Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in North Hollywood, CA

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in North Hollywood, California?

  You can contact 877-ASK-LAPD to report a non-emergency crime in North Hollywood.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in North Hollywood, California?

  To obtain a copy of the police report, you have the option of either calling (562) 345-4441 to schedule an appointment for in-person pickup or requesting a copy by mail. The Public Services Section is located at 12440 East Imperial Highway, Suite 120, Norwalk, California 90650.

• What are the potential consequences of violent crimes in North Hollywood?

  Violent crimes in North Hollywood carry stiff penalties, including fines, probation, jail time, life imprisonment, or even capital punishment if California's death penalty law applies. The severity of the penalty depends on the gravity of the offense and the outcome of negotiations between the defense attorney and prosecutors. A violent crime conviction also leaves a permanent stain on your record and can affect your employment, child custody, right to vote or carry a weapon, and other areas of your life.

• What are the most common violent crime charges in North Hollywood?

  The Public Policy Institute of California reports that the most common violent crime charges in California, including North Hollywood, are aggravated assault, robbery, rape, and homicide. California has a violent crime rate of 451 per 100,000 residents, which is among the highest in the United States.

• What is the criminal defense process in North Hollywood?

  In North Hollywood, the criminal defense process includes several stages: arraignment, negotiation, preliminary hearing, pretrial conference, and jury trial. After the arrest, the defendant is informed of the charges and can enter a plea during the arraignment. If a negotiated agreement is not reached, a preliminary hearing takes place to determine if there's enough evidence to hold the defendant for trial. During the pretrial conference, both parties prepare for the trial and exchange relevant information. The jury trial involves attorneys presenting evidence, cross-examining witnesses, and giving closing statements before the jury reaches a verdict.

• Can you avoid jail time if you are a first time, non-violent drug offender in North Hollywood?

  Yes, some defendants in drug-related cases may be able to avoid jail time entirely and complete a drug diversion course or drug rehab program in North Hollywood. Proposition 36 was established to offer first-time, non-violent drug offenders an alternative to imprisonment through a one-year probationary period and drug rehabilitation program, followed by a six-month monitoring period.

• Who is eligible for expungement in North Hollywood?

  Not all criminal convictions can be expunged in North Hollywood. Generally, a person can apply for expungement if they have completed probation or their sentence, have no pending charges, and have not been convicted of any new crimes. Additionally, certain serious offenses, such as sex crimes against children and certain violent felonies, are not eligible for expungement.

• What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

  Criminal defense attorneys provide help to those facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. The attorney will research the circumstances surrounding the charge and investigate the case on behalf of the client. This may involve talking to police, interviewing witnesses, determining a plea, and assessing possible sentences. With this information, the defense attorney can negotiate plea deals or navigate a court case on behalf of the client. In some cases, the attorney may get a case dismissed entirely, a reduction in bail or jail time, or probation or community service instead of prison.

• How do I know if I need a criminal attorney?

  Any criminal charge that could result in a prison sentence requires the help of a criminal defense lawyer. This applies to both misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

  Misdemeanors

  • Petty theft
  • Public intoxication
  • Simple assault
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Vandalism
  • Reckless driving

  Felonies

  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated assault
  • Specific types of fraud
  • Possession of certain types of drugs

• What steps should I take after being charged with a crime?

  The first thing to do after being charged with a crime is to contact a criminal defense attorney. It is best to hire a defense attorney as soon as possible after being released from arrest, and before an arraignment takes place. The attorney will explain charges in detail, and possible consequences, to help you decide whether a plea deal or a jury trial is the best option. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss the circumstances of a criminal case and how they're able to assist. Speaking with a number of defense attorneys before hiring one can increase the likelihood of finding the right fit, and getting the best defense possible.

• What if I can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer?

  All Americans are afforded the right to hire an attorney to act as a defense in a legal case. However, not everyone can afford one. If an attorney isn’t in a defendant’s budget, and the defendant’s income meets designated state or local thresholds, the court system will provide a public defender. This attorney usually works on cases pro bono or without any fees paid by the defendant. Many public defenders have a high caseload, which can limit the amount of time they are able to devote to each case. In most situations, hiring a dedicated criminal defense lawyer ensures the best outcome. This is particularly true in more serious felony cases that can result in a significant prison sentence without the involvement of a skilled, experienced defense attorney.

• Why hire a criminal defense attorney?

  Working with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to minimize the ramifications of committing or being accused of a crime. Criminal attorneys thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding a case to prove innocence or inspire reasonable doubt in a jury. Criminal defense lawyers also are better prepared to negotiate with the prosecutors. Due to the high cost and logistics involved with taking a case to trial, many prosecutors are willing to reduce sentences in exchange for avoiding a jury trial. An experienced criminal attorney understands what would be a reasonable deal for a specific criminal charge, and will negotiate it on behalf of the defendant.

• Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?

  Whether legal fees from a criminal case can be deducted on a tax return depends on the circumstances. If criminal charges pertain to activities related to a trade or business, attorney fees can be deducted on a business tax return, as they are considered an expense associated with the normal course of business. However, personal legal fees cannot be deducted.