Investigation

There are many cases where the state investigates suspected criminal activity well before they formally bring charges against you. The investigation process typically involves gathering evidence and conducting interviews. If you know you are under investigation, it can be crucial to seek the help of a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Our legal team at Lucero, PC can provide you with counsel that could prevent you from disclosing anything the prosecution could use to strengthen their case. 

Arrest

If the state finds that they have enough evidence, it will make an arrest. If you have been arrested, you will be taken to jail, where your charges will be filed and where you could have the option post bail and be released. 

The Arraignment

The arraignment is your initial court appearance, during which a judge will:

• Formally read the charges against you
• Inform you of your rights as a defendant

You will also submit a plea at the hearing. Whether you plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest will depend on the strategy you develop with your defense attorney. We strongly recommend that you never go without legal representation at your arraignment

Bail 

The judge might make a decision regarding your bail at the arraignment or in a separate hearing. Typically, judges either set a bail amount, deny bail, or release you without bail. To make this decision, judges consider factors like your criminal record and the circumstances of the case. Judges generally grant bail or release without bail to individuals who they believe will not be a threat to their communities or flight risk. 

Pre-Trial

In many cases, your defense attorney and the prosecution exchange and gather evidence in a process called “discovery,” which takes place before your trial. During this time, your attorney and the prosecution might file strategic motions to make specific pieces of evidence inadmissible to court. Your attorney could even motion to dismiss the case altogether if they believe there is not enough evidence to convict you. 

Trial 

There are two types of trials: court and jury. Judges deliver the verdict in court trials, whereas a jury determines a verdict in others. When you retain our criminal defense attorney in Pomona, we will seek the best type of trial for your situation based on what we have seen in our years of experience. Regardless of the type of trial, we will advocate for your story by presenting compelling evidence and strategically countering the prosecution’s arguments. 

Sentencing Hearing

Should a judge or jury deliver a guilty verdict, you will have to appear at a sentencing hearing. Our attorney will continue to advocate for you in this stage and seek a minimal sentence.

Appeals

In cases where you believe you did not receive the correct verdict, you and your attorney can file a notice of appeal for either misdemeanor or felony charges. These notices do not get you another trial, but they do allow you to present new evidence on your behalf that could lead an appellate court to reconsider the verdict in your case. 

Retaining an attorney at every step of the criminal process is crucial. From the investigation to trial and beyond, our Pomona criminal defense attorney can provide you with counsel to help you avoid pitfalls in your case, while advocating aggressively for you inside and outside of court.

To find out how we can help you call (213) 668-7779 or contact us online.