Business Details
49 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys in Chico, CA
Established in 1977, our law firm has built a reputation as a trusted institution in Northern California for criminal defense. With over 75 years of combined experience, our attorneys specialize in defending against DUI/DWIDUID/DWAI charges, homicides, drug offenses, sex crimes, and all felony/misdemeanor cases. We serve Chico, Oroville, Paradise, and surrounding counties including Butte, Glenn, and Tehama.Our team prioritizes client rights through aggressive courtroom representation and personalized legal strategies. We offer free consultations and multilingual support to ensure accessible, transparent legal guidance during critical moments.
Services
DUI Defense
Criminal Defense
Mental Health Diversion
Bias Workshops
Record Expungement
Domestic Violence Defense
Drug Crime Defense
Sex Offense Defense
Homicide Defense
Felon in Possession
Details
- Year established: 1977
Highlights and features
- We offer 75+ years of combined experience in criminal defense litigation
- Our practice focuses exclusively on criminal defense and DUI cases
- We serve 8 Northern California counties including Butte and Glenn
- Free initial consultations with experienced legal professionals
- Multilingual support available for Spanish-speaking clients
Services
DUI Defense
Our specialized DUI defense team handles all alcohol and drug-related driving charges including DUID, DWAI, and commercial DUI cases. We challenge chemical test accuracy, procedural violations, and police misconduct to protect driving privileges and minimize penalties through trial or negotiated settlements.
Criminal Defense
We defend against serious felony and misdemeanor charges including violent crimes, drug trafficking, and sex offenses. Our trial-tested attorneys investigate evidence, challenge constitutional violations, and develop strategic defenses tailored to each client's specific circumstances and long-term interests.
Mental Health Diversion
This specialized program addresses cases involving mental health conditions through treatment-focused alternatives to traditional prosecution. We advocate for reduced charges or dismissal through court-approved mental health interventions while protecting client rights throughout the judicial process.
Bias Workshops
Our educational workshops address unconscious bias patterns in legal contexts through interactive sessions for law enforcement and legal professionals. We combine psychological research with practical strategies to promote fairer decision-making and improve community-police relations.
Record Expungement
We assist clients in sealing or dismissing past convictions under California Proposition 47 and 64. Our process includes eligibility assessment, petition preparation, and court representation to help individuals overcome employment barriers and restore legal opportunities.
People
Dennis Latimer
Attorney
Founding attorney with 40+ years of criminal defense experience. Former public defender and civil litigator who established the firm's reputation for aggressive trial advocacy and client protection in Northern California.
Elizabeth Latimer
Attorney
Experienced trial attorney with Brooklyn Defender Services background. Specializes in complex criminal cases and post-conviction relief. Former Butte County Bar Association president committed to criminal justice reform and client rights advocacy.
Kevin Sears
Attorney
Tenacious criminal defense advocate with 20+ years of courtroom experience. Focuses on DUI defense and violent crime cases. Combines legal expertise with community understanding to achieve favorable outcomes for Chico-area clients.
Denver Latimer
Attorney
Yale-trained attorney with Innocence Project experience. Specializes in wrongful conviction cases and community-based legal reform. Brings theater and law expertise to enhance client advocacy and courtroom presentation.
Sandi Wilshusen
Legal Assistant
30-year firm veteran providing client support and case management. Former legal secretary trainee who became essential client liaison. Known for compassionate guidance and procedural expertise that enhances client experience during legal proceedings.
Questions
What does your criminal defense service include?
We handle all felony and misdemeanor charges including DUI, drug crimes, domestic violence, and sex offenses. Services include case evaluation, evidence analysis, court representation, and sentencing advocacy.
How do I check my case status?
Visit the Butte County Superior Court website for public case records. Our office can also provide case updates during business hours.
Should I talk to police before hiring an attorney?
No. Immediately invoke your right to legal representation. Any statements can be used against you in court.
Do you offer free consultations?
Yes. We provide free initial consultations with no appointment required. Bring any case-related documents for comprehensive review.
How long will my case take?
Case duration varies based on complexity. We commit to full representation from arrest through resolution, keeping you informed throughout the process.
Can I get my criminal record expunged?
Eligibility depends on offense type and sentencing completion. We guide clients through Prop 47/64 expungement processes to restore opportunities.
