Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Should lawyer be present for book and release?

On Wed I was at an arraignment for an arrest warrant that was issued for embezzlement which I did not commit. I was appointed a Public Defender at the arraignment. I was not arrested. And I learned of the warrant because the detective sent me an email about it 12 days after it was issued.

The judge ordered a ''book and release''. Is this standard? Should I have a lawyer present? How long should it take? What should I expect? It is scheduled for this afternoon. Should it be rescheduled? I called the Public Defenders office and left messages asking these questions and did not receive a return call as of Fri and their offices are closed on weekend.

I need some kind of insight please. I've never been in trouble with the law and now having to go through this because of false and malicious accusations is terrifying me.

Please help.


Asked on 12/07/08, 1:48 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys
OCEAN BEACH ASSOCIATES OCEAN BEACH ASSOCIATES

Re: Should lawyer be present for book and release?

If this matter has not been resolved contact me immediately.

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Answered on 12/16/08, 4:44 pm
George Moschopoulos The Law Office of George Moschopoulos

Re: Should lawyer be present for book and release?

Hire a lawyer as soon as possible. These are serious charges. As you can see, the Public Defender is not at your beck and call like a private attorney would be.

Feel free to contact us anytime if serious about hiring an attonrey.

George M.

www.NotGuiltyInCA.com

P. 714.904.1669

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Answered on 12/07/08, 3:25 pm
Jacek W. Lentz Law Offices of Jacek W. Lentz

Re: Should lawyer be present for book and release?

Unfortunately, public defenders will rarely return your phone calls. They get too much business to deal with . . .

Book and release is a good outcome for you. This means no bail. You do not need a lawyer. They will fingerprint you and release you. Do not discuss your case with anyone though.

Consider retaining private counsel if the public defender comes up short in his/her effort to defend you well. You do not want an embezzlement conviction on your record, especially if you have not committed the offense.

Hope this helps and feel free to contact me if you desire further consultation.

Jacek W. Lentz, Esq.

310.273.1361

www.lentzlawfirm.com

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Answered on 12/07/08, 3:35 pm


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