If you live in Riverside County, California, or have recently been arrested, it’s important to understand the most common types of criminal charges that occur in your area. Whether it’s a first-time offense or a serious felony, knowing what you’re up against, and what your rights are, can make all the difference in protecting your future.

At Inland Empire Criminal Defense, we’ve handled thousands of criminal cases across Riverside County and Los Angeles County. Below, we’ll break down the five most common criminal charges we see, what they mean under California law, and what steps you should take if you or someone you know is facing one.

1. DUI (Driving Under the Influence)

Driving under the influence remains one of the most common criminal charges in Riverside County. Under California Vehicle Code 23152, it’s illegal to operate a vehicle with a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher – or while impaired by alcohol or drugs.

Riverside County law enforcement agencies, including the California Highway Patrol and local police departments, are known for strict DUI enforcement, especially around major holidays.

Potential Penalties for a First-Time DUI:

• Up to 6 months in county jail
• License suspension
• Mandatory DUI school
• Fines and fees totaling thousands of dollars

For repeat offenses or cases involving injury, penalties become far more severe — including felony charges.

Know your rights: If you’re pulled over, you are required to identify yourself and provide your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance. However, you have the right to remain silent and to refuse field sobriety tests (though refusing a chemical test can carry administrative penalties).

2. Drug Possession and Controlled Substances

Drug-related crimes, including possession, intent to sell, and trafficking, are also among the most common charges in Riverside County.

Under California Health and Safety Code 11350(a), it’s illegal to possess controlled substances such as cocaine, heroin, or prescription drugs without a valid prescription. Marijuana, while legal for adults in limited amounts, can still result in charges if you exceed possession limits or distribute without a license.

Penalties can include:

• Jail time or probation
• Court-mandated treatment programs
• Criminal record affecting employment and housing
  

California’s laws also recognize constructive possession — meaning you don’t have to be physically holding drugs to be charged, as long as you had control or knowledge of where they were found.

3. Domestic Violence

Domestic violence charges are taken extremely seriously in Riverside County. These cases typically involve allegations of physical harm, threats, or emotional abuse between spouses, partners, or family members.

Under California Penal Code 273.5, inflicting “corporal injury” on a spouse or cohabitant can be charged as a felony. Even if the alleged victim does not want to press charges, prosecutors can still move forward with the case.

Possible penalties:

• Jail or prison time
• Restraining orders
• Loss of firearm rights
• Required anger management or counseling
  

Because of how emotionally charged and complex these cases are, it’s vital to contact a skilled defense attorney immediately to protect your rights and prevent long-term damage to your reputation or record.

4. Theft and Property Crimes

Theft and property crimes are also frequently prosecuted throughout Riverside County, including cities like Corona, Moreno Valley, and Rancho Cucamonga. These crimes include petty theft, grand theft, burglary, and shoplifting.

Under California Penal Code 484, theft involves taking someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. The severity of the charge depends on the value of the property stolen.

Examples:

• Petty theft (under $950): Misdemeanor
• Grand theft (over $950 or specific property types): Felony

Property crimes can also include vandalism, trespassing, or possession of stolen goods.

5. Assault and Battery

Lastly, assault and battery cases make up a significant portion of criminal charges in Riverside County. These are often the result of bar fights, domestic disputes, or altercations during arrests.

Under California Penal Code 240, assault is defined as an attempt to commit a violent injury on another person, while battery (PC 242) occurs when physical contact is actually made.

Even minor altercations can lead to serious criminal records — and if injuries are involved, charges can escalate to aggravated assault with potential felony consequences.

Know Your Rights in Riverside County

If you are arrested or questioned by law enforcement, remember:

• You have the right to remain silent
• You have the right to an attorney
• You can refuse consent to searches without a warrant
• You should not speak to police without legal counsel present
  

These rights exist to protect you. Exercising them early can make a major difference in the outcome of your case.

Inland Empire Criminal Defense: Trusted Representation in Riverside County

Facing criminal charges in Riverside County can be overwhelming — but you don’t have to go through it alone. Inland Empire Criminal Defense, led by Attorney Adam Jackson, is a 5-star reviewed criminal defense practice based in Rancho Cucamonga, proudly serving Riverside County and Los Angeles County.We have a long history of successfully defending clients against DUI, drug possession, domestic violence, theft, and assault charges. Your first consultation is free — contact us today at (909) 345-1613 to speak directly with a skilled attorney who knows how to fight for your rights.