Business Details
Trusted Criminal Defense Attorneys in Ontario, CA
At Hammett & Galan Attorneys at Law, we are committed to delivering personalized legal solutions tailored to each client's unique needs. As a boutique firm, we prioritize one-on-one client relationships, ensuring transparent communication and dedicated representation throughout every stage of your case. Our practice focuses on criminal defense, including DUI, misdemeanors, and felonies, as well as appellate law and post-conviction relief. With combined experience from years of work in the Riverside County Public Defender's Office and private practice, our attorneys bring practical expertise to every case.We serve clients across San Bernardino, Riverside, Orange, and Los Angeles Counties, offering free initial consultations to assess your legal challenges. Our mission is to protect clients' rights while providing affordable, high-quality legal services that empower informed decision-making. Through diligent advocacy and a client-centered approach, we strive to achieve favorable outcomes that align with our clients' goals. Our team remains accessible to address concerns promptly, fostering trust and clarity in often-complex legal matters.
Services
Criminal Defense
DUI Defense
Misdemeanor Defense
Felony Defense
Expungement Services
Post-Conviction Relief
Civil Compromise
Appellate Law
Legal Consultation
Case Evaluation
Highlights and features
- We offer free 30-minute confidential consultations to evaluate your case.
- Our attorneys have extensive trial and appellate experience in criminal law.
- We provide personalized representation tailored to each client's specific needs.
- Monthly payment plans make quality legal defense accessible and affordable.
- Bilingual (English/Spanish) services available for improved client communication.
Services
Criminal Defense
We provide comprehensive defense strategies for criminal charges ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies. Our attorneys leverage trial experience and knowledge of procedural law to challenge evidence and protect client rights. With a focus on personalized advocacy, we work to minimize legal consequences through negotiated settlements or courtroom litigation when necessary.
DUI Defense
Specialized defense for driving under the influence charges requires understanding complex traffic and chemical test laws. We examine police procedures, challenge questionable evidence, and explore alternative sentencing options. Our goal is to prevent license suspension, reduce fines, and limit long-term impacts on employment and insurance rates through strategic legal representation.
Expungement Services
Our firm helps clients remove past convictions from public records to improve employment and housing opportunities. We guide clients through eligibility requirements, petition preparation, and court appearances. By analyzing case specifics, we determine the most effective path to expunge or seal criminal records while ensuring compliance with California's legal standards.
Appellate Law
When trial outcomes require review, we handle criminal appeals and writs proceedings. Our practice includes identifying legal errors, preparing appellate briefs, and presenting oral arguments. With experience in published and unpublished cases, we challenge unjust verdicts and work to reverse unfavorable decisions at higher court levels.
Civil Compromise
For eligible misdemeanor property crimes, we facilitate civil compromise agreements between defendants and victims. This process can lead to charge dismissal by resolving financial restitution and demonstrating accountability. We negotiate terms that satisfy both parties while working to achieve the best possible legal outcome for our clients.
People
Erik J. Hammett
Partner
Founding partner with 5+ years of private practice experience, including reversing a $700,000 legal fee award. Former certified law clerk at Riverside County Public Defender's Office, handling 100+ trial-level cases and appellate matters.
Jemima Galan
Partner
Co-founding partner specializing in criminal defense and post-conviction relief. Fluent in Spanish, former Chief Executive Editor of University of La Verne Law Review. Published author on criminal record expungement and employment rights for convicted offenders.
Questions
What types of criminal cases do you handle?
We represent clients facing DUI charges, misdemeanors, felonies, and post-conviction matters across Southern California's four major counties.
Do you offer free consultations?
Yes, we provide free 30-minute confidential consultations to evaluate your case details and discuss potential defense strategies.
Can you help with expungement?
We specialize in expungement services with pricing ranging from $750 to $3,000 depending on case complexity and required legal procedures.
Are payment plans available?
Yes, we offer flexible monthly payment plans for criminal defense cases billed on a flat-fee basis.
Do you handle appellate cases?
Our firm actively manages appellate law practice, including published cases like the successful reversal of a $700,000 legal fee award.