Over 100 Years of Legal experience Former Prosecutors Vigorously Representing Your Rights

Corrigan Welbourn Stokke, APLC has built their firm on reputation, a collaborative approach and personalized attention. We are ready to fight for your case with the skill and experience your case requires.

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  • AV Rated Martindale Hubbell
  • California State Bar
  • Orange County Bar Association
  • Best Lawyers of America

Criminal Defense Attorney Newport Beach

Orange County Attorneys With Over 100 Years of Experience

Criminal charges have the potential to change the rest of your life. If you are being accused of criminal activity of any type, you deserve to have the best chance at defending your rights. The Newport Beach criminal defense attorneys at Corrigan Welbourn Stokke, APLC are ready to provide you with strategic legal defense so that your side of the story is heard.

Our criminal defense law firm is backed by over 100 years of legal experience, and each of our lawyers began their careers as prosecutors. Importantly, we do not hand your legal matters off to a less-experienced lawyer. Instead, each of our founding attorneys approaches matters collaboratively, so you can trust that your future is being defended with the focus it needs. We address misdemeanors, felonies, state crimes, and federal crimes, ensuring comprehensive support for all legal challenges.

Our team understands that every situation is unique, requiring tailored defense strategies. This individualized attention allows us to effectively navigate the intricacies of California’s criminal justice system and work towards favorable outcomes. We stay informed of the latest legal precedents and employ cutting-edge resources to build robust defensive approaches. This means that you gain access not just to legal representation but to a comprehensive legal strategy crafted uniquely for your circumstances.

Call our Newport Beach defense attorneys today at (949) 251-0330 for help with your criminal concerns in Newport Beach!

Local Insights Into Newport Beach Criminal Law

As a hub of legal activity in Southern California, Newport Beach presents specific challenges and opportunities for individuals navigating criminal law. With its proximity to state and federal courts, having a knowledgeable defense attorney is crucial. The local judicial climate can significantly impact the handling of your matter, making it vital to work with attorneys who understand these nuanced dynamics. Newport Beach has its legal idiosyncrasies, including common offenses and how they are perceived by local law enforcement. At Corrigan Welbourn Stokke, APLC, our firm leverages these insights to guide our clients towards favorable outcomes.

Local statutes relevant to Newport Beach might differ from broader California state laws. For instance, certain offenses such as DUI are heavily patrolled, especially due to local tourism and nightlife. Our attorneys are not only familiar with these local regulations but also maintain strong professional relationships with various stakeholders in the legal community, from prosecutors to judges. This interconnectivity can be invaluable in negotiating plea agreements or achieving dismissals. Our intricate knowledge of municipal and county regulations allows us to provide well-rounded and informed defense strategies tailored to the circumstances of each client.

Navigating Federal & State Charges

Upon accusation of a crime, it is vital to have a detailed understanding of whether you are facing state or federal charges, as each is managed differently. Federal charges often involve more severe penalties and span wider legal nuances, typically requiring defense in a federal district court. At Corrigan Welbourn Stokke, APLC, our experience in managing both state and federal defenses allows us to effectively strategize our approach.

State charges are more common and can be handled in state courts, which vary in statutory language and procedural practices. The distinction between the two determines the complexity of the legal process involved. Federal cases, for instance, may involve complex regulations that require precise legal maneuvering, while state offenses might be resolved through local court systems more familiar to the everyday Californian.

Our attorneys draw on their extensive experience as former prosecutors, having worked on both sides of the system, to provide unique insight into how to approach each type of charge. This expertise enables us to creatively construct defense strategies that address the specifics of both state and federal accusations, ensuring our clients receive informed legal guidance through every step of their defense journey.

  • A Boutique Style Firm Focused on Client Attention & Experience
  • Former Prosecutors With Invaluable Trial Experience
  • Over 100 Years of Combined Experience

Bringing You Over a Century of Experience

Meet The Attorneys of Corrigan Welbourn Stokke

Our Settlements & Verdicts

Our top priority is to devise customized legal strategies that are tailored to the unique legal needs of our clients, no matter how simple or complicated their situations, might be.

  • Not Guilty Not Guilty Verdict on multiple Sexual Assault charges
  • Mistrial Mistrial Declared in Attempted Murder Case
  • Dismissed Hung Jury in Re-trial of Penalty Phase of Death Penalty Trial
  • Not Guilty Not Guilty Verdict in $1 Billion Investment Fraud Trial
  • Charges Dismissed Charges Dismissed in Felony Embezzlement of Airplane Case
  • “As far as I'm concerned Ed Welbourne is the Jason Bourne of the courthouse!”
    “As far as I'm concerned Ed Welbourne is the Jason Bourne of the courthouse!”
    Anthony J. G.
  • “I have never met an attorney like Ed before; he is truly one of a kind.”
    “He made me feel like I was important and that I mattered. I have had attorneys in the past and not always good experiences. However, Ed restored my faith in the legal system.”
    Former Client
  • “I am strongly recommend Mr. Welbourn to need an excellent attorney to defense your criminal case. ”
    “Mr. Welbourn fought hard to win the case with excellent result, a misdemeanor with a sentencing of 60 days to do Pay To Stay program.”
    Former Client
  • “(My son) is a better person due to Ed’s efforts and accomplishments on his behalf.”
    “Ed Welbourn is a lifesaver. He has kept my son from making a permanent turn in the wrong direction, by finding him second chances. ”
    Former Client
  • “ I would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone seeking the best in the business.”
    “Ed made a very confusing and scary experience much less so with his caring and professional expertise.”
    Former Client
  • “Mr. Welbourn was very honest with me and at the same time showed by his interest and actions that he really cared about me as an individual. ”
    “It has been my experience that he shows a genuine interest in people and really takes time to listen, which I found refreshing, as attorneys are very busy.”
    Former Client
  • “If I ever need an attorney in the future, he will definitely be my go-to guy.”
    “He has been candid in his assessment of my legal predicaments, appeared in court by my side, and has skillfully guided me through the confusing maze of the Orange County legal system.”
    Former Client
  • “Throughout all the matters I have worked with Ed on, I was impressed and pleasantly surprised at the level of dedication, commitment and energy he put into all three cases. ”
    “ His compassion during a very stressful for time for me and my family was extraordinary. He listened attentively, was extremely thorough, patient and immediately engaged with the case.”
    Former Client

A Firm of Distinguished Attorneys in Newport Beach

When someone is facing serious criminal charges, they deserve the benefit of experienced legal representation from our criminal defense lawyer Newport Beach. Corrigan Welbourn Stokke has the resources needed to protect the rights of the accused in Orange County courts. Our attorneys have joined together to provide every client with a combined 100 years of experience. We approach every matter dynamically as former prosecutors, and work collaboratively for the benefit of our clients. Our Newport Beach defense law firm is small because our clients deserve to be more than a file that has been quickly looked over at a larger firm. We never hand your concerns to associate attorneys. Instead, our clients receive help from our founding attorneys.

Our compact team structure is a deliberate choice, enabling us to form deeper connections with our clients and understand their individual needs better. This insight helps us advocate more effectively, drawing upon our extensive legal backgrounds and the prosecution insights from our earlier careers. This two-pronged approach—understanding client needs and leveraging judicial insight—builds a robust defense framework that serves our clients' best interests.

Equally important is our comprehensive understanding of local legal nuances, as being based in Newport Beach allows our attorneys to have specific insight into Orange County's judicial system. We are proud to offer informed guidance not just as attorneys, but as allies dedicated to safeguarding your rights and future throughout every step of the legal process. Our commitment to upholding justice is at the forefront of our practice, and we strive to reflect this in every interaction with our clients.

To find out how our Newport Beach criminal defense attorneys will assist you, call today at (949) 251-0330. We serve all of Orange County. Read our criminal lawyer reviews to see why clients choose our Newport Beach law firm when they’re looking for the best criminal defense attorney near them.

FAQ About Criminal Defense in Newport Beach

What Are the Most Common Criminal Charges in Newport Beach?

In Newport Beach, some of the most common criminal charges involve DUIs, drug offenses, theft, and assault. The city, known for its vibrant nightlife and community activities, often sees a higher incidence of DUI cases due to frequent patrols and traffic checks in areas with bars and restaurants. Drug charges might involve possession or distribution, reflecting broader state trends but with a local context involving both recreational and illicit substances. Theft charges range from shoplifting in the bustling commercial districts to more significant felonies. Assault charges often stem from altercations in busy venues or domestic disagreements. Understanding these trends helps in crafting a defense strategy tailored to the specific circumstances of the charge. Having a legal team that recognizes these common charges can provide strategic advantages when navigating the court system.

How Does Being a Former Prosecutor Benefit My Defense?

Enlisting a defense attorney with prosecutorial experience offers distinct advantages. Attorneys with this background possess an insider's understanding of how the prosecution builds its arguments, assesses evidence, and strategizes its approach. This insight allows them to anticipate potential prosecutorial tactics and develop counter-strategies more effectively. At Corrigan Welbourn Stokke, APLC, our attorneys apply these insights to strengthen defense strategies, offering clients a tactical edge. Moreover, familiarity with prosecutorial processes can streamline communication and negotiation with current prosecutors, potentially facilitating plea deals or reducing charges. This intimate knowledge enhances the defense's ability to identify weaknesses or inconsistencies in the opposition's case, yielding better outcomes for our clients.

What Should I Do if I Am Arrested in Newport Beach?

Getting arrested can be a daunting experience, but knowing the correct steps to take can significantly impact the outcome. First and foremost, remain calm and politely exercise your right to remain silent. Avoid discussing the details of your situation with law enforcement until your legal counsel is present. Contact a qualified criminal defense attorney in Newport Beach as soon as possible. Having Corrigan Welbourn Stokke, APLC on your side from the beginning can offer crucial guidance through the bail process and initial hearings. An experienced attorney will help secure any evidence that may affect your defense and advise you on the best course of action immediately following the arrest. Understanding your legal rights during this time can help prevent unnecessary complications and mistakes that might otherwise jeopardize your defense.

Why Is Having a Local Attorney Important?

A local presence means your attorney can often respond more quickly to developments, easily attend crucial meetings or hearings, and maintain connections with local resources. At Corrigan Welbourn Stokke, APLC, our strong ties to the Newport Beach community ensure that we’re not just out-of-town experts but invested members of the same locale as our clients, fostering trust and reinforcing effective representation.

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