Practice Areas Overview

Andersen & Zimmer provides comprehensive criminal defense and personal injury representation to clients in Oakland and Alameda County and throughout the Bay Area. With nearly four decades of legal experience, firm principal David L. Andersen is widely recognized for his trial expertise. For exceptional legal representation in your criminal defense or personal injury case, contact Andersen & Zimmer at (510) 835-4952.

Criminal Defense

At Andersen & Zimmer, we approach every client's case with aggressive and innovative strategies, maximizing the opportunity for dismissal, acquittal, and reduced sentencing. We defend clients against state and federal criminal charges, including:

Drug Crimes

When a defendant is facing drug charges, the prosecution will typically rely on the introduction of physical evidence, such as the drugs themselves, as well as officer testimony to obtain a conviction. With decades of trial experience and an in-depth understanding of criminal law and procedure, we have a keen eye for constitutional violations committed during the detention, search, arrest, and interrogation that led to your criminal charges. In some situations, these violations may allow us to have the charges reduced or dismissed prior to trial if the evidence needed to obtain a conviction was unlawfully obtained.

The California Health and Safety Code as well and the United States criminal code impose significant penalties for those convicted of possessing, distributing, transporting, or manufacturing controlled substances. In situations when a conviction is unavoidable, we have extensive experience working with judges and prosecutors to obtain alternative sentencing and reduced penalties for our clients. An example in California would be California Proposition 36, also known as the Substance Abuse and Crime Prevention Act, which opens a pathway for criminal defendants to avoid a life of repeat offenses and extended prison sentences.

DUI/DWI

A DUI charge and conviction can result in serious sentencing consequences including significant fines, jail time and loss of driving privileges. In addition, a conviction of driving under the influence will increase insurance premiums for years to come. If you are facing a DUI charge, time is of the essence. At the time of a DUI arrest, your driver's license will be confiscated. The officer will issue you a notice of suspension and a temporary driver's license which is valid for thirty (30) days. After the thirty (30) day period, your license will be suspended unless you request a DMV Administrative Per Se (APS) hearing within ten (10) days of receiving the notice of suspension. Failure to request this hearing in time will result in an automatic suspension of your license, and could have a negative impact on your defense in the subsequent criminal case.

We can help you make informed decisions about your particular case, and provide you with knowledgeable, skilled legal representation before the court and the DMV. In many cases we have been successful in having DUI charges reduced or even dismissed completely.

Assault

We have extensive experience representing defendants accused of serious felonies related to violent acts, including assault and murder. Andersen & Zimmer has the expertise and trial experience to appear on your behalf even if the Government is seeking the death penalty.

White Collar Crime

We defend individuals and businesses accused of committing white collar crimes including loan fraud, insurance fraud, workers' compensation fraud, and embezzlement. White collar crime cases are often complex and often involve multiple state and federal laws and agencies. We understand these complex charges and know how to achieve a successful outcome.

Juvenile Delinquency

We also have experience representing minors who are facing juvenile charges or are under investigation for criminal activity. While minors may face less stringent sentencing and criminal record implications, juvenile offenses can have a devastating impact on a child's life into adulthood and should not be taken lightly. We can help your child confront his or her mistakes and seek a fresh start before it is too late.

Personal Injury

We represent clients who have been injured as a result of the negligence or wrongful act of another, including but not limited to:

  • Auto Accidents
  • Truck Accidents
  • Motorcycle Accidents
  • Pedestrian Accidents
  • Dog Bites

We specialize in representing victims of serious and catastrophic injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, burns, and fractures, as well as families who have lost a loved one in wrongful death actions.

If you have been injured or a family member has died in an accident, you may be able to obtain a significant recovery for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, but it is important to contact an experienced personal injury immediately, as California has strict time limitations on bringing personal injury and wrongful death claims. Andersen & Zimmer has an established track record for obtaining excellent results in cases involving extensive injuries and damages. All cases are handled on a contingency fee basis, meaning that you do not pay attorneys' fees unless and until we obtain recovery on your behalf. Call Andersen & Zimmer at (510) 835-4952 for a consultation regarding your personal injury or wrongful death claim.