Can a Lawyer Guarantee My Case Will Be Dismissed in California?

Criminal Defense Attorney Explains the Truth About Guaranteed Dismissals

One of the most common questions we hear is:

“Can you guarantee my case will be dismissed?”

If you are facing criminal charges in California, it’s completely normal to want certainty. But here is the honest answer:

No criminal defense attorney can ethically guarantee a dismissal.

If a lawyer promises a guaranteed dismissal, you should be cautious.

Why No Attorney Can Guarantee a Dismissal

In California criminal cases, the outcome depends on many factors outside of a lawyer’s control, including:

  • The strength of the prosecution’s evidence
  • Police reports and body camera footage
  • Witness statements
  • The alleged victim’s cooperation
  • Prosecutor discretion
  • Judge rulings
  • Prior criminal history

Even if the alleged victim does not want to press charges, the District Attorney can still move forward with the case.

Because of this, any attorney who guarantees a result is making a promise they legally and ethically cannot control.

What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do

While no lawyer can guarantee dismissal, an experienced criminal defense attorney can:

  • Carefully review the evidence for weaknesses
  • Identify constitutional violations
  • File motions to suppress illegal evidence
  • Negotiate with the prosecutor
  • Present mitigation evidence
  • Push for reduction or dismissal when legally justified

At Perliss Law Firm, we focus on strategy, leverage, and preparation — not unrealistic promises.

Why “Guaranteed Dismissal” Is a Red Flag

Be careful if you hear:

  • “100% dismissal guaranteed.”
  • “I know the judge — don’t worry.”
  • “This case will definitely go away.”

These statements are often used to attract frightened clients.

Ethical attorneys provide honest case assessments — not sales pitches.

Can Criminal Charges Be Dismissed?

Yes, criminal charges can be dismissed in California. Dismissals may occur because of:

  • Insufficient evidence
  • Unreliable witnesses
  • Illegal searches
  • Police mistakes
  • Constitutional violations
  • Successful pre-filing negotiations

Every case is unique. The key is having an experienced defense attorney who knows how to identify weaknesses and build leverage.

What Should You Look for Instead of a Guarantee?

Instead of asking for a guarantee, ask:

  • How often do you handle cases like mine?
  • What is your strategy in my situation?
  • What risks should I be aware of?

Frequently Asked Questions

If the victim doesn’t want to press charges, will my case be dismissed?

Not automatically. The prosecutor decides whether to proceed.

Can charges be dropped before court?

Yes, sometimes through pre-filing negotiation or evidence review.

Is it illegal for a lawyer to guarantee results?

Attorneys are prohibited from making false or misleading guarantees about case outcomes.

Speak With an Experienced California Criminal Defense Attorney

If you are searching:

  • “Can a lawyer guarantee my case will be dismissed?”
  • “How to get criminal charges dismissed in California”
  • “What are my chances of dismissal?”

You deserve an honest evaluation — not a false promise.

Contact Perliss Law Firm today for a confidential consultation. We will review your case, explain your options, and fight for the best possible outcome.

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Legal Disclaimer

The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. The Perliss Law Firm team is licensed to practice law in California. We invite you to contact us, but please be aware that contacting us does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until an attorney-client relationship has been established.

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"I personally was recommended to Sanford Perliss. My situation was dire. After our first meeting I Immediately felt relieved, I knew I was in good hands. He handled the case diligently and with the utmost professionalism. I don't know where I would be without the help of this man.  Thank you Sandy, I will recommend you to anybody I know."

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"I can’t thank Perliss Law Firm enough for their outstanding representation. I felt confident I was in good hands from the moment I walked into their office. They explained every step of the process regarding my case and made sure I was fully informed about my options. Perliss Law Firm is professional and cares greatly about their clients. Highly recommend!"

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"Perliss Law Firm’s attorneys are extremely experienced and skilled。 They treated me with respect and were always available to answer any questions I had. I am extremely grateful and would recommend their firm if you’re looking for a dedicated and trustworthy defense team."

Schedule a
Free Consultation

Office Hours - Mon-Fri: 9:30am to 5pm
Legal Disclaimer

The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. The Perliss Law Firm team is licensed to practice law in California. We invite you to contact us, but please be aware that contacting us does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until an attorney-client relationship has been established.

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