Criminal Law Attorney Serving Throughout the East Bay Area “I Will Fight to Protect Your Rights & Your Future.” -Attorney Thomas F. McKenna

Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer in Walnut Creek, CA

At the Law Office of Thomas F. McKenna, I offer a hard-working, client-first approach to criminal law clients throughout the East Bay area, including Oakland and Martinez. I am always honest with people who come to me for help if you don’t need a lawyer and can handle your affairs yourself, I will tell you.

 Here are several benefits of hiring a Walnut creek lawyer:

  • I can ensure that your rights are protected throughout the entire legal process.
  • I can provide you with an objective view of the situation and help you make decisions about how to proceed.
  • I have a strong knowledge of criminal law and procedure, as well as familiarity with local court rules. 
  • I will be able to identify any weaknesses or errors in the prosecution's case against you and use them to your advantage during trial proceedings. 
  • I can negotiate on your behalf for plea bargains or reduced sentences, if applicable.
  • I will give you peace of mind knowing that someone is fighting for your best interests in court. 

Arrange a free initial consultation online, or call (925) 744-8404 to discuss your legal needs.

Contact An Effective Criminal Defense And DUI Attorney Today

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Criminal Defense Attorney in the Bay Area

If you are facing criminal charges or are under investigation, your freedom, your family, your reputation, and your job may be at stake. With so much on the line, you need an attorney who is completely dedicated to defending your future; a lawyer who will tirelessly fight for your rights and protect your interests.

My name is Tom McKenna. With over 30 years of experience, my entire career has been devoted to criminal defense. I understand the fears and worries you are experiencing, and I know what it takes to make it through a criminal investigation and trial. I can help you to pursue the best possible outcome for your case and provide aggressive representation, guidance, and support throughout the process.

Focused 100 % on Criminal Defense

Law Office of Thomas F. McKenna represents clients in drunk driving in all state and federal court criminal cases in the Bay Area. 

I have over three decades of courtroom experience and devote 100 percent of my time to defending clients against criminal charges including:

  • DUI/drunk driving, including DUIs involving injuries, multiple DUIs, felony DUI, vehicular manslaughter and challenging blood/breath tests
  • Violent crimes such as domestic violence, sex crimes, assault and weapons crimes
  • Drug crimes, including the possession, sale or distribution and manufacturing of drugs
  • Juvenile crimes such as vandalism, shoplifting or sex crimes
  • Underage drinking under California’s zero tolerance law
  • Robbery, property crimes and theft, embezzlement, insurance fraud, and contracting without a license
  • Other criminal matters such as criminal records expungement

What Do Criminal Defense Lawyers Do?

Criminal defense lawyers are legal professionals who specialize in representing individuals accused of criminal offenses. They play a vital role in the justice system, ensuring that the accused receive a fair and impartial trial and that their rights are protected throughout the legal process. Here are the key functions and responsibilities of criminal defense lawyers:

  • Legal Counsel and Advice: One of the primary roles of defense attorneys is to provide legal counsel and advice to their clients. They help clients understand the charges they are facing, explain the potential consequences, and discuss available legal options.
  • Investigation: Defense lawyers conduct thorough investigations into the circumstances surrounding the alleged crime. This includes reviewing evidence, interviewing witnesses, and gathering information to build a robust defense strategy.
  • Legal Research: Attorneys research relevant laws, statutes, and legal precedents to develop a comprehensive understanding of the case and identify potential legal defenses. They use this research to construct persuasive arguments on behalf of their clients.
  • Negotiation: Criminal defense lawyers negotiate with prosecutors to seek favorable outcomes for their clients. This may involve securing plea bargains that result in reduced charges or penalties.
  • Court Representation: Defense attorneys represent their clients in court proceedings, including arraignments, bail hearings, pretrial conferences, and trials. They present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and make legal arguments to defend their clients vigorously.
  • Jury Selection: In cases that go to trial, defense lawyers are involved in the selection of jurors to ensure a fair and impartial jury. This is a critical step in upholding the right to a fair trial.
  • Trial Defense: During a trial, criminal defense lawyers work to cast doubt on the prosecution's case, challenge evidence, and present alternative theories to persuade the jury of their client's innocence or to mitigate the charges and penalties.
  • Post-Conviction Actions: If a client is convicted, defense attorneys continue to represent them during the sentencing phase and explore post-conviction options, such as filing appeals or seeking pardons.
  • Client Support: Beyond their legal duties, defense lawyers provide emotional support and guidance to their clients, who often face the stress and uncertainty of criminal charges.
  • Confidentiality: Attorneys maintain the attorney-client privilege, ensuring that communications between them and their clients remain confidential. This privilege allows clients to share information openly with their lawyers without fear of it being used against them.

In essence, criminal defense lawyers serve as advocates for individuals accused of crimes, working diligently to protect their rights and achieve the best possible outcomes within the confines of the law.

  • “Thomas F. Mckenna is more than a criminal justice Lawyer, he and his staff are attentive, timely, caring, and get the results you want.”
    Shelly S.

Why Choose Us?

Attorney Thomas McKenna is a founding and specialist member of the California DUI Lawyers Association, the oldest drunk driving defense bar association in the country, which provides educational information to the public on DUI prevention and DUI defense. 

  1. Over 37 Years of Legal Experience
  2. Respected by Prosecutors and Judges
  3. Focused 100% On Criminal Defense
  4. A Small-Firm Setting With Exceptional Personal Service