Facing criminal charges of any kind can be stressful and overwhelming, especially for first-time offenders who may not know what to expect in the days, weeks, and months ahead. However, those charged with sex-related offenses often face additional challenges, as crimes of this nature tend to be particularly stigmatizing and damaging to your professional and personal reputation. Even though the United States criminal justice system emphasizes its commitment to viewing defendants as innocent until proven guilty, the reality is that the mere accusation of sexual misconduct or committing a sexual offense can wreak havoc on your life. Suddenly, you may lose your job or become estranged from your loved ones, even if the accusation is baseless or untrue. If law enforcement has arrested you for a sex-related offense, you should immediately contact a skilled and experienced Los Angeles County criminal defense attorney. Enlisting the help of a knowledgeable lawyer is essential to ensure that your rights are protected at every stage of the criminal justice process. This post will explore some strategies for finding the best criminal defense attorney to represent your interests and advocate aggressively for the most favorable outcome possible, given the specifics of your case.
Experience Matters
If you have been charged with a sex crime in Los Angeles County, finding a trusted and effective criminal defense attorney is essential. California takes sex crimes seriously—convictions carry significant penalties, including incarceration, costly fines, mandatory counseling, probation, and other restrictions to your freedom and future. Even after you have served the terms of your sentence, you will likely face limitations to your housing and employment options because of your criminal record. Additionally, you may have to add your name to the sex offender registry for at least a full decade (or permanently, depending on the nature of the offense). Since sex-related offenses carry such weighty consequences, you should look for a seasoned criminal defense attorney who understands the nuances of these crimes.
Experience refers to so much more than just how long the attorney has been practicing in this field of law—it includes their experience in the court in which your case is pending, experience with the judge overseeing your case, and experience with the prosecutor(s) who are bringing the case against you. As you explore your options for legal representation, ask the candidates about their background in handling similar cases to the one you are facing. You may end up selecting an attorney with fewer years of overall legal experience but who has worked more directly with the court and prosecutors involved in your case.
A Proven Track Record
When you search for a sex crimes defense lawyer, you will want to know that they have a proven track record of defending clients in your situation. Ask potential attorneys about how they have handled cases like yours in the past. For instance, they may have employed strategies to have the charges against a former client dismissed or reduced. Many sex crimes cases are resolved through a plea bargain, so ask a potential attorney about how they approach cases like yours. Essentially, you will want to work with a lawyer who can assess the details of your case and determine the most strategic path forward. Look for someone who is realistic and committed to advocating for their clients’ best interests, even if that means taking a plea deal.
A Respected (And Respectful) Legal Professional
Due to the complexity and seriousness of sex-related offenses, it can be extremely difficult and uncomfortable to talk about these topics. These matters can be highly sensitive, and those accused of sex crimes tend to feel vulnerable and hesitant to speak to their attorneys. As you look for the right criminal defense lawyer to take on your case, consider looking for someone who treats you with the respect and care you need during this challenging time. Pay attention to the words your attorney uses as well as their nonverbal cues—you will likely feel more comfortable and confident working with someone who expresses genuine concern for you and your situation.
Additionally, it’s important to work with an attorney who is respectful of the criminal justice process. Criminal matters involving sexual assault, sexual violence, or sexual abuse—even if the allegations are exaggerated or false—are serious in nature and difficult to discuss in court. It’s important to hire a defense attorney who treats you, the prosecutors, and the court with the respect they expect. If the case moves to a trial, your attorney will assume the difficult task of defending you in front of a jury. Therefore, it’s essential that your lawyer knows how to argue on your behalf in a way that makes you appear worthy of their consideration and concern, even as you face serious and, in many cases, reprehensible accusations.
Focused on the Long-Term Picture
As your attorney prepares your defense strategy, they will look for a way to protect your best interests in both the immediate and long-term future. It’s crucial to find a lawyer who can assess your case from all angles and help you understand what to expect at every stage of the legal process. Your lawyer should be able to explain your options to you, helping you understand how pleading “not guilty” or seeking a plea bargain will likely impact the outcome in different ways. Try to find a criminal defense lawyer who can identify the best strategy for keeping your future as bright as possible. For instance, they may determine that taking a plea deal, while not ideal in the short term, may lead to a more stable future than trying to win an “unwinnable” case. Ultimately, you should focus on finding an attorney who listens to your goals and concerns and who expresses genuine concern for your best interests. Working with the right attorney can go a long way in empowering you to face the future with greater confidence, no matter what it may hold.
Call Wegman & Levin at (818) 980-4000 to schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced and trusted Los Angeles County criminal defense lawyer.
