Ridgecrest Criminal Defense Lawyers
If you are facing criminal charges in Ridgecrest, your freedom, your career, your family, and your future may all be on the line. A single accusation can change your life overnight — and the decisions you make in the first hours and days after an arrest often matter most. You do not have to face the justice system alone. At Humphrey & Thompson, our board-certified criminal defense attorneys provide aggressive, informed representation to people throughout Ridgecrest and Kern County.
We are not a large firm that hands your case to an unnamed, unprepared associate. Kyle J. Humphrey and Jared M. Thompson are recognized by the State Bar of California as Certified Criminal Law Specialists, and together they bring more than 50 years of experience and over 5,000 cases handled. When you hire us, you get proven advocates who will fight for the best possible outcome.
To speak with a Ridgecrest criminal defense lawyer today, call (661) 760-7678 or contact us online for a confidential consultation.
Common Crimes We Defend Against
Our firm handles the full range of state and federal criminal charges. Whether you are accused of a first-time offense or a serious felony, we have the experience to build a strategic defense. We regularly represent clients in Ridgecrest facing:
- DUI
- Drug crimes
- Violent crimes
- Sex crimes
- Theft crimes
- Firearm and weapons offenses
- White collar crimes
- Federal crimes
No matter the charge, our goal is the same: protect your rights, challenge the prosecution's evidence, and pursue the most favorable resolution available.
Misdemeanors vs Felonies in California
California law classifies criminal offenses into distinct categories according to the severity of the alleged conduct and the penalties attached to them:
Misdemeanors
Misdemeanors are mid-level criminal charges—such as a first-offense DUI, petty theft under $950, or simple battery. A misdemeanor conviction cannot result in state prison time. Instead, statutory penalties max out at up to one year in a county jail, along with informal probation and court fines.
Felonies
Felonies represent the most severe category under the California Penal Code, covering offenses such as grand theft, residential burglary, drug trafficking, rape, and homicide. A felony conviction carries substantial state prison sentences, formal supervised probation, heavy monetary fines, and the lifelong forfeiture of certain constitutional rights, including your right to own or possess firearms.
"Wobbler" Offenses
In California, many crimes are classified as "wobblers." A wobbler is an offense that a prosecutor holds discretion to charge as either a misdemeanor or a felony based on the underlying facts of the case and your prior record. Having a skilled defense lawyer intercede early during pre-filing negotiations can often mean keeping a wobbler charge at the misdemeanor level.
criminal law specialists
Recognized by The State of California As Board Certified Criminal Defense Experts
At Humphrey & Thompson, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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- Cesar M.
They were very straightforward about the possible outcomes and always seemed to be one step ahead in planning our defense strategy. The paralegal staff was also courteous and prompt in their responses, which made the whole stressful process much more bearable. I am profoundly grateful for their services. the Martinez Lugo family we loved them we really recommended thanks so much :)
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- Aimee G.
The process was easy and they made it so that I didn't have to appear in court. I highly recommended them!
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- Rob B.
He was straight forward, informative, and very easy to work with from inception to completion. I strongly suggest reaching out to Mr Thompson should you need the services offered by his office!
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- Joe S.
His experience and knowing what to do helped and he has wisdom in sharing and saying the right thing to calm you in whatever you are going through. At times I was talked to as if I knew the law but when questioned what he was talking about he would take the time to explain. He is a very busy man so it seemed like he was hurried but would come back to explain. Happy with the outcome and glad that we were able to find a great attorney.
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- Saijel P.
Kyle and his team are absolutely amazing! With my whole case they kept it completely stress free. Kyle will explain everything in a way you could actually understand. I highly recommend him. He's honest, fair and compassionate and fantastic to work with.
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Needed a lawyer for our juvenile son for a felony assault case. Public defender was not very helpful and told us that at best our son would be on a very intensive probation for years if not sentenced to a camp. Rob Singh took our case and basically got everything resolved outside of court with the prosecutor within 2 weeks. Alleviated a lot of stress and anxiety by getting our son on a very minimal probation for 6 months and then records completely sealed. Highly recommended and would definitely hire this firm again.- Erik S.
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- Randy K.
Due to the distance away from the Bakersfield area I was able to deal with the firm by phone and email. Phone service was very timely and they made me feel comfortable. If needed, I would use their services again and recommend this law office.
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- Former Client
Jared and his staff, not exaggerating were on top of it all. If I called to talk to the girls in the front they handled everything right away, Jared reputation for being THE BEST matched him perfect. We had issues with the anger management classes and the staff really cared and helped us. Jared helped my son who was facing some serious charges but he genuinely cared about the whole truth and we got blessed tremendously! we are forever grateful and truly couldnt have imagined the outcome had we NOT hired him! Loved them thank you so much sincerely!
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Jury Trial Acquittals
Molestation and Sexual Abuse of Minors
Mr. Thompson Secures Complete Dismissal of all Charges at Jury Trial for Accusations of Molestation and Sexual Abuse of Minors
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Case Dismissal
Sexual Abuse
Allegation of Continuous Sexual Abuse Dismissed Before Trial. -
Case Dismissal
Felony Sex Case
Felony Sex Case based on Undercover Decoy Sting Dismissed Entirely. -
Case Dismissal
Rape
Rape Case Dismissed Based on Defense Investigation and Medical Evaluation Before Trial. -
Case Dismissal
Sexual Battery
Local business owner charged with sexual battery, dismissed. -
Avoid Sex Offender Registration
Sex Offense
Juvenile Client Has Felony Sex Offense Case Dismissed and Is Not Required to Register
Why You Should Hire a Lawyer
Facing criminal charges without an attorney puts everything you value at risk. Here is what sets Humphrey & Thompson apart:
- Board-certified expertise. We are certified by the State Bar of California in criminal law — a distinction few attorneys hold.
- Proven track record. With 5,000+ cases handled, we have secured dismissals, acquittals, and reduced charges in both state and federal courts.
- Personalized attention. You are not just another file. You work directly with experienced partners, not a rotating cast of associates.
- Aggressive advocacy. We investigate thoroughly, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case, and are always prepared to go to trial.
- Responsive communication. We keep you informed at every step and respond promptly to your questions.
An experienced lawyer can protect your constitutional rights, including the presumption of innocence, your right to remain silent, and your right to a fair trial.
