Criminal Lawyer in Beverly Hills

Finding the right criminal lawyer in Beverly Hills can be important when an arrest, investigation, misdemeanor charge, felony charge, or other criminal allegation could affect your freedom, employment, professional reputation, immigration status, or future opportunities.

Criminal defense covers many different types of cases. Depending on the allegations, an attorney may handle DUI charges, theft, assault, domestic violence, drug offenses, white-collar allegations, probation violations, or serious felony cases.

California criminal cases can move through several stages, including filing of charges, arraignment, pretrial proceedings, trial, sentencing, and potentially post-conviction proceedings. California Courts notes that many cases do not ultimately go to trial and may instead be resolved through a plea agreement or another pretrial outcome.

The appropriate lawyer depends on the charges, complexity of the evidence, potential penalties, and stage of the case.

FaceLaw is a legal directory and discovery platform that helps users find, research, compare, evaluate, and connect with independent attorneys. FaceLaw is not a criminal defense law firm and does not itself provide legal advice or representation.

How Can I Find a Criminal Lawyer in Beverly Hills?

Start by identifying the nature and current stage of the criminal matter.

You may need an attorney because:

• You were arrested
• You received a citation or notice to appear
• Criminal charges have already been filed
• You have an upcoming arraignment
• Police want to question you
• You are under investigation
• You have been charged with a misdemeanor
• You have been charged with a felony
• You are accused of violating probation
• You need help with a post-conviction matter

FaceLaw can help users browse available criminal defense attorney profiles and compare professional background, location, language information, and other available details.

After identifying potentially relevant attorneys, independently verify their professional status and ask directly about their criminal-defense experience.

What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?

A criminal defense lawyer represents a person accused or suspected of committing a crime.

Depending on the case, an attorney may:

• Review criminal charges
• Analyze police reports and evidence
• Explain constitutional rights
• Investigate the allegations
• Review witness statements
• Analyze searches and seizures
• Examine video, photographs, or forensic evidence
• Handle arraignment
• Address bail or release conditions
• Review prosecution discovery
• File appropriate motions
• Negotiate with prosecutors
• Prepare for preliminary hearings
• Prepare for trial
• Advocate at sentencing
• Address certain post-conviction matters

California's State Bar describes certified criminal law specialists as attorneys who may handle matters from arrest and arraignment through trial, sentencing, bail proceedings, motions, appeals, and certain post-conviction matters.

Not every criminal lawyer handles every type of case, so ask about experience with the specific allegations you are facing.

Misdemeanor and Felony Defense

California criminal cases generally include infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies.

California Courts explains that misdemeanors can generally result in up to one year in jail and/or fines, while felonies are more serious offenses that can potentially result in state-prison sentences and other penalties.

Examples of matters that criminal defense lawyers may handle include:

• DUI
• Theft
• Shoplifting
• Assault
• Domestic violence
• Drug charges
• Fraud
• Property offenses
• Weapons-related allegations
• White-collar offenses

The exact penalties depend on the offense, prior history, aggravating or mitigating circumstances, and other case-specific factors.

Ask prospective attorneys how frequently they defend charges similar to yours and whether they regularly handle misdemeanor, felony, or both types of cases.

DUI Defense in Beverly Hills

Driving-under-the-influence allegations can involve both criminal and administrative consequences.

A DUI case may involve questions about:

• Traffic stops
• Field sobriety tests
• Breath testing
• Blood testing
• Probable cause
• Prior DUI history
• Accident allegations
• License-related consequences

A lawyer whose practice regularly includes DUI defense may approach these issues differently from an attorney who handles only occasional DUI cases.

If DUI is the primary issue, ask specifically about current DUI defense experience rather than relying only on a general criminal-law description.

Domestic Violence Charges

Domestic violence allegations can create complicated criminal and family-related consequences.

A criminal case may involve:

• Arrest
• Protective orders
• Restrictions on contact
• Bail or release conditions
• Evidence involving family members
• Related family-law proceedings

California Courts explains that a criminal protective order may sometimes be issued at arraignment requiring a defendant to stay away from a victim, witness, or family members.

If domestic violence is alleged, look for an attorney who regularly handles those cases and understands the potential overlap with family-law proceedings.

Theft, Fraud, and White-Collar Charges

Financial and property-related criminal cases can range from relatively straightforward theft allegations to complex fraud investigations involving businesses, financial records, or multiple transactions.

White-collar matters may involve:

• Fraud allegations
• Embezzlement
• Financial records
• Business transactions
• Electronic communications
• Multiple witnesses
• Government investigations

These cases can require extensive document review and financial analysis.

If the allegations involve a business, professional practice, investment, or complicated financial transactions, ask whether the lawyer has specific white-collar or financial-crime defense experience.

What Happens at an Arraignment?

The arraignment is an important early stage of a California criminal case.

California Courts explains that at arraignment, the judge informs the defendant of the charges and constitutional rights and asks how the defendant intends to plead. Common pleas include guilty, not guilty, and no contest.

The court may also address bail or other release conditions.

Important rights identified by California Courts include:

• The right to a lawyer
• The right to remain silent
• The right to a speedy trial
• The right to a jury trial
• The right to question prosecution witnesses
• The right to compel witnesses to appear

California Courts specifically advises defendants to speak with counsel before entering a guilty or no-contest plea because convictions can have serious consequences beyond jail or prison, including potential immigration and employment consequences.

What Happens After Arraignment?

If a case does not end at arraignment, the next phase can involve discovery, motions, negotiations, and preparation for trial.

California Courts explains that during pretrial proceedings, the prosecution and defense exchange information and evidence through discovery. Lawyers may also file motions asking the judge to rule on legal issues.

Possible evidence can include:

• Police reports
• Photographs
• Videos
• Laboratory reports
• Witness statements
• Other investigative materials

The defense attorney reviews this information to understand the prosecution's case and identify factual or legal issues that may require further investigation.

Preliminary Hearings in Felony Cases

Felony cases generally involve an additional proceeding called a preliminary hearing.

California Courts explains that the preliminary hearing is used to determine whether there is enough evidence for the felony case to continue. It is not a trial determining guilt or innocence.

During the hearing, prosecutors present evidence supporting the charges and defense counsel may question witnesses.

If you are facing felony allegations, ask whether prospective attorneys regularly handle preliminary hearings and felony trial preparation.

Plea Negotiations

Many criminal cases are resolved without a trial.

California Courts explains that one common resolution is a plea agreement, in which the defendant may agree to plead guilty or no contest in exchange for an agreed outcome, such as dismissal of certain charges or a particular sentencing arrangement.

Whether accepting a plea is appropriate depends on the facts, evidence, potential penalties, defenses, and risks of proceeding further.

A criminal attorney should explain available options and consequences rather than simply promising that charges will be dismissed.

Criminal Trials

If the case is not dismissed or resolved through an agreement, it may proceed to trial.

California Courts explains that criminal defendants have a right to a jury trial. The prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, and a criminal jury must unanimously agree on a guilty verdict.

Trial preparation can involve:

• Witness preparation
• Cross-examination strategy
• Evidence challenges
• Expert witnesses
• Jury selection
• Opening statements
• Closing arguments

If your case appears likely to proceed toward trial, ask prospective attorneys about actual courtroom and jury-trial experience.

Bail and Release Conditions

At arraignment, the judge may decide whether a defendant remains in custody or can be released while the case is pending.

California Courts explains that possible outcomes may include release on one's own recognizance, supervised release, bail, or continued detention, depending on the circumstances. Judges can consider factors such as the alleged offense, public safety, and risk that the defendant will fail to appear.

If someone is currently in custody, tell prospective attorneys immediately because early court proceedings can be time-sensitive.

Right to a Lawyer and Public Defender

A criminal defendant has the right to legal representation.

At arraignment, California Courts states that if a defendant cannot afford an attorney, the court will appoint a lawyer at no cost, typically a public defender.

California Courts also identifies local public defender offices as a source of free criminal defense representation for people who financially qualify.

The Los Angeles Superior Court currently directs criminal defendants to resources including the Los Angeles County Public Defender, Alternate Public Defender, and Independent Defense Counsel.

A person who does not qualify for appointed representation may choose to retain a private criminal defense attorney.

Criminal Cases in Los Angeles County

Beverly Hills is in Los Angeles County, where criminal cases are handled through the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles.

The Los Angeles Superior Court's Criminal Division handles infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies. It also provides online tools for criminal case information and hearing information.

The former Beverly Hills Courthouse is listed by the Los Angeles Superior Court as a closed courthouse, with the Airport Courthouse at 11701 S. La Cienega Boulevard, Los Angeles identified as its alternative criminal filing location. Exact case assignment can depend on the type and circumstances of the matter, so defendants should confirm the courthouse listed on their case documents or through the court's current case information.

Immigration Consequences of Criminal Charges

Criminal cases can have especially significant consequences for non-U.S. citizens.

California Courts warns that criminal convictions can affect immigration status and specifically advises defendants to consult with counsel before pleading guilty or no contest.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, tell your criminal defense attorney about your immigration status before making decisions about a plea.

Depending on the case, criminal defense counsel may need to coordinate with an immigration lawyer who understands the immigration consequences of criminal convictions.

Verify a Criminal Lawyer Through the State Bar of California

Before hiring a private attorney, independently review professional information through the State Bar of California.

The State Bar's Attorney Search provides information about:

• License status
• Disciplinary history
• Administrative history

Its Advanced Search also includes criteria such as city, language, certified specialty, and self-reported practice areas.

The State Bar cautions that it does not verify self-reported practice areas and does not guarantee an attorney's experience or competence in those areas.

Therefore, seeing “criminal law” on a profile should be a starting point.

Ask the attorney directly how frequently they handle cases like yours.

Consider a Certified Criminal Law Specialist

California recognizes Criminal Law as a certified legal specialty.

The State Bar explains that certified specialists must satisfy enhanced requirements including:

• At least five years of legal practice
• Significant work in the specialty
• A specialty examination
• Additional continuing legal education
• Favorable evaluations from peers and judges
• Demonstrated experience in the specialty

Certification is not required to practice criminal defense, and a certified specialist is not automatically the right attorney for every criminal matter.

However, Criminal Law certification can be one additional credential to consider, particularly for serious or complicated cases.

How Much Does a Criminal Lawyer in Beverly Hills Cost?

There is no universal criminal-defense fee in Beverly Hills.

Attorney fees may depend on:

• Type of charge
• Misdemeanor or felony classification
• Complexity of the evidence
• Number of court appearances
• Whether motions are required
• Whether the matter proceeds to trial
• Attorney experience
• Scope of representation

A private criminal lawyer may use a flat fee, hourly arrangement, retainer, or another permitted billing structure.

Ask whether the quoted fee covers:

• Arraignment
• Pretrial appearances
• Motions
• Preliminary hearings
• Plea negotiations
• Trial
• Sentencing

Do not assume that an initial quote automatically includes every stage of the case.

What Should I Ask During a Criminal Defense Consultation?

A consultation is an opportunity to evaluate both the criminal matter and the lawyer.

Useful questions include:

• How much of your practice is criminal defense?
• Have you handled charges similar to mine?
• Do you regularly handle cases in Los Angeles County?
• What stage is my case currently in?
• What evidence should be reviewed?
• What possible defenses should be investigated?
• Who will personally appear in court?
• Do you handle trials?
• What is included in your fee?
• What additional costs could arise?
• How will I receive updates?
• Are there collateral consequences I should discuss with another specialist?

Avoid choosing an attorney simply because they guarantee a dismissal, acquittal, or other specific result.

Criminal outcomes depend on evidence, applicable law, prosecutors, judges, juries, negotiations, and other case-specific circumstances.

Why Use FaceLaw?

FaceLaw helps users discover, research, compare, evaluate, and connect with independent legal professionals.

For someone searching for a criminal lawyer in Beverly Hills, FaceLaw can provide a starting point for reviewing available attorney profiles and comparing information related to:

• Criminal defense practice
• Professional background
• Location
• Language information
• Other available attorney details

FaceLaw is not a criminal defense law firm.

Users should independently verify:

• Attorney license status
• Criminal defense experience
• Experience with similar charges
• Trial experience
• Fee structure
• Consultation policies
• Current availability

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I find a criminal lawyer in Beverly Hills?

Use FaceLaw to browse available criminal defense attorney profiles and compare professional background, criminal-law experience, location, and other available information. Then independently verify potentially suitable attorneys.

2. What types of cases can a criminal lawyer handle?

Depending on their practice, criminal attorneys may defend DUI, theft, assault, domestic violence, drug offenses, fraud, white-collar allegations, misdemeanors, felonies, probation matters, and other criminal charges.

3. What happens at a California arraignment?

At arraignment, the defendant is informed of the charges and constitutional rights, enters a plea, and the judge may address bail or release conditions.

4. Do I have the right to a lawyer in a criminal case?

Yes. California Courts states that criminal defendants have the right to an attorney, and defendants who cannot afford counsel may have an attorney appointed by the court.

5. Can I get a public defender in Los Angeles County?

Potentially. Defendants who financially qualify may receive appointed representation. Los Angeles Superior Court identifies the Los Angeles County Public Defender, Alternate Public Defender, and Independent Defense Counsel as criminal-defense resources.

6. What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?

Misdemeanors are generally less serious than felonies and may carry up to one year in jail, while felonies can potentially result in state-prison sentences and other serious penalties.

7. What is a preliminary hearing?

In a felony case, a preliminary hearing generally allows a judge to determine whether sufficient evidence exists for the case to proceed. It is not a determination of guilt.

8. Do all criminal cases go to trial?

No. California Courts explains that most criminal cases do not go to trial. Some are resolved through plea agreements, while others may be dismissed or otherwise resolved before trial.

9. Can a criminal conviction affect immigration status?

Yes. California Courts warns that criminal convictions can have immigration consequences for noncitizens. Immigration status should be discussed with counsel before entering a plea.

10. How can I verify a Beverly Hills criminal lawyer?

Use the State Bar of California's Attorney Search to check license status and available disciplinary or administrative history. Then confirm the attorney's actual criminal-defense experience directly.

11. What is a Certified Criminal Law Specialist?

It is a California attorney who has satisfied additional State Bar requirements involving criminal-law experience, examination, continuing education, professional evaluations, and substantial specialty work.

12. Does FaceLaw provide criminal defense?

No. FaceLaw is a legal directory and discovery platform. It helps users research and compare independent attorneys, while consultations, legal advice, fees, and criminal defense representation are provided directly by lawyers and law firms.

Conclusion

Finding the right criminal lawyer in Beverly Hills begins with understanding the charges, the stage of the criminal case, and the potential consequences involved.

California criminal cases can proceed from filing of charges to arraignment, pretrial proceedings, trial, sentencing, and certain post-conviction proceedings. At arraignment, defendants are advised of important constitutional rights, including the right to an attorney and the right to remain silent.

For felony matters, the case may also involve a preliminary hearing to determine whether sufficient evidence exists for the prosecution to proceed. Many criminal cases, however, are resolved before trial through negotiations or other pretrial outcomes.

Beverly Hills criminal matters are handled within the Los Angeles County Superior Court system. The Los Angeles Superior Court currently identifies the Airport Courthouse as the alternative criminal filing location for the closed Beverly Hills Courthouse, although defendants should confirm the actual courthouse assigned to their individual case.

Before hiring a private attorney, independently review professional information through the State Bar of California and ask about actual experience with the particular charges involved. Criminal Law is also a California certified legal specialty, which can be one additional credential to consider.

FaceLaw helps organize this search by allowing users to discover and compare available independent lawyer profiles. Review potentially relevant criminal defense attorneys, verify their professional information, discuss your charges directly with prospective lawyers, and choose an attorney whose experience, communication, and approach fit your particular criminal defense needs.