Welcome to the Law Office of Richard A. Beshwate, Jr.

DUI Cases

Criminal Defense

Under Investigation?

DUI Cases

Criminal Defense

Under Investigation?

Law Office Overview

Richard A. Beshwate, Jr., Attorney at Law, has been a top Criminal Defense Lawyer for over 22 years and has handled some of the area’s largest Criminal Trials. Having successfully defended thousands of people in need, If you or a loved one is in trouble, Richard is the one to call.

Born and raised in the Valley, Richard is proud to serve as a top criminal defense lawyer, protecting the rights of its citizens, and protecting the Constitution.

Richard practices regularly in both the State and Federal Courts. As a Former Deputy District Attorney, he has a unique perspective on the justice system that is an advantage. With reasonable rates, vast experience and a full service and knowledgeable staff, the ONLY choice for QUALITY representation in the San Joaquin Valley is the Law Offices of Richard A. Beshwate, Jr.

“Mr. Beshwate was extremely helpful with my case and helped me avoid a harsh sentence.”

~ Past Client

Working with a Criminal Defense Attorney

If you have been charged with a crime, it is extremely important to contact a criminal defense attorney immediately.
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Charged with DUI? 4 Reasons to Hire DUI Lawyer Richard Beshwate

If you have been charged with driving under the influence, it is important to speak with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible after your arrest.

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Private Criminal Defense Attorney vs. Public Defender: Which Should You Choose?

If you have been charged with a crime, you have the right to hire an Criminal Defense Attorney.

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Why work with Richard Beshwate, Attorney at Law?

  • Free Initial Consultation
  • Payment Plans Available
  • Local Representation
  • Experience You Can Trust

Private Criminal Defense Lawyer vs. Public Defender: Which Should You Choose?

If you have been charged with a crime, you have the right to hire an Criminal Defense Lawyer. There are also public defenders available for people who do not have the means to hire private counsel. Although public defenders and private criminal defense lawyer have the same basic qualifications, there are many advantages to hiring a private attorney. If your future is at stake, hire a private criminal defense attorney to represent you in court. If your fighting a case in or around Fresno County you should hire a Fresno lawyer who specializes as a criminal defense lawyer.

Heavy Caseloads

Most public defenders have very heavy caseloads. Although a public defender has the skills necessary to defend you against a criminal charge, you might not get to spend much time together outside of a courtroom. If you hire a private criminal defense lawyer, you will have the opportunity to meet with your attorney or talk on the telephone prior to each hearing. Your private attorney will advise you on the best course of action at every step of your case. Because private attorneys have more time to spend with each client, your attorney will also have more time to review the facts of your case, talk to witnesses, and build your defense.

Court Assignment

When you work with a public defender, your attorney is appointed to your case. You do not have the opportunity to meet with several public defenders and choose the one you want. If the two of you have different communication styles, it may be difficult to get information from your public defender or talk freely when you meet. If you decide to hire a private criminal defense attorney, you will be able to meet with several attorneys and choose the one who has the most experience handling your particular type of case.

Criminal Cases

Public defenders handle all types of criminal cases, from theft to homicide. Although they are skilled attorneys, they may not have enough time to keep up with recent developments in forensic science or working with expert witnesses. Some private attorneys choose to handle just one or two types of cases, so they stay on top of recent developments and read everything they can about defending clients against certain charges. Working with a private attorney may make the difference between winning your case and having to accept a plea agreement.

Court Relationships

Court relationships are also a factor when choosing a private attorney over a public defender. Public defenders spend much of their time in the courtroom, so they build strong professional relationships with judges and prosecutors. Many public defenders see the same judges day in and day out, so they might hesitate to speak up on your behalf for fear of damaging their professional relationships. Private attorneys spend time in court, but they also spend a lot of time in their own offices. If you hire a private Criminal Defense Lawyer, your attorney will be more likely to fight for you in court.

Public defenders have the same educational background as private attorneys, but hiring a private attorney might give you a better chance of winning your case. If you have been charged with a crime, contact a private criminal defense lawyer immediately.