Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

I just found out i have a bench warrant for $100,000 in san fernando and the only reasn i found out is because i went to pay a ticket to downey court and the clerk advised me of it. I was arrested in april for possesion of marijuana or hash im not sure i was never given the paper that tells me my charges. i had less than a gram of hash and weed, i was not smoking or under the influence i had my doctors recommendation on me the sheriffs took copys of it. i was released 2 days later i asked the lady if i needed to go to court and she said no the charges were dropped. I never received anything in the mail saying i needed to go to court. the date i was suppose to go was in may and we are now in october. I dont understand why they arrested me either, they were sheriffs and they were assholes to me they didnt even read me my rights. I asked them if i could tell my girlfriend something before they took me away and when i tried to tell her to call my mom and get a lawyer they put the window up.

Should i get a lawyer? or would a public defender be able to get the case dismissed?


Asked on 10/15/10, 9:33 am

3 Answers from Attorneys
Anthony Roach Law Office of Anthony A. Roach

You should have a lawyer, either private or public defender if you cannot afford one. That bench warrant sounds like the charges are more serious than what you are telling us.

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Answered on 10/20/10, 9:55 am
David M. Wallin Law Offices OF David M. Wallin

As a former Deputy District Attorney and a Certified Criminal Law Specialist, the charges you are facing are serious. You are being charged with a Felony, and the head D.A. in San Fernando is a very tough D.A. We practice in San Fernando, so if you want to speak to us on the phone at 661-2671313 or make an appointment to see us us in our office, call us and we would be happy to help you. David Wallin

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Answered on 10/20/10, 10:17 am
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Do you need an attorney? Unless you're competent to effectively represent yourself in court against a professional prosecutor trying to put you in jail, most people hire an attorney who can. If you can't afford private counsel, apply to the Public Defender.

Warrants are forever. Either turn yourself into court and deal with it like should have been done originally, or risk being taken away in cuffs if you come in contact with police anywhere. Hire an attorney now to help you turn yourself in and defend you. If he can credibly show and convince the judge that you didn't know of the charges, court date or warrant at the time, it will minimize the penalties for the FTA and warrant, and will help you get OR or low bail, since you came in voluntarily when you did learn. He'll then deal with the criminal charges, with motions, or plea bargaining, or taking it to trial if appropriate. If you get serious about doing so, feel free to contact me.

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Answered on 10/20/10, 2:30 pm


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