Los Angeles Arraignment Lawyer – Airport Courthouse Defense Guide

If you’ve been arrested or cited to appear at the Airport Courthouse in Los Angeles, your legal process begins with an arraignment—a formal hearing that sets the tone for your entire criminal case. The outcome of this early hearing can determine whether you go home, remain in custody, or begin the fight for your future from behind bars.

At Power Trial Lawyers, our attorneys appear regularly at the Airport Courthouse, located at 11701 S. La Cienega Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90045, defending individuals at arraignment in felony, misdemeanor, and infraction matters. If you are searching for a Los Angeles arraignment lawyer, this guide provides the comprehensive legal insight you need to understand the stakes—and take immediate action.

Learn more about the court at:
https://www.lacourt.org/courthouse/info/lax

What Is an Arraignment in Los Angeles?

An arraignment is your first formal court appearance following an arrest, citation, or the filing of criminal charges. It is not a trial. Instead, this hearing serves several purposes under California Penal Code § 988:

• To inform you of the exact charges filed by the District Attorney;
• To advise you of your constitutional rights;
• To ask for your plea (typically “Not Guilty”);
• To determine whether you will remain in custody, be released on bail, or qualify for own recognizance (O.R.) release;
• To set future court dates, including a pretrial hearing or preliminary hearing.

In cases involving custody, arraignment must occur within 48 court hours of arrest (excluding weekends and holidays) under Penal Code § 825. This timeline is enforced at the Airport Courthouse, which serves communities including Westchester, Inglewood, Playa del Rey, El Segundo, and parts of South Los Angeles.

Arraignment Procedure at the Airport Courthouse

The Airport Courthouse operates with efficiency and formality. Arraignments typically occur in the morning, with calendars called promptly by the presiding judge. Whether you are in custody or out on bail, you are expected to arrive early and be prepared.

Here is how the typical arraignment process unfolds at the Airport Courthouse:

1. Case Called: The judge or courtroom clerk calls your name.
2. Reading of Charges: Charges are read unless your attorney waives formal reading.
3. Entry of Plea: A “Not Guilty” plea is generally entered to preserve all defenses and procedural rights.
4. Bail Argument: Your Los Angeles arraignment lawyer can argue for reduced bail or O.R. release.
5. Setting of Future Hearings: The judge sets dates for the next stages, including discovery, pretrial hearings, or a preliminary hearing in felony matters.

Why You Need a Los Angeles Arraignment Lawyer at the Airport Courthouse

The arraignment is not just a routine formality—it is a critical opportunity to:

• Challenge the strength of the prosecution’s case early;
• Prevent excessive bail or detention;
• Protect your rights from the very first appearance;
• Gain leverage for negotiations with the District Attorney’s office.

Without experienced representation, you risk being remanded to custody, waiving essential rights, or entering an unfavorable procedural path. At Power Trial Lawyers, we offer proactive, courtroom-ready representation designed to protect your liberty from the moment charges are filed.

Common Legal Defenses Raised at or Before Arraignment

A skilled Los Angeles arraignment lawyer begins analyzing potential defenses immediately. Depending on the nature of the allegations and evidence disclosed at or before the arraignment, common preliminary defenses include:

• Lack of Probable Cause: A motion can be prepared if the arrest lacked sufficient legal grounds.
• Violation of Miranda Rights: Involuntary or coerced statements can be challenged early.
• Unlawful Search and Seizure: Evidence obtained without a warrant or legal justification may be suppressed.
• Insufficient Charging Documents: Incomplete or vague criminal complaints may be challenged at arraignment.
• Violation of the 48-Hour Rule: If the defendant was held too long without arraignment, a motion to dismiss or suppress may be appropriate.

A proper defense starts at the arraignment stage—not at trial.

Timeline of an Arraignment Case at the Airport Courthouse

Each of these stages builds upon the decisions made at the arraignment. That’s why having a knowledgeable Los Angeles arraignment lawyer present on day one is essential.

Jurisdiction of the Airport Courthouse

The Airport Courthouse handles a wide variety of cases, including:

• DUI and traffic misdemeanors
• Domestic violence
• Theft offenses
• Weapon possession
• Drug possession
• Probation violations
• Bench warrant recalls

Because this courthouse serves a geographically diverse and densely populated area near Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), courtroom calendars are often crowded and fast-moving. This makes strategic legal preparation even more critical.

Choosing Power Trial Lawyers for Airport Courthouse Arraignments

Our attorneys are highly familiar with the layout, staff, and courtroom practices of the Airport Courthouse. We have successfully represented many individuals charged with both misdemeanors and felonies during their initial court appearance.

When you retain Power Trial Lawyers as your Los Angeles arraignment lawyer, you receive:

• Immediate case assessment and defense planning;
• Representation in court, including entry of plea and bail advocacy;
• Access to early discovery and procedural motions;
• Comprehensive guidance on what to expect and how to prepare.

Contact a Los Angeles Arraignment Lawyer for Your Airport Courthouse Hearing

If you have been arrested, cited, or scheduled for arraignment at the Airport Courthouse, do not wait to retain legal counsel. The decisions made at this early stage—by the court, by the prosecutor, and by your attorney—will affect every aspect of your case.

Let Power Trial Lawyers represent you with the authority, preparation, and legal experience you deserve. Call today or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation with a seasoned Los Angeles arraignment lawyer.

For official court information, visit:
https://www.lacourt.org/courthouse/info/lax