Legal Advice on Criminal Court

Arraignment. This is the first Court date, held in room 404 of the Criminal Justice Center. It is a simple, but necessary procedure. Here, the court gives notice of the precise charges which have... more

Determine if you are eligible. Certain categories of people who have been arrested may be eligible for an expunction. If you have been arrested for an offense and were acquitted (found not guilty)... more

The Problem with Civil Restraining Orders in California. It is easy to file wild accusations of domestic violence, even totally false ones. It is today's best "Gotcha". It is free. It is permanent... more

Your first court appearance. First Appearance is also called a probable cause hearing or 24 hour hearing. Usually within the first 24 hours of your arrest, you will appear before a judge or you may... more

Complete Probation. When you are convicted of a misdemeanor, the court will normally impose a period of informal probation. This period can be for 1, 2 or even 3 years. Generally, the purpose of... more

This is a simple guide as to what to expect in your first trip to criminal court, with or without an attorney. You have been arrested and may be in custody or may be reporting to court as ordered by... more

Your Contact Information. Be ready to give the court your name, current address, current telephone number, and similar information.

There are times when searches can be performed without a court ordered search warrant. These are called warrantless searches and it's the most common type of search conducted by law enforcement. The... more

An arrest warrant is an official order issued by a court that authorizes the arrest or detention of a person accused of a crime. In order for an arrest warrant to be issued, there must be a sworn... more

Know the Rules About Changing Lawyers. You can always fire your private lawyer and hire a new one without the court's approval. You can always replace a court-appointed lawyer (public defender,... more