⚖️ Criminal Defense• Published: September 2, 2026

Pre-Filing Legal Intervention: Stopping Criminal Charges Before Arraignment

Legal Review: State Bar of California Defense Counsel Directorate • Southern California Trial Bar

The most critical window in criminal defense occurs between the time of arrest and the filing of formal criminal charges by the prosecuting agency.

1. The Pre-Filing Intervention Process

Step 1: Contacting the Filing Deputy: Establishing immediate contact with the assigned filing deputy at the DA or City Attorney office.
Step 2: Submitting Defense Position Letters: Presenting exculpatory witness affidavits, surveillance footage, and alibi records before the filing decision.
Step 3: Negotiating Office Hearings: Seeking informal City Attorney hearings or DA charge rejections (DA Reject / DA Refer for Diversion).

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Authored by Los Angeles Criminal Defense & DUI Trial Practice

Our trial team represents clients facing felony, misdemeanor, and DUI allegations throughout Los Angeles County and Southern California. We focus on constitutional suppression motions (PC 1538.5), DMV APS hearings, bail relief, and trial litigation.