Criminal Defense Attorney North Hills, CA

Criminal-Defense-Lawyer

If you’re facing criminal charges in California, having an experienced and knowledgeable lawyer to defend you and argue your case can impact your freedom and rights. With so much at risk, you need to be able to trust your attorney to provide a vigorous defense on your behalf. This is why your choice of a criminal defense lawyer in North Hills is one you shouldn’t take lightly.

Understanding Criminal Charges

Local, state, and federal governments adopt and enforce criminal statutes. In California, crimes are broken down into two major categories. Less serious offenses are classified as misdemeanors, while more serious offenses are considered felonies.

When a prosecutor decides to file criminal charges, the defendant is either summoned to court or placed under arrest. The charges are read to the defendant in an arraignment, a formal court appearance in which the defendant enters a plea.

At this point, discovery occurs. The prosecutor and the defense exchange evidence and documentation. Motions may be filed wherein either side requests the judge to take a particular action. Negotiations and plea bargains can occur at this stage. 

Following jury selection, the case goes to trial, and a verdict will be rendered by either the judge or the jury. Sentencing follows a guilty verdict, which the defendant has the right to appeal.

At any point between the arraignment and the delivery of a verdict, the prosecution and defense may enter into a plea agreement.

Cases We Handle

The Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling can help clients facing a variety of misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

Our legal team brings over two decades of experience to every case we handle and offers personalized attention every step of the way.

Role of a Criminal Defense Lawyer in North Hills

Your criminal defense attorney plays a critical role in the outcome of your case. By thoroughly assessing your case, gathering information and evidence, and analyzing the situation, your lawyer will build a foundation of knowledge to provide a strong defense for your case. They’ll help you fully understand what’s happening. They’ll keep you updated as your case develops and always work in your best interest, striving for the most favorable outcome possible.

The most important thing you can do when facing criminal charges is contact an experienced North Hills criminal defense lawyer immediately. Early intervention provides the greatest opportunity for your attorney to take actions that can fundamentally alter the outcome of your case, including having the charges against you reduced or dismissed.

Get Help from a North Hills Criminal Defense Lawyer

The Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling focuses on high-stakes criminal cases. We have significant local knowledge and experience and provide detailed, individualized attention to our clients. Contact us today for a free consultation with a criminal defense lawyer in North Hills, California.