Chaney Criminal Defense Lawyers

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Chaney Criminal Defense Lawyers Chaney Criminal Defense Lawyers provides personal, strategic representation for criminal defense, DUI defense, and restraining order matters in Los Angeles.

Free consultations and remote appointments available.

10/08/2026

Investigating officers often ask questions they already know the answers to.

When you start filling in the blanks, you may be giving them exactly what they need to strengthen the case against you. Before making a statement, talk to a criminal defense attorney and protect your rights.

đź“Ť Los Angeles | Encino | Westlake Village

Back-to-school season can bring more than new routines. Crowded hallways, social pressure, school events, group chats, a...
10/06/2026

Back-to-school season can bring more than new routines. Crowded hallways, social pressure, school events, group chats, and packed parking lots can create situations where conflict builds quickly.

In Los Angeles, juvenile charges may stem from campus fights, theft accusations, vandalism, drug or v**e allegations, weapon concerns, or threats made in person or online. Even when a teen did not intend harm, schools and law enforcement may still take the situation seriously.

If your child is facing juvenile charges, early legal guidance can help protect their rights, their record, and their future.

10/01/2026

From accounting to acting to the courtroom.

Tara Gallogly shares how her early career path helped lead her to law. With a background in performance and a deep commitment to social justice, the courtroom felt like a natural place to use those skills with purpose.

For her, practicing law is about more than arguing a case. It’s about being part of a justice system that protects people, rights, and democracy.

A felony conviction in California does not always have to follow you forever. Depending on your case, you may qualify fo...
09/29/2026

A felony conviction in California does not always have to follow you forever. Depending on your case, you may qualify for felony expungement if you completed probation, finished any required waiting period, and are not currently facing new charges or serving another sentence.

Recent changes under SB 731 have also expanded eligibility for some people who served time in state prison, as long as the conviction does not require s*x offender registration. Because courts still have discretion in many cases, it is important to understand your options before filing.

Learn more: https://www.ceclaw.net/blog/can-you-expunge-a-felony-conviction-in-california-without-going-to-court-again/

09/24/2026

Accidentally violated a restraining order? It can still turn into a criminal case.

The key question is whether the violation was truly accidental and how that can be proven. Even an unintentional call, text, message, or contact may be treated as a violation of a court order.

If this happens, don’t wait. Contact a lawyer right away so they can help communicate with the investigating agencies and protect your rights.

We’re grateful this client felt supported and informed throughout their restraining order case. Navigating the U.S. lega...
09/22/2026

We’re grateful this client felt supported and informed throughout their restraining order case. Navigating the U.S. legal system can feel overwhelming, especially as an international student, and clear communication matters.

Thank you for trusting Austin Godinez and the team at Chaney Law to guide you through the process and help you work toward the best possible outcome.

09/17/2026

Some cases stay with you forever.

Attorney Dawn Dunbar reflects on a domestic violence restraining order case where her client was seeking protection from a terrifying abuser. During the hearing, the fear in the room was real, but so was the relief when the court granted a 5-year restraining order.

Afterward, her client handed her the notepad she had been using during the hearing. The only words she wrote were: “Thank you.”

That note still hangs in her office today.

Carjacking in California is not the same as ordinary auto theft. Prosecutors must prove specific elements, including tak...
09/15/2026

Carjacking in California is not the same as ordinary auto theft. Prosecutors must prove specific elements, including taking possession of the vehicle, the immediate presence of a driver or passenger, lack of consent, deprivation of the vehicle, and the use of force or fear.

These details matter because a defense may focus on what the state can and cannot prove. If you’re facing carjacking charges in Los Angeles, get legal guidance early and protect your rights.

Learn more: https://www.ceclaw.net/los-angeles-violent-crime-lawyer/carjacking/

09/10/2026

For some people, walking into court brings nerves. For Attorney Austin Godinez, it feels a lot like game day.

He compares waiting for his case to be called to waiting in the locker room before a football game. Once he’s at the counsel table, he’s locked in and ready to handle the case.

Address

16130 Ventura Boulevard Suite 320
Los Angeles, CA
91436

Telephone

+18185388891

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