Trusted Palm Springs Criminal Defense Attorneys

Palm Springs Criminal Defense Attorney Joshua Mulligan

Top Rated, Highly Awarded Palm Springs Criminal Defense Attorneys

Forest Wilkerson and Joshua Mulligan are the finest Palm Springs criminal defense attorneys.

Choosing Wilkerson & Mulligan for your criminal defense needs means partnering with a team that truly grasps the gravity of your case. We have over 40 years of combined criminal defense experience and a proven track record with over 100 5-star reviews. We take pride in being dedicated, trustworthy, and caring advocates for our clients. Attorney Mulligan’s certification as California State Bar Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist guarantees your attorney is a true expert in criminal defense.

Attorney Mulligan also graduated from the Trial Lawyers College (TLC) and attends TLC work groups. The Trial Lawyers College trains attorneys in advanced trial techniques, focusing on human connection, storytelling, and understanding the emotions and motivations behind every case. This specialized training equips them to present your case powerfully, whether to a judge, jury, or opposing counsel, and to fight for justice with empathy and determination. When you choose a TLC-trained attorney, you choose someone who is not only prepared to win but also makes sure your voice is heard.

Attorney Forest Wilkerson has earned recognition as “Top Lawyer” by Palm Springs Life Magazine every year since she began in private practice in 2013.

Local Palm Springs Criminal Defense Lawyers Focused on Defending Local Cases

The Larson Justice Center in Indio handles Palm Springs criminal cases. About 90% of our caseload is at the Larson Justice Center. We are aware of the local courts inside and out. The attorney you hire will be the one who stands with you in court, providing you with personalized attention and support every step of the way. Let us fight for your rights and help you navigate this challenging time.

Palm Springs Defense Attorneys Experienced in Representing Tourists

The Palm Springs Film Festival, White Party, and the Coachella Music Festival attract millions of visitors from around the world each year. In 2022, 14.1 million people visited this chic desert town. Despite being known as a vacation getaway, too many people in Palm Springs get caught up in the partying and leave town with a criminal citation.

Every year we represent clients from several other states and foreign countries. We can do appointments by phone and handle paperwork electronically. We work hard to avoid any travel back to the desert you would need to do for your case. In misdemeanor cases, most clients never need to attend court. In felonies, clients need to attend key hearings, but the attorney can usually appear without the client at routine hearings.

We have a proven track record of helping clients from other states with probation transfers. We also help find probation classes in other states or foreign countries.

Palm Springs Criminal Attorneys with Experience Representing the LGBTQ Community

We have been working on criminal cases in Palm Springs since 2007. We have experience with many of the unique criminal defense issues related to the gay and lesbian community. We understand that the legal profession has historically mistreated members of the LGBTQ community. You will not be judged for your sex life when you meet Forest Wilkerson and Joshua Mulligan. We have handled many unique and challenging issues relating to same-sex couples and the gay party scene in Palm Springs:

• Domestic Violence in Same-Sex Couples: Skilled criminal defense representation for individuals accused of domestic violence within same-sex relationships, with sensitivity to the unique dynamics and challenges these cases may present.

• Sexual Assault in Same-Sex Relationships: Dedicated criminal defense for those facing sexual assault allegations within same-sex relationships, ensuring fair treatment and justice.

• Chemsex and Addiction-Related Cases: Compassionate legal advocacy for individuals grappling with charges related to chemsex activities or addiction issues, common in the Palm Springs hookup scene.

• Criminal Cases Involving Grindr and Dating Apps: Expertise in cases involving allegations of extortion, assault, or other criminal matters arising from encounters on hookup apps.

• Rohypnol and Party Drug DUI: Aggressive defense for DUI or other charges involving Rohypnol and party drugs, with a focus on the unique social and legal landscape of Palm Springs nightlife.

Palm Springs Gang Charges Criminal Defense Attorneys

The most notable and active gang in Palm Springs is the Gateway Posse Crips. They began in the 1980s, starting up from the northern end of Palm Springs. Their name comes from Gateway drive, in the deserts highlands/ Gateway area. Problems in North Palm Springs have led to over-policing and over-prosecution for anyone even suspected of having any remote connection to the gang or gang members. Joshua and Forest are skilled in defending clients accused of having ties to criminal street gangs. They understand that the Riverside County District Attorney aggressively pursues enhanced charges against anyone thought to have connections with gangs. Even if you have a gang background, Forest and Joshua are only concerned with the facts of your case and creating the most aggressive legal defense available.    

Top Criminal Defense Expertise and Experience in a Wide Array of Criminal Cases, Including:

• DUI Defense: With extensive experience handling DUI cases, we provide comprehensive representation, from DMV APS hearings to trial, writs, and appeals, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way.

• Drug Crimes: Our criminal defense attorneys bring proven success in defending clients against drug-related charges, including possession and sales.

• Violent Crime Defense: Leveraging over 40 years of experience, we deliver robust defense strategies for serious charges such as assault, robbery, and homicide in Palm Springs and surrounding areas.

• Sex Crimes Defense: Sensitive to the profound impact of these charges, we offer compassionate and effective legal representation to safeguard your future and ensure a fair process.

• Domestic Violence Defense: Whether accusations stem from traditional or same-sex relationships, our attorneys work tirelessly to challenge claims, uncover the truth, and protect your rights.

• Restraining Orders: Our skilled defense team helps clients fight unjust restraining orders, safeguarding your personal and professional reputation.

Criminal Defense Attorneys who Understand Mental Health defenses and Diversion

We work hard for clients who are facing mental health challenges. California provides several ways for defendants to seek leniency if their behavior was related to a mental health condition.

• Mental Health Defenses: Crafting tailored defense strategies that highlight the role of mental health conditions in criminal allegations. In some situations a mental illness can provide a defense in a criminal case.

• Mental Health Diversion Programs: Guiding eligible individuals through California’s mental health diversion process (Penal Code §1001.36) to seek treatment instead of incarceration, promoting rehabilitation and long-term recovery.

• Advocacy for Treatment Over Punishment: Strongly advocating alternatives to, such as therapy, for criminal defendants whose mental health challenges contributed to alleged offenses.

• Experienced Mental Health Evaluations: Collaborating with mental health professionals to build compelling cases that address the root causes of behavior and demonstrate a commitment to recovery.

• Reducing Sentences Through Mental Health Factors: Leveraging evidence of mental illness to negotiate reduced charges, lighter sentences, or dismissal where appropriate.