Criminal Law Unfiltered

Episode Summary: In this episode of Criminal Law Unfiltered, host Robert M. Helfend, a seasoned criminal defense attorney with over four decades of experience, delves into the intricacies of the first court appearance in felony cases. Joined by Evan Mack, they explore the critical role of bail, the information presented to judges, and the early decisions that can influence the direction of a case. Helfend emphasizes the importance ...

Episode Summary: In this episode of Criminal Law Unfiltered, host Robert Helfend delves into the complexities of criminal defense, focusing on whether attorneys need to believe their clients to effectively represent them. Robert shares personal anecdotes from his career, including a drug trial where his client was acquitted, and discusses the importance of evidence over personal belief. The conversation touches on the role of publi...

Episode Summary: In this episode of Criminal Law Unfiltered, host Robert Helfend, founder of the Helfend Law Group, takes listeners inside an ongoing criminal trial. With over four decades of experience in criminal defense, Robert discusses the meticulous preparation involved in cross-examining a key witness, highlighting the importance of organizing and accessing numerous inconsistent statements. He shares insights into the challe...

Episode Summary:

In this episode of *Criminal Law Unfiltered*, Robert M. Helfend sheds light on the common assumptions defendants make that can significantly harm their defense strategies. From the perils of talking to the police without legal counsel to the consequences of prematurely assuming the severity of a case, Robert provides valuable insights to safeguard one's legal rights.

Key Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction

01:4...

Episode Summary: In this episode, Robert M. Helfend, a seasoned criminal defense attorney, emphasizes the importance of not making any statements to the police within the first 48 hours of a serious felony accusation. He highlights the risks of talking to law enforcement and underscores the need to retain legal counsel immediately to protect one's rights.

Key Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 01:15 – Importance of not ma...

Episode Summary: In this episode of *Criminal Law Unfiltered* Robert Helfend breaks down the essential elements that the prosecution must prove to secure a conviction in serious felony cases. From discussing the burden of proof to strategies for defense, Robert provides valuable insights into the nuances of criminal trials.

Key Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 01:30 – Elements of a Crime 03:45 – The Burden of Proo...

Episode Summary:

In this episode of *Criminal Law Unfiltered* Robert Helfend delves into the possibility of felony charges being dismissed before trial. He shares insights on presenting evidence, timing, and challenges faced in cases like homicides and sexual assaults.

Key Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction

01:45 – Possibility of Case Dismissal Before Trial

03:30 – Challenges in Dismissing Sex Crime Cases

06:15 &nda...

Episode Summary: 

In this episode of *Criminal Law Unfiltered*, the discussion delves into the nuances of jury selection, exploring the impact of judges, differences between prosecutors and defense attorneys, and traits that make jurors open to the defense's case. Robert Helfend, a seasoned attorney, provides valuable insights into the strategic aspects of selecting a jury and the significance it holds for defendants and their...

Episode Summary:

Jury selection is the heart of any criminal trial, crucial for shaping the perspectives of the 12 individuals chosen from the community. Attorney Robert M. Helfend delves into the importance of picking jurors susceptible to the defense's strategy. Discover how strategic questioning can impact the outcome of a trial, offering valuable insights into the intricate process of selecting a fair and impartial jury.

Key Ti...

Episode Summary: 

In this episode of *Criminal Law Unfiltered*, attorney Robert M. Helfend delves into the intricate world of federal drug cases. From the crucial role of evidence like drug seizures and wiretaps to the complex decisions defendants face regarding cooperation and sentencing, Robert provides valuable insights into the strategies and challenges involved in these cases.

Key Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction

02...

Episode Summary: In this episode of *Criminal Law Unfiltered*, Robert M. Helfend and delves into the nuances of federal drug cases compared to state prosecutions. He highlights the stark differences in potential sentencing, mandatory minimums, and the initiation of investigations, offering valuable insights for defendants facing federal drug charges.

Key Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction

00:45 – Key Difference Between St...

Episode Summary: 

In this episode, Robert M. Helfend shares insights on evidence evaluation and defense strategies in sex crime cases. He emphasizes the importance of disproving allegations through evaluating victim stories and evidence like DNA and chain of custody. Robert explains the challenges in settling sex crime cases and offers advice for those facing false allegations.

Key Timestamps:

- 00:00 – Introduction

- 01...

Episode Summary: In this episode of Criminal Law Unfiltered, veteran defense attorney Robert Helfend breaks down what happens in the first few days after someone is accused of a sex crime in California. With over 40 years of criminal defense experience, he explains what families need to know, why staying silent is crucial, and how early legal action can protect the accused from serious mistakes. Robert also discusses how investigat...

In this episode of Criminal Law Unfiltered, defense attorney Robert M. Helfend explains the complexities of mandatory minimum sentences in federal court. He breaks down how these laws remove judicial discretion, why prosecutors hold the power to determine sentencing exposure, and what options exist for clients facing mandatory terms. With more than 40 years of experience handling serious state and federal cases, Rob...

Episode Summary:

In this episode, criminal defense attorney Robert M. Helfend explains the realities of federal investigations and grand juries. With over 40 years of experience defending clients in state and federal courts, Robert breaks down what it means to receive a target letter, why legal counsel is essential if federal agents contact you, and how grand jury proceedings differ from jury trials. He also clarifies the role of p...

Episode Summary: 

In this episode, Robert M. Helfend, founder of Helfend Law Group and a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney with over 40 years of experience, explains the ins and outs of plea bargains. Robert breaks down how plea deals are initiated, when judges get involved, what role prior convictions play, and the risks defendants face when choosing between trial and negotiation. With thousands of clients defended and ex...

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Robert M. M. Helfend, founder of Helfend Law Group and a seasoned criminal defense attorney with over 40 years of experience, explains the timeline of criminal cases. From arraignment to trial, Robert provides insight into the key stages that impact how long a case can take in both state and federal courts. He shares strategies for managing court schedules, navigating discovery, and using time to a...

Episode Summary:

Criminal defense attorney Robert M. Helfend explains the federal sentencing guidelines, mandatory minimums, downward departures, and the strategic role of cooperation with federal authorities. Drawing on over 40 years of experience defending clients across the U.S., Helfend provides essential guidance for anyone facing federal charges.

Key Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction 01:45 – How Guidelines Work 05:...

Episode Summary:

In this episode, criminal defense attorney Robert M. Helfend, founder of Helfend Law Group, discusses the critical differences between federal and state criminal charges and why understanding these distinctions can significantly impact the outcome of a case. With over 40 years of experience and more than 4,000 clients defended, Helfend explains how charges are filed, what types of cases go federal, and the strategi...