Best Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers and Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorneys

| by Max Soni

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.

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.

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.

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.