Being accused with a crime is a very stressful experience. It is crucial to hire an attorney that has the experience, skill and desire to help you in this stressful time, as even a charge that seems not as serious can have an impact upon your life.

I use the experience and skill gained as a prosecutor and years as a defense attorney to know every angle the prosecution will try to use against you and will not hesitate to go to trial on your charge.

In San Diego, California, a case typically flows through a series of court appearances which include:

Arraignment

The Court provides the Charging Document and a plea of not guilty is entered.

Negotiation Stage

Depending upon which jurisdiction your case is in this stage is either done in court or via communications with the prosecutor.

Misdemeanor Trial

If the offense is a misdemeanor and no negotiation is reached a trial will proceed. 

Preliminary Hearing

If the offense is a felony and no negotiation is reached a preliminary hearing will proceed. At this hearing the Court will hear evidence and arguments and determine whether there is enough probable cause for the case to be decided at trial by a jury.

Jury Trial

A jury of your peers will hear the evidence as presented and arguments and decide guilt.

Every stage of defending a criminal case is delicate and complex and should be handled by an attorney that is prepared both in skill and experience. If you are in need of a criminal defense team to help guide you through the murky waters of the legal system then pick up the phone a call Zentz & Zentz today!