Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Re: excessive bail, concerned about attorney, don't want to rock the boat tho

Well I am not sure that there was a question here. But if he or his mother want to consult about his case, have them call our office.

His prior record, probation/parole status and the police report of the incident will be key to determining issues related to the case as well as bail reduction.

Re: excessive bail, concerned about attorney, don't want to rock the boat tho

Unfortunately, bail is not based totally on what the offense the defendant is being charged with, but also it has alot to do with "flight risk", as bail is not a constitutional right afforded to any or all defendants. However, there could be mitigating circumstances to help get the bail amount at issue reduced significantly. Further, it is an attorney's duty and professional responsibility to work exclusively for his/her client's best interest, not those of the person paying the attorney fees per se. You/your financee may want to strongly consider retaining new, more effective counsel ASAP, from the facts given so far.

Re: excessive bail, concerned about attorney, don't want to rock the boat tho

The amount of bail is determined by not only the offenses charged, but also any priors or enhancements that may be alleged in the complaint. The court also considers any previous failures to appear in court.

From your message it appears that the bail has been reduced already. In order to have the court consider changing the bail again there must be some change in circumtances from the last time the bail was changed. For example, the D.A. can't come back to court and ask for a higher bail unless there is a change in circumstances. Similarly, the defendant can't ask for a lower bail unless he/she shows a change in circumstances. That change in circumstances can be something like there are fewer charges alleged after the premiliminary hearing.

As for whether to get a new attorney, the relationship between the defendant and the attorney is important. If your boyfriend is feeling like he isn't being heard from his attorney you may want to try letting the attorney know that and see if he/she is more responsive. Clients range from wanting to know every detail about what's going on to not want to know anything but the end result. Try voicing your concerns with the attorney and see if that helps. If not, you can always change.

Good luck,