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Defending The Rights Of Individuals Facing Drug Possession Charges
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office takes allegations of drug possession against individuals seriously, and you need an experienced and respected criminal defense attorney protecting your freedom and your rights. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office monitors and investigates controlled substance violations throughout Los Angeles County and the surrounding jurisdictions. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office’s established Narcotics Division investigates reported and alleged drug possession violations.
An investigation and/or criminal prosecution by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office can threaten an individual’s professional reputation and freedom. During the investigative stage, an experienced criminal defense attorney can assist the individual by responding to an inquiry from the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. This response may be in writing and/or in person during an investigative interview. With experienced defense counsel an effective response may result in the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office’s Narcotics Division closing the investigation without a formal filing.
The financial and emotional costs of a formal criminal filing can be overwhelming, and can tarnish a career given that the filing and charges of the individual’s violations are publicly available because criminal charges are posted to the Los Angeles County court system, published in the media, and accessible through the online court system. Even if the allegations are later disproven, the damaging effect may linger.
It is important to retain an experienced criminal defense attorney early. At Spodek Law Group, we understand the complexities of defending an individual’s freedom. Whether your legal problem arises from a criminal investigation, a filing by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, or a police inquiry we can assist you in protecting your employment and freedom.
Our office is experienced defending individuals facing criminal prosecution(s) due to the following allegations:
Individuals are required to cooperate with criminal investigations when served with a court order or when contacted by law enforcement. Any false statement to law enforcement can result in additional criminal charges. A law enforcement investigator will follow-up in writing requesting additional information if necessary and/or may request an interview.
The Los Angeles Police Department may become involved in cases involving drug possession offenses. Detectives from the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office and LAPD have authority to investigate violations that may constitute criminal offenses.
At Spodek Law Group we evaluate the best course of action for the individual by examining your circumstances and taking a proactive, understanding approach. As experienced criminal defense attorneys, we represent individuals at all phases of the Criminal Proceedings including:
At Spodek Law Group, we also assist individuals with Petitions for Diversion Programs or Alternative Sentencing which have been previously denied. We pride ourselves on taking a comprehensive strategy to defend the individual’s freedom.
Depending on the individual’s circumstance, the defense strategy may include:
Requesting a meeting with the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office and/or law enforcement to present evidence to either refute the allegation that possession occurred or mitigate the degree of charges;
Retaining appropriate experts in the issues at hand;
Retaining a defense investigator to interview any witnesses, issue subpoenas of relevant records, secure computer meta data, evaluate the scene or evidence;
Developing a constitutional defense if Fourth Amendment violations are at issue. This may include documentation showing illegal searches and reasonable expectations of privacy; or if necessary recommend negotiating a diversion resolution to address any criminal liability;
Creating a mitigation strategy for sentencing. Sometimes in our lives we suffer personal hardships, substance abuse issues, situational stress, or even just go through an extended period of difficulty. In these instances, an individual is not in need of criminal prosecution by the government, they need understanding and context;
Assisting the individual with gathering the necessary mitigation documents to support a defense package and/or prepare for trial with the Los Angeles County Superior Court.
An investigation with or without a letter stating that the matter had been closed – not considered formal charges.
A Criminal Complaint with or without a summons.
Criminal charges filed by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. This is a legal filing that will be made public via the court system.
Diversion Program acceptance. A type of resolution for eligible offenders resulting in dismissal.
Probation. A period of time whereby a defendant is subject to restrictions by the Court. The defendant is allowed to continue with supervised release.
County Jail Sentence. A defendant will serve time in custody, potentially for substantial time.
Can I Represent Myself Before Los Angeles County Superior Court?
You can represent yourself before the Los Angeles County Superior Court. However, doing so is rarely in your best interests. Under California law, you have a right to be represented by an attorney throughout the investigation and criminal process.
Criminal investigations are a formal process that often culminates in criminal charges, which may include being put on probation or having your freedom taken by imprisonment. In some cases, an investigation may even lead to substantial time in custody. Legal representation can be crucial to protecting your freedom and your future.
The mission of the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, in part, is to prosecute criminal offenses. While members of the prosecution team may be professionals, they are not your friends. During investigations and criminal proceedings, their goals generally do not align with yours.
What Should I Do If I’m Under Investigation?
If you learn that you are under investigation by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, you should consult with a criminal defense lawyer to evaluate the best strategy for your matter. If an investigator from LAPD or the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office reaches out, you should politely refuse to speak to them until your attorney can be present.
As tempting as it may be, do not contact the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office to try to explain the situation. Anything that you say to law enforcement or prosecutors could be used against you in a criminal prosecution or a civil proceeding.
What Are the Timelines?
If you receive a criminal complaint, you must respond within the specified timeframe. This deadline is typically within a short period and cannot be extended.
Investigation timelines vary. Initial review typically requires substantial time. Complex investigations may add additional months. Serious cases can extend beyond one year.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office’s drug enforcement is described as aggressive and ongoing.
Los Angeles and the Los Angeles County Superior Court present unique challenges. The judges who preside over these matters in Los Angeles have extensive experience with drug cases.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office maintains coordination with LAPD and other law enforcement agencies. Criminal prosecutions often proceed simultaneously with administrative actions.
Individuals in Los Angeles face prosecution in multiple venues including the Los Angeles County Superior Court and various courthouse locations throughout the county. Criminal charges can end careers in this competitive market.
Todd Spodek has represented individuals and professionals for over a decade. The firm understands the complexities of California criminal law and sentencing procedures.
Criminal investigations require immediate attention. Most matters have strict deadlines that cannot be extended. Early intervention often produces better outcomes.
Time is critical. Criminal deadlines cannot be extended. Early intervention often produces better outcomes.
Contact Spodek Law Group at 212-300-5196. The office maintains 24-hour availability for urgent matters.
Your freedom and professional reputation represent years of work and substantial investment. Protecting them requires experienced representation familiar with Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office procedures and California criminal law.
212-300-5196
Very diligent, organized associates; got my case dismissed. Hard working attorneys who can put up with your anxiousness. I was accused of robbing a gemstone dealer. Definitely A law group that lays out all possible options and best alternative routes. Recommended for sure.
- ROBIN, GUN CHARGES ROBIN
NJ CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEYS