30 Years Of Legal Defense On Your Side

Banning Criminal Defense Attorney

Defending Against Criminal Charges in California

If you or someone close to you has been arrested in Banning or learned that charges are coming, you are probably worried about what happens next. A criminal accusation can put your job, your family, and your freedom at risk. You need clear information and an attorney who knows how to protect you.

At John Pozza Attorney At Law, PLC, we focus our practice on criminal defense. Attorney John Pozza has more than 30 years of experience defending people in Southern California courts, including Riverside County Superior Court, where many cases from Banning are heard. He holds a Superb Avvo Rating and has been recognized by the National Association of Distinguished Counsel.

We treat every client as innocent until proven guilty. Our team listens, explains your options in plain language, and works to build a defense that fits your situation and goals. You do not have to go through the criminal process alone.

Call us today at (951) 461-7155 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our criminal defense lawyer in Banning.

Why Choose Us?

When your future is on the line, experience in criminal law is not just a talking point. It affects how quickly your attorney can understand the charges, evaluate the evidence, and spot issues that may help your case. Attorney Pozza has spent decades handling criminal matters throughout Southern California, including Riverside County.

Cases that begin in Banning are often filed in Riverside County Superior Court. Each courthouse has its own procedures, calendars, and unwritten expectations. Our long history in this region means we are familiar with how local judges tend to manage their courtrooms and how prosecutors generally approach negotiations.

That local knowledge can influence important decisions, such as when to file motions challenging the case, when to pursue a plea discussion, and how to prepare you for a particular hearing. We work to anticipate prosecution tactics and look for weaknesses in the way the case was investigated or charged.

Our firm’s client-centered philosophy is equally important. We know that being charged with a crime in this part of Riverside County affects more than a case file. It can affect your family, your employment, and your standing in the community. We take time to understand what matters most to you, then build a defense strategy around those priorities.

Criminal Cases We Handle

Criminal accusations in Banning can range from first-time misdemeanors to serious felonies. Regardless of the level of the charge, the consequences can be long-lasting. Our firm represents adults facing a wide variety of offenses in Riverside County and the surrounding Southern California counties.

Examples of the types of cases we handle include:

  • DUI and alcohol-related offenses involving allegations of driving under the influence, which can threaten your license and employment.
  • Drug offenses, such as possession, sales, or transportation, may involve search and seizure issues.
  • Theft and property crimes, including shoplifting, burglary, or fraud, where restitution and record consequences are major concerns.
  • Violent offenses like assault or domestic-related allegations, which can affect family relationships and future background checks.
  • White-collar crimes that may involve complex records or business dealings.
  • Federal charges where cases fall under federal jurisdiction instead of, or in addition to, Riverside County courts.

Each category comes with its own legal standards, possible penalties, and collateral effects. We look at the specific facts of your situation, your history, and your goals, then work to craft a defense aimed at protecting your future as much as the law allows.

What To Do After an Arrest

An arrest in Banning or a call from a Riverside County detective can be frightening and confusing. In those first hours and days, what you say and do can shape how the case develops. You may feel pressure to explain yourself or cooperate in ways that are not in your best interest.

You do not need to navigate that alone. Taking a few careful steps can help protect your rights until you can speak with an attorney who handles criminal defense matters.

Here are practical steps to take after an arrest or when you learn of criminal allegations:

  • Stay calm and avoid arguing with officers. Getting into a conflict rarely helps and may be used against you later.
  • Clearly state that you want a lawyer. You have the right to remain silent and to request legal counsel before answering questions.
  • Do not discuss the details of the situation on recorded jail calls, text messages, or social media. These can often be accessed by law enforcement.
  • Write down or remember as much as you can about what happened, including who was present and how any search or arrest took place.
  • Contact our firm as soon as possible so we can review the charges, explain the process in Riverside County Superior Court, and begin preparing a defense.

Even if you think things will blow over, criminal cases rarely resolve themselves. Early legal guidance can help you avoid mistakes, preserve helpful evidence, and approach your first court date with a plan instead of guesswork.

Contact Us Today

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Criminal Cases We Handle


Frequently Asked Questions

Will I have to go to jail for my charges?

Not every criminal case results in jail time. The outcome depends on the charges, your history, the evidence, and many other factors. Our goal is to limit penalties and pursue options such as reductions, alternative programs, or probation when the law and facts support them.

Do I have the right to an attorney?

Yes. You have the constitutional right to an attorney. If you cannot afford one, the court may appoint a public defender to represent you.

What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?

Misdemeanors are less serious offenses and typically carry lighter penalties, while felonies are more serious crimes that can result in longer jail or prison sentences, higher fines, and lasting consequences.

Will I have to go to jail if I’m charged with a crime?

Not always. Many cases are resolved through dismissals, reduced charges, probation, diversion programs, or alternative sentencing, depending on the facts of the case and your criminal history.

Can criminal charges be reduced or dismissed?

Yes. An experienced criminal defense attorney may challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, or identify legal issues that could lead to reduced charges or dismissal.

How long does a criminal case take?

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case, court schedules, and whether the matter goes to trial or is resolved earlier.

Can a criminal conviction affect my future?

Yes. A conviction can impact employment, housing, professional licenses, and more. That’s why early legal representation is critical.
  • We are here to answer any questions you may have.
  • We travel to you if that is most convenient.
  • Respected by local courts, judges, and prosecutors.
  • More than 30 years of experience defending the accused.

Hear From Our Satisfied Clients


    "At the end of looking around and speaking with others, John Pozza was the right choice."
    Choosing John was the best decision I made. I spoke with many different legal offices. It was stressful deciding who to choose. At the end of looking around and speaking with others, John Pozza was the right choice. You are not assigned some other lawyer. You deal directly with John and Tammy the whole time. They were so helpful, professional and kind. Do yourself a favor and book a meeting. Talk to John and explain exactly what is going on. You will walk out of his office knowing you are in good hands.
    - Alex
    "John is effective and efficient in the court room and kind and compassionate with his clients while explaining options and guiding you through a difficult process."
    John and Tammy are rockstars! Tammy is organized, communicative and on top of reminders and answering questions promptly and professionally. John is effective and efficient in the court room and kind and compassionate with his clients while explaining options and guiding you through a difficult process. They both advocated for us in a way that felt personal, not transactional. I highly recommend this dream team.
    - Kymberly
    "If you’re looking for professionalism, and people who will do their best, look no further."
    John Pozza has been great with the handling of my case. In addition to John and to be very honest, Tammy has been nothing short of excellent in her assistance. She’s very professional, timely in her responses and overall just great! If you’re looking for professionalism, and people who will do their best, look no further.
    - Jay T.
    "With any luck I’ll never need his help again but I certainly recommend him if you do."
    I was referred to John from another attorney regarding a misdemeanor charge I received from the Menifee Police Department. I thought it was bogus as I’m sure all of John’s clients would say and after meeting with him he felt he could help. John and Tammy got in touch with the DA’s office and were able to have the charge dismissed and save me a trip to court. They were both great to deal with and have a sense of humor too. John was very fair with his fee as well . With any luck I’ll never need his help again but I certainly recommend him if you do.
    - Laird C.
    "Outstanding"

    Outstanding and professional attorney and staff.

    - Karen P.
    "They made me comfortable when they took my case"
    Resolved my case quickly. John and Tammy are friendly and professional. They made me comfortable when they took my case. John is a very good lawyer.
    - Isabel J.
    "Rest assured you will receive top notch service from a lawyer who truly wants to help."
    With my unfortunate event that transpired, I was certain and confident with Mr. Pozza and his team would make the best out of a bad situation. John and Tammy are extremely professional, knowledgeable,and did their best to keep me calm throughout the whole ordeal. I was able to stay out of jail which was my biggest thing as I wanted to stay out of handcuffs and keep my job! It's extremely imperative if you are seeking legal counsel, to at least run your situation by Mr. Pozza. You only owe it to yourself to get his top rated opinion. They truly have been nothing short of amazing, and it has made all the difference. Every situation is different, but know if have Mr. Pozza, rest assured you will recieve top notch service from a lawyer who truly wants to help. I seriously can't thank them enough and look forward to an expungement process down the road!
    - Ruben
    "John is very skilled"

    Very professional, fast acting, and had a great outcome with my case. I highly recommend for all services John is very skilled.

    - Nick

    Contact Our Banning Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

    Being charged with a crime that arises from Banning or elsewhere in Riverside County can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to face the system alone. Having a knowledgeable attorney on your side can make a meaningful difference in how your case and your life move forward.

    At John Pozza Attorney At Law, PLC, you work with an attorney who has more than 30 years of criminal defense experience, a Superb Avvo Rating, and recognition from the National Association of Distinguished Counsel. We focus on protecting your rights, explaining your options, and working to reduce the impact of the charges you face.

    The earlier you speak with us, the sooner we can begin guiding you through the process and helping you avoid missteps. Your first step is simple. Reach out, tell us what happened, and get clear information about your situation.

    Contact us today to get started with our Banning criminal defense attorney.