Central Justice Center Criminal Defense Lawyer

Power Trial Lawyers – Aggressive Santa Ana Criminal Defense Representation

Arrested in Santa Ana or Central Orange County? Your Case Likely Starts Here.

If you are arrested in Santa Ana, Tustin, Garden Grove, Orange, Anaheim (select cases), or unincorporated areas in the heart of Orange County, your case will likely be assigned to the Central Justice Center at 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701.

This is the largest and busiest courthouse in the county — the hub of felony prosecutions, complex misdemeanor cases, and high-profile trials. It is directly across from the Orange County Jail and serves as the command center for the county’s criminal justice system.

Because Central Justice Center handles such a large and serious caseload, the stakes are higher here. Prosecutors assigned to this courthouse often have years of trial experience, and the courtroom culture moves at a fast pace. Without an attorney who knows the building, the personnel, and the process inside and out, a defendant can quickly be at a disadvantage.

At Power Trial Lawyers, we appear in this courthouse regularly. We understand the local rules, the tendencies of the judges, and the pressure points that can be used to defend clients. Whether you are facing a DUI, a violent felony, or a white-collar investigation, we know how to fight for your rights in this courthouse.

Understanding Central Justice Center’s Role in the Orange County Court System

Central Justice Center is where many of the most serious criminal matters in the county are initiated and resolved. Its jurisdiction covers:

• Felony cases from multiple central Orange County cities.
• Serious misdemeanor cases, including domestic violence, DUI with injury, and repeat theft.
• Preliminary hearings for felony cases originating in its jurisdiction.
• Full criminal jury trials, including high-profile and complex litigation.

The courthouse also houses specialized departments that handle:

• Drug court programs
• Mental health diversion cases
• Probation violation hearings
• Post-conviction relief motions

Because of its size and volume, Central Justice Center has dedicated felony arraignment departments (commonly Department C55) and misdemeanor departments that move quickly through heavy calendars. This high-volume environment means you need a lawyer who can command attention and protect your case from being lost in the shuffle.

What to Expect When Your Case Is at Central Justice Center

Defendants who have never been inside this courthouse often underestimate how overwhelming it can feel. Here’s what to expect:

Arrival and Security

All visitors must pass through a security screening at the entrance. During the morning rush, lines can extend outside the building, especially on high-volume arraignment days. Arriving early — at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time — is critical.

Parking and Transportation

Public parking is available in the Civic Center parking structures along Flower Street, just a short walk from the courthouse. Defendants relying on public transportation can access the courthouse via OCTA bus lines that stop at Civic Center Drive and Broadway.

Inside the Building

Courtroom assignments are posted on monitors inside the lobby. Each courtroom is identified by a department number (e.g., C55, C57). Criminal cases are generally heard on the upper floors, with felony arraignments and preliminary hearings concentrated in specific departments.

Arraignments at Central Justice Center

An arraignment here is more than a simple formality. It’s the point where bail is set, your release is determined, and the judge gets a first impression of your case and your defense. In serious cases — especially violent felonies, major drug offenses, and repeat DUIs — the prosecution often pushes for high bail or to keep the defendant in custody.

We approach arraignment at Central Justice Center with a strategy designed to:

• Argue for own recognizance release or the lowest possible bail.
• Present evidence of community ties, employment history, and lack of flight risk.
• Begin challenging the sufficiency of the complaint if charges are overreaching.
• Preserve all possible defenses by entering a plea that positions the case for the strongest fight ahead.

Pre-Trial Hearings: Where Cases Are Won Before Trial

After arraignment, your case will move to pre-trial hearings. At Central Justice Center, this phase is where many cases are shaped — or even resolved — without trial.

During pre-trial, we:

• File motions to suppress evidence from unlawful searches or seizures.
• Challenge the reliability and admissibility of prosecution witnesses.
• Seek complete disclosure of the prosecution’s evidence.
• Negotiate from a position of strength, not desperation.

Because calendars are heavy, judges here expect defense attorneys to be prepared and direct. We make sure every hearing moves your case forward toward dismissal, reduction, or the best possible trial posture.

Preliminary Hearings for Felony Cases

Felony cases in this courthouse cannot proceed to trial without a preliminary hearing. While the burden for the prosecution is low — showing only probable cause — this stage offers opportunities to:

• Cross-examine prosecution witnesses under oath.
• Identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s theory.
• Lock witnesses into testimony for use at trial.
• Seek dismissal or charge reduction if evidence is lacking.

At Central Justice Center, preliminary hearings often happen within weeks of arraignment. Moving quickly to prepare is essential.

Trials at Central Justice Center

When a case goes to trial here, it is tried before a jury drawn from Santa Ana, Tustin, Garden Grove, and surrounding communities. Understanding the jury pool’s demographics, values, and perspectives is part of building a defense that resonates.

Our trial preparation includes:

• Detailed jury selection strategy.
• Expert witnesses to counter forensic or technical evidence.
• Targeted cross-examination to undermine prosecution testimony.
• Clear, persuasive closing arguments designed to create reasonable doubt.

Common Criminal Charges at Central Justice Center

We defend clients against all charges heard here, including:

• DUI and DUI with injury
• Domestic violence
• Drug possession and sales
• Assault, battery, and violent felonies
• Theft, burglary, and robbery
• White-collar crimes
• Weapons charges
• Probation violations
• Juvenile cases from the local jurisdiction

Why Choose Power Trial Lawyers for Central Justice Center Cases

• Local Court Experience: Regular appearances in Central Justice Center courtrooms.
• Reputation with Judges and Prosecutors: We know how each courtroom operates and how to advocate effectively within them.
• Proven Results: Dismissals, charge reductions, and acquittals in complex cases.
• 24/7 Availability: Immediate response for arraignments, bail hearings, and urgent matters.

If you have a case in Central Justice Center, call 888-808-2179 now or request a confidential case review online. The sooner we are involved, the more opportunities we have to protect your freedom.