The Spodek Law Group is well known, and well respected, Los Angeles criminal defense law firm. If you’re accused of committing a crime, regardless of how simple and trivial it may be, it can feel scary. There’s no way to argue this. Regardless of whether it’s a state or federal crime, the impact on your future is impossible to ignore. At times like this, you need an honest, fierce, and strategically well positioned criminal defense attorney to represent your interests.
The Spodek Law Group criminal defense attorneys have trial experience, and understand how to help you with all types of criminal defense cases. Our founding partner is a second generation criminal defense attorney who takes great pride in providing concierge service to all of his clients.
We can help with a wide array if criminal defense cases such as:

• White collar crimes
• Drug related offenses
• Securities fraud
• Federal charges
• Health care fraud
• White collar crimes
• Misdemeanors
• Felonies
• and more

The first step is simple – contact us
Hiring a criminal lawyer is a difficult decision – and it begins when you reach out to us, for a risk free consultation. When you’re looking at criminal attorneys, you want one who has skill, and training, but most importantly experience and expertise – in handling cases similar to yours.

Here’s why you can trust our Los Angeles criminal lawyers to represent you

There are many options you have, when considering criminal defense attorneys. The Spodek Law Group is a premier and top rated defense law firm. If you’re looking for a criminal attorney, you want someone who will provide you with the best representation possible, and has handled tough legal cases.

• we’ve been featured on major news outlets
• we’ve got an online client management dashboard
• our team of Los Angeles criminal attorneys is here to help you on demand

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.

Have You Been Charged with a Crime in Los Angeles?

If you were arrested in Los Angeles County, our skilled Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys are serious about defending individuals accused of infractions, misdemeanors or felonies throughout the greater Los Angeles area.

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.

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/

Los Angeles Criminal Case: Bail and Arraignment

The LAPD has 48 hours from booking you to bring you before a judge, if necessary.If you get booked late on a Friday, you will probably not be arraigned until Monday.

Your bail is set according to theLos Angeles County bail scheduleon the basis of the crime(s) for which you were arrested and charged. If you are not able to make bail, or if you are denied bail, the police then transport you to theLos Angeles Superior Court.

In Los Angeles, there are a number of different Los Angeles courthouses. In cases where you have been released on your own recognizance,you are advised to check your citation to see where you are required to appear.

The bail and arraignment process in Los Angeles can be overwhelming and confusing. The compassionate Los Angeles criminal defense lawyers at Spodek Law Group are here to be by your side through it all.

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.

 

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Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyers: FAQ

How can Spodek Law Group help me?

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. 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.

Do I even need a Los Angeles criminal lawyer for a minor offense?

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

What can I do about a warrant - for which I didn't go to court for?

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.

What is the difference between being arrested, and being charged, with a crime?

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

What is Bail?

Bail is the amount of money a defendant will post in order to be released from custody until the trial. Bail is not a fine of any sort. Bail is not used as punishment. The purpose of the bail is to ensure that the defendant will appear for trial, and all of the pretrial hearings for which they have to be present. Bail is usually returned to the defendant when the trial is over. In some states, they will return the bail minus a processing fee. The judge or magistrate usually decides the amount the bail should be by looking at several factors like:

• chance of the defendant fleeing
• the type of crime alleged
• dangerousness of defendant
• safety of the community

Sometimes bail will depend on certain behavior of the defendant. For example, he, or she, can have no contact with the victim of the crime. The judge may also release defendants on their own recognizance, – which means without payment of money – on the promise he/she will appear for all hearings and for the trial. This is usually done if the defendant has a steady job, and roots in the community. Here’s a great article from the American Bar association about bail, and how courts work.

What’s a Plea Bargain? Should I Accept a Deal?

Being arrested can be terrifying, and stressful. It’s a super confusing experience. From the moment you’re arrested, things can, and usually do – move fast. Because of this stress, you might be tempted to accept the first plea offer you’re given by the prosecutor. But the question is should you?
It could be wise to accept the plea bargain, but just like anything you bargain in life – you have to engage in some form of negotiation. It’s rare for the first offer by the prosecutor to be favorable for you.
According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, in 2003 – there were 75,573 cases disposed of in federal district court by trial, or plea. Of those, 95% were disposed of by a guilty plea. It is estimated that 90-95% of both federal and state court cases are resolved in this process.
There are several theories as to whether the plea bargain process is fair. Many proponents of plea bargains argue that prosecutors need to engage in them – because they lack the time to pursue indictments on all the potential cases. In addition, not all defendants have the resources needed to go to trial.
Some people who are not in favor of plea bargaining have argued that defendants are better off without them – because then each case has to be processed. Prosecutorial budgets can only stretch so far – and as a result, the prosecutor would have to investigate and find strong evidence to convict the defendant. Thus, fewer innocent defendants would be coerced into guilty pleas. In addition, violent/chronic offenders would be less likely to receive a less severe punishment.

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.