Understanding Plea Bargains

Plea bargains are agreements between the prosecution and defense where the accused agrees to plead guilty in exchange for concessions, often a reduced sentence or dropped charges. From a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney’s standpoint, understanding the dynamics of plea bargains is essential for effective legal representation.

Pros of Plea Bargains

Efficiency and Time Savings

One of the primary advantages of plea bargains is the expeditious resolution of cases. Los Angeles courts are often burdened with heavy caseloads, and negotiating a plea deal can save both time and resources. Jance Weberman Law recognizes the value of efficiency, allowing clients to move forward with their lives sooner rather than later.

Reduced Charges and Sentences

For many clients, the prospect of facing reduced charges or a lighter sentence can be compelling. A skilled criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles can leverage plea bargains to secure more favorable outcomes for their clients, mitigating the potential consequences of a full trial.

Avoiding the Uncertainties of Trial

Trials come with inherent uncertainties. Opting for a plea bargain allows defendants to have more control over the outcome, avoiding the unpredictable nature of jury decisions. Jance Weberman Law acknowledges that this certainty can be especially appealing in certain circumstances.

Cons of Plea Bargains

Potential for Innocent Defendants to Plead Guilty

One of the significant drawbacks of plea bargains is the risk of innocent individuals accepting deals to avoid the uncertainties of trial. Jance Weberman Law emphasizes the importance of thorough case evaluation to ensure clients fully understand the implications of any plea bargain.

Limited Appellate Options

Accepting a plea bargain often comes with the forfeiture of certain appellate rights. A criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles needs to carefully weigh the long-term consequences for clients, considering the impact on potential appeals and future legal remedies.

Stigma and Collateral Consequences

While plea bargains can offer a quicker resolution, they may not shield individuals from collateral consequences such as damage to reputation, employment prospects, or immigration status. Jance Weberman Law underscores the need for transparent communication about the potential fallout of entering into a plea agreement.

Navigating Plea Bargains with Jance Weberman Law

Case-Specific Considerations

Every case is unique, and Jance Weberman Law approaches plea bargains with a case-specific lens. Factors such as the strength of the evidence, the severity of charges, and the client’s goals play a crucial role in determining whether a plea bargain is the most strategic path forward.

Transparent Communication

Effective communication is paramount when considering a plea bargain. A criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles must transparently discuss the pros and cons with their clients, ensuring informed decision-making. Jance Weberman Law prides itself on maintaining open channels of communication throughout the legal process.

Alternative Strategies

While plea bargains are a common resolution strategy, they are not the only option. Jance Weberman Law explores alternative defense strategies, including challenging evidence, seeking dismissals, or preparing for trial when it is in the best interest of the client.

Plea bargains, with their array of pros and cons, require careful consideration within the context of each unique legal scenario. Jance Weberman Law, drawing from its extensive experience as a criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles, recognizes the delicate balance involved in advising clients on the path forward. By providing nuanced perspectives and strategic guidance, the firm aims to empower clients to make informed decisions tailored to their individual circumstances.

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Preserving Evidence and Witnesses’ Memories

As time passes, crucial evidence can become compromised or even lost. Witnesses’ memories may fade, making accurate testimony difficult. Swift action allows a criminal defense attorney to gather evidence promptly, ensuring that vital information, such as surveillance footage, forensic evidence, and eyewitness accounts, is preserved while it is still fresh and accessible.

Navigating Complex Legal Procedures

The legal procedures surrounding criminal cases in Los Angeles can be intricate and bewildering for those not well-versed in the law. An experienced criminal defense attorney is well-acquainted with these procedures and can guide you through each step. The sooner you seek legal representation, the quicker you can begin to navigate these complexities and make informed decisions about your case.

Mitigating Potential Damage

In many criminal cases, the actions you take shortly after being charged can significantly impact the outcome. With swift action, a skilled criminal defense attorney can help mitigate potential damage to your case. Whether it’s preventing the issuance of an arrest warrant, negotiating bail terms, or advising you on interactions with law enforcement, the right attorney can safeguard your interests from the outset.

Building a Strong Defense Strategy

Crafting a solid defense strategy requires careful analysis of the facts, legal expertise, and ample time for preparation. By engaging a criminal defense attorney promptly, you provide them with the necessary time to thoroughly examine your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments, and develop a strong defense tailored to your unique circumstances.

Minimizing Legal Consequences

In the legal realm, procrastination can lead to missed opportunities. Swift action allows a criminal defense attorney to explore potential options for reducing charges, negotiating plea deals, or even getting your case dismissed. The earlier you involve an attorney, the more avenues they can explore to minimize the potential legal consequences you might face.

Protecting Your Constitutional Rights

Your constitutional rights deserve protection from the very beginning of your legal journey. A criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles ensures that your rights are upheld throughout the process. From safeguarding your right to remain silent to ensuring fair treatment during interrogations, legal experts are your advocates, ensuring justice is upheld.

Preventing Harmful Mistakes

In the absence of legal guidance, individuals can inadvertently make harmful mistakes that jeopardize their case. Consulting a criminal defense attorney early on prevents these errors and ensures that your actions align with your best interests. Whether it’s refraining from self-incriminating statements or adhering to court deadlines, legal counsel keeps you on the right track.

Establishing Communication Channels

Effective communication is essential in any legal case. Engaging a criminal defense attorney early on establishes clear channels of communication, allowing you to stay informed about developments, strategies, and potential outcomes. This transparency empowers you to make well-informed decisions about your defense.

Easing Emotional Burden

Facing criminal charges can be emotionally overwhelming. Swift action to secure legal representation provides a sense of relief and support during a challenging time. Having a knowledgeable attorney by your side not only eases your emotional burden but also enables you to focus on your defense strategy.

Act Swiftly, Securely

Criminal charges demand immediate attention. Swift action with a dedicated criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles at Jance Weberman Law is your first step toward safeguarding your rights, building a robust defense, and striving for the best possible outcome. Don’t delay; take the initiative to secure expert legal representation that can make all the difference in your case.

Contact Jance Weberman Law to take swift action and protect your rights in Los Angeles.

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Expert Legal Representation

When you find yourself entangled in the criminal justice system, having an expert criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles by your side is essential. At Jance M. Weberman Law Corp., our attorneys specialize in criminal defense and possess in-depth knowledge of California’s criminal laws. We will provide you with expert legal representation, guiding you through every step of the legal process. With our experience and expertise, we will develop a strong defense strategy tailored to the unique circumstances of your case.

Building a Robust Defense Strategy

A successful defense against criminal charges requires a well-crafted and robust strategy. Our criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles will meticulously review the details of your case, analyzing evidence, witness statements, and police reports to identify any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. We will explore all possible legal defenses, challenging the evidence presented against you and ensuring that your rights are protected at every stage of the proceedings.

Negotiating with Prosecutors

In many criminal cases, negotiation with prosecutors is a crucial part of the process. Our skilled criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles is an experienced negotiator, advocating for your interests and seeking the best possible outcome on your behalf. We will work tirelessly to negotiate reduced charges, plea bargains, or alternative sentencing options that minimize the potential consequences of a conviction. Our goal is to protect your rights while pursuing a resolution that allows you to move forward with your life.

Expertise in Criminal Trial Defense

Should your case proceed to trial, having a skilled criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles is paramount. At Jance M. Weberman Law Corp., we have extensive experience in the courtroom and are prepared to defend your rights before a judge and jury. Our attorneys will build a compelling case, present strong arguments, and skillfully cross-examine witnesses. We will challenge the prosecution’s evidence and ensure that your side of the story is heard. Our expertise in criminal trial defense gives you the best chance of a favorable outcome in court.

Protecting Your Constitutional Rights

As criminal defense attorneys, safeguarding your constitutional rights is our top priority. Whether it’s protecting you from unlawful searches and seizures or ensuring due process is followed throughout your case, we are relentless in upholding your rights. Our criminal defense attorney will ensure that any evidence obtained illegally is excluded from the trial and that law enforcement’s actions comply with all legal requirements. With us by your side, you can trust that your rights will be fiercely protected.

Mitigating Sentences and Post-Conviction Relief

If you are facing sentencing after a conviction, our criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles will continue to fight for you. We will present compelling arguments for leniency, aiming to minimize the impact of sentencing on your life. Additionally, we can explore post-conviction relief options, such as appeals or petitions for sentence reduction, to pursue further justice and a better outcome for your case.

Criminal Defense Attorney in Los Angeles Expertise

When your freedom is at stake, entrust your defense to the expertise of our criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles at Jance M. Weberman Law Corp. We understand the gravity of criminal charges and are dedicated to protecting your rights, building a robust defense strategy, and pursuing the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us make a difference in your fight for freedom.

The post Behind Bars or Freedom: How a Criminal Defense Attorney in Los Angeles Can Make a Difference appeared first on Jance Weberman | Winning Los Angeles Lawyer.

 Local Courts Experience

When choosing a criminal defense lawyer, experience is crucial. Not only should the law firm you pick have years of expertise practicing criminal defense, but it should also have significant experience in the court where your case is being heard. Because each court has its processes and personnel, your lawyer must be acquainted with the local court. It can provide you a significant edge in your case if your attorney is familiar with court processes and how judges and prosecutors function in the court where your case is ongoing.

Local Connections

Having a criminal defense attorney with local ties and established relationships is tremendously beneficial. Someone with a lot of connections will have a greater awareness of local processes and first-hand experience dealing with judges and prosecutors. They’ll be able to tell who takes plea deals seriously and who doesn’t. They’ll be more equipped to come up with a winning plan to transform the outcome of your case to the best possible one if they have this critical understanding of the inner workings of the local legal scene.

Qualities

Because the attributes you want in a criminal defense attorney are unique to you, it’s up to you to choose the sort of person you’d like to defend you. You may choose whether you want to work with a large or small company, whether you want someone with more outstanding expertise and a higher caseload or someone who is younger and has fewer cases to focus on.

Is it critical for you that the lawyer has a good track record? Should they be an expert in a particular field? Identifying the most vital attributes can help you make the best option for your situation.

Affordable Criminal Defense Attorney Los Angeles

The cheapest lawyer isn’t necessarily the greatest option for you. When it comes to legal counsel, the adage “you get what you pay for” still holds. As a result, the most expensive fees aren’t always in your best interests. In general, less experienced attorneys charge cheaper rates but be wary of a very low hourly rate. An experienced attorney with a higher hourly charge may be able to conclude a matter faster and more appropriately than a newbie with a much lower hourly fee, resulting in a cheaper overall cost.

Competence 

Is the lawyer genuinely a seasoned criminal defense attorney capable of handling your case? Many civil lawyers profess to be criminal defense attorneys but aren’t. You should not engage a civil lawyer to represent you in a criminal matter. Hire the most experienced criminal defense attorney you can afford. It’s your freedom on the line, and you want the most qualified and experienced criminal defense lawyer you can find to defend you. Be thorough, and make informed decisions. It determines the likely outcome and how your life will be when the case is resolved. Put in the time and effort and the investigation and research to find the perfect attorney for you. It is the most critical decision you will make, and making the right one will make all the difference in how your case goes and what the conclusion is. Once you’ve chosen what qualifications you want in a lawyer, you may start looking for criminal defense in your region. The law firm of Jance Weberman is the right choice for you. Call us at (213) 386-9100 or at our website,  janceweberman.com.

The post What To Consider When Finding an Affordable Criminal Defense Attorney in Los Angeles appeared first on Jance Weberman | Winning Los Angeles Lawyer.

According to the code, you cannot steal over $950 worth in items. Otherwise, entering a commercial building to commit larceny is defined as burglary. The FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program defines larceny-theft as the taking, leading, carrying, or transport of property from another’s possession.

For example, this type of theft includes stealing property or articles that are not taken by fraud or violence. Therefore, an attempted larceny may include taking bicycles or auto accessories, shoplifting merchandise that is over $950 in value, or picking someone’s pocket. 

How Shoplifting is Classified in California

Shoplifting or retail theft in California now has its own classifications, depending, again, on the amount of property taken. People who commit the crime who take under $50 of merchandise are normally charged with petty theft, which can either lead to an infraction or misdemeanor. A fine of $250 may be imposed as well.

If the property taken was under $950, it is still regarded as petty theft – once considered a felony charge. However, the state passed Proposition 47 to reduce the severity of the crime. Now, if you take under that amount, it’s considered a misdemeanor charge. The fine for this charge may be as much as $1,000.. Also, first time offenders may spend as much as 6 months in jail.

When Shoplifting Becomes a Felony Charge

If the property taken is $950 over greater in value, the charge jumps to a felony. People who are charged with this type of retail theft may end up going to jail for up to a year. If you’re charged with stealing a firearm, you may spend 16 months to three years in a penitentiary.

Even if you steal a small item from a retail establishment, it can taint how people perceive you for the remainder of your life. That is why it is essential to contact a criminal defense attorney if you’re caught shoplifting for even a small amount of merchandise.

For a misdemeanor shoplifting offense, again, you may have to pay a $1,000 fine and/or spend 6 months in the county jail. If you’re charged with a felony, you might be responsible for paying a fine as much as $10,000. A state prison may also be your home for up to three years.

Keep in mind too that the court does not give you a break for paying a fine. You cannot claim hardship in this respect. You still owe the money.

Moreover, committing a felony under Section 459.5 is applicable to California’s “Three Strikes” law. If your record shows “three strikes,” you can serve a minimum of 25 years in a state prison facility. 

What the Prosecutor Has to Prove

To be found guilty under Penal Code 459.5(a) for a misdemeanor in California, a prosecutor must show you entered a commercial establishment during its hours of business. You did this for the sole purpose of stealing or committing a crime. They must also show that the property you took was valued at $950 or less. 

Because shoplifting may be considered a felony or misdemeanor, it is defined as a wobbler crime in California. Therefore, a wobbler offense can be classified as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Defending a Shoplifting Charge or Reducing the Sentence

Your criminal defense shoplifting attorney can either help you win your case against shoplifting or at least reduce the charges through a plea bargain arrangement. A common defense may include the following:

• The defendant meant to pay for the item, which was at the bottom of their cart, but forgot to do so. When they were stopped by security, they tried to explain the circumstances but were denied the chance to make amends.

Otherwise, you might stay out of jail by pleading guilty and going through a diversion program. This program allows the defendant to plead guilty to retail theft, provided they take a shoplifting class. In turn, they can get the charges dismissed so they don’t have to spend time in jail. 

The main concern here lies with background checks. If an employer checks the defendant’s background, they might perceive the applicant was convicted of the crime if they pled guilty to the offense.

Contact an Attorney Today

Whatever happened during the incident, you should not speak to law enforcement without contacting an attorney first. In Los Angeles, you can get your questions and concerns answered about retail theft by contacting the law firm of Jance M. Weberman. Find out where you stand by speaking to a criminal defense shoplifting attorney. Call (213) 386-9100 today.

The post Retail Theft in California: Why You Need to Speak to an Attorney appeared first on Jance Weberman | Winning Los Angeles Lawyer.

Seeking Help from a Criminal Defense Attorney Based Law Firm

California has led the way in supporting habitual offender legislation. The concept behind the rulings is pretty simple to understand. Legislators believe serious crimes deserve harsher sentences, especially if an offender has been convicted of violent crimes at least three times.

After three qualifying convictions, an offender can face a sentence of 25 years to life in prison. The law increases the penalties for repeated violent offenses. A second strike may double the length of a sentence while a third conviction may lead to life in prison. However, certain legal updates have waived the increased penalties for some crimes, thereby providing a sentence reduction in some cases.

So, what crimes in California fall under the 3-Strike legislation?

3-Strike Crimes

Crimes that are included under the 3-Strike laws include:

• Arson
• Voluntary manslaughter
• Murder
• Rape
• KIdnapping
• Forced sodomy
• Carjacking

The following felonies may also lead to a strike:

• First-degree burglary
• Robbery
• Selling illegal or hard drugs to a minor

An offender who personally used a firearm or inflicted bodily harm may also receive a strike. To be eligible under the 3-Strike system, an offender must be 16 years old when they committed a qualified crime. A more restricted list of strikes counts against juvenile offenders.

If you have been convicted for strike-type crimes in another state outside of California, they may also count as a prior strike if you are accused of a felony while living in California.

You will not be given a harsher sentence or strike enhancement if you are convicted for a violent crime that is listed as a strike law felony as a first strike. The first strike only warns an offender that any future crime can have much more serious repercussions.

For instance, if you were arrested and convicted of a robbery when you were 20 years old and fully served time for your crime, you may be considered a second striker if you are arrested, later, for arson. Upon a conviction, the usual arson sentence would double.

While you may receive additional punishments or penalties for a second strike, the third strike can crush you. For example, you may receive 25 years to life, regardless of the penalty. Plus, consider this – even if you are arrested and charged for a crime that does not qualify as a strike, your sentence can still double if you already have two prior strikes.

For example, an offender who already has two strikes against them is charged with selling non-hard or soft drugs, such as hash or marijuana, to a minor. This offense carries a prison sentence of 3 to 5 years.

This can also happen if you use a minor for the illegal sale or transport of marijuana, a felony punishable by a 3 to a 7-year prison term. The same punishment applies to inducing anyone younger than 18 years old to use marijuana.

While you won’t get 25 years for the punishment, you can double a 5-year or 7-year sentenced to 10 or 14 years.

Can Strikes Be Dismissed?

If you are facing felony charges or are considered a repeat offender, you need to use the skills of a competent defense attorney. Doing so will give you the leverage you need to possibly reduce your imprisonment or dismiss some of your strikes.

Whether a strike can be dismissed depends on your age and how long ago a strike occurred. It also is based on past crimes and your current offense. A judge can dismiss earlier strikes if justice is served. Also, prosecutors have the choice to treat your crime more leniently or refrain from treating you as a second or third striker, depending on the offense.

In Summation

As you can see, the 3-Strike Law in California is something you need to take into account if you have already been charged with a felony. To improve the outcome of your case, you need to retain the services of a criminal defense attorney Los Angeles 3-Strike specialist. By using the services of an expert in the field, you can, at least, increase the odds for a better outcome. In California, call Jance M. Weberman (A Professional Law Corporation) at 213-386-9100 today.

The post Three Strikes Law Calls for the Skills of Criminal Defense Attorney Los Angeles Based Expert appeared first on Jance Weberman | Winning Los Angeles Lawyer.

White Collar Criminal Defense: What It Takes to Win

While 40% of embezzlement charges are dropped, around 60% of the defendants are not so lucky. That is why it is imperative that your lawyer is well versed in cases involving theft and embezzlement. An experienced criminal defense lawyer knows how the other side must prove its case. He or she is ready to deal with allegations and how to respond appropriately.

How the Plaintiff’s Attorney Must Prove Intent

As further proof of embezzlement, the plaintiff’s attorney must show that the conditions for embezzlement were present. These conditions are noted as follows:

1. The defendant gained possession or acquired the property as the result of a fiduciary relationship. In other words, the owner entrusted the property to the defendant.
2. The defendant received the property through a fiduciary relationship so he or she could deprive the property’s owner.
3. The defendant’s resulting actions or the taking of the property was intentional.

Responding to Embezzlement Allegations

In turn, a logical and effective defense is one where the lawyer disproves any of the above-mentioned elements. He or she may also prove, as previously mentioned in Part 1 of this post, that the other side cannot support a paper trail or lacks evidentiary material.

In addition, a criminal defense  lawyer may also defend an embezzlement charge as follows:

• Duress. This defense is used if the defendant believed they felt threatened or endangered if they did not commit a crime.

For example, a defendant may claim that they were afraid of losing their job or a family member might be hurt if they did not embezzle an owner’s property. Defenses based on satisfying a drug or gambling addiction or an attempt to avoid family hardship usually do not work.

• Entrapment. Entrapment occurs when a police authority influences a person to commit a crime they otherwise would not commit. Therefore, a law-abiding citizen may feel induced to commit a criminal offense because of the harassment or threats of a government agent.

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, any predisposition to commit a crime, such as an embezzlement, can knock down an entrapment defense. If the individual was a criminal who was unwary of the other party’s motive, any defense along these lines will fail.

• Absence of Intent to Commit a Criminal Offense. The intent of the litigant to commit embezzlement is a crucial factor in their guilt or innocence. Embezzlement implies that you broke your fiduciary duty by intentionally taking another person’s money or property. This defense is used when the person who committed the crime believes they were the actual owner of the property or funds they took.
• Incapacity. A criminal defense lawyer may also show the person who embezzled money was, at the time of the crime, incapacitated. For example, if the embezzler was under the influence of a heavy drug, as long as the drug was prescribed, he or she may claim they were incapacitated. You cannot use involuntary intoxication as a defense.

If you’ve made an honest mistake, you’ll need to talk to a criminal defense attorney who can deftly show the error so you’re totally exonerated of the crime. Ignorance is not a defense as there is a fine line between it and intent. That is why you need someone who can read the big picture legally and plan a skillful defense.

Punishments for Embezzlement in California

As noted in the previous post, the punishments for theft and embezzlement depend on the extent of the crime and how much was taken. In California, you will usually be charged with a misdemeanor if you’ve absconded property in the amount of $950 or less. This is known as petty theft. If the amount is larger, you’ll receive a more severe sentence.

If you’re convicted of petty theft for your embezzlement, you may spend six months or less in jail and pay a fine of up to $1,000.

If the amount stolen is less than $50.00 and this is your first offense, you may be charged with an infraction, which would subject you to a fine of up to $250.

If your embezzlement leads to a grand theft charge, you may have to spend up to a year in jail for a misdemeanor charge or 16 months to 36 months for a felony charge. This law is laid out in Ca. Penal Code  § 484 to 502.9.

Embezzling Public Money

If you’re convicted of an embezzlement charge concerning public money, you may have to repay the stolen funds or property and spend two to four years in prison. After restitution, you’ll be permanently ineligible to hold a job in local or state government.

Aggravating Factors Involved in Embezzlement

You’ll need a good criminal defense lawyer to prevent you from being sentenced for aggravating factors in an embezzlement case. In this situation, additional penalties are imposed for the following activities:

• If you’re a defendant who is convicted of two or more felonies that involve embezzlement or fraud, which, in total, led to a loss of $100,000, this factor, known as white-collar crime enhancement, can add up to five years in prison plus fines.
• If you were caring for a dependent or elder where you assumed a position of trust, the court can increase your jail time or fines. Whether you were caring for an elderly person or relative, oversaw the care of a person with physical or mental disabilities, or supported the care of someone living in an assisted living facility, these extenuating factors can add to your jail time and fines.

Gathering the Evidence: What the Prosecution Needs to Gather and Prove

To prove embezzlement, the prosecution must use evidence in the form of the following:

• Financial records
• Employee statements that incriminate the defendant
• A confession of guilt from the defendant
• A shown pattern of taking property or money – proof of intent

To prevent embezzlement, especially in this age of technology, businesses may install tracking software as a measure of security. Computer information monitors and inventory software can be used for this purpose.

Discuss Your Embezzlement Case with A Reputable LA Criminal Defense Attorney

If you need a criminal defense attorney who is a knowledgeable white-collar crime lawyer, contact Jance M. Weberman as your legal counsel. Call (213) 386-9100 to schedule an appointment today.

The post Talk to a Criminal Defense Lawyer about Your Embezzlement Charge (Part 2) appeared first on Jance Weberman | Winning Los Angeles Lawyer.

When a Search Warrant Is Issued For Your Residence

In the case of a search or seizure, the Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution protects your rights. There will be no unwarranted searches and seizures if warrants are issued, only if they are based on probable cause backed by an oath or affirmation and specifically detailing the location to be searched and the individuals to be taken into custody. “That is so, even if it seems that your right to freedom of expression has been diluted, an attorney may nonetheless defend you on the ground and ensure that you are protected against unreasonable search and seizure. Please be aware that the police cannot enter your home unless they have a warrant authorized by a court. In addition, it is crucial to understand that if a police officer attempts to enter your house or property without a legal warrant, you have the right to deny them entrance. After receiving a court-ordered warrant to search your home, carefully consider the warrant’s wording, including where and what the police are allowed to explore.

The Moment You Learn That Your Workplace Is About To Be Searched

You should contact your criminal lawyer as soon as possible to advocate your interests and protect you and your company from any shady dealings and scenarios that may arise from having your business premises examined by police officials. Your legal counsel should be consulted as a precautionary measure, given that you don’t know who the primary target is in an office search.

When an Interview with a Witness Is Set To Take Place

To protect your freedom and legal rights when being interviewed as a witness by the police, you should have legal representation present at all times when you are asked questions about the case. In light of police officers’ ability to lie during interviews, having an attorney on the scene guarantees that you are shielded from the strain of being interrogated by the officers.

When A Criminal Case Is Lost, and You Need A Criminal Defense Attorney Los Angeles

According to justice.gov, in the United States, even after the judge has decided on a criminal case, the accused may still pursue justice. Defendants can appeal a guilty decision even though the first verdict is far from final. But many defendants in criminal cases don’t know about this privilege, and while it may be confusing, employing a criminal defense attorney can assist in further simplifying the task at hand. In most circumstances, an appeal is usually suggested since this may be your best opportunity to correct the mistakes that lead you toward your conviction. For example, your lawyer may tell the court that you intend to appeal if you lose at trial.

Once you’ve established that you need a criminal defense attorney, here are some ideas on how to choose the best one for your situation:

Determine your objectives

Determining what you want from a  criminal defense attorney will help you narrow the field. First-time offenders may want to avoid conviction, but in certain situations, it may be necessary to negotiate a plea deal to reduce the severity of the sentence.” If you want to win your case, you should seek a lawyer who specializes in the area of law you’re interested in.

Examine your current financial situation

It is essential that you thoroughly analyze your financial situation before selecting a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney to ensure that you know how much you will be required to spend on legal expenses. This will guarantee that you can get defense counsel within your financial means.

Make a start on your search the moment you can

While most individuals would want to wish the case away, this is not always the case. As a result, you must begin the search process for a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to prevent making errors that might further complicate the case in the long run. Weberman Law Office is fully committed to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome in your case. Through our years of experience, we have developed a keen sense of what indeed constitutes justice. We are prepared to answer all your questions and to walk you through every step of the legal process. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at (213) 386-9100 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation on your case. For more information, please visit our website at https://www.janceweberman.com/.

The post When do I Need a Criminal Defense Attorney Los Angeles? appeared first on Jance Weberman | Winning Los Angeles Lawyer.

Criminal Defense Services For An Array Of Charges

Understanding the severity of your charges can prove crucial. Whether you are facing misdemeanor, felony, or even federal charges, a seasoned criminal defense attorney can help you make sense of your legal reality.

Some examples of charges that a lawyer can assist with include:

• • Drug offenses: Possession, distribution, and manufacturing convictions can have stiff penalties in California.
  • Theft: Shoplifting, grand theft, and petty theft should be treated as serious charges.
  • Assault and battery: An assault conviction can mean lengthy jail time and/or costly fines.

• Driving under the influence (DUI): A conviction for drinking and driving can cost you your license and your freedom.
• Federal charges: Not every criminal defense attorney is equipped for federal court – be sure to consult with an attorney, such as one of ours at Jance M. Weberman, A Professional Law Corp., who understands this legal area.

California’s “Three Strikes” Law

If you have prior convictions, criminal charges, especially those at the felony level, merit serious, aggressive defense. The state of California employs what is known as the “Three Strikes Law.” Since 1994, a defendant convicted of a second felony must face a prison term of double that of their first conviction. For a third felony conviction, the law mandates a prison term of 25 years to life.

With so much at stake, it is of the utmost importance that prior felons retain legal counsel that grasps the severity of the “Three Strikes Law.” An attorney with ample experience in criminal defense in the state of California can better navigate this situation. At Jance M. Weberman, A Professional Law Corp., we have the knowledge and skillset to help you. We can work with judges and prosecutors to lessen your charge, and we are always prepared to go to trial to seek an acquittal.

The Helpful Guidance Of A Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney

Heavy fines, lengthy prison sentences, and felony records are all potential outcomes for a criminal conviction. With so much on the line, you cannot afford to face criminal charges alone. An attorney can help you in many ways, including:

• Understanding of the criminal justice system: The law is often complex and confusing to the average person. A criminal defense attorney will know the necessary to navigate your case.
• Emotional and psychological support: When you are at risk of losing your freedom, the psychological toll can be immense. Having a committed attorney in your corner can give you valuable support in your time of need.
• The skill and experience to negotiate: Making a deal with the prosecution, often known as a “plea agreement”, can be an avenue for reducing your charge or prison time. Prosecutors, however, do not always propose such deals in good faith. A lawyer can help advise you whether a deal is in your best interests.

A criminal defense attorney will also have resources at their disposal to better represent you. They may be able to draw upon expert witnesses, consult with other attorneys, and cultivate evidence that will bolster your defense. Many attorneys also have existing professional relationships with prosecutors and can provide you with perspective on how your case could play out.

Start Defending Your Rights Today – Call Us Now

If you are facing criminal charges, time is of the essence. Do not delay in retaining the services of a criminal defense attorney. To learn more about how our law firm can potentially help you, call us today at 213-386-9100. You can also reach us via email by filling out our simple contact form. Find out why we feature 5-star reviews on Yelp. We will take the time to evaluate your case, listen to your concerns, and ultimately devise a legal strategy that strives for the most beneficial possible outcome. Do not leave your future in inexperienced hands – call us today and start taking action to protect your rights.

The post A Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help You Protect Your Rights appeared first on Jance Weberman | Winning Los Angeles Lawyer.

Corruption is Rampant

Corrupt police officers have multiple opportunities to interfere with the process, including planting evidence and faking information to get a warrant. One recent example in the news took place in North Carolina, where a “North Carolina Cop Was Fired for Using Snitch, Fake Drugs to Falsely Charge Black Men with Trafficking”. Luckily, in this case, the officer was caught and the men he targeted shared a 2 million dollar settlement for their wrongful arrests.

Unfortunately, a person’s criminal defense can also be affected by the district attorney’s office that prosecutes the case. Over in Georgia, one D.A. is “accused of offering bribes to prosecutors” and trying to influence a police officer’s testimony to strengthen his case. While this case is active, the fact of the matter is that the issues involved are plausible and unfortunately all too common.

These are just two examples of how people with influence and a vendetta can ruin a person’s life using our criminal justice system. However, even defendants who get a fair trial and are ostensibly guilty of the criminal offense have certain rights. And usually, the best way to make sure you know your rights and protect yourself is by getting a criminal defense attorney.

Know Your Rights and Your Options

One simple thing that sometimes causes unfair incarceration is the defendant’s ignorance of the legal system. For instance, not knowing the law when it comes to drug possession can lead somebody to accept a harsh plea bargain rather than fighting the case and getting a better ruling (or even asking for a more favorable plea bargain). And, with the courts currently backed up, many cases are likely to be settled through plea bargains.

Improper Arrests

Even if you’re caught with a car full of drugs (still using drug possession as an example), you have certain rights that may have been infringed on by an officer of the law. They may not have had a proper reason to search your vehicle (illegal search and seizure) or they may have violated another procedure, such as not confirming that the drugs found were yours.

If you were arrested without a warrant, your rights were also violated. And if an officer used excessive force on you during your arrest, other rights of yours were violated. An attorney would best know how to fight these ethical lapses in the police’s judgment and work towards a fair verdict in your case. And they can help you build a civil suit to get compensation for any infringement of your rights.

Can I Get an Affordable Criminal Defense Attorney in Los Angeles?

Most peoples’ fear when getting an attorney is two-fold: they may not be used to working with a lawyer and they may be scared of the cost of an attorney. But we want you to know that most criminal defense attorneys are very affordable. It’s also a drop in the bucket compared to what might happen if you’re put behind bars, especially with regards to loss of current and future income.

Because the Jance Weberman Law Office offers free consultations, it does not cost anything for you to learn more about how an attorney can help your case. Each situation is different and his services may be much less than the idea you have in your head. Call Jance Weberman at (213) 386-9100 for a free consultation.

The post Cops Don’t Play Fair: Protect Yourself with an Affordable Criminal Defense Attorney in Los Angeles appeared first on Jance Weberman | Winning Los Angeles Lawyer.