A criminal charge in Tarzana, CA, can place your life at a legal crossroads. The decisions you make now could have consequences that last a lifetime. Before you do anything else, consult an experienced criminal defense lawyer to learn your legal rights.

At the Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling, we know that good people make mistakes. We know innocent people may be wrongfully accused. No matter the circumstances, every person has a constitutional right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty. If you’re facing criminal allegations, you need a hard-hitting advocate to stand up for your interests.

Whether you got stopped along Ventura Boulevard or questioned by investigators at the West Valley Police Station, you need trusted legal representation to help you navigate California’s criminal justice process. Our law firm represents clients across Tarzana and the surrounding San Fernando Valley.

Call or contact us today for a free consultation with a Tarzana criminal defense attorney.

Aggressive Criminal Defense Representation in Tarzana

Criminal cases demand an attorney who knows the local courts and prosecutors. Firm founder Justin E. Sterling is a Los Angeles native with over two decades of legal experience handling criminal cases of all kinds. As a former trial attorney in the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office, he brings valuable courtroom insight, effective negotiating tactics, and an unwavering commitment to representing clients through every stage of the legal process. That background helps him prepare strong defenses and pursue favorable outcomes whenever possible.

When you work with Justin Sterling, you get a criminal lawyer who:

  • Has defended cases prosecuted by nearly all specialized units in L.A. County, including the Hardcore, Major Crimes, Family Violence, and High-Tech Crimes units
  • Has a track record of positive outcomes for clients, including numerous not-guilty verdicts and case dismissals
  • Defends clients in criminal defense cases in both state and federal courts
  • Works with an in-house team of investigators, many with former law enforcement experience
  • Offers meticulous attention to detail in pre-trial motions, evidence review, and discovery analysis
  • Identifies opportunities for negotiating plea deals or alternative sentencing where appropriate

Here’s what past client Tyler Slade had to say about working with our firm:

“As an attorney Justin’s track record of success speaks for itself. His dedication to his clients and his craft is uncanny while his character as a man surpasses even what he has achieved in the courtroom.”

Criminal Charges We Defend Against

Our Tarzana criminal law firm represents clients charged with a broad range of criminal offenses, including:

  • DUI defense
  • Domestic violence
  • Drug crimes
  • White-collar crimes
  • Theft and property crimes
  • Assault and battery
  • Sex crimes
  • Weapons offenses
  • Violent crimes
  • Three Strikes cases
  • Probation violations

Police investigations and charging decisions vary widely depending on the circumstances of the case, and prosecutors often rely heavily on reports created during the initial arrest. Our firm combs over every report and piece of evidence carefully, then conducts an independent investigation to identify legal or factual issues that may impact your criminal case.

What Happens After an Arrest in Tarzana?

Being arrested is stressful enough. Knowing what happens next can help you respond effectively:

  • Booking at West Valley Police Station or Devonshire Area Jail: After an arrest, you may be taken to the local station for processing. Officers document personal information, then take fingerprints and photograph you. This usually occurs within hours of the arrest.
  • Initial bail and custody hearing: The first 48 hours after an arrest are key. A judge may set bail or release conditions during this period. A Tarzana criminal defense lawyer can advocate for fair terms.
  • Arraignment: Your initial court appearance will usually occur at the Van Nuys Courthouse. During the arraignment, you will be formally charged, enter a plea, and have an opportunity to discuss bail modifications.
  • Pre-trial motions and hearings: Defense attorneys can file motions to suppress evidence and dismiss charges, among other things. These motions often limit how the prosecution can proceed and may be filed multiple times before trial.

Acting within the first two days after an arrest often affects whether you remain in custody and the options available to resolve the case.

How a Criminal Defense Lawyer Builds Your Case

Building a solid criminal defense means first taking a big-picture view of the case, then zooming in to scrutinize every detail — from your side of the story to how law enforcement handled the arrest and investigation. That process helps identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and opportunities to challenge the charges.

At the Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling, the process typically involves:

  • Case evaluation: Your trial lawyer reviews police reports and evidence related to the incident.
  • Investigation: Our legal team locates witnesses, collects records, and consults experts when a case involves technical or scientific evidence.
  • Strategic planning: We analyze the prosecution’s case to identify strengths and weaknesses and develop potential legal defenses.
  • Negotiation and advocacy: We communicate with prosecutors about possible plea agreements or alternative resolutions when appropriate.
  • Trial preparation: We prepare motions and exhibits and work with witnesses to prepare court testimony.

Through careful preparation at each stage, Justin E. Sterling helps position your defense for the best possible outcome.

Possible Penalties for Criminal Convictions in California

Convictions in California can lead to a variety of criminal penalties, depending on the type of charge and the circumstances of the case. Courts may impose jail or prison sentences for misdemeanor or felony offenses. Financial penalties are also common, including fines ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars. In many cases, judges also order restitution, which requires payment to victims for losses related to the crime.

Courts sometimes place people on probation or parole instead of the maximum period of incarceration. These forms of supervision come with conditions that must be followed closely. Certain convictions can also lead to driver’s license suspension, particularly in DUI and some drug cases.

Beyond court-imposed penalties, a conviction may create practical challenges. You might have difficulty securing employment and housing, or retaining your professional licenses. For immigrants, a conviction could limit your right to stay in the United States.

Your Rights After Being Charged with a Crime

Knowing and exercising your rights after a criminal charge can help protect your future. You have the:

  • Right to remain silent
  • Right to an attorney
  • Right to know your charges
  • Right to a fair and speedy trial
  • Right to remain free of unlawful searches or seizures
  • Right to request bail or have a bail hearing
  • Right to have your lawyer file motions
  • Right to an appeal

A skilled criminal defense lawyer can help you understand your rights and obligations so that you can make informed choices about your case.

Contact a Tarzana Criminal Defense Attorney Today

An arrest is not the end of the road for you. You have rights and deserve to know all of your legal options from an experienced criminal defense attorney who’s local and loyal to clients in Tarzana and the San Fernando Valley. Contact the Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling today for a free case review.