Pre-File Investigations in Los Angeles

Are You Being Investigated for a Crime?

Criminal defense involves more than fighting for people who have been charged with crimes. It also involves protecting the rights of people who are being investigated by law enforcement and have not yet been formally charged.

If you or someone you know is currently under criminal investigation, there are steps you can take to protect your legal rights and your future – and they begin with getting the help of an experienced criminal defense lawyer. Having the right Los Angeles criminal defense attorney at the start of a criminal investigation can mean the difference between going to jail and staying out of jail.

Request a FREE, confidential case review today to learn about your case.

The Los Angeles criminal lawyers at Stephen G. Rodriguez & Partners have considerable experience in defending people who are suspects in a criminal investigation. Our legal team has successfully avoided jail and formal charges, including misdemeanors and felonies, for a number of clients.

What You Need to Know About Criminal Investigations

After a crime is committed, law enforcement personnel descend on the crime scene and collect evidence.

This evidence includes:

The interviews with the victims and witnesses are critical because they provide law enforcement with key information about the suspects and/or perpetrators which ultimately leads to an arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the crime.

In cases where there is insufficient evidence for prosecution, a detective will attempt to interview a witness or a suspect, in order to close the case or make an arrest. One of the key strategies used by detectives is to interview the suspect in order to obtain a confession or at least some incriminating statements. Many suspects who are under investigation believe they can talk themselves out of a situation or make up some story in order to get rid of the detective.

What the suspect does not realize is that he or she is being asked questions by the detective who already knows the answers to these questions and the detective is testing the answers as well as the suspect's credibility. Whatever the suspect says in the interview can and will be used against the suspect in a criminal case. That is why it is critical to consult an attorney prior to interviewing with law enforcement. An experienced criminal defense attorney will contact law enforcement early in the investigation to evaluate the investigation and assist and protect you from beginning to end.

You have the right not to answer any questions asked by law enforcement except for questions pertaining to preliminary identification.

Experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys

Being investigated for a crime can be a frightening experience, which is why our attorneys take the time to speak with clients personally, answer their questions, and alleviate their concerns throughout the entire process. We want to stress that contacting attorneys as soon as possible after you are aware of an investigation can afford the time to learn more about your case and take decisive action. Our legal team is available to assist you.

If you or some you know is suspected of or charged with a crime in Los Angeles County, contact the attorneys at Stephen G. Rodriguez & Partners for a free initial consultation.