Criminal Defense in Los Angeles
Protecting Your Rights, Your Freedom, and Your Future
At the Kosnett Law Firm, we understand how overwhelming and intimidating it is to face criminal charges. Whether you are under investigation or have already been arrested and charged, the stakes are high. Your reputation, your livelihood, and even your freedom may be on the line. You are not alone—and you are not powerless. With the right legal representation, you can challenge the charges against you and protect your rights throughout the criminal justice process.
Our Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys are dedicated to standing between our clients and the full force of the government. We aggressively defend individuals charged with all types of criminal offenses in state and federal courts across Southern California. If you are facing criminal charges, your first step should be to speak with an experienced and knowledgeable defense lawyer who can advise you on how to proceed and what to expect.
Here is what we want you to know if you have been arrested or charged with a crime in California.
You Are Presumed Innocent Until Proven Guilty
In our justice system, the presumption of innocence is a fundamental principle. This means that the government must prove your guilt—it is not your responsibility to prove your innocence. Prosecutors must present evidence that convinces a unanimous jury of every element of the charged offense beyond a reasonable doubt. This is a high standard, and for good reason: your liberty is at stake.
As criminal defense attorneys, it is our job to hold the prosecution to that burden. We scrutinize the evidence, challenge illegal police procedures, and expose the weaknesses in the case against you. In some situations, we may be able to have charges reduced or dismissed before a case even goes to trial. In others, we fight for acquittal in the courtroom or negotiate favorable plea agreements that avoid harsh penalties. Whatever your case demands, we work tirelessly to obtain the best possible outcome for you.
You Have Rights—Use Them
The Constitution gives you important rights when you are accused of a crime. Two of the most powerful rights you can exercise are the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. When police question you, they are not doing it to help you—they are building a case against you. Anything you say can be used against you in court, with your words often out of context or used in ways you never intended.
Invoking your right to remain silent protects you from making statements that could hurt your defense. Asking for a lawyer ensures that someone with legal knowledge and experience is there to represent your interests and prevent your rights from being violated. The earlier a lawyer gets involved in your case, the more options you may have and the stronger your defense can be.
At the Kosnett Law Firm, we urge anyone contacted by police or charged with a crime to contact us before speaking to investigators. Even if you believe you’ve done nothing wrong or want to explain your side of the story, it’s always safer to have an attorney guide you through the process.
The Criminal Case Process in California
Criminal proceedings in California follow a series of steps, each with its own procedures and potential impact on the outcome of your case. You are entitled to legal advice and representation at every stage of a proceeding, and we urge you to take advantage of that right. Here’s an overview of what to expect:
1. Investigation and Arrest
A criminal case often begins with a police investigation. Officers may gather evidence, interview witnesses, or conduct surveillance. If they believe there is probable cause, they can make an arrest, with or without a warrant. After an arrest, you may be booked and held in custody until your first court appearance. An attorney can arrange the circumstances surrounding an arrest, influence what charges are filed, or keep you from making statements that could hurt your case.
2. Arraignment
This is your first appearance before a judge. You will be formally notified of the charges against you and asked to enter a plea—usually “not guilty” at this stage. The court will also address bail and conditions of release. Your lawyer can help here to get you released with little or no cash bail required.
3. Pretrial Proceedings
During the pretrial phase, both the defense and prosecution gather and exchange evidence. Motions may be filed to suppress illegally obtained evidence, dismiss charges, or compel the prosecution to turn over crucial information. This is a critical stage where a skilled defense attorney can weaken the government’s case or uncover defenses that lead to dismissal or reduced charges.
4. Negotiations and Plea Bargaining
In many cases, the prosecution and defense may negotiate a plea agreement. This might involve pleading to a lesser charge or receiving a reduced sentence in exchange for avoiding trial. Whether to accept a plea deal is a decision made by the client, but your attorney will provide guidance on the risks and benefits of all options.
5. Trial
If your case goes to trial, both sides will present their arguments, examine and cross-examine witnesses, and make their case before a jury or judge. Remember, the prosecution must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. A strong defense strategy can raise that doubt and lead to a not-guilty verdict.
6. Sentencing
If you are convicted, the judge will impose a sentence based on a range of factors, including the nature of the offense, your criminal history, and the circumstances of the case. Your attorney can advocate for a lighter sentence by presenting mitigating factors and alternative sentencing options.
7. Appeals and Post-Conviction Relief
Even after a conviction, there may be ways to challenge the outcome. We handle appeals, motions for a new trial, and petitions for post-conviction relief when appropriate.
Possible Defenses to Criminal Charges
Every case is different, and the best defense strategy depends on the specific facts. That said, several common defenses may apply, including:
- Lack of evidence: The prosecution cannot meet its burden of proof.
- Mistaken identity: You were not the person who committed the alleged offense.
- Self-defense: You acted to protect yourself or someone else.
- Illegal search and seizure: Police violated your Fourth Amendment rights.
- Entrapment: Law enforcement induced you to commit a crime you otherwise would not have committed.
- Alibi: You were elsewhere at the time of the crime.
- Lack of intent: The state cannot prove you intended to commit the offense you are charged with.
Our team carefully examines all available evidence and interviews witnesses to determine the strongest path forward. In many cases, we work with private investigators or expert witnesses to build a compelling defense.
Why Choose the Kosnett Law Firm?
Our firm has built a strong reputation for providing personalized, results-driven representation in even the most serious criminal cases. We combine in-depth knowledge of California criminal law with a client-centered approach. When you work with us, you can expect honest advice, clear communication, and unwavering dedication to your defense.
We represent clients charged with a wide range of crimes, including:
- Drug offenses
- Theft and burglary
- Domestic violence
- Assault and battery
- White collar crimes
- DUI and traffic violations
- Sex crimes
- Weapons charges
- Juvenile offenses
- Federal crimes
Contact Us Today
If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges in Los Angeles or the surrounding areas, don’t wait. The sooner you have a skilled attorney on your side, the more we can do to help. Contact the Kosnett Law Firm today for a confidential consultation.
