Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Re: Criminal Complaint

What will happen to me then? Will I be jailed? Will I need bail money?? Will I be given a court date and be released on O.R.????

I can't tell for sure what's going to happen, but it is likely that you will be released on your own recognizance, and not need to post bail. Since the charges are fairly serious, the judge will ask you if you have a lawyer or want the public defender. You would not be well advised to attempt to represent yourself. The fact that you haven't talked to the cops yet is not significant, and it might even be better for your position.

I don't have an attorney yet. What can an attorney do for me at this point?

If you plan to use an attorney, and I strongly suggest that you do, the question is not what the attorney can do for you at this time, but rather what are you waiting for? The sooner an attorney gets involved, the sooner you'll have answers to questions that you have and haven't even thought of yet, as well as guidance, expertise and a knowledge of the system that you've been sucked into. Grand theft is a charge that is not to be taken lightly because it carries with it collateral consequences beyond the immediate ones like jail time, probation, fines, etc. Get a lawyer, and get one now. If you'd like to talk to me about this case, don't hesitate to call me for a free consultation. Steve Mandell 310 393 0639

Re: Criminal Complaint

Thank you for your posting. Your first court date is your arraignment, where you will be read the charges against you, given a copy of the complaint against you, and given the opportunity to get your own lawyer, apply for a public defender (if you qualify), or plead guilty.

A qualified attorney, can perform a full legal and factual review of your case for defects, have the court suppress evidence, compel discovery of evidence that may help your defense, and will fight to do everything in his or her power to minimize the impact of this case on your life in the future, including negotiating for a lesser charge or reduced sentence, and obtaining expert witnesses for trial.

I hope this helps, but if you do have any other questions whatsoever, please feel free to email me directly at [email protected]. It's my pleasure to help in any way that I can.

From there, depending upon your choice, you can be either sentenced, given an extension on the court date, or have some dates set in your case in accordance with your speedy trial rights.

Although a judge has the right to change bail based upon certain factors, if you show up voluntarily and have no new crimes, it would be very unusual indeed for bail to be increased from its current level.

Re: Criminal Complaint

What an attorney can do is protect you and defend you against the charges. You should get an attorney before going to court or saying anything to anyone!!

You face jail time, so take this seriously. Contact if interested in getting good representation in this .