In downtown Los Angeles, when somebody is arrested and being prosecuted for a federal criminal case, they will be brought into the Roybal Building on the 3rd Floor. That's where they have their initial appearance. They'll be presented with the indictment related to their case.
At this crucial stage, the individual must sign paperwork appointing their attorney or indicating they can't afford one. This attorney, a key figure in the legal process, will be given whatever paperwork relates to the case, ensuring that the individual's rights are protected.
Another thing that will happen is that the probation or pre-trial services will prepare a detention report, which outlines for the judge whether or not the pre-trial service office thinks the defendant should be released under some condition.
Whether it be a signature bond, a property bond, or just their promise to appear, the attorney can review that but cannot take that document out of the courtroom because it has private information about the criminal defendant. Then, at the time of the initial court appearance, the attorney can argue for the person to be released.
The government will have representatives who pretty much sit there and deal with every case. They'll usually be standing in for the prosecutors who are assigned to the case, and the court will call the case. The attorney will get a judge assigned to the case.
Judge's Rules and Status Conference
Usually, after the court appearances, the judge's rules are given to the attorney. Sometimes, the judge has the attorney appear in court that day or shortly after for a status conference.
The attorney can also argue the bail issue and try to get their client out. Then, new court dates will be set. Eventually, the prosecutor who is assigned to the case will get in touch with the attorney so the attorney can get all the discovery paperwork related to the case so they can properly prepare to meet with their client and go over everything.
These appearances in the Roybal Building are significant because they shape how the case will be handled. They determine the judge, who could be liberal or conservative, and the potential outcome—whether the individual can fight their case from the outside or has to remain in custody. These are all crucial considerations.
Is it going to be a judge who is harsh on these types of crimes? These are obviously all considerations. Are you going to be able to get out and fight your case from the outside, or do you have to remain in custody? Another huge implication.
Motion to Reconsider the Bail
There are ways to get the person out after the initial appearance. If they don't get out with a Motion to Reconsider the Bail, a Motion could also be filed with the new judge, depending on the circumstances of the case, and decided at a bail hearing.
Whether there's some new information that the original judge has not heard before, or you want the latest judge to review the decision of the judge who initially set the bond condition and maybe detained you so you can't get out.
The appearance at the Roybal Building is significant, and it's advisable to have your attorney already locked in by then. However, this can be challenging as the process moves quickly once the person is arrested. I often handle cases in that courtroom, and they usually start at the beginning of the case, setting the stage for what's to come.
It's hard to double back and get an attorney, but it's crucial. I always do cases in that courtroom, and they usually start at the beginning of the case. Having an attorney from the start sets the stage for what's to come, so acting quickly is essential.
So, it would be best to get an attorney right from the start. If you or a loved one has a pending matter in the Roybal Building on the 3rd Floor and needs assistance, pick up the phone.
We can discuss the case in the privacy of my office or over the phone, and I can start taking action right away to protect your rights, freedom, and reputation related to your federal criminal case in downtown Los Angeles. Hedding Law Firm is a criminal defense law firm located at 16000 Ventura Blvd #1208 Encino, CA 91436.
