Criminal Defense: FAQ
Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers
If you are facing criminal charges, it is important to understand your rights and ensure you have powerful representation for your case. Our attorneys at Cron, Israels & Stark are committed to providing the people of Los Angeles and Santa Monica with aggressive defense, and we can assist you from your arrest to your trial. For more information, call our offices to speak with a talented Los Angeles criminal defense attorney and check out answers to some of the questions we frequently receive from our clients.
What steps should I take if I'm arrested?
First and foremost, do not resist arrest; it is in your best interests to simply state your name and information and then remain silent. Once you are taken into custody, inform the officers that you will not answer any questions until your attorney is present. It is crucial that you invoke your Fifth Amendment right and wait until you are represented by a knowledgeable lawyer who can advise you of which questions to answer and protect your rights.
What does the court consider to be a probation violation?
In some cases, the court will impose probation as part of a convict's sentence, and violating the terms of your probation can lead to harsh penalties. The terms of probation will be specific to the charges the individual is convicted of, but it is typically considered a probation violation if the convict:
- Fails to complete a court-ordered class or program
- Does not appear at a scheduled court appearance
- Is arrested while on probation
- Commits any other type of criminal offense
Does it matter if the officer didn't read my rights?
The arresting officer's failure to read your Miranda Rights could prove to be very significant to your case. The Fifth Amendment gives suspects the right to protect themselves from self-incrimination. This means that if the officer did not make you aware of your rights when you were taken into custody, anything you said could be ruled inadmissible as evidence before the court. If you were not read your rights, do not hesitate to discuss your legal options with a skilled lawyer from our firm.
Can appeal my conviction?
If you were unlawfully convicted of a crime, an experienced attorney can assist you in filing an appeal of the verdict. You can file an appeal if you believe there were errors or mistakes made during the trial that caused you to be wrongfully convicted. Some of the errors that could lead to a conviction being overturned include:
- The prosecutor applying incorrect laws to your case
- Evidence being presented to the court that was inadmissible
- Withholding evidence that would have benefitted your case
- The judge confused the jury when giving the instructions
- Your sentence was too severe for your alleged crime
Discuss your situation with a seasoned attorney if you believe you have grounds to appeal your charges.
What's the point of fighting my DUI?
Regardless of the results of your breath, blood, or field sobriety test, you should call a knowledgeable defense attorney as soon as possible to learn what options are available to fight your charges. Officers must follow strict guidelines when stopping, testing, and detaining a driver under suspicion of DUI Additionally, there are numerous other factors that can negatively impact a driver's results, and a skilled lawyer can identify whether or not your rights have been violated.
Why should I hire a private lawyer rather than use a public defender?
Although the state provides a lawyer, this option should not be considered unless you have no other choice. Unfortunately, public defenders are often weighed down with far too many cases to provide the thorough preparation you need. When you enlist the counsel of a private attorney, you will receive the aggressive advocacy of a lawyer who is absolutely dedicated to protecting your rights and getting you exonerated from the charges. If charged with a crime, your freedoms, relationships, and future are on the line, which is why you should be confident you are represented by an attorney who will provide the compelling and comprehensive defense you deserve.
Contact a Los Angeles criminal lawyer from our firm today if you would like to discuss your situation with a member of our proven legal team!