Facing criminal charges in Los Angeles can be a daunting experience. The legal system is complex, and the stakes are high. At Perlman & Cohen Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers, we understand the anxiety and uncertainty you may be feeling. Our team of experienced criminal defense lawyers is here to guide you through every step of the legal process, ensuring that your rights are protected, and your voice is heard. We are ready to go to battle for you and your loved ones!
At Perlman & Cohen Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers, an experienced Los Angeles Criminal Lawyer will be with you every step of the way. Learn more below, and contact us to schedule a free consultation.
The first step in your defense is a legal consultation with our criminal defense law firm. We'll listen to your story and assess your case during this meeting. We'll explain the charges against you and the potential consequences. Our goal is to provide a clear understanding of your legal situation and how we can help.
Our case evaluation is thorough and detailed. We consider all the facts and circumstances surrounding your case. This helps us identify strengths and weaknesses in the prosecution's case. We use this information to develop a strategic defense plan tailored to your needs.
Gathering evidence is a critical part of building your defense. We conduct our investigation, collecting facts and information that can support your case. This can include interviewing witnesses, reviewing police reports, and analyzing forensic evidence. Our meticulous approach ensures that we leave no stone unturned. When indicated, we employ the use of expert witnesses like doctors, accountants, forensic specialists, computer experts, investigators and psychologists to help even the odds against the prosecution.
We scrutinize the prosecution's evidence. We look for inconsistencies and weaknesses. Our team works diligently to challenge the prosecution's case at every turn. We believe in a proactive defense strategy that seeks to dismantle the opposition's case. Now, our Los Angeles criminal attorney can be your advocate in the criminal justice system
In some cases, an opportunity will present itself to work towards a deal for our clients. These are called plea bargains or negotiated settlements. Plea negotiations are a standard part of the criminal defense process in California, where we negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or penalties. We are often able to produce great results in this process by exposing poor police work or unreliable witnesses to the prosecutors we are working with. When they see we are serious and that we see the weakness in their case, the deals often improve dramatically. Our lawyers have the skills and experience to navigate these discussions effectively. We always aim to achieve the best possible outcome for you.
At times, a plea is possible whether we believe it is the best choice or not. We will always give you the best advice we can, but THE CLIENT is always in charge of the final decision. If you agree that a plea deal is in your best interest after a thorough discussion, we will still walk you through the entire process. Our goal is to ensure you make an informed decision. We negotiate aggressively to secure terms that are favorable to you. However, we are always prepared to go to trial if a satisfactory deal cannot be reached.
Securing bail and pre-trial release is an integral part of the defense process. We help you understand the bail process and work towards getting you released from custody. This includes representing you at bail hearings and negotiating for lower bail amounts.
We and the bonds company you choose will handle all the paperwork and ensure that all conditions are met. We advocate for your release so you can prepare for your case outside of jail. Our team understands the importance of being with your family during this challenging time and works diligently to make it happen.
If the conditions for your release cannot be met, we will make sure enough time is set aside to meet with you in jail to prepare for your case. Spending enough time with Clients, regardless of the setting, is fundamental to their defense.
The laws in Los Angeles, California, are complex and challenging to navigate without professional help. We ensure that you understand the charges against you and their legal implications. Our California criminal defense attorneys are here to fight for you.
Our lawyers are familiar with Los Angeles, CA criminal laws and court procedures having appeared thousands of times in all area courts.. We use this knowledge to build a strong defense for you. Our priority is to ensure you fully understand the charges against you and the potential outcomes. Count on our criminal law firm to be there for you.
The California Three Strikes Law which refers to Repeat Offenders can have a significant impact on your case if you’ve been in trouble in the past. Even if you do not have two prior strikes, even one strike can serve to double your potential sentence. Navigating the removal of strikes can be a critical part of your defense. This law increases penalties for repeat offenders. If you have prior convictions, a new felony conviction can lead to a longer prison sentence.
Understanding the Three Strikes Law is crucial for your defense. Our lawyers consider your prior convictions and how they might affect your current case. We develop strategies to mitigate the impact of this law on your sentencing. We aim to protect you from harsh penalties and ensure a fair trial.
Your Miranda rights are fundamental in a criminal case. You do not have to say anything that may incriminate you. Our lawyers ensure law enforcement respects these rights during your arrest and questioning.
The right to remain silent is a crucial defense tool. We advise you on when and how to exercise this right. Our team ensures that any statements you make are voluntary and informed. We protect you from self-incrimination and use your Miranda rights to strengthen your defense.
Your right to not be searched, your body, your car or your home, is often a serious issue in criminal arrests. The police are master manipulators and use every trick to convince you to give up this right in order to find evidence against you.
Our criminal defense team analyzes your case for possible illegal search and seizure which is the surest way to get a case dismissed.
You have the right to legal representation. This is one of the most essential rights in a criminal case. Our lawyers are here to represent you and defend your rights. We provide expert legal counsel from the moment you are charged. We guide you through the legal process, ensuring that your rights are protected at every step. Our lawyers advocate for you, both in and out of the courtroom. We are committed to providing the best possible defense.
When you are interrogated, questioned or otherwise encouraged to talk to the police or in a jail cell to an undercover officer or witness, challenges to the use of that information can be made on the grounds you were not given a lawyer at the right time.
You are presumed innocent until proven guilty. This principle guides our defense strategy. We remind the court that the burden of proof lies with the prosecution. Our team works tirelessly to maintain your presumption of innocence throughout your trial.
Challenging the prosecution's evidence is critical to upholding your innocence. We scrutinize their case for weaknesses and inconsistencies. Our lawyers argue that you cannot be found guilty without PROOF BEYOND A REASONABLE DOUBT. We defend your innocence vigorously, aiming for an acquittal or a favorable verdict.
The single most common arrest and criminal case in Southern California is a DUI. In fact, in just Los Angeles County there are approximately 27,000 DUI arrests every year.
Driving under the influence (DUI) cases requires specialized knowledge. Our lawyers understand the technicalities of DUI laws and tests. Not only do we challenge the validity of blood alcohol content (BAC) tests and field sobriety tests, but we start with analysis of the legality of the stop. If needed, we scrutinize hours of audio, video and other evidence to determine whether a proper challenge to the traffic stop or arrest may be mounted. The penalties for driving under the influence vary depending on how many DUI convictions you have in the past ten years. Still, they usually include a mandatory license suspension, fines, alcohol education, and possible jail time.
Some of these penalties are administrative and are handled by the Department of Motor Vehicles in a specialized hearing, while the remaining are in the criminal courts. Our team is well experienced in both venues where we have won countless hearings.
A little discussed consequence involves your auto insurance company. A DUI conviction often leads to a 300% increase in the cost of your policy which can last up to ten years. For many, jus this aspect of suffering a DUI conviction can be a $30,000 expense.
Domestic violence or Spousal Battery cases are sensitive and complex. We handle these cases with care and discretion. Our defense strategies consider the nuances of domestic relationships. We aim to protect your rights while ensuring a fair and respectful process. The penalties vary depending on the statute under which the offense is charged, but many are detailed under California PC 273.5 (inflicting corporal injury on an intimate partner) and California PC 243(e)(1) (domestic battery)
Our goals for our clients in these cases varies greatly depending on the state of the domestic relationship. For some, a conviction can mean the loss of a job, custody over a child, the right to remain in the united states, and almost always affects the right to possess a firearm for the rest of one’s life. These cases are often among our most challenging because of the serious consequences, even when jail isn’t a concern. As a result, we work with experts and put together a tailored strategy to help ease the concerns of the court and prosecutors to help our clients avoid such life-altering convictions.
Theft crimes range from petty theft to grand larceny. From shoplifting to uttering bad checks, to fraud. Fraud can come in many categories, including medical, bank, mortgage, credit card, and many others. Even the smallest crime here, shoplifting can be elevated to a serious violent felony (a strike), if any kind of struggle ensues. (This is called an Estes Robbery)
Theft crimes in California are covered under penal codes such as:
We understand the various degrees of theft charges and the defenses available. Our team works to reduce or dismiss the charges against you. We focus on protecting your future and reputation.
Burglary charges are of course serious and carry significant penalties on their own, but, burglaries can often turn into something much worse when someone surprises the burglars. The laws governing what turns a burglary into a robbery, a home invasion or hot prowl can change a somewhat serious case into a deadly serious case in an instant. Burglary is covered under California PC 459.
Our defense strategies challenge the evidence against you and even the presentation of some doubt over a minor allegation can make a world of difference in the outcome of such a case. We question the intent and circumstances of the alleged burglary, where the evidence has come from and the angle it is being presented in.
Sex crime allegations can have lasting impacts on your life including life-time nationwide registration as a convicted sex offender. Public databases allow people to look up specific addresses of sex offenders and see their conviction, a recent photo and details about their crimes. Sex crimes are covered under a variety of California penal codes, including:
We handle these cases with sensitivity and assertiveness with the goal of keeping our clients from suffering these lifetime registration requirements. Our lawyers challenge any unfounded accusations and protect your rights. We focus on maintaining your privacy and dignity throughout the legal process. The penalties vary depending on the type of sexual assault, but convictions for rape, sexual assault, child pornography and the like can lead to significant prison sentences.
Drug crime defense requires an understanding of both state and federal laws. We challenge the legality of searches and seizures in these cases. Our team works to mitigate the consequences of drug charges. We aim for reduced sentences or alternative rehabilitation programs.
There are significant differences between types of drugs as well as the quantity of the narcotic involved in your case. Likewise, producing and manufacturing are more serious charges than simple possession, and sales, transportation and distribution usually lie somewhere in between.
Drug crimes are covered under a variety of California laws. For example, possession of a controlled substance is detailed under Health & Safety Code § 11350(a) HS. For example, the most common drug arrests include the below substances in roughly those categories:
Again, the intent of the possession and the quantity will be significant factors in how serious the charges will be and whether the case will be moved to Federal District Court. In some cases, we could get your charges dismissed following the successful completion of a PC 1000 Drug Diversion Program.
The geography of where the alleged crime occurred along with the factors outlined above play a significant role in whether the case will be tried in State or Superior Court or whether the Federal Government will assume jurisdiction and leave you or your loved one facing federal drug charges in Federal District Court. If they do, you are likely facing Federal Drug Conspiracy Charges. In California, there are four such districts (Northern, Eastern, Central and Southern). If you already know you are dealing with Federal Drug Charges, Daniel Perlman can assist you directly.
Restraining orders are granted by the court to protect individuals from harm. They can be a part of domestic violence cases or other types of disputes. Our lawyers help you understand the implications of restraining orders. We assist in both obtaining and contesting restraining orders.
Restraining orders can have significant legal and personal consequences. We guide you through the process, ensuring your rights are protected. Whether you need to secure a restraining order for protection or defend against one, our team has the expertise to assist you. We handle these matters with the seriousness and sensitivity they deserve.
After an arrest, you will go through booking procedures. This includes fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information. Our lawyers are available to assist you from the moment of your arrest. We ensure that your rights are respected during the booking process.
All too often, the call from family is too late to intervene at the police station or detention center. Our goal is to always stop questioning. Your quick call from the scene of arrest can allow us to avoid or interrupt aggressive police interrogations. Perhaps 80% of our felony clients would never need a lawyer if they didn’t speak to the police.
At the arraignment, the charges will be read against you. Our lawyers provide counsel on how to plead. With rare exception, we will waive the reading of your charges, and enter a plea of not-guilty at your arraignment denying all allegations. This is the beginning of your defense. If your release or a reasonable bail is not granted at this time, a bail hearing will be scheduled in the next several days. We advocate for your release on reasonable terms, arguing for reduced bail or to be OR’d released on your own recognizance. When bail is denied or unreasonable, we work with your bond company to prepare to argue for your release at the bond hearing.
Pre-trial investigations are crucial for building your defense. We gather evidence, interview witnesses, and review police reports. Our lawyers leave no stone unturned in preparing your case. We ensure we have all the necessary information to mount a strong defense.
As discussed before, this is often the phase of the case to get experts involved. The most common expert we utilize is a private investigator. The ones we work with are often retired law enforcement with significant experience with serious criminal investigations from the prosecution’s point of view. This can lend a critical hand to understanding where mistakes may have been made and can even make conversations with the prosecution and their officers more open and effective. Many other types of experts may be brought in depending on the needs of the case.
Court proceedings are where your case is presented and contested. We prepare meticulously for every court date and hearing so that if and when you are facing trial we are already focussed on the most important details in order to develop a comprehensive defense strategy. Our lawyers are skilled at arguing cases before a judge and jury. We focus on presenting your case persuasively, always aiming for acquittal when possible.
If convicted or if you plead guilty, the sentencing phase determines your penalties. Our law office works to minimize the impact of sentencing. We advocate for alternatives to incarceration, such as probation or rehabilitation programs. Our goal is to reduce the long-term consequences of a conviction on your life. The methods for preparing mitigation in sentencing vary along with the facts of your case, but ultimately we are focussed on convincing the judge that it would be unjust to treat you like the average defendant in such a case. We want the judge to see you to be less culpable for the behavior you have been found guilty of than the average defendant.
Our Los Angeles criminal defense team at Perlman & Cohen stands out for several reasons.
There are no rookie chefs in our kitchen. With nearly 20 years each of criminal defense experience, our attorneys will not leave you without the experienced and professional guidance you need.
Our legal team is composed of experienced and dedicated attorneys. We bring our skills and knowledge to every case. Our lawyers are passionate about criminal defense and fight tirelessly for our clients. We work together to build the most robust possible defense for you.
Our attorneys have extensive experience in the Los Angeles legal system. We understand the local courts, judges, and prosecutors. This local knowledge is invaluable in navigating the complexities of your case. While the majority of our work is within the courts of Los Angeles County, we have significant experience throughout the surrounding counties San Bernardino County, Ventura County, Riverside County, Orange County as well as in San Diego and Santa Barbara, and across the state.
We have a proven, long, and storied track record of success in criminal defense cases. Our history of favorable verdicts and settlements speaks to our ability to handle complex legal challenges. Lawyers should never attempt to sway a potential client by discussing previous wins or records at trial, but our past customers' reviews found online certainly speak volumes about our results.
Our clients' testimonials reflect our commitment to excellence in criminal defense. They often highlight our dedication, professionalism, and the positive outcomes we've achieved. These testimonials testify to our client's trust in us and the hard work we put into every case.
At Perlman & Cohen, we believe in a personalized approach to legal defense. We understand that each case is unique and requires individual attention. Our lawyers take the time to understand your specific situation and tailor our legal strategies to your needs.
Our firm and attorneys have received numerous awards and recognition for our criminal defense work. These accolades reflect our expertise, dedication, and commitment to our clients. We are proud of these achievements as they underscore our position as a leading criminal defense firm in Los Angeles.
If you or a loved one needs the assistance of our criminal law attorneys, please feel free to contact us in the way that is most convenient to you, whether that is calling us at (310) 557-1700 or completing the contact form below. All fields are required.
