About Us

About the Firm

Nobody plans on being the subject of a criminal investigation or the defendant in a criminal case. Going through the criminal justice system can be a frightening and confusing ordeal.

Throughout the process, I keep an open and honest line of communication with you. This can be an anxious time — but I have your back.

I have a criminal defense law firm, serving clients charged with state and federal crimes. I have multiple offices in the Los Angeles area to serve you. You can view my locations and contact info here.

In the face of aggressive investigators and prosecutors, my top priority at the Helfend Law Group is preserving your Constitutionally guaranteed rights in the courtroom. I am aggressive and tireless in fighting for your freedom. I work methodically and diligently to assess the facts of your case and build the most comprehensive defense possible.

About Robert M. Helfend

Robert M. Helfend personally takes every case for the Helfend Law Group. He has practiced Criminal Defense Law in the Los Angeles area since 1984. He has successfully defended more than 4,000 cases.

Mr. Helfend has been recognized as a Top 100 trial lawyer by the National Trial Lawyers Association, and he has earned honors as a Lead Counsel Rated Attorney. In 2018, Mr. Helfend was recognized by Noticed’s Expert Network as a distinguished attorney, based on peer reviews and accolades received over his career.

He completed his undergraduate work at the University of California-Berkeley and received his Juris Doctorate from Pepperdine University in 1983. He has practiced exclusively in criminal law since then, developing expertise in a range of areas: from white collar crimes to homicide to drug and sex crimes.

He is rated as a five-star attorney on Yelp, a “top defense attorney” and five star attorney on Google and a “very good” attorney on Avvo.

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Awards

Robert M. Helfend has been honored a number of times throughout his career for his skill in the courtroom.

Since 1984, Mr. Helfend has exclusively practiced criminal defense, serving clients throughout the Los Angeles area. He did his undergraduate work at the University of California-Berkeley and earned his Juris Doctorate from Pepperdine. Since then, he has successfully defended more than 4,000 cases — everything from misdemeanors to major felonies.

Most recently, Mr. Helfend has been recognized by:

SuperLawyers

Mr. Helfend was named to the prestigious SuperLawyers list in 2020. SuperLawyers uses a rigorous selection process of peer review and data analysis to select its annual honorees.

Each candidate is evaluated on 12 indicators of peer recognition and professional achievement, from favorable judgments to scholarly work and community service. This is done to create a credible, comprehensive and diverse listing of outstanding attorneys that can be used as a resource for consumers.

Expertise

Mr. Helfend was named to Expertise.com’s 2021 list of the six best criminal defense attorneys in the Thousand Oaks area.

Expertise evaluated 99 criminal defense attorneys recommended by previous clients and rated them across five criteria: 1. Availability, 2. Qualifications, 3. Reputation, 4. Experience, 5. Professionalism. From those, Mr. Helfend was selected among the best with an “A” rating for Reputation and an “A+” rating for Professionalism.

The National Trial Lawyers Association

The National Trial Lawyers Association named Mr. Helfend as one of its Top 100 Trial Lawyers in 2015.

The Top 100 list is one of the most exclusive honors in the field. Selection is based on a thorough, multi-phase process that includes peer nominations and third-party research. Membership is extended only to the select few of the most qualified attorneys from each state or region who demonstrate superior qualifications of leadership, reputation, influence, stature and public profile measured by objective and uniformly applied standards in compliance with state bar and national Rule 4-7.

Lead Counsel

Lead Counsel is a consumer advocacy service provided by Thomson Reuters, which verifies the credentials, case histories and ethics of trial attorneys.

In order to maintain a Lead Counsel rating, an attorney must:

• Have significant case experience in the courtroom.
• Receive multiple recommendations from his or her peers.
• Have no record of censure with his or her state bar association.

Robert M. Helfend has consistently maintained his status as a Lead Counsel Rated Attorney since 2013, earning special accolades for a “Spotless Record.”

CNBS.org

In 2023, Robert M. Helfend was named as one of the best cannabis attorneys in Los Angeles by CNBS.org. The honor takes into account an attorney’s accessibility, reputation, track record and criminal justice background, among other factors.

CNBS.org is an authority in all things cannabis, dedicated to educating the public on the many benefits that cannabis offers. CNBS specializes in high quality, peer-reviewed research and extensive guides on cannabis use, cultivation and safety.

Noticed – Expert Network

In 2018, Robert M. Helfend was recognized as a Distinguished Lawyer by Noticed’s Expert Network, an exclusive, invitation-only networking group for professionals.

This award was based on a review of client ratings, dozens of recognitions and accomplishments achieved throughout his career. Noticed highlighted Mr. Helfend’s role as a thought leader within the industry and the extensive work he has done to defend clients accused of drug crimes.

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Behind the Scenes of a Criminal Trial Preparation

How do you prepare for a criminal trial with sensitive witnesses?

Preparing for a criminal trial, especially involving sensitive witnesses, requires extensive effort and organization. The process includes meticulously comparing and organizing various witness statements to identify inconsistencies. This preparation allows for quick access to information during cross-examination, which is crucial when the witness has made numerous conflicting statements. The goal is to ensure the jury is informed of all facts, helping them make an unbiased decision.

Does the approach change when cross-examining a female witness?

Yes, the approach changes significantly when cross-examining a female witness. The process is not conducted in isolation as personal experiences and insights from family members can influence strategy. Initially, a gentle and respectful approach is attempted, but it adjusts based on the witness’s demeanor and credibility. If the witness displays dishonesty or aggression, the approach may become more direct and assertive to expose inconsistencies.

How do you handle jury engagement during long cross-examinations?

Maintaining jury engagement during extended cross-examinations is a critical concern. It’s important that the questions asked are relevant and contribute to the jury’s understanding of the case, avoiding trivial details that could lead to disinterest. Regular breaks are incorporated to prevent fatigue, and feedback from the client about the jury’s attentiveness helps gauge engagement. The focus remains on significant points that hold the jury’s attention throughout the process.

What challenges arise when dealing with a resistant witness?

A resistant witness can prolong the cross-examination process, as they may provide evasive or conflicting answers. This requires the attorney to be persistent and methodical in questioning to highlight inconsistencies. The judge may need to intervene to remind the witness to answer directly and concisely. The aim is to systematically dismantle the witness’s credibility without resorting to aggressive tactics.

How does the relationship with the judge affect trial proceedings?

A positive relationship with the judge can significantly influence trial proceedings. A judge who allows the attorney to conduct their examination without unnecessary interruptions facilitates a smoother process. This contrasts with judges who create a hostile environment, which can hinder an attorney’s ability to effectively present their case. A cooperative judge can make the courtroom experience more focused and productive for both the defense and prosecution.

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Understanding Jury Selection in Criminal Trials

How do judges influence the jury selection process in criminal trials?

Judges can significantly influence jury selection by allowing or restricting certain questions from attorneys. This can impact the ability to uncover potential biases in jurors. Some judges may intervene to control the direction of questioning, affecting the composition of the final jury. Attorneys often aim to gauge jurors’ reactions to the case’s theme and assess their openness to the defense’s theory.

What are the differences in what prosecutors and defense attorneys seek in potential jurors?

Prosecutors typically seek jurors who are not biased against law enforcement and who may already have a favorable view of the prosecution. They prefer jurors with no negative experiences with the legal system or with family members in prison. In contrast, defense attorneys look for open-minded individuals who can objectively evaluate evidence presented during the trial. The contrasting goals of both sides shape their jury selection strategies significantly.

What traits in a juror make them more receptive to the defense’s case in a criminal trial?

Identifying traits in potential jurors that align with the defense’s case involves observing their body language and responses during questioning. Establishing a connection with jurors and assessing their understanding of key legal concepts, such as self-defense, is crucial. Defense attorneys aim to identify jurors who can objectively analyze the facts presented and remain unbiased throughout the trial.

How does the decision to put a client on the stand affect the jury selection process in criminal trials?

In cases where self-defense is asserted, putting the client on the stand becomes crucial to establish their perception of immediate danger. This testimony is essential for building a self-defense argument. Defense attorneys navigate the jury selection process by indirectly addressing potential issues, such as a client’s prior convictions, through strategic questioning to gauge jurors’ responses and attitudes towards critical case elements.

What is the most critical aspect for defendants facing trial to understand about the jury selection process?

Empathy plays a vital role in selecting jurors who can impartially assess the case. Defendants should be aware of the challenges involved in jury selection, especially in federal cases where direct interactions with jurors are limited. Understanding the importance of juror involvement, note-taking, and maintaining neutrality during the trial can significantly impact the outcome. Consulting with the defense team and staying composed are key strategies for defendants navigating the jury selection process.

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Why Jury Selection Matters in Criminal Trials

Why is jury selection such a critical part of criminal trials?

Jury selection is crucial in a criminal trial because it involves choosing 12 individuals from the community who are open to the lawyer’s way of thinking. By selecting jurors who may be susceptible to their arguments, lawyers increase the chances of a favorable outcome. Picking the right jurors is essential as it can significantly impact the trial’s direction and the final verdict.

What is the basic process of how potential jurors are selected in court?

In a jury trial, a group of about 80 to 120 potential jurors is called into the courtroom. The judge asks them a series of questions to gather information about their background, experiences, and biases. Eventually, 18 people are randomly chosen, with 12 sitting in the jury box and six in the next row. The judge and lawyers ask questions to assess the jurors’ suitability for the trial based on their responses.

What criteria do you consider when asking questions to potential jurors during selection?

When questioning potential jurors, lawyers aim to identify individuals who may not be open to their case’s key arguments. For example, in cases involving self-defense, questions about when deadly force is justified help eliminate jurors with rigid beliefs that may not align with the defense’s strategy. By crafting questions that reveal biases or closed-mindedness, lawyers can strategically select jurors who are more likely to be receptive to their arguments.

What are common misconceptions people have about the jury selection process in criminal trials?

One common misconception is that the prosecution or defense can stack the deck by selecting biased jurors. However, both sides are limited in their ability to dismiss jurors based solely on personal biases. Additionally, lawyers must follow legal guidelines and cannot exclude jurors arbitrarily. The goal of jury selection is to ensure a fair and impartial group of individuals who can evaluate the case based on the evidence presented.

How do you balance your gut instinct with practical considerations when deciding to keep or strike a juror?

Balancing gut instinct with practical considerations involves assessing a juror’s responses in relation to the case’s legal and strategic needs. While experience and intuition play a role, lawyers must also consider whether a potential juror’s views align with the case’s defense strategy. By carefully evaluating each juror’s responses and demeanor, lawyers can make informed decisions on whether to keep or strike them from the jury panel.

What challenges arise when a case has received significant media coverage before the trial, and how do you address them during jury selection?

Cases with extensive media coverage can present challenges during jury selection as potential jurors may already have preconceived notions about the case. To address this, lawyers can ask jurors if they are familiar with the case and assess their existing biases. By identifying jurors with strong opinions influenced by media coverage, lawyers can make informed decisions on jury selection to ensure a fair and impartial trial.