The Criminal Process in CA
Orange County Criminal Defense Lawyer
When you have been arrested, it is crucial that you learn what to expect
during the process of your defense so that you can understand your rights
and know how to achieve the best possible result. You are legally presumed
innocent until proven guilty, but unless you take effective action now
by retaining an Orange County criminal defense lawyer to represent your
case, it is highly likely that you will be convicted. Fill out our
case evaluation form so that an attorney from our firm can begin work on your case today.
What to Expect After an Orange County Arrest
Arraignment
Your first court appearance
after an arrest is referred to as the "arraignment." At the arraignment, which
may or may not occur while you are in custody, the judge will read you
the formal charges, and will ask you whether you choose to plead guilty
or not guilty. Having legal representation present at this stage of the
process can make a significant difference in the amount set for
bail, as your attorney can argue for a lower figure by demonstrating to the
judge that you are not likely to attempt to flee the area before your
next appearance.
Investigating Your Case
Following the arraignment, your lawyer will begin work on a
criminal defense strategy for fighting the charges. This includes meeting with you to ensure that you
know your rights, as well as studying the evidence in the case to find out what the prosecutor
knows and what the prosecutor does
not know. If we can demonstrate that there is not enough evidence to support
a conviction, it may be possible to have the charges dropped. We seek
to settle a case out of court whenever it is an option, but prepare every
case for trial, conducting an exhaustive study of the case and developing
the strongest possible defense.
It is often possible to have the case dismissed by showing that the suspect's
rights were violated during the investigation, such as if you were arrested for
DUI despite the fact that the police officer did not have probable cause to
pull you over. At the Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman, we have a proven
reputation for winning trials - a fact which often makes it possible for
us to settle cases out of court.
Let Us Fight to Defend Your Rights
If the case does go to trial, an attorney from our firm will fight aggressively
to defend your rights and help you avoid a negative outcome. We can produce
evidence and witnesses to testify in your favor, as well as cross-examining
the prosecution's witnesses to expose weaknesses in the case. You
cannot be convicted unless the case against you is proven beyond a reasonable
doubt. Even if you are found guilty, your lawyer can argue in favor of
a lighter sentence which may include probation and alternative sentencing options.
We may also be able to assist you with the process of petitioning for a
pardon/expungement. Ideally, you will either be acquitted or cleared of the charges at the
conclusion of your case and be free to move on in life without the burden
of a criminal record.
Consult with a criminal defense attorney from our team in Fullerton as early as possible after your arrest
for experienced legal guidance throughout the criminal process.