Mark A. Broughton, PC

05/19/2026

⚖️ Same mistake, entirely different system.

Unlike the adult system, California’s juvenile courts focus on rehabilitation and privacy over punishment. But don't mistake that for a lack of consequences—serious cases can still follow a young person into adulthood or even be transferred to adult court.

If a youth in your family is facing charges, acting fast is the best way to protect their future.

👇 Read the full breakdown on our blog: https://fresnocriminallawyer.com/california-juvenile-justice-how-youth-cases-differ-from-adult-cases/

04/21/2026

What if the evidence against you shouldn’t even be allowed in court?

Not all evidence is fair game. If law enforcement crosses the line, that evidence—and anything that came from it—could be thrown out. That can change everything in a criminal case. A strong defense starts with knowing your rights and spotting violations early.

Read the full article to learn how it works and what it could mean for your case:
https://fresnocriminallawyer.com/how-illegal-evidence-gets-thrown-out-of-court/

03/26/2026

🛑 STOP. Don't say "Yes" until you read this.

Most people think being "cooperative" means letting the police search their car or home. Here is the hard truth: Once you give consent, you waive your 4th Amendment protections.

Knowing how to say "no" politely but firmly isn't about being difficult—it’s about protecting your future. ⚖️

Read the full breakdown: https://fresnocriminallawyer.com/your-rights-during-a-police-search-what-the-law-actually-says/

03/06/2026

"Probably" is a losing argument for the prosecution.

If there’s a logical reason to doubt, the law requires a "Not Guilty" verdict. But how do you prove a doubt is "reasonable"?

Check out our latest blog post on the power of Reasonable Doubt and how it serves as the ultimate shield for the accused in Fresno.

Link: https://fresnocriminallawyer.com/what-is-reasonable-doubt-and-how-does-it-help-your-defense/

01/20/2026

What you say during an arrest can follow you for years—sometimes forever.

Even casual comments or attempts to explain yourself can be used against you later. Knowing what not to say is just as important as knowing your rights. We break down the five statements that can seriously hurt your case—and what to say instead.

👉 Read the full article: https://fresnocriminallawyer.com/5-things-you-should-never-say-to-police-during-an-arrest/

12/23/2025

Plea bargains sound tempting—but do you know the real pros, cons, and what you're giving up?

Learn how they work in California courts and when to fight instead. Get the facts from a certified criminal law specialist.

👉 Read the full post: https://fresnocriminallawyer.com/should-you-accept-a-plea-bargain-pros-and-cons-explained/

11/27/2025

🚔 Just arrested in Fresno? Here’s exactly what happens next with bail:
1️⃣ Booking at Fresno County Jail (M Street)
2️⃣ Bail amount set by the 2025 Fresno County schedule
3️⃣ Post cash, bond, or fight for release on your own recognizance (OR)
4️⃣ Bail hearing within 48 hours if needed
The faster you (or a loved one) get out, the stronger your defense can be.
Read the complete 2025 guide by former Fresno prosecutor Mark A. Broughton:
👉 https://fresnocriminallawyer.com/how-does-the-bail-process-work-in-fresno-california
Need help RIGHT NOW? Call 24/7: (559) 691-6220

Meta descriptionArrested in Fresno County? Learn how the bail process works in 2026, from booking and bail schedules to getting released from jail. Get help now.

10/15/2025

Charged with a federal drug crime?

Penalties are harsher, investigations go deeper, and the stakes are higher than in state court.

Learn what makes a case federal, what you’re up against, and how an experienced defense attorney can help.

Read more 👉 https://fresnocriminallawyer.com/what-you-need-to-know-if-youre-facing-federal-drug-charges/

09/16/2025

Think a first-time DUI is just a minor mistake? It’s not. Even a misdemeanor DUI can bring license suspension, high fines, probation, a criminal record, and long-lasting consequences.

Read our latest blog to learn why these charges are more serious than you realize—and why having the right Fresno criminal defense lawyer matters. Call Mark Broughton today for experienced DUI defense.

https://fresnocriminallawyer.com/why-misdemeanor-dui-charges-are-more-serious-than-you-realize/

08/16/2025

You might be surprised what legally counts as stalking or harassment.
The consequences can follow you for years — even if there was no physical contact. Jail time, restraining orders, and a damaged reputation are just the start.

Fresno criminal lawyer Mark Broughton shares what these charges really mean in California, possible defenses, and why having the right attorney matters most.

📖 Read more: fresnocriminallawyer.com/how-serious-are-stalking-and-harassment-charges