Which Court Will Handle My Santa Clarita Valley Case ?

The reorganization of cases from the Santa Clarita Valley has caused a bit of confusion to people accused of crimes in the Santa Clarita Valley. Beginning in September, 2011, cases in the Santa Clarita Valley were shifted. Cases which are filed at felony level are now assigned to the San Fernando Courthouse, about 15 miles away from the Santa Clarita Court. Thus, Santa Clarita Criminal Courtroom 1 is no longer a felony courtroom. Misdemeanors filed from the Santa Clarita Valley are now split up between the three criminal courts at Santa Clarita Courthouse.

So, how do you know where to go for your case? If you are arrested for a misdemeanor violation, in all likelihood, your case will be assigned to Santa Clarita Criminal Court. If you are arrested for a felony violation in the Santa Clarita Valley, the assigned courtroom will be dictated by the filing decision of the Los Angeles District Attorney's Office. Many felony arrests are wobblers. Thus, these cases can be filed as either felonies or misdemeanors. Importantly, a criminal defense attorney may be able to take early intervention on your behalf, contacting the District Attorney's Office, as well as the arresting agency, to request consideration for less serious options.

In any event, if you are accused of a crime in the Santa Clarita Valley, it is important to have attorney representation as soon as possible. (Also, you should never make any statement to law enforcement officers without the presence of an attorney if you are accused of a crime.)

The D.A. may consider your case for an alternative which would not be available once the case is filed in court, such as an Office Hearing, or reject. Your attorney can advise you about your best alternatives and strategies for your specific situation.