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Criminal Defense

Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fresno, CA

If you have been arrested, charged with a crime, or learned you are under investigation in Fresno or anywhere in California’s Central Valley, you need a focused, experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side. DiSalvo Law handles a full spectrum of criminal cases—from DUIs and misdemeanors to serious felonies and federal prosecutions.

Fresno Criminal Defense Attorney for Serious Charges

When you are facing criminal charges, everything is on the line—your freedom, your job, your family, and your future. At DiSalvo Law, we provide aggressive, strategic criminal defense for clients in Fresno and throughout California’s Central Valley.

From first-time misdemeanors to serious felonies and federal cases, we focus on one goal: protecting you and building the strongest defense the facts and the law allow.

Types of Criminal Cases We Handle

Our criminal defense practice covers a full range of charges, including:

Each case type has unique rules, procedures, and collateral consequences. We tailor our strategy to the specific charges and your goals.

fresno criminal defense attorney

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Nationally Recognized, Locally Respected.

DiSalvo Law

5151 N Palm Ave
Suite 100
Fresno, CA 93704
(559) 442-1552

Disclaimer: Submitting this form does not create an attorney-client relationship.  The information you provide is used solely to review your inquiry, perform conflict checks, and respond to your request. We do not sell or share your information. Representation is only established after a signed agreement.

All Criminal Defense Services

DUI Defense

Defense for drunk and drugged driving charges, DMV hearings, and license protection.

Drug Crimes

Possession, sales, trafficking, and search-and-seizure issues in state drug prosecutions.

Domestic Violence

Defending against DV charges, emergency protective orders, and long-term restraining orders.

Assault & Battery

Simple and aggravated assault, battery, self-defense claims, and mutual combat allegations.

Theft & Burglary

Shoplifting, grand theft, burglary, and other property crime charges in Central Valley courts.

Violent Crimes

Serious felony allegations involving force, injury, or weapons, including strike offenses.

Weapons & Gun Crimes

Unlawful possession, prohibited person, and firearms enhancements in felony and misdemeanor cases.

Sex Crimes

Discreet, aggressive defense in highly sensitive cases with potential registration consequences.

Federal Crimes

Defense in federal investigations, indictments, and post-indictment negotiations in U.S. District Court.

Juvenile Defense

Protecting minors in delinquency proceedings and working to keep matters in juvenile court.

Misdemeanors

First-time and repeat misdemeanor charges, diversion options, and record-conscious resolutions.

White Collar Crimes

Fraud, embezzlement, and financial crime defense with a focus on restitution and damage control.

Plea Negotiations

Early case evaluation, charge reductions, and negotiation strategies tailored to your goals.

Probation Violations

Alleged violations, revocation hearings, and efforts to reinstate or modify probation terms.

Criminal Appeals

Reviewing trial records, identifying legal errors, and pursuing relief in appellate courts.

Expungements

Post-conviction relief to clear, reduce, or update your record where California law allows.

How We Approach Criminal Defense at DiSalvo Law

When you hire DiSalvo Law to handle your criminal case, we:

• Listen to your side of the story without judgment
• Review police reports, body camera footage, and evidence in detail
• Explain the charges, potential penalties, and likely paths forward
• Identify defenses, constitutional issues, and weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
• Develop a strategy that fits your priorities—whether that is avoiding jail, protecting your license, or fighting the case at trial

Throughout your case, we communicate clearly so you understand what is happening and why decisions are being made.

Why Acting Quickly Can Change the Outcome

In criminal cases, early action is often the difference between a manageable outcome and a disaster. Evidence can disappear, witnesses can become harder to find, and deadlines can quietly pass.

Contacting a criminal defense lawyer as soon as you learn you are under investigation—or immediately after an arrest—allows us to:

  • Protect you from damaging statements to police or investigators
  • Preserve surveillance video, phone records, and other key evidence
  • Influence charging decisions before they are finalized
  • Seek release conditions that keep you working and with your family

We also coordinate with related issues, such as DMV hearings in DUI cases or family court matters in domestic violence situations.

A Strategic, Future-Focused Defense

Our approach to criminal defense is proactive and strategic:

• Investigate the case independently, not just rely on the police reports
• File targeted motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges when appropriate
• Engage in focused plea negotiations when they serve your goals
• Prepare thoroughly for trial if the prosecution will not offer a just result
• Look ahead to expungement, record sealing, and other remedies whenever possible

We want you to come out of the process with the best possible footing to move forward with your life.

Attorney Mario DiSalvo

Attorney Mario DiSalvo has represented clients in serious criminal cases for nearly three decades. His background in trial work and post-conviction litigation gives him insight into how local courts operate and what it takes to protect clients when everything is on the line.

Explore specific case types throughout our Criminal Defense practice area »

Criminal Cases in Fresno and Across the Central Valley

We represent clients in criminal cases across Fresno and California’s Central Valley, including:

For more information about individual courts and locations, visit our Courts We Serve section.

You can also learn more about California’s court system at the California Courts official website.

Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense

What should I do if I am under investigation or just got arrested?
If you learn you are under investigation or have just been arrested, your first step should be to exercise your right to remain silent and ask to speak with a lawyer. Avoid discussing the case with anyone but your attorney.

Will I have to go to jail?
Not every case results in jail time, especially for first-time offenders. The outcome depends on the charges, your record, and how the case is handled. We explore options such as diversion, alternative sentencing, and reductions whenever possible.

Do I really need a criminal defense lawyer?
Yes. The criminal justice system is complex, and the consequences of a conviction can affect your life for years. Having an experienced defense lawyer can significantly change the outcome.

How much will a criminal defense case cost?
Costs vary depending on the type of case, whether it goes to trial, and the amount of investigation and motion work required. We are upfront about fees and can discuss payment options during your consultation.

Can a criminal record be cleared or reduced later?
In many situations, later relief such as expungement, record sealing, or reduction of certain felonies may be available. We keep these options in mind when negotiating outcomes today.

Talk to a Fresno Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges—or even suspects an investigation has begun—do not wait to find out what happens next. Contact DiSalvo Law today for a confidential consultation. We will review your situation, explain your options, and outline a strategy to protect your future.