NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED FEDERAL LAWYERS
Best Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers and Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorneys
|Last Updated on: 14th September 2023, 05:57 pm
How our Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyers Can Help
Los Angeles Criminal Defense – Spodek Law Group Style
Spodek Law Group has experience handling some of the toughest federal and state criminal defense cases. Our Los Angeles criminal attorneys are adept, and capable, of handling a wide array of misdemeanors and felonies. We have vast experience, and work hard to ensure that we get the best possible outcome for our clients. Your future is important to us. Work with us, and trust us, to ensure you get the right solution and strategy. Trust our Los Angeles criminal attorneys with your future. Todd Spodek, our founding partner – is one of the top rated federal lawyers in the USA. At the Spodek Law Group, we have experience handling a wide array of offenses, ranging from white collar crimes, theft crimes like stealing gemstones, drug offenses, domestic violence, to more complicated federal crimes. If you, or a loved one, is accused of a misdemeanor or felony charge, contact our Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys today for a risk free consultation. If the stakes are high and you’re accused of committing a crime, then you need our criminal defense lawyers. We are willing to go the extra mile to investigate your case, and getting you the best possible result.
The Los Angeles criminal defense lawyers at the Spodek Law Group understand that being arrested, or charged with a crime, is a very scary experience. Our mission to defend our clients – even before the case appears in court. You have to know your rights, and our job is to educate you about them – and protect them. Our firm partners and law firm associates personally hand your case. Many firms on the internet talk about their expertise, but in reality have poor results. Our law firm works hard to prepare you for your case. At our firm, you will speak personally to the lawyer assigned on your case, who will have regular updates for you on your case’s status. It’s absolutely critical that you always know which Los Angeles criminal lawyer is assigned to your case, and what the status of your case is. Depending on the severity of the charges you’re facing, your case will be handled by a 2, or 3, person defense team.
Never be intimidated by the Prosecutor
With the Spodek Law Group on your side, you don’t need to be fearful of the prosecutor assigned to your case. The Spodek Law Group brings immense experience to your defense. We have a strong team of experts, investigators, and associate attorneys, who are all preparing to help you get the best possible outcome. Do not be intimidated by a prosecutor who is trying to force you, and scare you, into accepting a plea deal. Let a proven Los Angeles criminal defense attorney at the Spodek Law Group help you. There are thousands of Los Angeles criminal lawyers you can choose from – but the Spodek Law Group has set itself apart from the rest. At our law firm, you are hiring a team of experienced Los Angeles criminal attorneys who have handled some of the toughest and hardest cases nationwide. You will receive personal attention from an attorney with a proven track record. Most importantly, you will get quality representation. If you’ve been charged with a crime in California, hiring a Los Angeles criminal lawyer is one of the best decisions you can make. Hiring your own private Los Angeles criminal attorney is advisable. Skilled lawyers can increase your chances of ensuring your case will end favorably.
Our Los Angeles criminal attorneys are master negotiators, and top rated litigators. We have experience handling all stages of a criminal trial. Todd Spodek will fight for you, as a negotiator and litigator. We will fully, and thoroughly, investigate the facts of your case – and prepare any/all motions that are relevant to the specific issues related to your case. Our goal is to negotiate a favorable outcome. That means negotiating a potential plea deal that is favorable, but also not being afraid of going to trial and winning.
We are trial lawyers. This is crucial to understand. In general, many criminal attorneys are afraid of going to trial and are afraid of the being aggressive when negotiating because of this. Our law firm consists of trial attorneys, which means we are unafraid of taking a case to trial if needed. Sometimes, you have to be unafraid of going to trial and pushing back – when the prosecutor is trying to bully you. When you hire a trial attorney – you can rely on him, or her, to tell you when it’s time to fight back and go to trial. Most cases end in a settlement, and do not proceed to trial. From the moment we hear about your case, we listen for details about your case, and conduct our own investigation of the facts. We will examine the case from all angles, and will not rely on the police or prosecution for an account of what happened. It’s important that you hire a Los Angeles criminal attorney who will understand the circumstances of your case.
Zeroing in on Your Criminal Defense in Los Angeles
When you looking for a Los Angeles criminal attorney, you need someone who you can trust – and someone who believes in your case and wants to fight for your freedom. Your criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles must have the knowledge and skill relevant to your criminal defense case. It’s important that your Los Angeles criminal attorney has handled cases similar to yours. At the Spodek Law Group, our dedicated Los Angeles criminal defense lawyers are here to help you get positive outcomes.
We provide a risk free consultation, and are available 24/7 to help you. We believe everyone in Los Angeles who is being investigated, arrested, or otherwise charged with a crime should have the opportunity to tell their side of the story. You should be able to do this without having to worry about your finances. Our Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys are available to help when our clients need us, because we know that when you’re facing the unknown – you want someone who has answers – and can guide you through tough times. At our law firm, our clients have access to our amazing support staff and top rated criminal attorneys 24/7. At Spodek Law Group, we take a personal stake in your case – because we treat you like family.
Our team of criminal lawyers in Los Angeles have handled some of the toughest cases nationwide, and understand the importance of hiring a good, competent, and well experienced, criminal attorney who has experience handling cases similar to yours.
The Spodek Law Group is a completely cloud based law firm. Thanks to our digital online, cloud based portal, all of your documents, attorney communication, and more, is completely cloud based. You always know the status of your case, and where things stand.
Our Los Angeles criminal lawyers are top rated by lawyer rating services such as Avvo, Google Places, and more. When hiring your next criminal defense attorney to represent you, it’s critical you consider their rankings, and whether you can trust them to deliver and do what they’re claiming they can.
Your Future Matters | Criminal Lawyer Los Angeles
Your future matters. Because of that you should spend immense time researching and finding the best possible Los Angeles criminal attorney. Your Los Angeles criminal defense attorney should be someone who has experience handling cases similar to your own, and more importantly can demonstrate credibility and expertise.
When you look at a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney, look at things like:
- Google Reviews
- Avvo Reviews
- Yelp Rating
- Media Interviews
Spodek Law Group: Your Team For Los Angeles Criminal Defense Cases
Your criminal defense case has huge ramifications. If you’re accused of committing a crime, the Spodek Law Group is here to represent you and provide you with guidance. Our team of Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys are extremely well qualified at helping with virtually every type of criminal defense case. Whether it’s a misdemeanor, or felony, you need a criminal attorney to help and represent you. At Spodek Law Group, we spend every second possible perfecting our craft, and learning about new cases that can help improve outcomes for our clients. Many of our team members have experience handling tough federal cases.
With over 50 years of combined experience, we have the experience necessary to help you resolve your legal case.
We focus on positive outcomes
Many criminal cases can be resolved pre-trial, with proactive defense, and eliminating the possibility of evidence from being introduced into court. With the right proactive criminal attorney, a case can be resolved by hampering the prosecutors strategy, and weakening their case.
If you think you’re being investigated by the government, it’s critical you don’t delay. Speak to our federal lawyers today.
We Fight For You
When you choose Spodek Law Group, we’re going to do everything possible to help you.
Our Criminal Attorney Los Angeles intervene on your behalf
Federal cases go fast. The best thing you can do when you’re under investigation is hiring a criminal defense lawyer promptly, who can intervene, and present an effective defense. As soon as you speak to our Los Angeles criminal attorneys, we begin working to protect you, and your future.
Spodek Law Group defends individuals against every kind of Los Angeles criminal charge, including but not limited to:
- Los Angeles assault and battery charges
- Los Angeles auto theft charges
- Los Angeles juvenile charges
- Los Angeles domestic violence offenses
- Los Angeles drug charges
- Los Angeles robbery crimes
- Los Angeles sex offenses
- Los Angeles DUI (Driving Under the Influence)
- Los Angeles gang offenses
- Los Angeles lewd conduct matters
- Los Angeles grand and petty theft (this includes Los Angeles shoplifting) and
- Many other Los Angeles criminal offenses.
We have the inside scoop on how the Los Angeles Police Department and the prosecutors from the Los Angeles District Attorney’s offices put together and prosecute their cases. We understand how they operate.
The DUI and criminal defense lawyers in our firm know how to negotiate with the District Attorney. If necessary, we are prepared to take any Los Angeles criminal case to trial in front of a jury of your peers.We have a proven track record of doing what is best for our clients.Reach out to us today to learn more about why our attorneys are considered some of the best DUI lawyers and the top criminal defense attorneys in Los Angeles.
We have the inside scoop on how the Los Angeles Police Department and the prosecutors from the Los Angeles District Attorney’s offices put together and prosecute their cases. We understand how they operate.
The DUI and criminal defense lawyers in our firm know how to negotiate with the District Attorney. If necessary, we are prepared to take any Los Angeles criminal case to trial in front of a jury of your peers.We have a proven track record of doing what is best for our clients.Reach out to us today to learn more about why our attorneys are considered some of the best DUI lawyers and the top criminal defense attorneys in Los Angeles.
The Arrest Process in Los Angeles County
For starters, here are all the Law enforcement agencies that operate in Los Angeles:
- The Los Angeles Police Department (within the borders of the city of Los Angeles),
- The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department (operating in unincorporated areas, such as West Hollywood),
- The California Highway Patrol (CHiPs),
- And The Los Angeles Port Police.
A person can get arrested under a number circumstances:
- The police can show up at your home or office to arrest you based on a warrant issued by a judge, or
- The police arrest you on the spot alleging that you committed a crime.
If you are arrested by the police on a misdemeanor charge, they might simply issue you a citation for a court appearance. On the other hand, they will take you to a local city or county jail or a central facility for booking. After you have been booked, one of three things happens:
- You could get released on your own recognizance (also referred to as an “O.R.” release),
- You will have to post a cash bail amount, or
- You will be taken to court to be formally charged in an arraignment procedure.
Adult males who are required to remain in jail, you will usually be held at:
- the Los Angeles Twin Towers Facility,
- the Los Angeles County Men’s Central Jail, or
- the Pitchess Detention Center.
Female inmates are normally held at the Century Regional Detention Facility.
When juveniles get arrested in Los Angeles, they are customarily taken to Eastlake Juvenile Hall (formerly known as the Central Juvenile Hall), which is at 1605 Eastlake Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90033.
Source: https://www.cdcr.ca.gov/facility-locator/
Your Free Consultation with one of the Best Los Angeles Criminal Law Firms
In the event that you or a loved one has been charged with a crime in Los Angeles, please feel free to contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation.One of our skilled defense attorneys will get back to you quickly to review your case and discuss possible defenses and legal strategies.
Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyers: FAQ
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Impacts of a Criminal Record
A criminal record can dramatically alter the course of your life. Beyond the immediate penalties and punishments, there are long-term repercussions that can affect your rights, employment prospects, and overall quality of life. Here are some significant ways in which a criminal record can impact your future:
1. Loss of Rights
Conviction of a crime, particularly involving weapons or violent behavior, can result in a prolonged probation period or, in some cases, a lifetime. This might involve losing certain rights, such as the right to own a gun or the right to vote. The extent of the loss depends on the severity of the crime and the state’s specific laws.
2. Future Employment
Employers often conduct background checks on prospective employees, and a criminal record can be a significant red flag. It can prevent otherwise qualified applicants from reaching the interview process or even cause current employees to lose their jobs.
If you’re found to have lied about your criminal record on an application, you could face immediate termination, even if you’ve held the job for years. This has implications across a wide range of careers, but especially in industries where background checks are routine, such as:
– Healthcare: Nurses, doctors, and other healthcare providers often require clean records due to the sensitive nature of their work.
– Banking and Finance: Employees handling money and financial transactions must generally demonstrate a track record of honesty and reliability.
– Education: Teachers, administrators, and others working in schools are often held to high standards due to their influence on and responsibility for students.
– Law enforcement: Officers, detectives, and other law enforcement professionals are expected to uphold the law in their personal lives as well.
– Delivery Services: Couriers and others responsible for transporting goods may be scrutinized for any history of theft or dishonesty.
Having a competent Los Angeles criminal attorney by your side can potentially mitigate some of these consequences, helping you navigate the legal process and advocate for your rights. Legal counsel can provide the best defense possible to limit the impact of a criminal record on your future.
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If you’re accused of a crime, this is a problem. You can face prison time, large fines, felony convictions and more. If you’re facing any of these, because you’re accused of a crime, you want a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer at the Spodek Law Group representing you. Los Angeles Criminal lawyers are trained to help unearth evidence and arguments to reduce a conviction of a crime. Their role is to organize facts, and present facts, in a manner which supports a legal theory behind your criminal defense. The Spodek Law Group can help you – vindicate yourself.
Negotiation is one of the things the Spodek Law Group is going to do on your behalf, if you hire our Los Angeles criminal attorneys. Our goal is to absolve you, of all guilty, or work on a plea bargain/reduce a sentence, or eliminate charges. As a top tier Los Angeles criminal defense law firm, we have access to important resources in order to defend you. Many criminal cases involve testimony from witnesses. We gather evidence, and statements. Great criminal defense attorneys have experience finding, and hiring, investigators, in order to investigate the crime and find witnesses who can corroborate your innocence.
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Bench warrants are orders by a judge, which mandates that someone be brought to court – because he or she didn’t appear in court when they were due. It can also be issues of a sentence wasn’t completed, or fines were not paid, or community service not done. This type of court can stay “in the system,” for months, or week, or even years – until law enforcement individuals come in contact with you – and run your record. At the point, you could be arrested on the spot and brought before the court that issued the bench warrant.
Bench warrants can be recalled. If the crime you’re accused of is a felony, then you have to sometimes appear in court for it be quashed. Misdemeanor warrants can be handled by a Los Angeles criminal attorney on your behalf. Depending on the nature of the charges, a skilled attorney can make this go away for you. It means the warrant will not be in the system, and you don’t need to worry about it. Our Los Angeles criminal defense lawyers can also work with the court to come to a reasonable resolution regarding the warrant. The judge will take the fact you have sent a lawyer – as a sign you are taking responsibility for the warrant. Our experienced lawyers are here to help you with your bench warrants.
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Law enforcement agencies, like the local police, can arrest you if they have probable cause. It means they have cause to believe you’ve committed a crime. They can hold you for a few hours or days. Probable cause is based on a strong suspicion. Law enforcement agencies CANNOT charge you with a crime. To be charged with a crime, is something only the District Attorney’s office can do. They are a prosecuting agency, and they are the ones who file a complaint against you in court. For more serious crimes, you can be held without bail. For less severe crimes, you can be released on your own recognizance – which is an agreement that you will return back to court on a specific date. For other crimes, bail will be required for your release.
If after an investigation the detective believes theres enough evidence to prosecute you – he, or she, will bring the case to the prosecutor. The prosecutor will then decide whether to file charges, and what charges should be filed. If you’re in custody, and no charges are filed against you within a few days – you have to be released. The prosecutor has up to 1 year, or more, to file charges.
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Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers FAQ
I Wasn’t Read My Miranda Rights. Can My Case Be Dismissed?
Being read your Miranda rights, or your right to remain silent, is something you should be aware of when arrested/under arrest. There is often a lot of confusion what “under arrest,” means – and when the Miranda rights apply. You are under arrest – at the time you are in custody, and aren’t free to leave. At the time of your arrest – the officer arresting you must read you your rights – before questioning you. The violation of your Miranda rights does not mean your case will be dismissed. If a judge determines your right to remain silent was violated, then the judge will suppress/exclude, statements after the violation. This is not the same thing as the case being dismissed. In some cases, even without statements etc, the prosecutor might be able to proceed with the case. A violation of your miranda rights, or right to remain silent, doesn’t mean the case will be dismissed. Your statements could be excluded, but it doesn’t mean your case is over. If there are any doubts, you should speak to a Los Angeles criminal lawyer who can give you more advice.
Do I Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer If I’m Innocent?
If you’re accused of a crime in Los Angeles and you’re innocent, you might think that – why do I need a lawyer if i’m innocent? This is a very big question many people ask. It’s not always white and black. In some cases, you may be able to represent yourself in court. It’s wise, however, to have an experienced Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer on your side who can help you. Hiring a lawyer, even when innocent – is your best bet. There are many people who are innocent, and sit in jail cells – due to the fact they didn’t have a lawyer and couldn’t prove their innocence.
If you’ve been arrested it’s important to get legal representation as soon as possible. Lawyers can help you understand the charges against you – and advise you on what could occur, and what steps you should take. Many people will find themselves asking whether they need a criminal lawyer if they’re innocent, yet still refuse to speak to an attorney. It’s not inaccurate to say, that sometimes the legal system is rigged in a way that feels like it is intentionally trying to put people in jail.
Serious crimes always require a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney to represent you. Whether you are innocent or not, hiring your own lawyer is a good idea. If the crime was less severe, then a lawyer might not be necessary because these offenses usually don’t carry heavy sentences such as jail time.
What should I expect from my Los Angeles criminal attorneys
When you hire a criminal defense attorney, you want someone who has knowledge of the law, and has experience defending the types of charges you’re facing. You want an attorney who has experience in the court where the charges are filed. In addition, you want an attorney who is both a litigator and negotiator. Often, many criminal defense cases can be resolved early on in the process with a tactful approach. Not all Los Angeles criminal lawyers have experience in both state and federal courts. As a result, it’s important to find out where the attorney you’re hiring has practiced, and if he/she has experience handling similar cases to yours. At the Spodek Law Group, we have experience handling a wide array of criminal charges.
Is It Worth it to Hire a Lawyer If I’m Guilty?
Being arrested and charged can be a terrifying experience. When this happens, all you want to do is make it end – and the police/prosecutors know that. If you think you’re guilty, it might be even more tempting to simply not hire an attorney and take whatever deal the Los Angeles prosecutor’s office is offering. This is definitely a mistake. Criminal convictions can jeopardize your life, your reputation, your liberty, professional opportunities and more. Even if you believe you’re guilty of the allegations against you, or if there is evidence – you should still hire a private criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles.
There are many potential consequences of a guilty plea.
- Fines
- Serving time
- Probation
- Community Service
- Suspension of a driver’s license
- Employment consequences
- Deportation
- Loss of licenses
- Inability to possess/carry a firearm
- and more
If you plead not guilty, your case has to go to trial – and now the prosecutor has to prove their case. It means that they have to prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt. This is where an experienced Los Angeles criminal lawyer can come in hand.
According to stats from the Crime in California report, there were over 850,000 arrests across the state in 2020. If you’ve been arrested/indicted for a crime, it’s important you hire a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles.
Your private Los Angeles criminal attorney can educate you about the severity of the allegations against you, the penalties and consequences, in addition to helping you understand legal defenses. More importantly, the lawyer can challenge the prosecutor’s evidence – during trial – because the state prosecutor has to present evidence showing you’re guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Your private Los Angeles criminal lawyer has to challenge the state’s evidence, and dispute the allegations, and highlight flaws in their case which vindicate you. If you hire your own criminal lawyer in Los Angeles, he/she can negotiate a favorable plea deal. They can use their negotiation skills to find a favorable plea bargain and achieve the best possible outcome. Lawyers can also help you avoid jail time by exploring alternatives. Most importantly, they can ensure that the punishment fits the crime.
What’s the Difference Between a Misdemeanor and a Felony?
Misdemeanors are less serious than a felony. Felonies in Los Angeles are a serious crime, and usually come with long jail or prison sentences. Misdemeanors usually involve jail time, small fines, and other temporary punishments. For example, you can be slightly over the BAC limit during a DUI stop – and get a misdemeanor – but if you have children in the car – you can face a felony charge. Facing criminal charges, regardless of whether they are a misdemeanor or felony is a serious issue. The outcome will have ramifications on your life for years. It pays to have a knowledgable and awesome criminal lawyer on your side who is protecting your rights and explaining your options. Misdemeanor charges are less serious than felony charges, but can still involve penalties like fines, jail time, or other loss of privileges. Misdemeanor charges can be felony charges under certain circumstances.
Does California Have a “Three Strikes” Law?
This is a sentencing scheme which gives defendants a prison sentence of 25 years to life, if they are convicted of three or more violent/serious felonies. This is codified in Penal Code Section 667 PC.
Three strikes law, also doubles the prison sentence for anyone convicted of any California felony who have two violent felony or serious felony in the past. Second strikes also receive a double sentence under PC 667.
For example, if you have two prior convictions for robbery(serious felony), and a decade later you are charged with burglary of a residence – another serious felony – you could be charged under the third striker law. You could face a mandatory sentence of 25 years to life.
There are a few ways to fight the California three strikes sentence. You can ask a judge to remove a strike prior, through a Romero motion. You can also fight to have a felony charge reduced to a misdemeanor charge. The California three strike law has changed a lot. Some people who are sentenced in the past would not be charged today. If you, or a loved one, are serving under three strikes – you may be able to get the sentence reduced. You can also apply for parole.
You are a third strike defendant if you have 2 prior convictions for a serious felony, and are charged with another serious/violent crime felony. If both of these are true, you will receive a sentence of 25 years to life for your current charge.
Normally, California prisoners can earn custody credits for time served with good behavior. This can lead to being released from prison after serving only 50% of the sentence. But the 3 strikes law limits this. Second, or third, strikers have to complete 80% of their sentence before they are eligible for release. Defendant who are convicted of a violent felony have to serve 85% of their sentence.
Some three-strike defendants may be eligible for parole under California law.
Los Angeles Federal Criminal Defense Lawyers
Whether you’re being investigated, or have been charged and arrested – you have every reason to be intimidated by federal prosecutors. That’s why you should hire a federal criminal defense law firm. Federal crimes are more severe – the penalties are harsher – than state offenses. Without an accomplished Los Angeles federal criminal defense law firm – who can help protect your rights, and knows each phase of the legal criminal defense process – the outcome could destroy your life.
At the Spodek Law Group – our Los Angeles federal defense attorneys have over 50 years of combined experience representing and defending clients in federal courts. We have extensive experience handling federal crimes nationwide, and have an amazing reputation throughout the country providing our clients with top notch legal defense.
What are the most common types of federal crimes in LA?
Our defense lawyers understand that every single federal offense is unique, and requires a personalized approach. Our only goal is to improve your chances of getting the best possible outcome – whether it means a plea bargain, getting charges dropped, or devising a defense strategy which outsmarts the prosecutors. Below are the most common examples of federal crimes in California:
- Robbery
- Child pornography
- Computer crimes
- Counterfeiting
- Identity Theft
- Mail Fraud
- Money Laundering
- Tax Evasion
- Cryptocurrency Fraud
- RICO
How are California Federal Courts Different From State Criminal Courts
Federal criminal laws are different from state laws. They are meant to punish activities which are against the nation, rather than the states. The rules and procedures followed by Federal Courts are different than the ones states courts follow. State laws are prosecuted by the Los Angeles District Attorney’s office, and handled by the Los Angeles Superior Court system. Federal crimes in Los Angeles are prosecuted by the US DOJ, and the US Attorney’s Office.
Because of how federal crimes are perceived, and treated by prosecutors, you need a different caliber of Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys to represent you. Federal prosecutors have resources, and support staff, necessary to build a tight case. They have a high conviction rate.
The table above shows the top lead charges, in convictions of matters that were filed in U.S. District Courts in June 2022, according to Syracuse University.
According to Pew Research, only 2% of federal criminal defendants go to trial – and most who do, are found guilty. This is a startling statistic, but it shows the importance of hiring the best federal criminal defense attorney possible in Los Angeles to represent you. If you’ve been charged/are being investigated by the US government – you need a federal criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles who has the skills, knowledge, and dedication to help you. Federal crimes are usually investigated by agencies, such as the FBI, CIA, or other agencies. All federal charges are usually tried in the Federal Court system. All federal courts have their own rules, and regulations, which are different from the California state penal code. If you’re under investigation, or have been arrested, for a federal crime – then you’re in a panic. Often, federal agencies will knock on your door to execute a search warrant, or to arrest you – without notice. In addition, federal prosecutors in LA will get you into court quickly. Because of their ample resources, they can investigate for a long time – and then quickly arrest you without notice. The sheer amount of resources and staff federal prosectors have makes it very likely they will secure a conviction.
Federal Crimes in Los Angeles
Everyone in California is under the jurisdiction of two court systems – the State Judiciary and the US Judiciary. Crimes that are unique to California – i.e., that are prohibited by the state statute, such as texting while driving/conducting are prosecuted by the State of California. Many serious crimes, like drug, sex, violent offenses, are prohibited by both state and federal laws. Depending on the circumstances, these offenses could end up in a federal court – or be tried by both courts.
Dual Sovereignty and Double Jeopardy
It’s rare – but if you committed a federal offense, your case could be tried twice – once in state court, and once in federal court. The sentences could stack, and can put you in prison for a good portion of your life. Many clients believe that if their case begins in one court – it cannot be tried in an another court due to double jeopardy. This is not true. Double jeopardy doesn’t eliminate the possibility of your case being tried twice. This only protects you from being tried twice in the same court jurisdiction. If there is a chance your case could end up in federal court, even if it begins in a state court – you should hire a Los Angeles criminal attorney as soon as possible who understands federal defense law.
What are the most common types of federal crimes in Los Angeles?
- Bank robbery
- Wire fraud
- Property crimes
- Money laundering
- RICO
- White collar crimes
- Espionage
- Cybercrimes
- Human trafficking
- Child pornography
Why should I hire a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer?
You’re accused of committing a crime. You can’t control the fact you’re being accused of committing a crime. What you can do is control whether your case goes to trial by hiring a skilled Los Angeles federal defense attorney. Not all lawyers are admitted to the federal bar, and many who are admitted – very rarely practice. If you’ve committed a federal crime, whether it’s specifically federal – or prohibited by both federal and state governments, you should speak to a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney who has the credentials to handle your case throughout the entire process.
Federal Sentencing Guidelines
The federal sentencing hearing is one of the most important hearings in a criminal defense case. The sentence, in the eyes of the court, is usually determined by the federal sentencing guidelines. With the right criminal defense attorney, you can argue for a lesser sentence – below the suggested guidelines, by discussing your background, character, previous criminal history, and your ability to be a productive member of society who follows the laws. Additionally, if there are certain mitigating factors, then you could be eligible for sentencing reductions.
Helpful Links
- Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
- Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA)
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF)
- Federal Criminal Law – Department of Justice (DOJ)
- U.S. Attorney (federal prosecutors)
- Federal Prison
- Federal Judges
- Federal District Courts in California
- PACER (search federal criminal cases)
- Federal Law Enforcement Agencies
- Federal Sentencing Guidelines (for federal prison sentences)
- Federal Agencies/Federal Agents
- Federal Search Warrants
- Federal Public Defenders in California (court appointed federal criminal defense lawyers)
- California State Courts
How will a criminal record impact me?
Criminal records can limit your ability to have a future. You can be prevented from pursuing future opportunities with a criminal record. Here are a few ways a criminal record can impact your life.
Loss of rights: Your first offense, involving a weapon, for example, can result in a 10 year probation period. In some cases, it can be a lifetime. Bottom line, not having a Los Angeles criminal attorney can truly harm your life. Your criminal record can truly complicate your life – when you least expect it. This is especially true, for anyone who has a conviction in their distant past. Criminal records can prevent you from owning a gun, or even voting.
Future Employment: Your personal record can be one of the most frustrating issues you face. Companies run background checks. At the end of the day, first impressions are everything. Being convicted of a criminal act can be a red flag. It actually prevents qualified applicants from reaching the interview process. This isn’t the only problem! There are also cases where employees have lost their jobs — even if they held it for years. If you lie about your criminal record, you could lose your job. If you have a criminal record, this can harm your future employment opportunities. Some careers where backgrounds checks are requested are:
- Nurses
- Healthcare employees
- Bank employees
- Teachers
- Law enforcement officers
- Couriers
How can Spodek Law Group help me?
Criminal offenses don’t have to have a potential jail, or prison time – in order for them to be consequential. There are a number of reasons why you should have a criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles.
- Even a minor offense can create a criminal record which can have a negative effect on your employment, education, and housing. Every application you fill out will contain questions about a prior criminal conviction.
- Even minor criminal offenses can add up, and a conviction that seems minor – can have a big deal.
At the Spodek Law Group, our experienced Los Angeles defense lawyers work with our clients to ensure they understand they have rights – and they have legal options. It’s important to realize that even misdemeanor charges can have big implications. Minor misdemeanors can have penalties, including fines, probation, or even jail time. In some cases, misdemeanor charges, called wobblers, can be increased to felony charges – which enhance the potential penalties levied against you. Regardless of what you’re accused of committing, we can help.
Misdemeanors are crimes which carry a maximum prison sentence of up to 1 year of jail. Below are examples of minor offenses that can be deemed misdemeanors in Los Angeles:
- Disorderly conduct
- Domestic violence
- DUI
- Petty theft (gemstones, paraiba gems, etc)
- Probation violations
- Shoplifting
Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers FAQ
Can I Get Arrested If the Police Don’t Have a Warrant?
If you’ve been arrested by the police, it’s important you hire a criminal defense attorney. One of the ways the attorneys will help you is by determining if the police had a legal basis to arrest you. Under California law, a police officer must have probable cause to arrest you for a crime. Probable cause is ascertained by either preparing a warrant, with an accompanying warrant affidavit which outlines the facts relied upon for the arrest, or by performing a warrantless arrest where the police officer will have to establish facts relied upon.
Typically, the police don’t have the authority to make an arrest without a warrant. If the police make an arrest without a warrant, the police must have to justify their actions. The first question that will be asked by your Los Angeles criminal defense attorney is whether the police officer gave a reason to arrest you. If the police gain access to evidence, or hear statements, after the unlawful arrest – then those statements/evidence can be suppressed. Any evidence obtained because of your unlawful detention – can, and will, be suppressed.
An arrest warrant is a legal order which gives the police the authority to take someone into custody. If the police has reason to believe the suspect committed an illegal act, then they can ask a judge for this warrant. Generally, a judge will base their decision on sworn statements given by a police officer. In statements, the officer will explain why they need an arrest warrant. If the police have probable cause of a felony crime, they don’t need a warrant usually. Probable means the police have a reason to believe that it’s more likely than not, that the suspect committed the crime. Because they have a strong case, they don’t need the judge’s permission in order to make the arrest. For example, if the crime was committed in front of the police officer – as a witness to the crime, the officer can arrest even if the police don’t have a warrant.
What About a Public Defender? Do I Really Need to Hire a Private Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney?
Public defenders are public criminal defense lawyers that are provided by the government to help you assert and protect your rights in a criminal trial. These attorneys are provided to anyone who cannot defend themselves, due to financial constraints. These attorneys will help defend you for free. It is your constitutional right to have a lawyer so you are given a fair trial, and have proper defense. It is part of the checks and balances which assures that you are not unfairly taken advantage of. Many people wonder why they should hire a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney when they are given a free public defender. It’s your right to have a public, or private, attorney who can give you a proper defense. Public defenders are often well educated professional attorneys, who are experienced and have knowledge in what they do. The one issue with public defenders is that they are assigned hundreds of cases at a time. As a result, they have no time to dedicate to each case. In contrast, private criminal lawyers can dedicate a lot more time to just your case. Experienced criminal defense attorneys in Los Angeles will only accept cases they have time for. It means they can dedicate time and energy it takes to prepare a powerful defense for your case. With a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer, you can get a free consultation and sit down with an attorney who can discuss your case so you are informed of your defenses and options. With the schedule of a public defender, you barely have a few moments to discuss your case before entering the court.