- Charged with a crime in LA? Start at the criminal defense practice overview.
- Constitutional Defense in California: how the Bill of Rights actually works in your case.
- First Amendment Defense: criminal threats (PC 422), protest arrests, recording police.
- Fourth Amendment Defense: searches, seizures, motions to suppress under PC 1538.5.
- What to do when pulled over in California
- What to do if you are arrested in California
- Charge areas: DUI, Drug Crime, Domestic Violence, Weapons, Theft
Why the first hours matter
The first 72 hours after an arrest set the trajectory of the case. Bail determinations, charging decisions, statements to police, evidence preservation. These all happen in a narrow window where having counsel changes outcomes. Waiting until arraignment to retain a lawyer means losing leverage that was available earlier.
If you have been arrested or contacted by detectives, call. We move fast, and once you hire us you work directly with Zak.
How charges get reduced or dismissed
Reductions and dismissals come through three channels, and every case gets all three considered.
Motion practice that excludes evidence. Motions to suppress under Penal Code § 1538.5 can knock out the foundation of the prosecution's case when the stop, search, or seizure was unlawful. Pitchess motions can surface officer misconduct records that change credibility. Demurrers can challenge the legal sufficiency of charges before they ever reach a jury.
Negotiated reclassification and diversion. California "wobblers" can be reduced from felony to misdemeanor under Penal Code § 17(b). Pretrial diversion programs under PC § 1000, PC § 1001.36 (mental health), and PC § 1001.80 (military diversion) can result in case dismissal upon completion. Drug Court and Mental Health Court are options for qualifying defendants.
Pre-filing intervention. The most valuable work often happens before the District Attorney files charges at all. Presenting context, mitigating evidence, or documented rehabilitation to a deputy DA can persuade the office to decline filing or file at a reduced charge.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do right after an arrest?
Exercise your right to remain silent. Provide identification when required, but do not answer questions about the case until you have spoken to an attorney. Call a criminal defense attorney as soon as you can. Document what you remember while it is fresh: names of officers, times, what was said.
Should I talk to the police without a lawyer?
Almost never. Police are trained to elicit statements that help the prosecution. Even seemingly innocent comments can be used against you. The Fifth Amendment exists for a reason. Ask for counsel and stop talking until your attorney is present.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?
Misdemeanors carry a maximum sentence of one year in county jail. Felonies can carry state prison sentences exceeding one year, with much longer-term consequences for employment, housing, and immigration. Some California offenses are "wobblers" that can be charged either way, and many felony wobblers can be reduced to misdemeanors under PC § 17(b).
How long does a criminal case in Los Angeles take?
It depends on the charge and the strategy. Misdemeanor cases can resolve in a few months. Felonies typically take six months to two years from filing through resolution. Most cases resolve through motion practice or negotiated outcomes before reaching trial.
Can my criminal record be sealed or expunged later?
In many cases, yes. Penal Code § 1203.4 allows dismissal of a case after probation. PC § 1203.4a covers misdemeanor dismissal without probation. PC § 851.91 allows sealing of arrest records when the arrest did not result in conviction. We handle these proceedings.
How are attorney fees structured?
Flat fees for most criminal matters, quoted in writing after the initial consultation. Fees reflect the charge, the case stage, and the anticipated work. No hidden charges and no hourly surprises.
“I was in need of legal representation and attorney Zak was on my side. He practiced with trust, integrity, and authenticity. Justice was served as my case was dismissed.”
“Zak Fisher immediately discusses your concerns and provides accurate assessment of the case. Mr. Fisher is an incredible, responsive, intelligent lawyer.”
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