Attorney Matthew Cargal works tirelessly for his clients, providing aggressive, experienced & successful representation every step of the way.
DUI & Criminal Defense Attorney in Pasadena, CA
Over 25 Years of Focused DUI & Criminal Defense in Pasadena
For more than 25 years, Pasadena criminal defense attorney Matthew Cargal and the team at the The Law Offices of Matthew Cargal have been defending people accused of DUI and other criminal offenses. Our practice is focused exclusively on DUI and criminal defense, and we’ve successfully defended hundreds of cases. A strong defense requires an attorney who knows this area of law deeply and has the courtroom experience to apply it.
Hear From Past Clients
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"Matt worked tirelessly, and my charges were completely dropped. I can't recommend his legal assistance enough."
Excellent Attorney! I was arrested for a DUI some months ago, and I decided to seek the legal expertise of Matt Cargal. If you want first-rate defense, want to save your license, want an aggressive, pro-active handling of your case, and want the DA bombarded with demonstrative evidence of your innocence, he is the perfect choice. I thought my life was ruined by my DUI. I considered my situation hopeless, even though I always proclaimed my innocence. Matt worked tirelessly, and my charges were completely dropped. I can't recommend his legal assistance enough. A+++++++++++++++++- Robert -
"I have recommended him several times to people who have been unfortunate enough to get arrested for DUI and other things. Thanks Law Offices of Matthew Cargal!"
Highly Recommended! This was my first and hopefully only experience with being arrested and it was extremely stressful and humiliating. Mr. Cargal and his staff were extremely professional and helpful through out the process. Mr. Cargal was always available to answer questions and put my mind at ease. He worked hard to obtain a favorable result in my case. I have recommended him several times to people who have been unfortunate enough to get arrested for DUI and other things. Thanks Law Offices of Matthew Cargal!- Chris -
"Matthew was the best! I am so glad I called him."
Matthew was the best! I am so glad I called him.- Tom -
"I never really had liking for lawyers, but quite frankly I had never met Matthew."
Mathew Cargal and his staff are simply fantastic! He took an embarrassing situation and not only put my mind at ease.....but also made the problem go away completely! I never really had liking for lawyers, but quite frankly I had never met Matthew.- Suthy -
"Not only he was dedicated, he was very caring to understand his client’s anxiety."
Matt was the only attorney who was willing to take care of my case. My case was in Central coast, and I could not find any attorney who was reachable, nor found my case reasonable to deal with. He drove long distance numerous time. Not only he was dedicate- Benny -
"I would recommend his law offices to friends and family for any predicament pertaining to the law. Thank you!"
Incredibly personable, dedicated and knowledgeable. He worked tirelessly to make sure we had the outcome we wanted, and made sure to make me feel safe and reassured along the way. It is usually difficult to find a good lawyer, and after searching through many options, Matthew Cargal definitely was the right choice. I would recommend his law offices to friends and family for any predicament pertaining to the law. Thank you!- Joyce -
"His knowledge and overall professionalism helped turn a disastrous situation into something quite manageable......and took virtually all of the stress off of my shoulders."
Saved my bacon! I am a little embarrassed, having found myself in a criminal situation.....that said.....thank God I found Matt Cargal. From just after the arrest when I reached out to him... to the completion of the trial Matt Cargal was the consummate professional. His knowledge and overall professionalism helped turn a disastrous situation into something quite manageable......and took virtually all of the stress off of my shoulders. I am not big on social media or writing reviews....but with his level of services I felt compelled to let others know. If you need an attorney, call Matt Cargal- David -
"He proved our son was innocent! Mr. Cargal represented my son on a juvenile crime. Our family was devastated. He constantly called the cop investigating the case and the prosecutor to try to get the case dismissed. He did it! Mr. Cargal was able to get the"
He proved our son was innocent! Mr. Cargal represented my son on a juvenile crime. Our family was devastated. He constantly called the cop investigating the case and the prosecutor to try to get the case dismissed. He did it! Mr. Cargal was able to get the charges dropped before it went to court. We knew our son was innocent and Cargal fought hard to prove it. He's the best!- Shane
The Law Offices of Matthew Cargal Is Your Best Choice
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We Are ThoroughWe do a thorough investigation of every case in order to determine your best defense.
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We Find Alternatives to JailWe are experts in finding alternative options should jail be an issue in your case.
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We Keep You InformedOur clients are kept updated about their case at all times and return all communication promptly.
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We Get Results!We do what it takes to get the best possible result, including motions and jury trial.
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You Get the Attorney You HiredMatthew Cargal — not a paralegal, assistant, or junior attorney — will handle your case and will be available to discuss your case with you at your request.
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We've Handled Hundreds of CasesMatthew Cargal has handled hundreds of cases in Pasadena, Los Angeles County and throughout southern California. This means he knows the court, judge and prosecutor that will be handling your case.
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We Handle Administrative CasesMatthew Cargal has successfully represented hundreds of clients before the DMV and other government administrative agencies.
The Law Offices of Matthew Cargal
of Counsel to the Law Offices of Myles L. Berman
Being arrested for a DUI or other criminal offense is stressful, and the consequences of a conviction can follow you for years. But an arrest isn’t a conviction. With the right Pasadena criminal defense attorney on your side, you may have a chance to get the charges dismissed or reduced.
Your outcome depends heavily on who you hire. You need a defense lawyer Pasadena clients can trust: someone experienced, focused, and ready to fight. Matthew Cargal brings more than 25 years of focused criminal defense practice and a proven record of results.
Here are several benefits of hiring our criminal defense attorney in Pasadena, CA:
- Access to experienced advice and legal counsel
- Ability to properly weigh the risks and benefits of plea bargains
- The ability to build a strong defense case for trial
- Knowledge of state laws, court procedures, evidence rules, sentencing guidelines, etc.
- Negotiation power with prosecutors for lesser charges or reduced sentences
- Creative strategies for courtroom proceedings
- Assistance in preparing documents such as motions or appeals
- Accurate explanation of your rights throughout the whole process
- Support and guidance during the entire process
- Representation in court, from bail hearings to sentencing
Attorney Cargal understands how the system works, what strategies apply in different situations, and how to evaluate the risks and benefits of a plea bargain. Clients work directly with him, not an associate or paralegal, so the advice you get comes from someone who knows your case.
Incredibly personable, dedicated, and knowledgeable. He worked tirelessly to make sure we had the outcome we wanted and made sure to make me feel safe and reassured along the way.
- Former Client
Local Pasadena Court Knowledge That Makes a Difference
Most criminal cases arising in Pasadena are heard at the Pasadena Courthouse. Felony cases are prosecuted by the Pasadena Branch of the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, while misdemeanor cases within the city are typically handled by the Pasadena City Attorney’s Office. Familiarity with local court procedures, filing practices, and the prosecutors assigned to a case shapes how matters unfold at arraignment, during pretrial motions, and in negotiations. A defense attorney who regularly practices in that courthouse brings a working knowledge of its judges and prosecutors.
Attorney Cargal has handled hundreds of cases in Pasadena and throughout Los Angeles County. When you hire our firm, you’re working with a criminal lawyer who knows the court and the prosecutors who will handle your case.
What a Criminal Defense Attorney Does & Why It Matters
What Is a Defense Attorney?
A defense attorney is a lawyer who represents individuals or entities accused of committing a crime. Their job is to protect your legal rights and provide counsel and representation throughout the criminal justice process.
The primary goal is to defend against the prosecution’s accusations and seek the best possible outcome, whether that means an acquittal, a reduced sentence, or a negotiated plea. A defense attorney may also advise on related civil litigation or regulatory issues that arise from the same underlying conduct.
The Consequences of a Criminal Conviction
A criminal conviction can stay on your record for years or permanently, and that record is typically available to the public. It will appear on most background and immigration checks, with consequences that can include jail, prison, probation, parole, large fines, lifetime offender registration, loss of employment, loss of a professional license, and, in some cases, deportation.
For more than 25 years, Matthew Cargal has focused exclusively on defending people charged with crimes in Pasadena. We continue to work toward the best possible results for each client. If you or someone you know has been arrested, contact our office immediately to discuss how we can help.
Criminal Charges We Defend in Pasadena
Our clients face a wide range of charges, and our practice covers both misdemeanor and felony offenses. Common matters include DUI, drug offenses, theft crimes, domestic violence, assault and battery, and other criminal charges throughout Pasadena and Los Angeles County. In California, a misdemeanor carries a maximum sentence of 364 days in county jail, while a felony can result in more than a year in county jail or state prison. Some charges are wobblers that prosecutors may file either way depending on the facts.
Early intervention can matter. Contacting a criminal defense attorney before charges are formally filed may reduce the risk of prosecution or limit the severity of charges. Whether you’re facing a first-time misdemeanor or a serious felony, Attorney Cargal can evaluate your situation personally and advise you on the strongest path forward.
Know What Your Arrest Could Mean For You
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Permanent Criminal Record
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Fines & Court Costs
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Jail or Prison Time
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Probation or Parole
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Driver’s License Suspension
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Loss of Professional License
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Inability to Obtain Certain Jobs
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Possible Deportation If You Are Not a Citizen
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Registration for Life for Some Types of Cases
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Loss of the Right to Own or Possess a Firearm
Backed By Hundreds of Results
We Have Successfully Defended Hundreds of Criminal and DUI Cases
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Charge Reduced Attempted Murder with Gang Allegations Carrying a Life Sentence
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Case Dismissed Battery
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Case reduced to petty theft and eventually Burglary
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Case Dismissed Case dismissed, convicted of exhibition of speed, DMV hearing won.
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Case Dismissed Child Endangerment, Case dismissed on first day of jury trial.
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Reduced to petty theft Commercial Burglary
Request Your Free Consultation
Your consultation will be with Matthew Cargal directly, not an associate attorney, legal assistant, or paralegal. We believe it’s critical that you meet, interview, and feel comfortable with the person who will be representing you. During the consultation, our Pasadena criminal defense lawyer can discuss every aspect of your case and answer any questions you have. In-person appointments are available during the day, in the evening, and on weekends. Call (888) 717-0139 today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your rights.
What to Do If You Are Suspected of a Crime or Involved in an Arrest
The success of your defense depends not only on who you choose to represent you, but also on what you do to protect your own rights.
If you are contacted by law enforcement and you believe you are suspected of a crime:
- Don’t make any statements without consulting an attorney first
- Don’t argue with law enforcement officers
- Keep your hands visible, don’t touch an officer, don’t resist, and never run from the police
- Write down everything that happened as soon as you get an opportunity
- Contact Pasadena criminal defense attorney Matthew Cargal immediately