Criminal Defense
Criminal Defense – Jong Yun Kim
Strong. Strategic. On Your Side.
If you or a loved one has been charged with a crime, the stakes are high — your freedom, your reputation, and your future are all on the line. You need an attorney who knows how to fight back.
Law Offices of Jong Yun Kim provides aggressive, experienced, and personalized criminal defense for individuals facing criminal charges in California. With jury trial experience and numerous cases resolving with a favorable plea bargain, Attorney Kim brings inside knowledge of the criminal justice system to your side.
⚖️ We Handle a Wide Range of Criminal Cases:
✅ DUI (Driving Under the Influence)
Alcohol or drug-related charges
First-time and repeat offenses
✅ Domestic Violence
Spousal abuse, threats, or restraining order violations
✅ Drug Offenses
Possession, sale, distribution, or trafficking of controlled substances
✅ Sex Crimes
Sexual assault, indecent exposure, or unlawful sexual contact
✅ Theft & Robbery
Shoplifting, burglary, grand theft, armed robbery
✅ Violent Crimes
Assault, battery, homicide, or gang-related charges
✅ Juvenile Crimes
Defense for minors facing criminal charges
✅ Expungement & Record Clearing
Help cleaning up your criminal record for a fresh start
✅ Fraud & Casino Scams (Las Vegas)
Defense against white collar and gaming-related fraud
🧠 Why Choose Jong Yun Kim?
- Prior experience as a law enforcement officer with one of the largest departments in U.S.
- Prior extern at a district attorney’s office gang unit
- Significant jury trial expertise
- Obtained numerous favorable plea bargains and/or diversions for previous cases
- Fluent in both English and Korean
- Strategic, personal, and client-focused criminal defense from start to finish
[Criminal Law Column] Absconding Abroad in the Middle of a Criminal Case
Leaving the U.S. during an ongoing criminal case does not make the charges disappear. In fact, absconding typically leads to a bench warrant, which remains active indefinitely. Over time, this can worsen the legal consequences and complicate any future attempts to return to the U.S.—especially in felony cases where personal court appearance is required. Even if someone wishes to resolve the case later, reentry may be impossible due to visa restrictions caused by the outstanding warrant. It is always advisable to resolve criminal matters through proper legal channels before leaving the country.
[Criminal Law Column] Criminal Threats and Immigration Consequences
Under California law, a Criminal Threat occurs when a person makes a credible threat that causes another to fear for their safety—even if no physical harm follows. While often charged as a misdemeanor with minimal penalties (e.g., probation), the immigration consequences can be severe. For non-citizens, a conviction may be classified as an aggravated felony under U.S. immigration law, leading to possible deportation, detention, or loss of legal status. Non-citizen defendants should consult a criminal defense attorney who is well-versed in both criminal and immigration law to ensure that any plea deal avoids triggering immigration consequences.
[Criminal Law Column] Understanding the Three Types of Criminal Records
Fraud is a type of white-collar crime involving financial deception or abuse of trust. Compared to violent crimes, fraud cases are relatively rare and often receive less priority from law enforcement in places like Los Angeles. Victims have the right to report fraud, but sometimes police may treat it as a civil matter rather than a criminal one, especially if the evidence is limited. Even if criminal investigation is not pursued, victims can seek recovery through civil lawsuits by hiring a litigation attorney.
[Criminal Law Column] Out-of-State Criminal Cases (Outside of California)
Attorney Jong Yoon Kim explains that he cannot provide legal advice or handle criminal cases outside California because U.S. law varies by state, and lawyers must be licensed in each state where they practice. Unlike South Korea’s uniform national law, the U.S. has separate laws and bar exams for each state. Even within California, rules differ by county. Therefore, it is both legally and ethically impossible for him to assist with cases in other states. Clients outside California should seek a licensed attorney in their own state for proper legal help.
[Criminal Law Column] Theft Charges in California – Petty Theft vs. Grand Theft
Attorney Jong Yoon Kim explains that theft cases in California are divided into Petty Theft (property valued under $950) and Grand Theft (property valued $950 or more). Grand Theft is a “Wobbler” offense, meaning prosecutors can charge it as either a felony or misdemeanor based on case details and criminal history. Many clients arrested for Petty Theft believe conviction is inevitable, but with skilled legal defense, some avoid conviction or get charges reduced. Consulting a qualified criminal defense attorney is crucial to protect your record and future.
[Criminal Law Column]Understanding the Three Types of Criminal Records
Attorney Jong Yoon Kim explains that criminal records come in three main types:
Arrest Record – Created at booking when you’re arrested; includes fingerprints, photos, and personal info. This record exists even if no charges are filed.
Charging Record – Created if the District Attorney files formal charges. It documents that you were officially accused and generates a court case number.
Conviction Record – Created if found guilty or if you plead guilty. This is the “criminal record” with long-term public consequences.
Contact Us
Have legal questions or need help with a case? Whether you’re facing issues related to Employment, criminal defense, or bankruptcy, Attorney Jong Yun Kim is here to provide trusted legal guidance. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and take the first step toward resolving your legal matter.
Office
3600 WISHIRE BLVD #2226 LOS ANGELES , CA 90010
Business hours
Mon- Sat : 8 am - 6 pm, Sun: Closed
Phone
(213) 351-9400
