Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman LLP provides skilled criminal defense representation for clients throughout Reno and Washoe County, protecting your rights and fighting for a favorable outcome when you face criminal charges. Our Nevada-based attorneys understand the local courts, prosecutors, and legal procedures that will determine the trajectory of your case.
Facing criminal charges creates overwhelming anxiety about your future, reputation, and freedom. Our Reno criminal defense attorney provides clear guidance through each step of the legal process while building strong defenses tailored to your specific situation and circumstances.
Contact our defense team today at (775) 284-8888. We are ready to help.
Key Takeaways
- Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman LLP handles all types of criminal cases in Reno Justice Court, Washoe County District Court, and federal court, from misdemeanor charges to serious felonies.
- Nevada law provides multiple opportunities for charge reduction, dismissal, or alternative sentencing depending on your case circumstances and criminal history.
- Early intervention by experienced criminal defense attorneys can produce better outcomes than waiting until court dates approach or charges escalate.
- Reno's court system moves quickly, making immediate legal representation crucial for protecting your rights and preserving defense options.
- Strategic defense approaches focus on constitutional violations, evidence suppression, and witness credibility challenges that can lead to dismissed charges or significantly reduced penalties.
Why Choose Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman LLP
Criminal charges threaten your freedom, employment, housing, and relationships with family. You need attorneys who understand Nevada criminal law and have experience defending clients in Reno's courts.
Our firm combines decades of litigation experience with knowledge of Washoe County's legal procedures. We know the prosecutors, understand how local judges approach different types of cases, and have a deep familiarity with the local legal community. This experience allows us to navigate the system efficiently for our clients.
Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman LLP takes a strategic approach to criminal defense. We investigate your case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and we examine police procedures, witness credibility, and constitutional violations that might lead to dismissed charges or reduced penalties.
Our defense attorneys handle cases ranging from traffic violations to serious felonies, providing the same thorough preparation regardless of charge severity. We understand that even minor convictions can have lasting consequences for your career and personal life.
Hear from our clients
What Crimes Does a Reno Criminal Defense Attorney Handle?
Criminal defense attorneys in Reno represent clients facing a wide range of charges in both state and federal court systems. Understanding the types of cases we handle helps you recognize when you need immediate legal representation.
Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman LLP handles various criminal charges throughout Washoe County and Northern Nevada courts:
- DUI and DWI cases with technical breathalyzer and blood testing challenges
- Domestic violence charges, including battery and protection order violations
- Drug possession and trafficking cases with search and seizure defense strategies
- Theft crimes ranging from shoplifting to grand larceny and organized retail crime
- Assault and battery cases requiring careful witness and evidence analysis
- Sex crimes allegations demanding immediate and discreet legal intervention
- Gun charges and CCW violations affecting firearm ownership rights
- Probation violations and bench warrant recall proceedings
- Domestic violence charges, including battery and protection or restraining order violations
Reno Defense Strategies
The burden is on the prosecution to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. As your defense lawyer, we look at both ways to counter these arguments and any violations of your constitutional rights during the criminal justice process.
The following factors may influence criminal defense strategies in Reno:
- Quality of police investigation and evidence collection procedures
- Witness reliability and potential bias in their testimony
- Constitutional issues involving search, seizure, or interrogation
- Client's criminal history and eligibility for alternative sentencing
- Strength of the prosecution's case and potential plea negotiations
A comprehensive defense strategy takes into account the types of charges, the evidence, and the facts of the case. A trusted lawyer can help build a defense strategy that raises doubt in the prosecution’s case.
Which Court Will My Case Be In?
Nevada's court system determines where your criminal case will be heard based on the severity of charges and the jurisdiction where the alleged crime occurred. Understanding court procedures helps you prepare for the legal process ahead.
Reno Justice Court Jurisdiction
Reno Justice Court handles misdemeanor charges, traffic violations, and preliminary hearings for felony cases. This court addresses cases including first-time DUI charges, domestic battery misdemeanors, simple drug possession, shoplifting under certain amounts, and minor assault charges.
Justice Court procedures move quickly, and arraignments are often scheduled within days of arrest. Our attorneys understand these time constraints and work immediately to protect your rights and explore early resolution options.
Washoe County District Court Cases
The Second Judicial District Court handles felony cases, gross misdemeanor appeals, and serious criminal matters throughout Washoe County. Cases in District Court include felony DUI charges, drug trafficking, grand theft, serious assault charges, and all sex crime allegations.
District Court cases involve more complex procedures, including grand jury proceedings, extensive discovery, and potential jury trials. Our litigation experience in District Court helps clients understand what to expect throughout these more involved proceedings.
United States District Court for the District of Nevada
Federal court handles cases involving federal crimes such as drug trafficking across state lines, white collar crimes, immigration violations, and firearms offenses that cross jurisdictional boundaries. The United States District Court for the District of Nevada has jurisdiction over federal criminal cases in the Reno area.
Federal cases require attorneys familiar with federal sentencing guidelines, federal rules of evidence, and the unique procedures of federal court. Our experience in federal criminal defense helps clients understand the complexity and seriousness of federal charges.
Can I Get My Charges Reduced or Dismissed in Nevada?
Nevada law provides multiple pathways for charge reduction, dismissal, or alternative sentencing, depending on the circumstances of the case and the criminal history. Early legal intervention through negotiation or motion practice may increase opportunities for favorable outcomes.
Several legal grounds may support motions to dismiss criminal charges in Nevada:
- Fourth Amendment violations including illegal searches, seizures, or traffic stops
- Fifth Amendment violations involving coerced confessions or Miranda rights violations
- Prosecutorial misconduct or discovery violations that prejudice your defense
- Insufficient evidence that fails to establish guilt beyond reasonable doubt
- Procedural errors that violate Nevada criminal statutes or court rules
Identifying these issues early in the legal process provides a strong foundation for successful dismissal motions and favorable case outcomes.
Charge reduction through plea negotiations could provide practical solutions that minimize consequences while avoiding trial risks. Our experience with local prosecutors helps us understand which cases present good negotiation opportunities.
Alternative sentencing programs, including diversion and specialty courts, may offer paths to avoid conviction for qualifying defendants. These programs focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment, providing better long-term outcomes for clients willing to complete program requirements.
Past Case Results
What Happens at Arraignment and Future Court Dates?
Nevada's criminal court procedures follow specific timelines and requirements that protect defendant rights while moving cases toward resolution. Understanding these procedures reduces anxiety and helps you prepare for court appearances.
Arraignment Procedures
Arraignment represents your first formal court appearance, where charges are read and you enter a plea. At your arraignment, we will advise you on how to plead. Often, a not guilty plea at this stage preserves your legal rights and allows us time to investigate the prosecution's evidence.
Bail considerations can arise at arraignment, particularly for felony charges or cases involving public safety concerns. We prepare bail arguments that emphasize community ties and present you in the most favorable light possible.
Discovery procedures begin after arraignment, when the prosecution must provide evidence they plan to use against you. Our attorneys review all discovery materials carefully, looking for inconsistencies, procedural errors, or evidence that supports your defense.
Pre-Trial Motion Practice
Motion practice allows defense attorneys to challenge evidence admissibility and raise constitutional issues before trial. Common motions include suppression of evidence obtained through illegal searches and dismissal based on procedural violations.
Plea negotiations can intensify after motion practice when both sides better understand case strengths and weaknesses. Our defense lawyers use these strategies to strengthen negotiating positions and fight for better outcomes for our clients.
Can a Bench Warrant Be Recalled in Reno?
Outstanding warrants create ongoing legal problems that can result in arrest at any time, often during routine traffic stops or background checks. Even if there is a warrant, it is possible to have it cancelled, known as a warrant recall. Addressing warrants proactively protects you from unexpected detention and demonstrates good faith to the court.
The warrant recall process typically involves filing motions explaining the reason for non-appearance and requesting new court dates Depending on the underlying charges and your circumstances, our attorneys may be able to arrange warrant recalls without requiring you to turn yourself in. Early intervention prevents arrest and allows us to address the original case more effectively.
Addressing the underlying criminal case becomes essential after warrant recall to prevent future legal problems. Our Reno defense lawyers develop comprehensive strategies that resolve both the warrant issue and the original charges efficiently.
What's the Difference Between Misdemeanor and Felony Charges?
Nevada categorizes criminal charges based on severity, with different penalty ranges and court procedures applying to each category. Understanding these distinctions helps you appreciate the seriousness of charges and potential consequences.
Misdemeanor Classifications
Misdemeanors in Nevada include offenses punishable by up to six months in jail and fines up to $1,000. Common misdemeanors include first-time DUI, simple battery, petit larceny, and drug possession charges.
Gross misdemeanors carry penalties up to 364 days in jail and fines up to $2,000. These charges usually represent enhanced versions of misdemeanors based on circumstances or criminal history factors.
Felony Consequences
Felony charges carry potential prison sentences exceeding one year and significant fines. Nevada felonies range from Category E (least serious) to Category A (most serious), with sentencing ranges varying accordingly.
Felony convictions result in loss of various civil rights, including voting privileges, firearm ownership, and certain professional licenses. These collateral consequences can prove just as significant as direct criminal penalties in their long-term impact on your life.
Can I Seal My Nevada Criminal Record?
Record sealing eligibility depends on the type of charges, case outcome, and time elapsed since case completion. Different waiting periods apply to various charge categories, with more serious offenses requiring longer waiting periods. Our attorneys help clients understand eligibility requirements and develop timelines for pursuing record sealing relief.
The following factors affect record sealing eligibility in Nevada:
- Category and severity of original charges filed against you
- Whether charges resulted in conviction or dismissal
- Length of time since case completion and compliance with all court orders
- Subsequent criminal history and any new charges or convictions
- Payment of all fines, fees, and restitution ordered by the court
The record sealing process requires detailed petitions explaining your rehabilitation and reasons for seeking relief. Courts consider factors including employment, education, community involvement, and family responsibilities when evaluating petitions.
Do Domestic Violence Convictions Affect Gun Rights?
Federal and Nevada law restrict firearm ownership for individuals convicted of domestic violence offenses, creating serious consequences beyond standard criminal penalties. Understanding these restrictions helps inform plea negotiation strategies.
Federal Firearms Restrictions
The Lautenberg Amendment prohibits firearm possession for anyone convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence, regardless of sentence served. This federal law applies even when Nevada law might allow firearm ownership.
Employment in law enforcement, security, or military service can become impossible with domestic violence convictions due to firearm restrictions. Our attorneys consider these career impacts when developing defense strategies and negotiating plea agreements.
Nevada Firearm Laws
Nevada law, specifically NRS 202.360, also restricts firearm ownership. This statute explicitly prohibits individuals convicted of certain crimes, including battery which constitutes domestic violence, from possessing or controlling a firearm. Concealed carry permits become unavailable with most criminal convictions, affecting personal protection options.
Restoration of firearm rights requires complex legal procedures and proves difficult even years after case completion. Prevention through strong defense representation provides the most reliable protection for firearm ownership rights.
FAQ for Reno Criminal Defense Attorneys
Should I Talk to Police or Prosecutors without a Lawyer?
You have the constitutional right to remain silent and request an attorney before answering any questions about alleged criminal activity. Police and prosecutors are skilled at obtaining statements that hurt your case, making legal representation crucial before any interviews.
What Should I Expect during My First Consultation with a Reno Criminal Defense Attorney?
Your initial consultation typically involves discussing the charges against you, reviewing any police reports or evidence, and explaining your legal options and potential defenses.
What if I Miss Court in Reno—Will I Be Arrested?
Missing court appearances typically result in bench warrant issuance, authorizing your arrest at any time. However, attorneys may be able to arrange warrant recalls and new court dates without requiring jail time when defendants demonstrate good faith efforts to resolve their cases.
Can Domestic Violence Charges Be Dropped in Nevada?
While victims cannot directly "drop" criminal charges, prosecutors consider victim cooperation when deciding whether to proceed with cases. Defense attorneys can present evidence and arguments that persuade prosecutors to dismiss or reduce domestic violence charges based on case circumstances.
How Long Does Record Sealing Take in Nevada?
Nevada record sealing typically takes several months from petition filing to court approval, depending on court schedules and case complexity. The process involves background investigations and court review of eligibility requirements before judges make final decisions.
What are the collateral consequences of a criminal conviction in Nevada?
Beyond jail time and fines, a conviction can have serious long-term effects. These collateral consequences may include difficulty finding housing, ineligibility for certain jobs or professional licenses, loss of firearm rights, and for non-citizens, potential deportation or inadmissibility.
A felony conviction also results in the loss of your right to vote and serve on a jury.
Will my criminal case go to trial?
Most criminal cases in Washoe County do not go to trial. Many cases resolve through negotiation, leading to a plea agreement for reduced charges or a specific sentence. Courts may dismiss other cases based on a lack of evidence or constitutional violations.
We prepare every case as if it will go to trial, which strengthens our negotiating position and ensures we are ready to fight for you in court if necessary.
How much does a Reno criminal defense attorney cost?
The cost of defense varies significantly based on the complexity of your case (misdemeanor vs. felony), the amount of investigation required, and whether the case proceeds to a trial.
Our firm offers a confidential initial consultation to review your case and discuss the fee structure. We typically handle criminal cases on a flat-fee basis, so you know the full cost of representation upfront.
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Protect Your Rights with Experienced Reno Criminal Defense
Criminal charges create uncertainty about your future and require immediate attention to protect your rights and preserve defense options. Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman LLP understands the anxiety criminal charges create and provides clear guidance through Nevada's complex legal system.
We handle criminal defense cases throughout Reno, Sparks, and Washoe County, representing clients in Justice Court, District Court, and federal court proceedings. Our local knowledge and relationships benefit clients through every stage of the criminal justice process.
Contact Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman LLP today at (775) 284-8888 to discuss your criminal charges with a trusted defense lawyer.