Services
Expert Plea Negotiations
Pleas vs. Trials
In the criminal justice system very few cases actually ever go to jury trial.. The overwhelming majority of cases get resolved prior to a trial. Plea deals have significant place in this system as they allow certainty for clients - a negotiated deal lets clients get involved in the terms versus facing the uncertainty of a jury and what a judge would impose if a client is found guilty. Sam has a vast amount of experience in successfully handling plea deals to the benefit of his clients.
A negotiated plea can be a better option for some clients but in cases where the District Attorney's case is weak or the District Attorney refuses to negotiate a reasonable offer, Sam has the trial experience you are looking for to protect your rights. He also has a strong presence in the courtroom which juries respond to and respect.
Sentencing, Probation, Post Release Supervision
There are a variety of outcomes after sentencing, if the case is a misdemeanor then in most situations you will be on informal probation for one year. Informal probation simply means you must obey all laws and advise the court if your home address changes.
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If you are sentenced to a felony you could face state prison, local prison or probation. A felony probation term will require you to report in person to the local probation office every month, you will also be subject to being searched at any time without a warrant or notice, that includes your home, your person, your vehicle and any home you reside in, vehicle you are in and items under your control.
A local prison sentence is served in the county jail and there may be some supervision time to be served upon your release. A sentence to the state prison (CDCR -California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation) will result in time served in one of the state prison facilities followed by a term of either parole or Post Release Community Supervision where you would report to a probation officer instead of a parole officer.
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Your custody credits vary depending on the charge you are sentenced to and where your time is served.
