What Happens After an Arrest in California? - Answered by San Diego Defense Attorney

After being arrested and facing criminal charges in California, there are important things to know and understand regarding the process in order to adequately prepare yourself just in case it happens. You may be in an unknown and unfamiliar situation, and are most likely scared and confused while considering your options and next steps. Knowing that you have a support system and an attorney you can depend on to fight for your best interest is the first step to handling this situation successfully. You may have just been arrested, released on bail or researching on behalf of a loved one who was recently arrested. Regardless of your situation and your current status in relation to the legal process, Attorney Ashby Sorensen is here to support you and offer the strongest defense possible. There are many steps involved in handling a criminal case and he strives to prepare you with the knowledge of what to expect, and the answers you need to successfully combat each step.

Initial Attorney Consultation 

Your initial consultation is vital in retaining the representation your case needs, and offering relevant information so your attorney can adequately understand your matter. Together you will thoroughly discuss the details of your matter and review possible options that support your best interest. Attorney Ashby Sorensen prides himself in being open, honest and trustworthy with his clients to create a relationship that can successfully work towards ideal outcomes.

First Appearance/Arraignment

After you are arrested you will have a first appearance, or arraignment, in front of the judge. At this appearance you will hear the formal charges the prosecution has decided to place against you. It is important to obtain an attorney prior to your first appearance considering measures can often be taken prior to arraignment on your behalf in an effort to lessen your charges. You will also state your plea, whether guilty or not guilty and bail will be discussed in terms of availability and amount, if offered.

Pre-Trial Hearings 

Once a plea has been entered and bail has been set the court will schedule a pre-trial hearing. During this hearing the attorneys will discuss the possibility of settling and what the terms of that agreement are comprised of. This may include terms such as a guilty plea with an offered amount of probation to be served instead of jail time, or something similar. Discussing these possibilities and outcomes with your attorney is critical at this stage in order to negotiate the most feasible and ideal result.

Contact a San Diego Defense Attorney to Defend You After an Arrest

Attorney Ashby Sorensen is a trusted defense attorney will the knowledge and experience to aggressively defend your rights and act in your best interest. Through every step of the legal process after an arrest, he will defend you and your case with the focus it deserves. Call (858) 999-6921 now for your free consultation and protect your rights and freedom today.