Joshua Tree Criminal Defense Attorney Joshua Mulligan.

Top Rated Joshua Tree Criminal Lawyer serving 29 Palms, Joshua Tree, and Yucca Valley

Forest Wilkerson and Joshua Mulligan are the best DUI and criminal defense lawyers serving the high desert cities of Yucca Valley, Joshua Tree, and 29 Palms. The High Desert is a place of raw beauty, where the desert stretches wide and free. But sometimes, freedom runs headfirst into "The System." Maybe you screwed up, maybe you didn’t. Either way, now you’ve got the weight of the law coming down on you, and you need someone who can handle it. That’s where we come in.

We Don’t Just Defend Cases—We Defend People

At Wilkerson & Mulligan, we’re not here to sugarcoat it or hold your hand through some rehearsed speech. We’re here to take your story—all of it—and turn it into a defense so solid it makes the prosecutor sweat. DUI in Joshua Tree? We’ve got you. Drug crimes, domestic violence, or something else that’s put you on the wrong side of the law? Been there, done that, and won.

Maybe you were just enjoying a few beers after a hike, or maybe things got out of hand on a night that was supposed to stay low-key. Life throws curveballs. One moment, you’re marveling at the stars; the next, you’re standing in the Joshua Tree courthouse wondering what comes next.

That’s when you call us:

  • More than 40 years of combined criminal defense expertise.

  • Every year since 2013, Palm Springs Life Magazine has awarded these attorneys its "Top Lawyer" recognition.

  • 100+ perfect 5-star reviews.

  • Attorney Mulligan is recognized as a California State Bar Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist.

The Power of Your Truth

At the esteemed Trial Lawyers College, Attorney Joshua Mulligan mastered the art of presenting legal arguments as the vibrant, authentic narratives of his clients. This goes beyond mere courtroom strategy. This training helps us build a strong, relatable defense, passionately conveying your narrative. Because when your story connects, it’s not just a defense—it’s a truth that demands justice.

Local Lawyers for Local Cases

We’re not just lawyers—we’re your neighbors. We know Joshua Tree, Yucca Valley, 29 Palms, and Pioneertown, this desert, and the San Bernardino County Superior Court like the back of our hands. We know how "The System" works out here and how to work it in your favor. No cookie-cutter defenses, no phoning it in. We fight because we care. Because everyone deserves someone in their corner who actually gives a damn.

And here’s something else you should know: When you hire us, you get us. Not some random appearance attorney who’s never seen your file. Either Forest or Josh will personally appear in court to represent you. We’re with you every step of the way, from the initial free consultation to the final gavel drop. That’s how we do it, because that’s what you deserve.

Helping Visitors with Criminal Cases

The high desert draws millions of visitors each year. Unfortunately, some visitors leave with criminal charges after getting caught up in the fun.

We remotely handle cases for clients in other states and countries, where possible. Most misdemeanor clients don't have to go to court. We aim to reduce the number of court appearances required for felony cases. We can also help you transfer your probation and locate relevant classes where you live.

Unmatched Expertise in Joshua Tree Cases

  • DUI Defense: Our DUI defense attorneys stand with you every step of the way, from the first DMV hearing to the final appeal. With over 40 years of combined experience, our DUI defense lawyers have earned the trust of clients in Joshua Tree, Yucca Valley, and 29 Palms. Whether it’s fighting a DMV hearing, filing a motion, securing a trial victory, or navigating complex appeals, we deliver proven results and unwavering defense for your rights.

  • Drug Crimes: We stand beside our clients, defending against charges such as possession and sales, with a deep understanding of the battles tied to drug abuse and addiction. Our legal mission goes beyond the courtroom—we fight for justice while helping our clients find the support they need to reclaim their lives.

  • Violent Crimes: With over 40 years of hard-earned experience, our criminal defense attorneys fight for justice in Yucca Valley, Joshua Tree, and beyond. Whether facing charges of assault, robbery, or homicide, we stand ready to defend you with the skill and determination these serious cases demand.

  • Sex Crime Defense: As criminal lawyers, we offer a defense grounded in compassion and fierce advocacy, ensuring every client receives fair treatment. While many shy away from defending those accused of sexual assault, we take on these challenges head-on. In a system where it’s alarmingly simple to falsely accuse someone of molestation or assault, and where the San Bernardino District Attorney too often pursues these cases without regard for the truth, we stand as a shield against injustice.

  • Domestic Violence: As dedicated domestic violence defense attorneys, we fight to uncover the truth and safeguard your rights, whether in traditional or same-sex cases. Serving as trusted Joshua Tree criminal lawyers for clients in 29 Palms and beyond, we’ve secured countless pre-trial dismissals and jury acquittals in domestic violence cases, standing firm against injustice at every turn.

  • Restraining Orders: Our defense lawyers stand ready to challenge unjust restraining orders, fiercely protecting your reputation and your rights. Our work in Joshua Tree restraining order cases grew naturally from the crossover issues we’ve encountered in criminal defense. Unlike family law attorneys who may lack the sharpened tools of a criminal lawyer, we bring a relentless, thorough defense to every case, ensuring no accusation goes unchallenged.

Joshua Tree Lawyers who Understand Mental Health Defenses

As criminal defense attorneys serving 29 Palms, Yucca Valley, and beyond, we fight tirelessly for clients facing the complexities of mental health challenges. In California, where the law allows for leniency when mental health plays a role, we craft defense strategies that shine a light on the deeper causes behind actions.

  • Mental Health Defenses: We build compelling cases that address how mental health conditions shape behavior.

  • Diversion Programs: We guide clients into programs that prioritize healing over punishment.

  • Advocating for Treatment: We push for therapy and other alternatives to incarceration, recognizing the need for care, not confinement.

  • Mental Health Evaluations: We collaborate with professionals to uncover the root causes of behavior and present them in court.

  • Reducing Sentences: We use mental health evidence to fight for reduced charges and lighter sentences whenever possible.

For those in 29 Palms, Yucca Valley, and Joshua Tree, we bring understanding, advocacy, and unwavering dedication to justice.

Yucca Valley, Joshua Tree, and 29 Palms Law Firm Committed to Helping People who Come to the Desert to get a Fresh Start

High desert cities like Yucca Valley have long been a haven for those seeking healing and renewal. Our area's history of health and wellness care started in WWI, providing recovery in the desert's climate for those suffering from gas attacks and tuberculosis. Today, the tradition continues with new residents coming to the Joshua Tree area seeking physical or spiritual renewal.

Many people come to Joshua Tree and the surrounding areas with the hope of starting over, using the tranquility of the desert to find clarity and build a better future. Unfortunately, recovery is often difficult, and relapse may cause legal problems. People struggling with sobriety often face charges such as DUI, possession, domestic violence, or theft.

As defense attorneys in Joshua Tree, we understand the circumstances faced by individuals in recovery. These cases necessitate a compassionate, strategic approach prioritizing treatment and rehabilitation over punishment. My objective is to guide clients out of the criminal justice system and toward solutions that promote their enduring well-being.

Our commitment is to assist Yucca Valley and high desert residents seeking a second chance by advocating for alternative sentencing, collaborating with rehabilitation centers, and ensuring fair legal treatment.

Your Story, Our Mission

Every case we take is a fight for a person’s life, their future, their truth. At Wilkerson & Mulligan, we don’t just represent clients; we stand for them. If you’re ready to have your voice heard, your rights defended, and your story told, contact us today. Together, we’ll fight for the justice you deserve.

Contact us now for a free consultation.

Joshua Tree Criminal Case Resources:

 

San Bernardino Sheriff - Morongo Basin Patrol Station

63665 29 Palms Hwy
Joshua Tree, California 92252