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Criminal defense

Criminal Defense Lawyer in Los Angeles

Being accused of a crime affects far more than a court file. It can touch your job, your family, your immigration status and your peace of mind. Criminal defense is the work of protecting your rights and your future at each stage of that process.

  • Investigations, arrests and filed charges
  • Misdemeanor, felony and DUI matters
  • Courts across Los Angeles County

What a criminal defense attorney actually does

The prosecution has to prove its case. A defense attorney’s role is to test that case: to examine how the evidence was gathered, whether your rights were respected, whether witnesses are reliable, and whether the facts support the charge that was filed.

That work happens well before any trial. Much of it is reading reports, requesting recordings and records, filing motions, speaking with the prosecutor, and preparing you for each hearing so nothing comes as a surprise.

How a criminal case usually moves in California

  1. Investigation. Police or investigators gather information. You may be contacted for an interview or not know you are a suspect at all.
  2. Arrest or citation. You may be arrested and booked, or released with a citation and a date to appear in court.
  3. Filing decision. A prosecutor reviews the reports and decides whether to file charges, which charges, and whether as a misdemeanor or felony.
  4. Arraignment. Your first court appearance, where charges are read, a plea is entered and release conditions may be addressed.
  5. Pretrial. Evidence is exchanged, motions may be filed, and the defense and prosecution may discuss resolution.
  6. Resolution. A case can be dismissed, resolved by agreement, or decided at trial. Each path has different consequences worth understanding.

What gets reviewed in your case

  • The police report and any inconsistencies within it
  • Body-worn camera, dash camera and surveillance video
  • The legal basis for any stop, detention, search or arrest
  • How statements were obtained and whether rights were explained
  • Lab testing, chain of custody and forensic procedure
  • Witness accounts and the reliability of identification
  • Collateral consequences such as employment, licensing or immigration concerns

Bring every document you received: citations, bail paperwork, property receipts and court notices. Small details in paperwork can matter.

What you can do right now

  • Do not discuss the facts of your case with anyone except your attorney, including friends, family and coworkers.
  • Do not post about the incident or the investigation on social media.
  • Write down your own timeline while your memory is fresh, and keep it private.
  • Keep every court date. Missing court can create new problems.
  • Contact a criminal defense attorney before speaking with police or prosecutors.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a lawyer if I think the case is minor?
Even lower-level charges can carry consequences beyond the courtroom, such as effects on employment, professional licenses or immigration. A consultation can help you understand what is actually at stake before you decide.
Will my case go to trial?
Many criminal cases resolve before trial, but every case is prepared as though it might be tried. That preparation is often what creates options.
Can charges be reduced or dismissed?
Sometimes, depending on the evidence, the procedure followed and the specific circumstances. No attorney can promise a particular outcome, but a careful review identifies what is realistic.

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Free, confidential consultation

Call 818-400-0293 or email Asya@Ovsepyan-Law.com. Office: 15303 Ventura Blvd., Suite 900, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403.