Rodney Scott Melville, Criminal Defense Attorney in Santa Maria, California

Rodney concentrates on criminal defense, family law, and personal injury. Each area below outlines the kind of case Rodney handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Criminal Defense

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• Family Law

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• Personal Injury

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Rodney's primary office is at 6015 Quail Ct, Santa Maria, CA, 93455-6053. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new criminal defense attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Rodney usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Rodney discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in criminal defense practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Rodney for a criminal defense case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Rodney walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Rodney offer a free consultation?

  Rodney charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Rodney's office. Some criminal defense attorneys offer free consults — check Rodney's current terms during booking.

• How long do criminal defense cases in California typically take?

  Simple criminal defense matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Rodney gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Rodney take my case if I'm outside Santa Maria?

  Rodney is licensed in California. Matters governed by California law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Rodney will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Rodney?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Rodney will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Rodney accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

  Rodney's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.