If you’ve been arrested for a sex crime in California, the first few hours and days are critical. What you say, what you do, and who you trust can change the outcome of your entire case. At LibertyBell Law Group, our experienced criminal defense attorneys guide clients through every step—protecting rights and building solid defenses from day one.
1. The Arrest
Sex crime arrests often happen suddenly, sometimes without warning. Police may show up at your home, workplace, or stop you in public. Cooperate calmly—but don’t speak about the allegations. You have the right to remain silent and request a lawyer. Use it.
2. Police Interrogation
Officers may try to get a confession or trip you up with questions. They’re trained to build a case, not help you. Do not answer any questions without your attorney present. Even seemingly harmless comments can be twisted in court.
3. Booking and Bail
After your arrest, you’ll be fingerprinted, photographed, and placed in custody. In most cases, bail will be set. A defense lawyer can help reduce bail or argue for release on your own recognizance.
4. First Court Appearance (Arraignment)
At your arraignment, you’ll be formally charged. The court reads your charges, and you enter a plea—usually “not guilty.” This is also when your defense team can start negotiating with the prosecution or pushing for case dismissal.
5. Pre-Trial Hearings and Motions
This phase involves gathering evidence, filing motions (like to suppress illegally obtained evidence), and shaping your defense strategy. It’s where a skilled California sex crime attorney can begin shifting the case in your favor.
6. Trial or Plea Bargain
Your case may go to trial or be resolved through a plea agreement. Our lawyers aggressively challenge the prosecution’s evidence, question witnesses, and fight to win in front of a jury. In some cases, reduced charges or alternatives to prison may be negotiated.
7. Sentencing and Beyond
If convicted, the judge will determine your sentence based on the charge, prior record, and any mitigating factors. But even after sentencing, we pursue appeals, expungements, or registry relief where possible to give you a future.
Why Early Legal Help Is Critical
What you do in the first 24-72 hours after arrest matters. Waiting too long to hire a lawyer could cost you opportunities to suppress damaging evidence or win early motions. LibertyBell Law Group is ready 24/7 to intervene, protect your rights, and begin your defense.
Contact us now for a confidential case evaluation and immediate legal protection if you or someone you love has been arrested for a sex crime in California.
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