Answers to the questions we are asked most often. If yours is not here, call or text 805-853-FREE (3733) — the consultation is free and confidential.

Which courthouse will my case be heard at?

Ventura County adult criminal cases are heard at the Hall of Justice at 800 S. Victoria Ave. in Ventura. Ventura County juvenile delinquency cases are heard in Rooms J3 and J4 of the Juvenile Justice Center at 4353 E. Vineyard Ave. in Oxnard. We appear at both courthouses regularly. Your charging paperwork lists your assigned courtroom and date — bring it to your consultation and we will confirm where you need to be.

Will I work with Hali directly, or with an associate?

Directly with Hali. Freedom Law 805 is intentionally a small firm, so there are no hand-offs to associate attorneys. Other members of Hali’s team may assist on your case, but attorney Hali Ford personally responds to every inquiry and handles every case from beginning to end.

Do you offer a free consultation?

Yes. Consultations are free and confidential, with no cost and no obligation. Call or text 805-853-FREE (3733), or email hali@freedomlaw805.com. Speaking with an attorney early matters — in criminal cases, the first 24 hours after an arrest can influence the ultimate outcome of your case.

Do you speak Spanish?

Yes. Hali is proficient in Spanish and regularly assists Spanish-speaking clients herself, with no need for an interpreter.

What should I do if the police want to talk to me?

You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney, and your assertions of these rights cannot legally be used against you. Politely say you are exercising those rights, then call a lawyer before answering questions. Knowing and asserting your rights can mean the difference between a case never being filed and a case being proved against you.

Do you handle both criminal and family law matters?

Yes — criminal defense, family law and juvenile law. That combination matters more often than people expect: a domestic violence arrest, a restraining order and a custody dispute frequently arise from the same set of facts, and having one attorney see the whole picture avoids the two sides of your case working against each other.

My child is facing school discipline or has an IEP dispute. Can you help?

Yes. We represent students in expulsion and suspension hearings, and advocate for students with disabilities in IEP and 504 disputes with their school districts, alongside juvenile delinquency defense.

What areas do you serve?

All of Ventura County, including Ventura, Oxnard, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, Camarillo, Moorpark, Newbury Park, Port Hueneme, Ojai, Santa Paula, Fillmore and Oak Park.