CRIMINAL DEFENSE
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Criminal Defense Attorney In Encino, California
A conviction for a crime may have devastating long-term consequences. You can lose your voting rights, your ability to earn a livelihood, and even your freedom. The stakes in criminal law cases in California might be even higher due to the “Three Strikes” legislation. Our Encino criminal defense attorney handles misdemeanor and felony cases throughout Los Angeles and the state of California. At Haber Law Firm, APC we understand the stress and uncertainty during these times. Allows us to advocate for you and help you secure the best possible outcome in your case. Call our office today for a free consultation and to learn more about how we can help.
California Three Strikes Law
More than 25,000 Californians have received a sentence of 25 years or more in jail following three felony convictions. Many defendants were sentenced to 25 years to life in prison under California’s “Three Strikes” law even if the third felony was nonviolent or minor in nature. In 2012, voters approved Proposition 36, which amended the legislation with two key goals:
- By adopting the 25-to-life guideline, California courts have made it more difficult for third-strike offenders to avoid a 25-to-life sentence. The new or 3rd felony must be a serious or violent felony with two or more prior convictions in order to qualify for the 25-year-to-life punishment.; and
- If they would have been eligible for a second-strike sentence under the new law, additional provisions were included to provide that certain designated defendants presently serving a third strike penalty may seek a reduction in their term to a second-strike sentence.
Whether you’ve been charged with a single crime or not, retaining the services of an experienced Encino criminal defense attorney is critical. You can rest assured knowing that you’ll have a strong legal advocate fighting for your rights and your freedom by selecting a law firm with a track record of litigating the most difficult criminal cases.
Understanding California Criminal Law
Under California law, there are three primary groups of offenses:
Infractions
An infraction is a minor violation that is not punishable by jail time. A traffic ticket, for example, is an infraction. These are minor violations that do not result in imprisonment. These matters are generally handled by paying a fine, and those who are charged typically lack the right to a jury trial or representation by a public defender.
Misdemeanors
Misdemeanors are less serious crimes that result in penalties ranging from one month to a year in jail and fines, which seldom exceed $1,000 to $2,000. Petty theft, trespassing, and public intoxication are three examples of misdemeanors that are frequently prosecuted in California.
Felonies
The most serious offenses are placed in this category. Punishment might include life imprisonment in a state prison or even death, although some felonies can result in probation. Drug crimes, domestic violence, felony DUI, severe assault, manslaughter, and homicide are just a few examples of felonies within this class.
There are numerous offenses that straddle the border between a misdemeanor and a felony and may be charged as either. Wobbler offenses are terms used to describe these types of crimes. Prior convictions and whether the offender’s aggravating circumstances, such as the use of a weapon, affect whether or not a crime is prosecuted as a felony or misdemeanor. Regardless of the crime that you’re being charged with, it’s highly recommended to seek advice from a qualified Encino criminal defense attorney to plan your defense.
California Legal Process For Criminal Charges
Getting arrested is undoubtedly a stressful experience, and the legal process can last for months. At Haber Law Firm, APC, we can assist you in getting out of jail and then guide you through the system with as little stress as possible. Here’s how we may assist you at each stage of the criminal approach:
After Your Arrest
When police arrested you, the legal process begins. Police detained you at a station until the government filed formal charges. The Sixth Amendment gives you the legal right to request counsel at this time. After your arrest, call our Encino criminal defense lawyer for a free consultation. We deal with your questions and offer advice on how to proceed next.
During Your Bail Hearing
Bail is a sum of money paid to secure one’s release pending trial. If you cannot afford to pay bail, the court might allow you to stay out of jail or prison until your criminal case comes up. You will most likely receive a bail hearing within 72 hours of being taken into police custody. A criminal defense attorney in Encino, California can assist you with your bail hearing so that you may obtain a lower amount of bail payment. In some circumstances, especially if an individual has previously breached their probation, the court may deny bail. Allow us to handle your bail hearing after a criminal charge in the greater Los Angeles area.
At Your Arraignment Hearing
After a criminal arrest in California, you may expect an arraignment hearing. The judge at this session informs you of the formal accusations that you face. You also have the option to plead guilty or not guilty. You can plead guilty or not guilty depending on the facts of your situation as follows:
- Guilty
- No contest
- Not guilty
If you accept responsibility, your case is sent to sentencing. Criminal attorneys usually advise clients to enter a no-contest plea so they can focus on their defense. The court will schedule a preliminary (or probable cause) hearing after you have pleaded guilty or no contest. Defense attorneys may be able to take action at the arraignment hearing to lower or even eliminate your bail.
Throughout Your Trial
During your criminal case, our Encino criminal defense attorney can fight for you in every area. We work to resolve your circumstance outside of court, representing your interests. At Haber Law Firm, APC, our experience and track record of courtroom victories allow us to assist all clients in need of a strong criminal defense.
Contact Our Encino Criminal Defense Attorney Today
If you’re facing state or federal criminal charges in Los Angeles or the neighboring areas, you should get the help of a knowledgeable and aggressive Encino criminal defense attorney. Our legal team at Haber Law Firm, APC understands a variety of criminal accusations and can make effective use of our legal expertise and resources to assist you to obtain the best possible result in your case. Call our office for a free consultation now to learn more about how we may assist with any sort of criminal charge.
Disclaimer
This website contains attorney advertising. The information provided herein should not be relied upon as legal advice. Every legal matter is unique and you should always seek the advice of a retained attorney to answer your legal inquiries. Haber Law Firm, APC, will not represent you unless an attorney-client relationship is formally created in writing.
