Business Details
23 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Trusted Criminal Defense Attorneys in Pasadena
Pasadena Criminal Attorney has been successfully handling misdemeanor and felony criminal matters for over 20 years. Our firm takes cases from inception to conclusion while prioritizing client goals and needs. We specialize in motions to terminate early, reduce case status, seal arrests, expunge records, and pardons. Our founding attorney, Sharen H. Ghatan, has built strong professional relationships with prosecutors, judges, and law enforcement across multiple California counties.We are committed to attentive client care, aggressive criminal defense strategies, and flexible financial plans. Recognized as a SuperLawyer in the top 2.5% of California attorneys, Ms. Ghatan brings unique perspective as a judge pro tem and frequently contributes legal expertise to media outlets. Our team provides 24/7 complimentary consultations and remains dedicated to achieving optimal outcomes for every client.
Services
DUI Defense
Domestic Violence
Drug Crimes
Sex Crimes
Theft Crimes
White Collar Crimes
Juvenile Defense
Expungement Services
Restraining Orders
Driving Offenses
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- 20+ years of specialized criminal defense experience
- SuperLawyer-rated attorney with top 2.5% recognition
- 24/7 availability for urgent legal matters
- Proven track record of case dismissals and reductions
- Strategic defense approaches tailored to individual cases
Associations and certifications
- SuperLawyers
Services
DUI Defense
Our DUI defense practice handles all levels of alcohol and drug-related driving offenses. We challenge evidence through field sobriety test analysis, breathalyzer accuracy verification, and procedural violations. Our strategies address first-time offenses through felony charges, including wet reckless reductions and DMV administrative hearings. Clients receive comprehensive guidance through license suspension processes and court proceedings.
Domestic Violence
We defend against domestic violence allegations involving current or former partners. Our approach addresses false accusations, self-defense claims, and relationship dynamics. We handle protective order challenges, criminal charges, and related family court matters. Our experience includes reducing charges and preventing long-term consequences like restraining orders and mandatory counseling programs.
Drug Crimes
Our drug crime defense covers possession, trafficking, and manufacturing charges. We challenge search and seizure procedures, analyze lab results, and negotiate diversion programs. We handle simple possession through complex trafficking cases, including prescription drug violations and controlled substance allegations. Our strategies focus on minimizing penalties and avoiding permanent criminal records.
Sex Crimes
We defend serious sex crime allegations including registration requirements. Our approach addresses false accusations, consensual relationships, and evidentiary challenges. We handle cases from investigations through trial, including child molestation, statutory rape, and internet-related offenses. We work to prevent lifetime registration and protect professional licenses.
Expungement Services
Our expungement practice helps clients clear criminal records for improved employment and housing opportunities. We handle post-conviction relief including certificate of rehabilitation, record sealing, and pardon applications. We guide clients through eligibility requirements and court procedures to achieve the best possible outcomes for past convictions.
People
Sharen H. Ghatan
Lead Attorney
With over 20 years of criminal defense experience, Sharen H. Ghatan has established strong relationships with prosecutors and judges across Southern California. Recognized as a SuperLawyer, she serves as judge pro tem and contributes legal expertise to media outlets. She focuses on achieving dismissals, reductions, and expungements through strategic defense approaches.
Questions
What should I do immediately after being charged with a DUI?
Contact our office immediately to preserve evidence and begin building your defense strategy.
Can domestic violence charges be dismissed?
Yes, through evidentiary challenges, self-defense claims, and demonstrating lack of intent.
Do you handle juvenile criminal cases?
Yes, we represent minors in delinquency proceedings and transfer hearings across Southern California.
What's the difference between expungement and record sealing?
Expungement removes convictions from public records while sealing restricts access to arrest records.
Are weekend consultations available?
Yes, our team provides 24/7 complimentary legal consultations including weekends.
Can drug charges be reduced to misdemeanors?
Yes, through pretrial diversion programs and demonstrating lack of intent to distribute.
