A family sought the services of the Law Office of Juan F. Dotson to defend against felony juvenile charges of multiple forcible sex offenses against a minor. One of these crimes allegedly occurred when the defendant was an adult; the 3 or more other instances allegedly occurred when the client was a minor. Client was arrested as an adult in January, but the District Attorney’s office decided to drop the adult case and file multiple juvenile felony charges. Today, he is free.
In January 2011, the police arrested my client and set bail at $100k. At that time, I advised the family to not put up the bail and wait until we see a judge. First, I informed them that I may be able to convince a judge to reduce the bail at the client’s arraignment (first hearing). Secondly, I advised them that they would not be able to recover the bail premium (over $7000) even if the case is decided in client’s favor.
At the second hearing, my office convinced the judge to release the client on home detention (cannot leave home except for work or school) in lieu of jail. From then, we continued to investigate the case (with assistance of Star Investigations) by interviewing family members, friends of the family, and school officials to gather information about the accuser.
Today, on the day of trial, the District Attorney attempted to add an additional sex charge (lewd act on a minor, a felony) and asked us if we can still proceed. Since the Law Office of Juan F. Dotson anticipated the new charge, we were prepared and informed the court: “Ready for trial, object to any delay.” The prosecution announced they were not ready to proceed, so the judge dismissed the case without prejudice. This means that the charges can be reinstated at a later date at the arraignment stage. The client would not be re-arrested.
All smiles leaving court after my client's juvenile case was dismissed on the day of trial. Prosecution has a right to re-file charges.
For now, this means another victory for the Law Office of Juan F. Dotson and this young man can finally get out of the house and enjoy the beautiful California sunshine!