Barraza Law, APC - Riverside, CA

Mental Health Advocacy and Criminal Defense in Riverside, California

When mental illness, trauma, or non-citizen status intersect with criminal charges, the justice system can feel overwhelming and unforgiving. Barraza Law, APC, situated in Riverside, California, provides compassionate, assertive legal representation tailored to individuals who are often underserved by traditional legal channels. Founded by attorney Alejandro Barraza, a graduate of the University of Colorado Law School and an active leader in the Riverside County Bar Association, the practice is dedicated to humanizing clients before judges and prosecutors. Recognized as a Super Lawyers Rising Star, attorney Barraza focuses on securing therapeutic justice, alternative sentencing, and immigration-safe outcomes. If you need to hire a criminal defense lawyer or consult an attorney for mental health diversion in Riverside, Barraza Law delivers steadfast courtroom advocacy.

Mental Health Diversion and Veterans Court Representation

California Penal Code 1001.36 created a vital legal pathway allowing individuals with qualifying mental health conditions, including bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, major depressive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder, to enter treatment rather than serve prison time. Barraza Law stands out as a leading authority in mental health diversion advocacy across the Inland Empire. The firm collaborates with clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, and licensed therapists to develop individualized treatment plans submitted to the court. Upon successful completion of treatment, charges are completely dismissed and the arrest record is sealed. The firm also assists military personnel through veterans diversion and military trauma programs under California Penal Code 1001.80.

General Criminal Defense and Post-Conviction Relief

Beyond specialized diversion, Barraza Law serves as skilled criminal defense lawyers for individuals facing misdemeanor and felony charges throughout Riverside and San Bernardino counties. The firm vigorously defends clients against allegations, including:

• Defending charges handled by violent crime defense lawyers such as assault, battery, domestic violence, and weapons charges.
• Protecting drivers as dui/dwi defense lawyers against alcohol and drug-related driving charges and administrative license suspensions.
• Defending controlled substance cases as drug crime defense lawyers, focusing on illegal search suppression and treatment alternatives.
• Filing post-conviction motions, felony expungements under Penal Code 1203.4, and motions to vacate unlawful convictions under Penal Code 1473.7.

Crimmigration and Immigration Law Practice

Immigration status is frequently jeopardized when non-citizens face criminal allegations. Attorney Alejandro Barraza provides nuanced representation bridging criminal and immigration law. Working as deportation defense lawyers, the firm defends immigrants facing removal proceedings before the Executive Office for Immigration Review. In affirmative immigration matters, the practice acts as family immigration lawyers and citizenship lawyers, processing U visas for crime victims, Violence Against Women Act petitions, special immigrant juvenile status, family-based green cards, and naturalization filings.

Why Choose Barraza Law, APC

Clients and families trust Barraza Law, APC because attorney Alejandro Barraza treats every client with unconditional respect and empathy. As past president of the Asian Pacific American Lawyers of the Inland Empire and treasurer of the Hispanic Bar Association of the Inland Empire, attorney Barraza is deeply rooted in local jurisprudence. Providing bilingual legal services in English and Spanish, the firm ensures that every client receives clear guidance, transparent pricing, and unwavering advocacy throughout the legal process.