evasion, and complex financial crime defense in state and federal court. We analyze financial records and challenge the prosecution's evidence.

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Federal Criminal Defense

Federal court representation in the Eastern District of California for drug conspiracies, firearms offenses (18 U.S.C. § 922), fraud, immigration crimes, and RICO charges. Federal cases require specialized knowledge of sentencing guidelines.

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Domestic Violence Defense

Defense against domestic battery (PC 243(e)(1)), corporal injury (PC 273.5), restraining order violations, and false accusation defense. We protect your rights and challenge the accuser's credibility when warranted.

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Theft Crimes

Petty theft (PC 484/488), grand theft (PC 487), shoplifting (PC 459.5), burglary (PC 459), auto theft, robbery, and receiving stolen property defense. We pursue charge reductions and Proposition 47 reclassification.

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Expungement

Criminal record expungement under PC 1203.4, felony reduction under PC 17(b), certificate of rehabilitation, and record sealing. We help you clear your record and move forward with a fresh start.

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What Happens After an Arrest in Fresno

Understanding the criminal justice process in Fresno County helps you make informed decisions about your defense. The sooner you have a criminal defense lawyer involved, the stronger your position at each stage.

1

Arrest and Booking

After an arrest in Fresno County, you are transported to the Fresno County Jail for booking. This process includes fingerprinting, photographing, recording personal information, and running a criminal background check. Depending on the charges, you may be held until bail is posted or until your arraignment. California law requires that you be brought before a judge within 48 hours of arrest (excluding weekends and holidays). During this time, exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not make statements, sign documents, or consent to searches without legal representation.

2

Arraignment

The arraignment is your first appearance in Fresno County Superior Court. At arraignment, the judge reads the formal charges against you, advises you of your constitutional rights, and asks you to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Bail may be set, modified, or you may be released on your own recognizance. Having a criminal defense attorney present at arraignment is critical — your lawyer can argue for reduced bail, challenge the sufficiency of the charges, and begin identifying weaknesses in the prosecution's case from day one. Crown Law Firm attends arraignments in both state and federal court.

3

Pretrial Phase

The pretrial phase is where the most critical defense work happens. Your attorney reviews the prosecution's evidence through the discovery process, identifies constitutional violations, files motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence (Penal Code 1538.5), and challenges the legal basis for the charges (Penal Code 995 motion). This phase also includes plea negotiations with the Fresno County District Attorney's office, where an experienced defense attorney can negotiate charge reductions, alternative sentencing, diversion programs, or outright dismissal. Many criminal cases in Fresno County are resolved during the pretrial phase without ever going to trial.

4

Resolution — Plea or Trial

Every criminal case ends in one of three ways: dismissal, negotiated plea agreement, or trial. If a fair resolution cannot be reached through negotiation, your case proceeds to trial before a judge or jury in Fresno County Superior Court or the Eastern District of California. Crown Law Firm has extensive trial experience and is fully prepared to present your defense in the courtroom. We select and question jurors, cross-examine prosecution witnesses, present defense evidence and expert testimony, and deliver compelling closing arguments. You always retain the final decision on whether to accept a plea offer or proceed to trial.

At every stage, having an experienced criminal defense attorney impacts the outcome. Whether you are facing a DUI charge, a drug crime allegation, a domestic violence accusation, or theft charges, Crown Law Firm is ready to defend you. After your case is resolved, we can also help you pursue expungement to clear your record.

State vs. Federal Prosecution — Stage by Stage

The same conduct can be charged in Fresno County Superior Court or federal court — and the process, deadlines, and stakes differ at every stage.

The Criminal Prosecution Process — California State Court vs. Federal Court, Step by StepTwo parallel vertical flows. California state: arrest and booking, District Attorney charging decision, arraignment within 48 hours of arrest for in-custody defendants under Penal Code section 825, bail or own-recognizance release, preliminary hearing for felonies within 10 court days under Penal Code section 859b, information filed, pretrial motions to dismiss under section 995 or suppress under section 1538.5, plea negotiation, jury trial within the section 1382 speedy-trial deadlines of 30, 45, or 60 days, then sentencing with broad judicial discretion. Federal: agency investigation, grand jury indictment under Criminal Rule 7, initial appearance without unnecessary delay under Rule 5, detention hearing under the Bail Reform Act at 18 U.S.C. 3142, arraignment under Rule 10, Rule 16 discovery, Rule 12 pretrial motions, plea or cooperation under Rule 11, trial within the 70-day Speedy Trial Act clock at 18 U.S.C. 3161, then presentence report and advisory Sentencing Guidelines sentencing under 18 U.S.C. 3553. Key differences: who charges, the probable-cause screen, pretrial release rules, plea practice, and sentencing discretion. Fresno venues: Fresno County Superior Court at 1100 Van Ness Ave and the Robert E. Coyle U.S. Courthouse at 2500 Tulare St.The Criminal Prosecution ProcessCalifornia State Court vs. Federal Court — Stage by StageCALIFORNIA STATE COURTFresno County Superior CourtFEDERAL COURTU.S. District Court, E.D. California — Fresno1 · Arrest & BookingArrest on probable cause or a warrant;booking at the Fresno County Jail.2 · DA Charging DecisionThe District Attorney reviews police reportsand files a complaint — felony or misdemeanor.3 · ArraignmentIn custody: before a judge within 48 hoursof arrest (excl. Sundays & holidays). PC §8254 · Bail / OR ReleaseCourt sets bail, reduces it, or grants own-recognizance (OR) release pending trial.5 · Preliminary Hearing (Felonies)Judge screens for probable cause within 10court days of arraignment or plea. PC §859b6 · Information FiledHeld to answer? The DA files the information— the charging document for superior court.7 · Pretrial MotionsDismissal of the charges — PC §995;suppression of illegal searches — PC §1538.58 · Plea NegotiationMost cases resolve by agreement — chargereductions, diversion, or dismissal.9 · Jury TrialMisd.: 30 days (custody) / 45 days (out);felony: 60 days of arraignment. PC §138210 · SentencingProbation, county jail, or state prison —broad judicial discretion under state law.1 · InvestigationFBI, DEA, ATF, or IRS-CI builds the case —often for months before any arrest.2 · Grand Jury IndictmentFelonies must be charged by grand juryindictment unless waived. FRCP 73 · Initial AppearanceBefore a magistrate judge “withoutunnecessary delay” after arrest. FRCP 54 · Detention HearingRelease or detention under the Bail ReformAct — no bail schedule. 18 U.S.C. §31425 · ArraignmentIndictment read in open court; thedefendant enters a plea. FRCP 106 · DiscoveryGovernment discloses statements, documents,and experts; reciprocal duties. FRCP 167 · Pretrial MotionsSuppression, dismissal, severance — mustbe raised before trial. FRCP 12(b)(3)8 · Plea or CooperationMost federal cases end in a guilty plea;cooperation can reduce exposure. FRCP 119 · Jury TrialSpeedy Trial Act: trial within 70 days ofindictment or appearance. 18 U.S.C. §316110 · Guidelines SentencingPresentence report; advisory Guidelinesrange + §3553(a) factors. 18 U.S.C. §3553Key Differences at a GlanceWho charges:the DA files a criminal complaint vs. a grand jury votes an indictment (FRCP 7).Probable-cause screen:open preliminary hearing before a judge vs. secret grand jury proceeding.Pretrial release:money bail or OR vs. §3142 detention — presumption in many drug & gun cases.Pleas:negotiated at almost any stage vs. formal Rule 11 colloquy; cooperation may earn credit.Sentencing:broad state-court discretion vs. advisory Guidelines range + §3553(a) factors.WHERE FRESNO CASES ARE HEARDFresno County Superior Court1100 Van Ness Ave, Fresno — state chargesRobert E. Coyle U.S. Courthouse2500 Tulare St, Fresno — federal chargesEvery case is different — waivers and continuances change these timelines. Talk to a defense lawyer early.Crown Law Firm · crownwins.com · (559) 779-2315
How a criminal case typically moves through California state court versus federal court — from arrest or investigation through sentencing — with the deadlines that matter: the 48-hour arraignment rule (PC §825), the 10-court-day preliminary hearing rule (PC §859b), state speedy-trial limits (PC §1382), and the federal 70-day Speedy Trial Act clock (18 U.S.C. §3161). Fresno cases are heard at Fresno County Superior Court or the Robert E. Coyle U.S. Courthouse.

Facing federal charges? See our federal criminal defense practice. Worried about bail? Try the Fresno County bail calculator.

Our Criminal Defense Approach

Effective criminal defense is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Crown Law Firm builds a customized defense strategy for every case using a proven four-phase framework.

Independent Investigation

We never rely solely on law enforcement reports. Crown Law Firm conducts a thorough, independent investigation that includes reviewing police reports for inconsistencies and procedural errors, interviewing witnesses the police may have overlooked, examining physical and digital evidence, obtaining surveillance footage from businesses and public cameras, and consulting with forensic specialists, toxicologists, and other experts when the case requires it. Many cases are won or lost based on investigation quality — and our investigation starts the moment you hire us.

Pretrial Motions

Strategic pretrial motions are one of the most powerful tools in a criminal defense attorney's arsenal. We file motions to suppress evidence obtained through unlawful search and seizure (Penal Code 1538.5), motions to dismiss charges for lack of probable cause (Penal Code 995), motions to compel disclosure of exculpatory evidence the prosecution is withholding (Brady motions), and Pitchess motions to access law enforcement personnel records when officer misconduct is at issue. Successfully suppressing key evidence can result in charges being reduced or dismissed entirely.

Negotiation

Many criminal cases in Fresno County are resolved through negotiation rather than trial. Crown Law Firm negotiates from a position of strength, using the results of our investigation and pretrial motions to leverage the best possible outcome. We negotiate with the Fresno County District Attorney's office and federal prosecutors for charge reductions, alternative sentencing options, diversion programs, deferred entry of judgment, and complete case dismissals. Our reputation in the Fresno legal community and our relationships with prosecutors and judges strengthen our negotiating position on your behalf.

Trial Advocacy

When negotiation does not produce a just result, Crown Law Firm takes your case to trial. Attorney Yan Shrayberman has tried cases in Fresno County Superior Court and the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California. Trial preparation includes developing a compelling case theory, preparing direct and cross-examination outlines, retaining expert witnesses, creating demonstrative exhibits, and conducting thorough jury selection. We present your defense with clarity, precision, and the aggressive advocacy your case demands.

The California Criminal Trial Timeline

From arrest to sentencing — the statutory deadlines that protect you, and how trial scheduling actually works in Fresno County.

Typical California Criminal Trial Timeline — Statutory Deadlines (PC §§825, 859b, 1382, 1118.1, 1191)Time flows down a day-counter spine. Arrest starts a 48-hour clock to arraignment under Penal Code section 825. Arraignment is day zero: the misdemeanor speedy-trial clock starts. In felony cases an in-custody defendant is entitled to a preliminary hearing within 10 court days under section 859b, and arraignment on the information starts the felony 60-day clock. Section 1382 requires trial within 30 days for in-custody misdemeanors, 45 days out of custody, and 60 days for felonies, absent a waiver — but most defendants waive time, and Fresno County trials are then typically set 6 to 18 months out. Trial itself proceeds through motions in limine, voir dire, openings, the prosecution case, a section 1118.1 acquittal checkpoint, the defense case, closings, deliberations, and verdict. In felony cases judgment must be set within 20 judicial days under section 1191.The California Criminal Trial TimelineStatutory Deadlines From Arrest to Sentencing — and the Fresno County RealityHOUR 0Arrest & BookingPC §825 — the defendant must be brought before a judge without unnecessarydelay, and in any event within 48 hours of arrest, excluding Sundays and holidays.DAY 0Arraignment — Day 0: The Clock StartsCharges are formally read, a plea is entered, counsel is appointed, and bail orO.R. release is addressed. For misdemeanors, the PC §1382 speedy-trial clockstarts today (or at entry of plea, if later).WITHIN 10COURT DAYSFelony Cases — Preliminary Hearing First (PC §859b)In custody: the prelim must be held within 10 court days of arraignment or plea —otherwise the complaint must generally be dismissed (absent waiver or good cause).If held to answer, arraignment on the information follows — and that arraignmentstarts the felony 60-day trial clock (PC §1382(a)(2)).REALITYMost Defendants Waive Time — Here Is the Fresno RealityWhen time is waived, Fresno County jury trials are typically set 6–18 months fromarraignment. The speedy-trial clocks below are the no-waiver statutory maximums.DAYS 0–60The Speedy-Trial Clocks — Statutory Maximums With No Time WaiverMISDEMEANOR — IN CUSTODY AT ARRAIGNMENT · PC §1382(a)(3)30 DAYSMISDEMEANOR — OUT OF CUSTODY · PC §1382(a)(3)45 DAYSFELONY — FROM ARRAIGNMENT ON THE INFORMATION · PC §1382(a)(2)60 DAYSWITH TIME WAIVER — TYPICAL PRACTICE IN FRESNO COUNTYTRIAL TYPICALLY SET 6–18 MONTHS OUT — NOT TO SCALE015304560daysDeadline missed with no waiver and no good cause? The case must be dismissed — PC §1382(a).30–60+DAYSReadiness & Pretrial ConferencesDiscovery, plea negotiations, and pretrial motions — suppression (PC §1538.5),dismissal (PC §995), and more. Most cases resolve at this stage; jury trialsare the exception, not the rule.THE TRIAL ITSELFMotions in Limine — what evidence is in or out, decided before jurors are seatedJury Selection (Voir Dire) — questioning and challenges shape the final panel of 12Opening Statements — each side previews its case; the prosecution goes firstProsecution Case-in-Chief — the DA calls witnesses and introduces exhibits;the defense cross-examines. The burden never shifts — proof beyond a reasonable doubt.CHECKPOINTBuilt-In Checkpoint — Motion for Acquittal (PC §1118.1)At the close of the evidence on either side — before the case ever reaches thejury — the defense may move for acquittal. If the evidence is insufficient tosustain a conviction on appeal, the charge is dismissed and the case ends there.Defense Case — the defense may present evidence or rest without calling anyone;the defendant can never be compelled to testify, and silence proves nothing.Closing Arguments — the prosecution argues first and last; it bears the burdenJury Deliberations — twelve jurors must agree unanimously on each count;deadlock (a hung jury) can mean a mistrial — and a possible retrial.TRIAL ENDSVerdictNot guilty — acquittal is final; the defendant is released and cannot be retried.Guilty on any count — the case moves to sentencing.WITHIN 20JUDICIAL DAYSSentencing (PC §1191)In felony cases, the court must set judgment within 20 judicial days of the verdictor plea — extendable by up to 10 days to hear a new-trial motion, and furtherwhile the probation officer's report is prepared (PC §1203).How Long Does the Trial Itself Take?From jury selection to verdict, criminal trials commonly run from a few days toseveral weeks, depending on charge complexity, witness counts, and court calendars.Every case is different — no schedule or outcome can be promised.Verified against the current Penal Code (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov, July 2026). Not legal advice.Crown Law Firm · crownwins.com · (559) 779-2315
The typical California criminal trial sequence from arrest through sentencing: the PC §825 48-hour arraignment rule, the PC §859b 10-court-day preliminary hearing, the PC §1382 speedy-trial clocks (30 days for in-custody misdemeanors, 45 out of custody, 60 for felonies), the PC §1118.1 acquittal checkpoint, and PC §1191 sentencing timing — alongside the Fresno County reality that waived-time jury trials are typically set 6–18 months out.

Calculate court dates with the court calendar calculator, or learn about clearing your record after a case ends.

Why Choose Crown Law Firm for Criminal Defense

Choosing a criminal defense lawyer is one of the most consequential decisions you will make. The attorney you hire directly affects the trajectory of your case and, ultimately, your future. Crown Law Firm combines courtroom experience, local knowledge, and client-focused representation to deliver results.

Attorney Yan E. Shrayberman has been recognized as a Super Lawyer from 2020 through 2026 — an honor earned by fewer than 5% of attorneys in California. He has defended clients facing charges ranging from DUI and drug offenses to serious violent crimes and complex federal criminal cases. He is admitted to practice in all California state courts and the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California.

Crown Law Firm's practice is focused on criminal defense in Fresno County and the Central Valley. We are not a general practice firm that handles criminal cases on the side. Criminal defense is what we do every day. We know the Fresno County Superior Court judges, the prosecutors in the District Attorney's office, the procedures at the Fresno County Jail, and the local practices that can make a difference in your case. That local knowledge, combined with dedicated preparation, is what sets our defense apart.

Every client receives direct access to Attorney Shrayberman — not a paralegal, not an associate, not a call center. When you hire Crown Law Firm, you get personalized attention, clear communication about your case status, and vigorous advocacy from an attorney who has handled cases in sex crime defense, white collar investigations, domestic violence charges, and assault and battery cases.

Super Lawyer 2020-2026
State & Federal Courts
Eastern District of California
Fresno County Focus

Criminal Defense Focus

  • DUI & Drunk Driving Defense
  • Drug Crime Defense
  • Violent Crime Defense
  • Sex Crime Defense
  • White Collar Crime Defense
  • Federal Criminal Defense
  • Domestic Violence Defense
  • Theft Crime Defense
  • Assault & Battery Defense
  • Probation Violation Defense
  • Criminal Record Expungement

Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Fresno

If you are arrested in Fresno County, the most important thing you can do is exercise your constitutional rights. Remain silent — do not answer questions or make statements to law enforcement without an attorney present. Politely tell the officers that you want a lawyer. Contact Crown Law Firm at (559) 779-2315 as soon as possible. Attorney Yan Shrayberman is available for emergency criminal defense consultations and can begin working on your case immediately, including attending your arraignment and filing motions for bail reduction.

Facing Criminal Charges in Fresno County?

Your freedom, your career, and your future are on the line. Do not face the criminal justice system without experienced legal representation. Crown Law Firm provides aggressive, dedicated defense for every criminal charge in Fresno County and the Central Valley.

Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. We are available 24/7 for emergency criminal defense matters.

Serving criminal defense clients in the Fresno area

Crown Law Firm provides experienced criminal defense representation throughout the Central Valley. We serve clients in the following cities and surrounding communities across Fresno County, Madera County, Kings County, Tulare County, Merced County.

Fresno, CAClovis, CAMadera, CASelma, CAHanford, CAVisalia, CASanger, CAReedley, CAKingsburg, CAKerman, CADinuba, CATulare, CAPorterville, CADelano, CA

Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes; every case depends on its unique facts and applicable law. No attorney-client relationship is formed by visiting this site or submitting a contact form. Consult an attorney for advice about your specific situation. Crown Law Firm serves Fresno County and the Central Valley of California.