If you have been charged with a misdemeanor and your case has been referred to the Los Angeles City Attorney Hearing Program, you need a California criminal defense lawyer who can help you take full advantage of this alternative to criminal prosecution. Rodriguez, Lewis & Kahn have successfully represented hundreds of clients in these administrative hearings (also referred to as City Attorney Hearings), keeping their cases from being filed, and keeping them out of jail.

Alternative To Criminal Prosecution

The Los Angeles City Attorney prosecutes misdemeanor crimes committed in Los Angeles, California. In cases where a city attorney filing deputy has determined that misdemeanor filing guidelines have not been met, but that the case requires further action and investigation, the City Attorney Hearing Program is used as an alternative to criminal prosecution. A Hearing Officer conducts this type of administrative hearing - there is no judge or jury. The misdemeanors generally referred to a City Attorney Hearing involve low level, non-violent misdemeanor offenses.

If a hearing officer determines after the hearing that the misdemeanor conduct or the alleged conduct will not occur again then the officer can recommend that the City Attorney’s office not proceed with the criminal case. The hearing officer will keep the file open for one to three years before the file is completely closed out. If, on the other hand, the Hearing Officer determines that the alleged misdemeanor conduct will reoccur or that the case is more serious than previously thought, then the hearing officer will strongly recommend that the City Attorney’s Office proceed with the criminal prosecution.

Avoid A Criminal Conviction

Being convicted for a misdemeanor is a serious matter. You could receive a jail sentence of up to 1 year and worst of all you will have a criminal record. A criminal defense attorney experienced with these types of hearings can keep your case from being prosecuted by preparing you for the hearing, determining your defenses, gathering documents that support your position and preparing witnesses to testify on your behalf. The stakes are too high to represent yourself. Let our 70 plus years of criminal defense experience work for you!

If you have received a letter from the Office of the City Attorney requesting you to attend a City Attorney Hearing contact Rodriguez, Lewis & Kahn immediately to discuss your options.

If you have any questions or would like additional information regarding your City Attorney Hearing, please do not hesitate to contact us for a FREE CONSULTATION.