How to Deal with a Court Case in Los Angeles County - Everything you need to know in 2025

Going to court can be an overwhelming experience, but understanding what to expect can make the process more manageable. At The H Law Group, we believe that every person is innocent until proven guilty and deserves strong legal representation throughout their case. If you have a court appearance in Los Angeles County for drunk driving, domestic violence, or other criminal charges, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the criminal justice system with confidence.

Which Los Angeles County Courthouse Handles My Case?

Los Angeles County operates the largest superior court system in the United States, with 36 courthouses throughout the county. It's crucial to review all documents and notices before you go to court to ensure you're showing up at the right place. The courthouse for your criminal case isn't always the one closest to your residence or even where your arrest took place. The courthouse assignment depends on the law enforcement agency that handled the arrest, the type of case involved, and geographical jurisdictions.

List of Courthouses in Los Angeles County

If you're not sure where your case is held or you have lost your court notice, The H Law Group can make sure you're going to the right court and even be able to appear for you in certain circumstances.

What Happens If I Miss My Court Date?

Missing your court appearance can create serious problems and may result in additional fines and penalties. If you don't show up to the courthouse when your case is called by the judge, the judge may issue a Failure to Appear (FTA). An FTA can result in a bench warrant - essentially a warrant for your arrest because of missing the court date. The DMV may also suspend your license for failure to appear.

Consequences of Missing Court:

• Bench warrant issued for your arrest
• Additional criminal charges (misdemeanor FTA can result in up to $1,000 fine and 6 months in county jail)
• For felony cases, FTA can result in felony charges with up to 3 years in state prison and $5,000-$10,000 fines
• Possible license suspension
• Case may proceed without you present
• Bail forfeiture if you were out on bail
• Civil assessment fee of up to $200 may be added to your case

If you are not able to make your court date or you have already missed the appearance, The H Law Group can help clear up the issue with the court. Our experienced attorneys may be able to:

• Reschedule the case
• Appear instead of you for certain hearings (misdemeanor cases)
• Request a new hearing date
• File motions to recall bench warrants
• Attend bench warrant hearings to show justifiable or excusable reasons for non-appearance
  

Important: If you go to the court on your own after missing a court date, you may risk getting arrested based on your warrant. Always contact your attorney first.

You may be able to change your court date if you have a scheduling conflict. Contact us and we can arrange a change in your court appearance. You may also be able to contact the Criminal Division clerk's office to request a schedule change.

What to Expect When You Go to Los Angeles County Court

You may not know what to expect the first time you go to a Los Angeles County courthouse. You should be prepared and allow extra time for parking, getting through security, and finding the right courtroom. At The H Law Group, we ensure you're well-prepared for what to expect, and we often meet our clients at court to explain the process and provide support.

Essential Items to Bring to Court:

• Valid photo identification (driver's license, passport, or other government-issued ID)
• Copy of citation or court notice
• Notice of hearing or courtesy copy of hearing letter
• Bond receipt, cash bail receipts, etc.
• Jail release paperwork
• Sentencing order or probation order (if applicable)
• Money to pay fines, fees, and restitution

Court Security Process:

• Arrive early to allow time for security screening
• All bags and personal items will be X-rayed
• You'll walk through metal detectors
• Electronic devices should be turned off in courtrooms
• Weapons of any kind are strictly prohibited
• Cell phones are permitted but must be turned off during proceedings

Finding Your Courtroom:

• Check the court calendar or information desk
• Courtroom numbers are typically posted on notices
• Ask court staff if you need directions
• Your attorney can guide you to the correct location

Transportation Options:

• Metro Rail: B Line and D Line serve Civic Center/Grand Park Station (near downtown courts)
• Metro Bus: Multiple bus lines serve courthouse areas
• Free Metro TAP cards or Metrolink tickets available for jurors serving multiple days
• Consider public transportation due to limited and expensive parking

What Should I Wear to Court?

Wearing appropriate attire shows the court that you are taking the case seriously and are showing respect to the judge. Your appearance can influence how you're perceived by the judge and jury. Los Angeles County courts expect professional business attire.

Los Angeles County Court Dress Code Requirements:

• Business or business casual attire is required
• Shirt and shoes are required at all times
• Hats must be removed upon entering and while in the courtroom
• Dress as you would for a business meeting or job interview

Recommended Court Attire:

• Men: Dress shirt, tie, slacks, dress shoes, and a jacket if possible. Sports coat with slacks is also acceptable.
• Women: Professional dress, conservative business suit, pantsuit, solid-colored blouse with dress slacks, closed-toe dress shoes

Colors to Choose:

• Conservative colors like navy blue, black, gray, or white convey stability and professionalism
• Avoid bright, flashy, or loud colors that may signal intensity or aggression

Avoid Wearing:

• Jeans, shorts, or athletic wear
• Tank tops, strapless tops, or revealing clothing
• Flip-flops, sandals, or open-toed shoes
• T-shirts with graphics, slogans, or brand logos
• Torn, wrinkled, or stained clothing
• Too much jewelry or overstated accessories
• Strong perfumes or colognes
• Baseball caps or other headwear
• Clothing with gang colors or anything that could conceal weapons

Remember, dressing professionally demonstrates respect for the court and can positively influence how you're perceived during proceedings.

Arraignment at Los Angeles' County Court

The arraignment is the first court appearance in a criminal case. This critical hearing must occur within 48 hours of your arrest if you're in custody (excluding weekends and holidays). Understanding what happens during arraignment can help you make informed decisions about your case.

What Happens During Arraignment:

• The judge reads the charges against you (though this is often waived)
• You're informed of your constitutional rights
• The court explains your right to an attorney and appoints one if you cannot afford one
• You enter a plea: guilty, not guilty, or no contest
• The court determines bail arrangements or release conditions
• Future court dates are scheduled

Plea Options Explained:

• Not Guilty: Maintains your innocence and allows time to build a defense
• Guilty: Accepts responsibility; you can be sentenced immediately
• No Contest (Nolo Contendere): Neither admits nor denies guilt; treated as guilty for sentencing purposes

H Law Group Recommendation: We strongly advise pleading "not guilty" at your arraignment. This plea can easily be changed later, but a guilty plea is difficult to rescind. Pleading not guilty gives us time to:

• Review all evidence against you
• Investigate potential defenses
• Negotiate with prosecutors
• Prepare the strongest possible defense strategy

Los Angeles County's New Bail System:

As of October 1, 2023, Los Angeles County implemented Pre-Arraignment Release Protocols (PARPs) that have significantly changed the bail process:

For Most Misdemeanors and Some Non-Violent Felonies:

• CR (Cite and Release): Released at the location of arrest with a promise to appear
• BR (Book and Release): Booked in jail then released on own recognizance
• MR (Magistrate Review): Cases reviewed by on-call magistrate 24/7

Traditional Cash Bail Still Applies For:

• Violent felonies
• Domestic violence offenses
• Serious crimes involving weapons
• Cases where the defendant is on probation, parole, or has multiple prior failures to appear

Sample Bail Amounts for Traditional Cash Bail Cases:

• Felonies: Vary widely based on offense severity (can range from $25,000 to $100,000+)
• Misdemeanors: Typically range from $500 to $5,000
• DUI: Often $5,000 for first offense, higher for repeat offenses

Showing Up for Trial in Los Angeles

If your lawyer and the county prosecutor cannot reach a plea agreement, your case may be set for trial. The trial process can take considerable time, depending on the complexity of your case and the court's schedule. Los Angeles County handles over 500,000 criminal cases annually.

Your Trial Rights:

• Right to a jury trial by 12 impartial jurors
• Right to a bench trial (judge decides) if you waive jury trial
• Right to confront witnesses against you
• Right to present evidence and call witnesses
• Right to remain silent and not testify
• Right to legal representation throughout the process

The Trial Process:

1. Jury Selection (Voir Dire)

• Attorneys question potential jurors from a diverse pool reflecting LA County's population
• Challenges for cause and peremptory challenges are used (10 peremptory challenges each side for criminal cases)
• Process continues until 12 suitable jurors are selected
• In high-profile cases, extended voir dire or sequestered juries may be necessary

2. Opening Statements

• Prosecution presents their theory of the case
• Defense outlines their strategy and defenses
• These are not evidence, but roadmaps for the trial

3. Presentation of Evidence

• Prosecution presents their case first, must prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt
• Defense may present evidence and witnesses
• Both sides can cross-examine witnesses
• Evidence must meet legal standards for admissibility

4. Closing Arguments

• Both sides summarize their cases
• Attorneys argue why evidence supports their position
• Final opportunity to persuade the jury

5. Jury Deliberation and Verdict

• All 12 jurors must agree for conviction or acquittal in criminal cases
• If jurors cannot agree, it results in a "hung jury"
• Unanimous verdict of "guilty" or "not guilty" ends the trial

Trial Timeline:

• Misdemeanor trials: Must begin within reasonable time, typically last 1-3 days
• Felony trials: Must begin within 60 days of arraignment on Information (unless waived), typically last at least one week
• Complex cases: Can extend for weeks or months

Speedy Trial Rights in Los Angeles:

• Felony cases: Trial must begin within 60 days of arraignment on Information
• Misdemeanor cases: Trial must begin within 30 days if in custody, 45 days if out of custody
• These timelines can be waived by the defendant

Why Choose The H Law Group for Trial:

With our extensive trial experience in Los Angeles courts, we provide:

• Thorough preparation and case investigationN
• Strategic jury selection understanding LA County demographics
• Compelling presentation of evidence
• Skilled cross-examination of prosecution witnesses
• Persuasive closing arguments that highlight reasonable doubt
• Deep knowledge of individual judges and their preferences

Protecting Your Rights Throughout the Process

At The H Law Group, we ensure your constitutional rights are protected at every stage:

During Police Contact:

• Exercise your right to remain silent
• Request an attorney immediately
• Do not consent to searches without a warrant
• Be respectful but do not provide statements

Throughout Court Proceedings:

• Ensure all evidence was legally obtained
• Challenge any constitutional violations
• Verify proper court procedures are followed
• Navigate LA County's complex court system
• Negotiate from a position of strength

Understanding LA County's Unique Challenges:

• Overcrowded dockets requiring strategic timing
• Diverse jury pools requiring tailored approaches
• Multiple courthouse locations requiring coordination
• Varied local practices among different judicial districts

Post-Conviction Options:

• Appeal rights for both misdemeanors and felonies to LA County Superior Court Appellate Division
• Expungement possibilities for eligible convictions under Penal Code 1203.4
• Sentence modification motions when appropriate
• Immigration consequences mitigation for non-citizens

Contact The H Law Group Today

Facing criminal charges in Los Angeles County requires experienced legal representation you can trust. At The H Law Group, we are dedicated advocates who prioritize your rights and freedom above all else. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys understand the Los Angeles County court system inside and out and will fight tirelessly to protect your future.

We serve all Los Angeles County courthouses. Don't navigate this challenging time alone. Contact The H Law Group today for a free consultation. We're here to provide the strong defense you deserve and guide you through every step of the criminal justice process in Los Angeles County.

Remember: Every person charged with a crime is entitled to a solid legal defense, and we're committed to ensuring you receive exactly that. Your future is too important to leave to chance, especially in the nation's largest court system.