Legal Question in Criminal Law in California
possession of controlled substance
what will hapen after i plead not guilty
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: possession of controlled substance
You'll either negotiate a plea bargain at one of the hearings you face, or you'll go to trial. If you don't already know the answer to that question, you're definitely going to need legal help defending against the charges. You're going up against an experienced and professional prosecutor who's job is to put you in jail. If this is in SoCal courts, and if you're serious about getting legal help, feel free to contact me.
Re: possession of controlled substance
If you plead not guilty, nothing happens. The case goes on to either preliminary hearing or trial whatever the case may be.
The only time you ever plead guilty is when you have consulted with a lawyer who reviewed your case and he/she advised that you should plead guilty because you do not have a very good case and there is a good plea bargain deal on the table. That is the only time you plead guilty ever.
Do not attempt to represent yourself. Always a bad idea. If you cannot afford private counsel, a public defender will be appointed for you.
Jacek W. Lentz, Esq.
310.273.1361
www.lentzlawfirm.com