315 Montgomery St Suite 900
sam@gellerlawsf.com
Criminal Defense Attorney Walnut Creek
Navigating the legal landscape to protect you.
Partnering With a Walnut Creek Criminal Defense Lawyer You Can Trust
Criminal charges in Walnut Creek, California, carry real consequences, including fines and imprisonment/jail time. Having a criminal record also comes with its own issues and long-term implications. As a result, a conviction can cost you your job, your housing, and your freedom.
However, Geller Law, PC, defends people facing charges in Contra Costa County and across the Bay Area. The moment you’re charged, the clock starts. Early action matters.
As criminal defense lawyers, we dedicate ourselves to representing individuals accused of crimes. We also ensure your rights are protected throughout the legal process. We can help you navigate the intricate legal landscape and build a strong defense. Likewise, we work to minimize penalties or even achieve acquittals.
At Geller Law, PC, I, Samuel Geller, help clients navigate the criminal justice system with determination and commitment. As an experienced criminal defense attorney in Walnut Creek, I understand the local legal landscape. I’m ready to defend your rights and fight to protect your freedom.
I handle a range of criminal cases in Walnut Creek, including DUIs, sex crimes, and other serious allegations.
PRACTICE AREAS
How Geller Law Defends Criminal Charges in Walnut Creek
At Geller Law, PC, the response to a criminal charge starts with a close look at everything, including the arrest, the evidence, and the exact charges you face. Every case in Contra Costa County is different. Your defense should be too.
The first step is a thorough review of how the case against you was built.
We examine police reports, witness statements, and any evidence the prosecution plans to use. Under California Penal Code Section 1538.5, if law enforcement violated your constitutional rights during the arrest or search, we can file a motion to suppress illegally obtained evidence, which may result in that evidence being excluded from trial entirely.
Walnut Creek cases are heard in the Contra Costa County Superior Court. We know how that court operates. We know the local procedures, the judges, and the standards that apply to your charges.
That local knowledge shapes how we approach your defense from day one.
For DUI charges, we challenge the traffic stop, the field sobriety tests, and the breath or blood test results. Errors in any of those steps can weaken the prosecution’s case. For domestic violence charges, we look closely at the evidence, the accuser’s statements, and whether the arrest followed proper procedure.
Felonies and serious misdemeanors get the same careful attention. We look for weaknesses in the state’s case and vigorously advocate on each of them. When the facts support it, we negotiate for reduced charges or a better plea. When they don’t, we prepare to take your case to trial.
Our goal is simple. Get you the best possible outcome given the facts allow.
Common Criminal Charges in Walnut Creek, California
- DUI (Driving Under the Influence): DUI stands for Driving Under the Influence. It means operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or both. Those facing DUI charges can face severe penalties that can include license suspension, fines, and jail time, making a professional DUI defense crucial.
- Property Crimes: These include theft offenses, such as shoplifting, burglary, and vandalism. Property crimes are taken seriously and can result in up to six months in county jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000.
- Drug Offenses: Charges related to possession, distribution, or manufacturing of controlled substances such as heroin, opium, or cocaine are also common. These crimes can result in fines, up to a year in jail for possession, or up to four years in prison if found guilty of possession with intent to sell.
- Sex Crimes: Offenses such as sexual assault, rape, or pandering are prosecuted vigorously. They carry severe penalties, including mandatory lifetime sex offender registration.
- Domestic Violence: Violent altercations involving family members or intimate partners can lead to criminal charges, often with additional social and legal implications.
- Gun crimes: Gun charges, including illegal weapon possession or carrying a loaded firearm in public, can lead to jail time and the loss of one’s gun rights upon conviction.
These criminal charges may be categorized into two misdemeanors and felonies. The classification depends on the specific statutory provisions and the circumstances of the case.
Violent Crimes
Violent crimes are prosecuted aggressively in California. These offenses often involve the use or threat of physical force against another person. Moreover, they typically result in lengthy prison terms, substantial fines, and lasting reputational damage.
Examples of violent crimes include:
- Assault and Battery: Physical attacks or threats of harm.
- Robbery: Taking property by force or intimidation.
- Manslaughter or Murder: Causing the death of another person, whether intentional or not.
- Assault with a Deadly Weapon: Using or threatening to use a firearm or other weapon.
Why Geller Law Is a Strong Choice in Walnut Creek
At Geller Law, PC, every differentiator below comes from real practice — not a marketing pitch. Here is what sets Sam Geller apart when your freedom is on the line in Contra Costa County.
Respected by Peers. Trusted by Clients.
Our firm has been honored as a Super Lawyers Rising Star and named among the National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40. Furthermore, our dedication to exceptional local representation earned us the SF Weekly “Best of San Francisco” winner title, and we are proud members of the National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys (NACDA).
When you choose us, you are partnering with a highly decorated defense team uniquely equipped to protect your rights, navigate the local court system, and build a powerful defense for your future.
Sam Geller Handles Your Case From Start to Finish
Sam Geller is your attorney from day one through the final resolution. No hand-offs. No junior associates. You get direct access to the attorney making decisions about your case, which means faster answers and sharper strategy at every turn.
Criminal Defense Is the Firm’s Core Focus
Geller Law, PC, focuses its practice on criminal defense. That means every resource, every ounce of energy, goes toward one thing: defending people charged with crimes in California. From DUI cases to domestic violence charges to serious felonies, the firm does not spread itself thin across unrelated areas of law.
High-Stakes Trial Experience in California Courts
Sam Geller is an experienced trial attorney. He has handled high-stakes criminal cases — including serious charges like manslaughter, murder, and attempted murder — in California state courts. That courtroom depth matters when your case goes to trial.
Bay Area Coverage Across Multiple Counties
Geller Law, PC serves clients across the San Francisco Bay Area — including Contra Costa County, where Walnut Creek cases are heard. The firm also covers San Francisco County, Alameda County, San Mateo County, Marin County, and Santa Clara County. One attorney.
Personalized Strategy Built Around Your Facts
No two cases are alike. Sam Geller builds a defense around your specific facts, your specific charges, and the court where your case will be decided — not a template pulled from a drawer.
What Happens After a Criminal Charge in Walnut Creek
Criminal cases in Contra Costa County move through a set process. Knowing each stage helps you stay calm and make smart choices.
Stage 1: Arrest and Booking
After an arrest in Walnut Creek, you are taken to the Contra Costa County Detention Facility for booking. Your personal details, charges, and fingerprints are recorded. You may be held or released on bail.
Do not speak to police without an attorney present. Anything you say can be used against you.
Stage 2: Arraignment
Your first court date happens fast. In California, an arraignment should occur within 48 hours of arrest for those in custody. This hearing takes place at the Contra Costa County Superior Court in Martinez.
You enter a plea — guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Entering a not-guilty plea keeps your options open while your defense is built.
Stage 3: Pre-Trial Motions and Review (Weeks 2–8)
This is where much of the real work happens. Your attorney reviews police reports, body camera footage, and lab results. If evidence was gathered unlawfully, a motion to suppress can ask the court to suppress it.
Witnesses may be interviewed. Your attorney may also open talks with the prosecution about reducing or dropping charges.
Stage 4: Negotiation or Trial Preparation (Months 2–6)
Many Contra Costa County cases are resolved before trial through a plea agreement. If a fair deal is not on the table, your attorney begins full trial preparation — selecting witnesses, preparing arguments, and reviewing all discovery materials. You will stay informed at every step.
Your input matters during this phase.
Stage 5: Trial or Resolution
If your case goes to trial in Contra Costa County Superior Court, a jury of your peers decides the outcome. The prosecution has to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Your attorney challenges the evidence, cross-examines witnesses, and argues your defense.
If an agreement is reached before trial, the case closes without a jury. Either way, your case moves toward resolution.
How Geller Law, PC, a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Walnut Creek, Can Help You
Your charges in Walnut Creek are serious. Every day without a defense plan is a day the prosecution gets ahead. At Geller Law, PC, we offer free initial consultations so you can get clear answers fast and know exactly where you stand.
We serve clients throughout Contra Costa County, and we are ready to act on your case right away. So, if you are facing criminal charges, don’t navigate this challenging process alone. Schedule your initial consultation today. Let us help you understand your options and work toward the most favorable outcome for your case.
Do not wait. The sooner you call, the sooner we can start building your defense.
- 1. What kinds of legal cases does Geller Law in Walnut Creek handle?
- 2. What should I do if I’m arrested or charged with a crime in Walnut Creek?
- 3. How does Geller Law approach criminal defense cases?
- 4. What kind of non‑criminal legal help does Geller Law provide?
- 5. Why might it be beneficial to hire a local Walnut Creek lawyer?
Geller Law represents clients in criminal defense (including DUIs, domestic violence, drug offenses, theft, gun charges, sex crimes, and other felonies/misdemeanors). They also take personal‑injury cases.
If charged, you should contact Geller Law as soon as possible to protect your rights.
The firm can evaluate your case, review evidence, advise on defenses, negotiate pleas or fight for an acquittal, and guide you through court. This applies whether you face a misdemeanor or a serious felony.
The firm conducts a thorough evaluation of the charges and evidence. We can investigate facts (including search and arrest procedures), challenge prosecution evidence if appropriate, negotiate with prosecutors, and prepare for trial.
Our goal is to minimize penalties, secure favorable plea deals, or achieve acquittal.
Beyond criminal law, Geller Law, PC, handles personal injury cases. These are caused by car accidents, motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, pedestrian injuries, and other serious injuries.
That means if you were injured or bought a defective vehicle, they can help you seek compensation or a remedy.
A local attorney understands the local courts, prosecution practices, and the legal community.
Being nearby makes it easier to meet, attend hearings, gather evidence, and respond quickly. All these factors can make a significant difference in time-sensitive cases, such as criminal defense or injury claims.