These criminal defense frequently asked questions explain the Helfend Law Group’s practice, how to seek representation, and what a defense lawyer does. Robert M. Helfend represents people in California state and federal criminal matters, including investigations before charges are filed.
A consultation should help you understand the accusation, upcoming deadlines, and the decisions ahead. This page provides general information and does not constitute legal advice for a particular case. An arrest, a police report, and a criminal conviction are different events; none should be treated as interchangeable.
Resources for legal help
If you cannot afford a lawyer for a criminal case, start with the court or the Los Angeles County Public Defender to ask about eligibility for appointed counsel. The Los Angeles Superior Court explains when counsel may be appointed. Do not miss an arraignment or other court date while looking for representation.
For another area of law, the State Bar’s certified lawyer referral service directory can help identify services by location and practice area. The firm’s existing resources also include Justia’s California criminal legal aid directory. A directory listing does not guarantee that a lawyer is available, that you qualify, or that representation will be free.
For general firearm information, consult the California Department of Justice’s firearms FAQs and Bureau of Firearms contact information. Crime victims can find assistance and compensation resources through the Office for Victims of Crime.
What a criminal defense attorney does
A defense attorney’s work centers on the evidence, the law, and the client’s rights. Personal belief in a client’s innocence is not the test for competent representation. The lawyer can challenge an unsupported accusation, identify a lawful defense, advise on a proposed plea, and present mitigation when appropriate.
A strong defense requires more than a different account of events. Counsel examines the prosecution’s proof, checks whether evidence was lawfully obtained, investigates relevant leads, and prepares for the decisions the case may require. Jury selection seeks a fair and impartial jury through individual questioning; assumptions about a juror’s gender do not establish how that person will evaluate testimony.
Frequently asked questions
I’d like to file a lawsuit against a person or organization. Can you help me?
The Helfend Law Group handles criminal defense. A civil lawsuit against a person or organization is a different matter and generally requires a lawyer who practices in the relevant civil field. Criminal defense also includes advice during an investigation; you do not need to wait for an arrest warrant or a filed charge to seek a consultation. If your situation involves both a criminal investigation and a civil dispute, identify both when you contact counsel so the legal risks can be considered together.
Do you take pro bono cases?
The firm is not currently accepting pro bono matters. Pro bono means representation provided without an attorney’s fee. A free initial consultation is different from free representation throughout a case. If you cannot afford a criminal defense attorney, ask the court about appointed counsel and eligibility. For civil matters, legal aid organizations and lawyer referral services may identify available assistance. Eligibility, practice areas, and capacity vary, so confirm that a particular program handles your type of case.
I own a firearm or weapon. Can you tell me whether it is legal in California?
California gun laws are complex. The answer can depend on the weapon, its features, your criminal history, applicable possession restrictions, and how or where it is carried or transported. The Department of Justice’s firearms FAQs are a useful starting point for general information. A criminal allegation requires a review of the precise statute and facts; a general description or a permit issued elsewhere does not settle every California question. Tell counsel if the issue involves an investigation or a pending charge.
I was the victim of a crime. How can I get help?
Call 911 if you are in immediate danger. For a nonemergency report, contact the law enforcement agency responsible for the location where the incident occurred. The Office for Victims of Crime provides resources for victim services and state compensation programs. Preserve relevant messages and other records without altering them. This firm’s practice is criminal defense; victim assistance, a civil claim, and representation of someone accused of a crime can require different services.
I’m not sure whether I committed a crime. Can I speak with a lawyer before police contact me?
Yes. You can seek legal advice before an arrest or formal notice of an investigation. Counsel can review what happened, explain potential exposure, and advise on responding to an interview request or preserving relevant evidence. Early advice does not guarantee that charges will be avoided. Do not delete records, coordinate stories, or contact someone in violation of an order. Give your lawyer the relevant facts privately rather than trying to resolve the concern through a public post or an unsolicited statement to investigators.
Does a defense attorney have to believe a client is innocent?
No. The attorney’s duty is to provide competent representation based on the law, evidence, and client’s objectives. The prosecution must prove the charged offense, and a lawyer can test that proof even if a client admits particular conduct. An admission may still leave questions about intent, identification, a legal defense, or the appropriate resolution. Counsel cannot present testimony known to be false. Being candid with your attorney helps the attorney give informed advice.
What is the difference between a public defender and a private defense lawyer?
A public defender represents eligible people through a court appointment; a private lawyer is retained by the client. Both are licensed attorneys with professional duties to their clients. Workloads, experience, resources, and communication arrangements vary by office and lawyer. Private representation is not a guarantee of a better outcome, and appointed counsel should not be assumed to provide a less individualized defense. Ask specific questions about who will handle the case, relevant experience, and how updates and decisions will be communicated.
How does evidence affect a criminal defense strategy?
Evidence determines which issues can be meaningfully challenged. Counsel may compare a police report with body camera video, witness statements, messages, physical evidence, and other available records. An inconsistency can matter, but its significance depends on what the prosecution must prove and the rest of the evidence. A strong defense addresses the actual elements of the charge rather than relying on a general denial. Preserve originals and tell your attorney about potentially unfavorable evidence as well as information supporting your account.
How does jury selection affect a criminal trial?
Jury selection helps identify whether prospective jurors can fairly evaluate the evidence and follow the court’s instructions. Attorneys may ask about experiences or views relevant to the case, subject to the judge’s rules and legal restrictions on challenges. The goal is an impartial jury. A juror’s gender, occupation, or other broad characteristic does not establish how that individual will decide a case; individual answers and legally relevant concerns matter.
What should I bring to a free consultation?
Bring the citation, complaint or indictment, court notices, bail or release paperwork, and any protective order you have received. Provide the next court date, the location of the case, and a concise timeline. Identify available messages, photographs, video, records, and witnesses, while preserving the originals. If you have professional licensing, immigration, military, or other concerns, mention them early. Ask how documents should be shared and keep discussion of the allegations within the consultation rather than posting details online.
What questions should I ask a criminal defense attorney?
Ask who will handle the case, what experience the lawyer has with the relevant charge and court, what information is needed, and what happens next in the legal process. Discuss fees, the scope of representation, communication, and any services billed separately. Ask about potential penalties and consequences outside the criminal sentence. A responsible assessment explains both strengths and uncertainties; no knowledgeable attorney can guarantee dismissal, an acquittal, or a particular sentence at an initial consultation.
Can a misdemeanor have consequences beyond county jail?
Yes. Depending on the offense, a misdemeanor can affect employment, background checks, a driver’s license, immigration status, firearm rights, or professional licensing. A charge that sounds minor should still be reviewed for its actual consequences. Licensing boards and other agencies may have separate reporting requirements or proceedings. A proposed plea should be assessed for these issues as well as jail exposure, fines, and probation conditions.
What are common criminal defenses?
The available defense depends on the offense and evidence. Issues may include mistaken identification, a lack of the required intent, consent where legally relevant, self-defense, or an unsupported value or injury allegation. An unlawful search or other constitutional violation may support a motion concerning evidence. These are not interchangeable arguments, and none automatically produces dismissal. Counsel must connect the legal issue to the prosecution’s proof and the facts of the particular criminal case.
Will my criminal case go to trial?
Not every criminal case goes to trial. Counsel may investigate, bring appropriate motions, seek dismissal or a reduction, discuss a negotiated resolution, or prepare for trial. The choices depend on the evidence, the law, and the client’s informed decisions. A plea may carry consequences beyond the proposed sentence, so the terms deserve careful review. Keep court dates and release conditions in mind while options are being evaluated; an unresolved case does not suspend those obligations.
Arrange a free consultation about a criminal matter
Call the Helfend Law Group at 800-834-6434 to discuss representation with Robert M. Helfend. Have your court date and charging papers available, if you have them, so the consultation can address the next decision in your case.