Business Details
Criminal Defense Attorneys Committed to Justice
At the Law Offices of William V. Pernik, we approach every case with a team-based strategy, combining decades of legal expertise with a commitment to justice and client advocacy. Our firm comprises seasoned attorneys, investigators, and specialists in criminal law, with a focus on defending individuals facing serious charges in Monterey County and beyond. With a background as former public defenders, our team understands the complexities of the criminal justice system and leverages this experience to craft innovative defenses tailored to each client's unique circumstances. We prioritize local community relationships, maintaining strong connections with judges, prosecutors, and experts to strengthen our cases.Our practice extends beyond courtroom representationwe advocate for mental health diversion, veterans' rights, and equitable treatment for individuals with substance abuse disorders. Certified specialists in criminal law, we combine rigorous investigation, forensic analysis, and strategic negotiation to achieve favorable outcomes, whether through plea agreements or trial verdicts. Our dedication to accessibility is reflected in free consultations and discounted services for military personnel, ensuring quality legal representation remains available to all who need it.
Services
Criminal Defense
DUI Defense
Domestic Violence
Federal Crimes
Juvenile Crimes
Probation Violation
Drug Offenses
Homicide Defense
Expungement
Veterans' Defense
Highlights and features
- 15+ years of combined experience as former public defenders in complex criminal cases
- Local Monterey County legal network with established relationships in courts and agencies
- Licensed investigator with decades of experience on staff
- Proven success in jury trials, plea negotiations, and appellate advocacy
- Specialized focus on mental health diversion and veterans' defense programs
Associations and certifications
- California State Bar Board of Legal Specialization (Certified Specialist in Criminal Law)
- Super Lawyers (2025)
- Super Lawyers Rising Stars (2019-2021)
What people say
Compassionate and hard-working attorneys
Outstanding service provided
Positive and realistic force
Genuine care for clients
Fearless advocacy in court
Services
Criminal Defense
Our criminal defense practice handles all felony and misdemeanor charges, including violent crimes, property offenses, and white-collar crimes. We conduct independent investigations, challenge evidence, and develop tailored defense strategies. With experience in both plea negotiations and jury trials, we protect clients' rights while addressing underlying issues like mental health or substance abuse through diversion programs.
DUI Defense
Specialized DUI defense includes challenging field sobriety tests, breathalyzer accuracy, and procedural violations. We represent clients facing first-time or repeat offenses, license suspensions, and felony DUI charges. Our team works with forensic toxicologists to analyze evidence and develop defenses that have successfully reduced or dismissed numerous DUI cases.
Domestic Violence
We defend against domestic violence allegations involving spousal or cohabitant accusations. Our approach includes challenging evidence credibility, addressing false allegations in custody disputes, and negotiating alternatives to incarceration. We protect clients' rights while navigating protective orders, firearm restrictions, and long-term employment implications.
Veterans' Defense
Our veterans' defense program utilizes California's Penal Code 1001.80 diversion for service-related mental health or substance abuse issues. We collaborate with VA providers to secure treatment alternatives to conviction, while advocating for reduced penalties and specialized sentencing options that recognize military service.
Expungement
We assist clients in clearing criminal records through expungement, dismissal, or reduction processes. This includes post-conviction relief under Proposition 47 for eligible drug offenses, as well as sealing juvenile records to improve employment and housing opportunities while maintaining legal compliance.
People
William V. Pernik
Criminal Defense Attorney & Founder
Former public defender with 15+ years of criminal law experience, certified specialist by California State Bar, and Super Lawyers honoree. Focuses on complex felony defense, mental health diversion, and veterans' advocacy.
Roland Soltesz
Attorney & Of Counsel
Experienced trial attorney with expertise in DUI defense and appellate advocacy. Brings strategic litigation skills from prior prosecutorial experience to complex criminal cases.
Dustin Ercolano
Attorney
Specializes in juvenile defense and probation violation cases. Combines zealous advocacy with rehabilitative approaches for young offenders and those facing sentencing challenges.
Alana Wilson
Attorney
Focuses on domestic violence defense and mental health advocacy. Develops compassionate legal strategies that address both legal outcomes and clients' underlying personal challenges.
Wayne Autry
Chief Investigator
Licensed investigator with decades of experience in criminal defense. Conducts forensic analysis, interviews witnesses, and develops evidence-based counter-narratives to prosecution claims.
Questions
What types of criminal cases do you handle?
We handle all felony and misdemeanor cases including DUI, domestic violence, drug offenses, federal crimes, homicide defense, and juvenile cases across Central California.
Can my criminal record be expunged?
Many convictions qualify for expungement under California law. Our attorneys will evaluate your record and guide you through the process to clear eligible offenses.
Do you offer free consultations?
Yes, we provide free initial consultations to discuss your case details and legal options with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
How do you handle DUI cases?
Our DUI defense includes challenging evidence validity, analyzing breathalyzer accuracy, and developing defense strategies tailored to each case's specific circumstances.
What if I'm a military veteran facing charges?
We specialize in veterans' defense programs, including diversion under Penal Code 1001.80, to address service-related mental health or substance abuse issues through treatment rather than incarceration.
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