Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer

When you contact Perlman & Cohen Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers, we’ll take the time to listen to your story, discuss the charges you’re facing, and explain the potential consequences. We’ll also answer your questions and help you understand what to expect as your case moves forward.

Once you hire our firm, we’ll begin evaluating the facts and circumstances surrounding your charges. We’ll consider the legal issues involved, discuss possible approaches to your defense, and determine what steps should be taken next. Our goal is to provide straightforward advice so you know where things stand and how we intend to proceed.

Gathering evidence is a critical part of building your defense. We will begin investigating your case as soon as we’re hired, collecting facts and information that can support your defense. This can include interviewing witnesses, reviewing police reports, and analyzing forensic evidence.

When appropriate, we work with private investigators and specialists in fields such as pathology, toxicology, accident reconstruction, digital evidence, accounting, and psychology. The professionals involved depend on the needs of each case.

We also scrutinize the prosecution’s evidence, recognizing that an arrest or criminal charge doesn’t necessarily mean the investigation was conducted properly. We look for inconsistencies, weaknesses, and potential investigative errors. Our findings help us determine which aspects of the case to challenge and whether to pursue negotiations or prepare for trial.

Many criminal cases in California are resolved through negotiations with prosecutors rather than at trial. A plea agreement may involve reduced charges, lesser penalties, or both.

Our attorneys will assess any plea offers and negotiate terms based on the circumstances of your case. We’ll explain the potential benefits and consequences of accepting an agreement, as well as the alternatives available to you.

We will provide honest advice, but the final decision is always yours. If you choose to accept a plea agreement, we’ll walk you through the process, even if we recommended a different course of action.

If negotiations do not lead to an acceptable resolution, we’ll be prepared to defend you at trial.

If your case goes to court, you need an attorney with the experience to defend you before a judge and jury. Our trial lawyers will scrutinize the prosecution’s case, challenge questionable testimony, and address legal issues that could affect the proceedings. We’ll present your case clearly and persuasively, with the goal of securing a favorable verdict.

Preparation for trial begins well before a jury is selected. Even when a negotiated resolution is possible, our attorneys will consider what may be needed in court, from prepping witnesses and evaluating expert testimony to filing appropriate motions. Being prepared for trial also puts us in a stronger position if negotiations fail.

Securing bail and pretrial release can be an important part of the defense process. We will help you understand your options and work toward securing your release from custody. This may include representing you at bail hearings and requesting lower bail amounts.

We will coordinate with your chosen bail bond company, when applicable, and assist with the necessary paperwork. We recognize how important it is to be with your family during this difficult time and will advocate for your release while your criminal case is pending.

If you remain in custody, we’ll make time to meet with you in jail to discuss your case and prepare for upcoming proceedings. Maintaining communication with our clients, regardless of whether they are in custody, is an important part of our approach to representation.