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Facing criminal charges in Woodland Hills is serious business. The consequences of a conviction can be far-reaching, even once you have paid the penalty. Protecting yourself should be your top priority if you’re accused of breaking the law. Getting an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side is the first step.
Reach out to the Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling. Firm founder Justin Sterling has over two decades of experience successfully defending Californians in criminal cases in state and federal courts. Our legal team understands the stakes are high for anyone accused of a crime. We work vigorously to secure results that preserve your rights, freedom, and future. Contact us today for a free case review.
The Role of a Criminal Defense Lawyer
A criminal defense attorney performs multiple critical roles during the prosecution of your criminal case, such as:
- Explaining the charges and the potential outcomes of your case
- Advising you on whether to speak with investigators and overseeing the questioning process if you do
- Independently investigating the case to obtain all available evidence
- Challenging the state’s case at every step, including filing motions to exclude evidence or to reduce/dismiss your charges due to insufficient evidence
- Working with expert witnesses to prepare a compelling defense strategy
- Zealously representing you if the case goes to trial
Common Types of Evidence for Your Criminal Case
To obtain a conviction, prosecutors must prove your case beyond a reasonable doubt. Meeting that standard requires compelling evidence. The defense has no obligation to prove anything. Many defense strategies focus on presenting evidence that contradicts or identifies holes in the prosecution’s case.
Depending on your charges, the prosecution will need different kinds of evidence to prove their case. Common types of evidence used in criminal cases include:
- Arrest reports
- The arresting officer’s testimony
- Eyewitness testimony
- Physical evidence, such as fingerprints or forensic evidence
- Crime scene photos
- Surveillance camera or bodycam footage
- Cell phone records
- Intercepted phone calls, texts, or other electronic messages
California Criminal Defense Process
The criminal defense process begins with your attorney undertaking a detailed investigation to identify all available defenses and develop strategies to help you obtain a favorable outcome in your case. Depending on your charges and the facts, defense strategies may involve presenting evidence that proves you did not commit the crime, such as:
- A solid alibi
- Proof that you acted in self-defense
- Challenges to the reliability of the prosecution’s evidence
Before trial, your criminal defense attorney may file motions to exclude some of the prosecution’s evidence on the grounds of inadmissibility, unreliability, or the fact that the police obtained the evidence by violating your constitutional rights. If the prosecution still has overwhelming evidence of your guilt, your attorney can work to negotiate a plea deal that allows you to avoid the harshest consequences of a conviction.
If the case proceeds to trial, your criminal defense attorney will contest every aspect of the prosecution’s case and present compelling evidence to prove that you did not commit the crime.
Contact Our Woodland Hills Criminal Defense Lawyer
Don’t leave your future up to chance or unfair treatment in court. Contact the Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling today for a free consultation with a tough and trusted criminal defense attorney in Woodland Hills.
