Los Angeles Sex Crimes Lawyer

The Criminal Process

Your Los Angeles criminal defense attorney will play a crucial role at each and every step of the entire criminal process as it relates to a sex crime charge, case and trial. From working to prevent charges from being filed in the first place, to helping you secure a release on your own recognizance (rather than paying bail), to filing motions to suppress evidence, to aggressive litigation in the courtroom, a sex crimes defense lawyer will have to be knowledgeable and persistent. Experience will also play a major role in an attorney’s abilities, as the defense attorney will know what to expect, what will work and what can be done during the criminal process.

Robert M. Bernstein is a competent Los Angeles sex crimes defense lawyer who has devoted his entire practice exclusively to criminal defense. By guiding his clients through the Los Angeles County criminal process and providing aggressive representation every step of the way, attorney Bernstein has helped numerous clients secure the best outcome possible for their unique sex crime cases.

The Los Angeles County Sex Crime Criminal Process

Arrest: the criminal process begins when law enforcement makes an arrest, when they have probable cause to believe that an individual has committed a sex crime.
Complaint: the prosecutor will review the evidence law enforcement supplies and will determine whether to file charges, or file a complaint, with the court – alleging sex crime charges against the defendant.
Arraignment: this is the first court appearance for the defendant, wherein his/her rights and charges will be read by the judge. A plea of guilty, not guilty or no contest may be entered at this time, and bail will be set.
Preliminary Hearing: in the case of felony charges, a preliminary hearing is held wherein the judge reviews evidence to determine whether there is enough to warrant probable cause and continue with the criminal process.
Superior Court Arraignment: in the case of felony sex crime charges, when the judge has determined there is probable cause at the preliminary hearing, the prosecuting attorney will file the charges with the Superior Court. At the arraignment, the defendant will hear the charges he faces, bail will be set and the defendant will have the opportunity to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty or no contest.
Pre-trial conference: the defense attorney and prosecuting attorney will discuss the case, and often the judge will be present as well. At this time, the defense may offer information to support their case or may discuss a plea bargain with the prosecution.
Trial: the case will be heard in front of a jury of 12 people. Both the defense and prosecution will make opening and closing statements and examine and cross-examine witnesses. The burden of proof is on the prosecution to prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the defendant is guilty. The defense will work to ensure this does not occur. After all evidence is heard, the jury will deliberate and deliver a verdict of guilty or not guilty.
Sentencing: if the verdict is guilty, the judge will then determine sentencing for the sex crime conviction.
Appeal: after a conviction, it may be possible to appeal the outcome of the trial due to an error or wrongdoing which interfered with a fair trial.
Expungement: it may be possible to have certain offenses expunged (cleared or sealed) from an individual’s criminal record. This will depend upon the specific offense, however.

Los Angeles Sex Crime Defense Attorney

To find out how a skilled attorney can effectively guide you through the criminal process and protect your rights every step of the way, contact Los Angeles sex crime lawyer Robert M. Bernstein today!