Best Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers: Your Ultimate Guide to Top Legal Representation
Spodek Law Group, based out of NYC and Los Angeles, is one of the premier criminal defense law firms in Los Angeles. At Spodek Law Group, we understand how scary it can be to navigate the complex world of criminal laws in Los Angeles. Whether you, or a loved one is facing charges, it’s very important to understand the California legal system. You MUST know your rights as someone accused of committing a crime. If you’re on this website – it’s because you need the best Los Angeles criminal defense law firm possible. Our goal at Spodek Law Group is to provide you with an overview of the law in Los Angeles, and how our experienced criminal attorneys in Los Angeles can help protect your freedom and future.
Contents
- 1 What is Criminal Law?
- 2 Categories of Crimes in California
- 3 Infractions
- 4 Misdemeanor Crimes in Los Angeles
- 5 Felony Crimes in Los Angeles
- 6 The Criminal Justice Process in Los Angeles
- 7 Common Criminal Charges We Handle in California
- 8 DUI
- 9 Drug Crimes
- 10 Theft Crimes
- 11 Violent Crimes
- 12 White Collar Crimes
- 13 Why Choose Spodek Law Group To Help?
- 14 Why You NEED a Top Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer On Your Side
- 15 1. Navigating the Complex Legal System
- 16 2. Protecting Your Rights in California Courts – We Can Help
- 17 3. Investigating Your Case
- 18 4. Negotiating with Prosecutors
- 19 5. Guiding You Through Tough Decisions
What is Criminal Law?
Basically, criminal law deals with criminal offenses – this section of the law deals with the charging of suspected criminals, and the penalties that applies to anyone who is accused of committing a crime. In other words, criminal law has to do with the set of rules and regulations that govern what is a crime, how criminals are arrested and prosecuted, and what punishments they may face if convicted in California.
In Los Angeles, as in the rest of California, criminal offenses are defined by state law in the California Penal Code. This document, first enacted in 1872, lists out all the various acts that are considered crimes, and it organizes them into different categories like crimes against persons, crimes against property, drug crimes, and white collar crimes.
Categories of Crimes in California
Under California law, criminal offenses are divided into three main categories based on their seriousness: infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies.
Infractions
Infractions are the least serious type of criminal offenses in Los Angeles. Infractions in California are punishable by a fine only, with no jail time. Common examples of infractions in Los Angeles include violations like speeding or running a stop sign. In most cases, infractions do not entitle you to a jury trial at all.
Misdemeanor Crimes in Los Angeles
Misdemeanor crimes in California are more serious than infractions, but less serious than felonies. Misdemeanors are punishable by up to one year in county jail and/or a fine, usually not exceeding a few thousand dollars. Examples of misdemeanors in California include petty theft, simple assault, DUI, and trespassing. With a misdemeanor offense in California, you are entitled to a jury trial, and legal representation. If you cannot afford a criminal lawyer, you are going to be given one by the courts.
Felony Crimes in Los Angeles
Felonies in Los Angeles are one the most serious type of crime. Punishments for felonies in California can include high fines, and prison sentences, ranging from a year to life, or even the death penalty in some cases. Murder, rape, robbery, and the sale of illegal drugs are all examples of felony offenses. If you are accused of a felony in the state of California, it is very important that you have a top rated Los Angeles criminal defense attorney on your side. Some crimes, known as “wobblers,” can be charged by Prosecutors as either a misdemeanor, or a felony, – it all depends on the specifics of the case and your criminal history. Our criminal lawyers can work with prosecutors to have wobbler charges reduced to a misdemeanor – our goal is to get you the best outcomes possible – regardless of what that looks like, or what we have to do.
The Criminal Justice Process in Los Angeles
If you are suspected of committing a crime in Los Angeles, here’s a general breakdown of the criminal defense process:
- Arrest: If the police have probable cause to believe you committed a crime, it’s likely you will be arrested and taken into custody. This can be a scary experience. During this process you should exercise your right to remain silent and ask for an attorney.
- Booking: After you’re arrested by the police officers, you will be booked at the closest local police station to you. The booking process when you’re arrested involves taking your photograph, and fingerprints, and recording your personal information.
- Arraignment: This is your first appearance in court. During this process, the charges against you will be read infront of a judge – and you will enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Bail may also be set at this hearing by the judge.
- Preliminary Hearing (felonies only): The preliminary hearing is where the judge will decide if there is enough evidence for your case to go to trial. We recommend that you hire a criminal defense lawyer at Spodek Law Group – who can cross-examine witnesses and challenge evidence at this stage.
- Pretrial Proceedings: Before your trial starts, our Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys will review the evidence, file motions, and possibly negotiate with the prosecutor for a plea bargain to reduce the charges or sentence.
- Trial: If your case is not resolved with a plea deal, it will go to full blown trial. The state prosecutor assigned to your case has to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. At this stage of the case, have the right to a jury trial where 12 jurors must unanimously agree on a verdict convicting you of the crime.
- Sentencing: If you are found guilty of a crime in Los Angeles, the judge who is assigned to your criminal case will impose a sentence based on the crime, and your criminal history. At this stage, of the case, our Los Angeles criminal defense lawyers will argue for a lenient sentence.
- Appeals: If you believe errors were made in your case, our criminal attorneys in Los Angeles can file an appeal to a higher court to review the decision.
Throughout the legal process, it is very important to have a criminal defense attorney who can advise you you of your rights, building your criminal defense, and advocating for you. Going up against the prosecution on your own, or with a public defender, is never advisable.
Common Criminal Charges We Handle in California
At Spodek Law Group, our Los Angeles criminal defense lawyers have extensive experience handling all types of criminal cases, from misdemeanors to the most serious felonies in the state of California. Some of the most common criminal charges we see include, but are not limited to:
DUI
Driving under the influence of alcohol, or drugs, is a criminal offense that can lead to jail time, large fines, license suspension, and other penalties. We can challenge all aspects of the DUI in Los Angeles incident, such as the traffic stop, the field sobriety and blood tests, and negotiate for reduced charges. (more info here: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/california-driver-handbook/alcohol-and-drugs/)
Drug Crimes
California state has some of the strictest drug laws in the nation. Regardless of whether you are accused of simple possession, or large-scale drug trafficking, you need a Los Angeles criminal attorney who understands the complexities of drug cases in California and can build a strong defense.
Theft Crimes
Theft crimes like shoplifting, burglary, and grand theft auto, in California often carry significant penalties. Our criminal lawyers can negotiate for alternative sentences, like restitution and community service instead of jail.
Violent Crimes
Accusations of violent crimes like assault, battery, and domestic violence can ruin your reputation, and your future in California, and the overall USA. We will investigate the allegations and build a compelling case for your innocence or mitigation.
White Collar Crimes
White collar crimes like fraud, embezzlement, and money laundering are aggressively prosecuted in Los Angeles. We have the knowledge and resources to handle complex federal cases nationwide. No matter what type of white collar criminal charges you are facing, we will treat you with the respect and discretion you deserve while tenaciously fighting for your rights and your freedom.
Why Choose Spodek Law Group To Help?
When your life and liberty are on the line, you need the best Los Angeles criminal defense representation you can find. Here are just a few reasons why clients choose us:
- Experience: Our criminal lawyers in Los Angeles have decades of combined experience handling thousands of criminal cases in Los Angeles and across California. We know the law, the system, and the most effective defense strategies to win your case.
- Reputation: We have a proven track record of success, and are highly respected by judges, prosecutors, and other lawyers. They know we don’t back down from a fight.
- Dedication: We treat every client like our only client. We will be by your side every step of the way, working tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome in your case.
- Accessibility: We are available 24/7 to take your call and answer your questions. We will keep you informed of all developments in your case and promptly return all messages.
- Affordability: We offer reasonable fees and payment plans so you can get the top-quality defense you need and deserve. The initial consultation is always free.
Why You NEED a Top Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer On Your Side
At Spodek Law Group, we’ve been defending clients for DECADES. Our battle-tested attorneys have seen every trick and tactic in the book. We know how to counter them and fight tirelessly for your rights. Choosing us could mean the difference between your freedom and imprisonment.
The criminal justice system in California is very confusing – it’s a maze of laws, procedures, and paperwork. It’s designed to be difficult for the average person to understand. It’s one of the reasons why you’re eligible for a public defender – because handling the legal process alone is impossible.
Stage | Key Actions |
---|---|
Arrest | Protect your rights, arrange bail |
Arraignment | Enter plea, argue for dismissal |
Pre-Trial | Gather evidence, negotiate plea deals |
Trial | Present your case, cross-examine witnesses |
Sentencing | Argue for minimum penalties |
Appeal | Challenge verdict or sentence |
At every step, your Los Angeles criminal lawyer is working to get you the best possible outcome. Without one, you’re at the mercy of the system.
2. Protecting Your Rights in California Courts – We Can Help
Police and prosecutors have one goal – to convict you of a crime; any crime they can. They are not afraid of using tactics that violate your constitutional rights:
- Illegal search and seizure
- Failure to read Miranda rights
- Coerced confessions
- Withholding evidence
An experienced criminal lawyer at Spodek Law Group will spot these violations by the prosecutors, and use them to get evidence thrown out or your case dismissed. We’ve won HUNDREDS of cases on technicalities the average person would miss.
For example, let’s say the police pulled you over and found drugs in your car. But — what if they didn’t have probable cause for the stop? Or they searched your car without a warrant or consent? These are examples of illegal searches and ANY evidence found would be inadmissible.Without a lawyer to raise these issues, you could end up wrongfully convicted. Your rights are precious – don’t let them be trampled on.
3. Investigating Your Case
Winning your case will require more than just showing up to court. It takes investigation and preparation. A skilled Los Angeles criminal attorney will:
- Gather evidence and documents
- Interview witnesses
- Hire expert witnesses if needed
- Research case law and statutes
- Develop a custom defense strategy
We leave no stones unturned when building your defense. We’ll look at police reports, surveillance footage, forensic evidence, and more to find holes in the prosecution’s case. If there are witnesses that help tell your side of the story, we’ll make sure their voices are heard.
4. Negotiating with Prosecutors
Did you know that over 90% of criminal cases end in a plea bargain? That means negotiation skills are CRITICAL for a defense attorney.
A good criminal lawyer can often get charges reduced, or dismissed, without ever going to trial. Our law firm has a reputation for being tough negotiators. Prosecutors know not to low-ball us or expect us to roll over. Our Los Angeles criminal lawyers have secured generous plea deals for clients which minimized jail time, and preserved their future.
5. Guiding You Through Tough Decisions
Our criminal lawyers have guided THOUSANDS of clients through these tough choices.Ultimately, the decision is yours. But you don’t have to make it alone. We’ll make sure you understand the risks and potential outcomes so you can make an informed choice. And we’ll support you every step of the way.