Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Yes. Defendants typically are arrested before they're charged, but that is not required.

I agree with Mr. Hoffman. The district attorney can add or drop charges as the case progresses.

You�ll learn the actual charge[s] filed and any enhancements, priors, or violations alleged, and get copies of all the police reports and prosecutors� evidence when appearing for arraignment at the first court hearing. The charges actually filed by the prosecutor will determine how much �time� could potentially be imposed.

If you don't know how to represent yourself effectively against an experienced prosecutor intending to convict, then hire an attorney who does, who will try to get a dismissal, charge reduction, diversion, programs, or other decent outcome through motions, plea bargain, or take it to trial if appropriate. If serious about hiring counsel to help in this, and if this is in SoCal courts, feel free to contact me. I�ll be happy to help fight and get the best outcome possible, using whatever defenses and sympathies there may be.