Honolulu Criminal Defense Attorney

Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer Serving Oahu, Hawaii

Being arrested for a crime can be one of the most stressful experiences you ever face. Suddenly, you find yourself in handcuffs, sitting in the backseat of a police car, and headed to the station for booking and possibly jail. You may ask yourself: How did this happen?

Maybe you were in the wrong place at the wrong time. Perhaps someone has made a false accusation. Perhaps you made a mistake in a heated moment. You might have been the subject of an ongoing investigation. No matter how you ended up here, you need to hire a Hawaii criminal defense lawyer.

Hawaii Defense Attorney with 30 Years of Experience

Come to the Law Office of Steve Cedillos now for a confidential consultation. With more than 25 years of experience working in the criminal justice system as a defense lawyer in Hawaii, our team stands ready to guide you and protect your rights. You should discuss your case only with your lawyer—statements you make to police can later be used as evidence—but anything you tell our Hawaii defense attorney remains confidential under the attorney-client privilege.

Over the years, I have handled cases in district and circuit courts across Honolulu and throughout Oʻahu. My knowledge of local court systems allows me to quickly evaluate your situation and provide advice tailored to how cases progress in Hawaii. By staying current on how prosecutors build cases at Honolulu District Court and following local law enforcement procedures, I work to protect your interests from our first conversation through every part of your case. If your situation involves military personnel, I am familiar with courts martial at Hickam Air Force Base and other military venues on Oʻahu.

You can share your side of the story, explain your innocence, or even confide in me if you choose. With the information you provide, I develop a plan to clear your name or help you avoid the most serious consequences you face.

How Our Hawaii Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help

Our Hawaii defense attorney is ready to assist with many different types of charges, including:

• DUI offenses
• Traffic violations
• Domestic violence
• Drug crimes
• Shoplifting
• Sex crimes
• Burglary
• White collar crimes
• Violent Crimes

When our Hawaii defense attorney accepts a new client, we consider all the issues that might affect the case, including any immigration or deportation risks. Our attorney also represents military service members in court martial proceedings at summary, special, or general courts on Oʻahu.

Facing charges in Hawaii involves more than just knowing the law. You need legal guidance from someone who understands local deadlines and the specific procedures that apply in Honolulu courts. Local rules, such as those in the First Circuit Court, influence each part of your defense. A strong defense examines how law enforcement gathered the evidence, takes into account the court where your case appears—whether Honolulu District Court or Circuit Court—and prepares for every stage from arraignment through pretrial hearings. Where your case is charged on Oʻahu will impact the process and decisions ahead.

What to Expect After an Arrest in Honolulu

After an arrest on Oʻahu, the process usually begins with booking at the Honolulu Police Department, followed by an initial court appearance at the Honolulu District Court. During your arraignment, the judge will read your charges, and you can enter a plea. Bail typically comes up at this stage and can affect whether you stay in custody or obtain release. The court system in Honolulu enforces strict timelines for filing motions and hearing requests, so quick action makes a difference. Careful preparation at each step supports a stronger defense and helps avoid delays. If your case involves alleged offenses near military bases or federal property, you could face additional hearings under different local rules. These unique pathways impact your timeline, so planning ahead with full awareness of these steps helps you make informed choices.

Overview of Hawaii Criminal Laws & Local Courts

Hawaii’s criminal laws stand apart from those on the mainland. For example, the state abolished the death penalty, so even the most serious convictions carry a life sentence as the maximum penalty. The Hawaii Penal Code sets out clear penalties for offenses from misdemeanor theft to felony assault. The Honolulu District Court hears misdemeanors, petty misdemeanors, and initial felony hearings, while the First Circuit Court deals with felony trials and some appeals. Felony cases may also involve a grand jury process unique to Hawaii. Both courts apply procedures set by the Hawaii Revised Statutes, including mandated court appearances and rules for presenting evidence. Years of trusted experience before these judges and with local Hawaiʻi statutes is key to shaping a strategic defense. If you want details about how your charges are handled or have questions about courtroom procedures in Honolulu, bring those to your consultation for clear direction.

Frequently Asked Questions - Hawaii Criminal Law