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Mr. Donath has spent his entire career defending people and standing up for the rights of the accused.

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  • former deputy public defender

    As a former Deputy Public Defender in Riverside County, Mr. Donath has always been on the defense side of the law. 

  • award winning certified criminal law specialist

    Top 100 Trial Attorneys in California 2012-2014, 2008 Trial Attorney of the Year by the Riverside County Public Defender's Office, and dozens of other awards and accolades.

  • a true passion for defending the accused

    Your lawyer should have a passion for defense, not just a passion for money. Reputation, vigor, and determination go a long way in this business.

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Blog

When Should You Consider Taking a Plea Deal?

Posted in Preliminary Hearings FAQ'S on November 24, 2017

Today’s criminal justice system suffers from too much work and too little staff. The burden on the justice system often makes it advantageous for both sides to reach an agreement that does not result in a case going all the way to trial. For the judiciary, this presents an attractive reason to approve plea bargains….

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Penal Code 290: Failure to Register as a Sex Offender

Posted in Sex Crimes on November 20, 2017

If the courts have found you guilty of a sex crime, part of your conviction may be a requirement to register as a sex offender in the jurisdiction where you live. Failure to register may result in criminal and civil prosecution and a range of penalties depending on where you live and the nature of…

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What Happens At A Preliminary Hearing In Riverside Courts?

Posted in Preliminary Hearings FAQ'S on October 4, 2017

A preliminary court hearing is a”trial before a trial” so a judge may determine if there is or is not enough evidence to proceed with a criminal case and force a defendant to stand trial. It’s not a replacement for the actual trial with a jury or to find the defendant “guilty” or “not guilty,”…

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How to Prepare for Prison

Posted in General FAQ'S,Riverside Jails Information,Sentencing on July 26, 2017

After being convicted of a crime, a jail or prison sentence is likely to be most people’s worst case scenario, and for good reason. Jail and prison are not pleasant experiences in even the best of cases. If you’re facing criminal charges, a qualified and experienced Riverside criminal defense lawyer can help you secure less severe…

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How to Seal Arrest Warrants: Penal Code Section 851.8

Posted in General FAQ'S on July 19, 2017

Carrying a criminal record can complicate many aspects of life after conviction, but having an arrest on your record can cause significant problems. People who are arrested and charged, but never convicted, can have their arrest records sealed, meaning future employers won’t see them during criminal background checks. This system, covered under California Penal Code…

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What You Need to Know About House Arrest (PC 1203.016)

Posted in Sentencing on July 12, 2017

You’ll likely have many questions after a conviction for a crime, particularly when it comes to your sentencing. The court decides a punishment based on the severity of a crime and several other factors. While some charges typically lead to incarceration, special circumstances may qualify an individual for house arrest, an alternative to imprisonment. What…

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Everything You Need to Know About CA Juvenile Probation

Posted in Juvenile Crimes,Riverside Jails Information on June 23, 2017

Juvenile probation is a court order given to about half of all offenders who enter the juvenile court system. Probation is an alternative to jail that comes with certain rules and restrictions the offender must follow. Probation is beneficial in that the minor can continue to attend school and/or work and will remain part of…

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Four Things You Need to Know About Juvenile Courts in CA

Posted in Riverside Jails Information on June 16, 2017

Having a child arrested and accused of a crime is terrifying for all parties involved- and the situation comes with many questions. How does the juvenile system work and how different is it from adult courts? Will my child have a record? What could happen to them in jail? While your mind may never fully…

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Juvenile Sentencing Options in California

Posted in Juvenile Crimes on May 29, 2017

The juvenile court system is not simply a smaller version of the adult system. It is completely different, with entirely separate goals for sentencing. Unlike the adult system, which serves to promote public safety and punish the individual for committing the crime with jail time or hefty fines, the juvenile system aims to teach young…

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CA HS 11378: Explaining Prosecution Arguments & Best Defenses

Posted in Drug FAQ'S on May 22, 2017

California Health and Safety Code 11378 HS makes it illegal to possess methamphetamine for the purpose of selling or distributing it to others. Convictions under this law result in felony charges, up to three years in jail, and fines of up to $10,000. If you find yourself charged with a crime under 11378 HS, seek…

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