What is an expungement?
An expungement is when you file a document with the court and you ask the Judge to remove your guilty plea and dismiss your case. There are specific requirements which […]
I still have other questions…
If you are a public defender client, speak as soon as possible with the attorney who represented you at trial or sentencing. If you still have additional questions, call (805) […]
What happens on an Appeal?
The lawyers on both sides will file briefs and any other pleadings that are necessary and may present oral argument to a panel of three judges. At least two of […]
How long does an Appeal take?
Appeals often take six to eighteen months for a decision. An appeal does not postpone the terms of your sentence.
When is the deadline to file?
30 days after sentencing in a misdemeanor case and 60 days after sentencing in felony cases. If you decide to file the Notice of Appeal close to the deadline, you […]
Who will represent me on Appeal?
With a timely request, the Public Defender will file your notice of appeal or provide you with a form to do it yourself. Often, the appellate court will appoint another […]
Should I Appeal?
Frivolous appeals should not be filed and, sometimes, things can get worse after an appeal, particularly in felony cases. You may be asked to reimburse the government for the fees […]
My agency is interested in becoming a referral agency, what do I do?
Contact our Homeless Court at Pdparalegals@ventura.org to discuss the process and requirements.
Where is homeless court held?
Homeless court is currently held VIA Zoom and subject to change in the near future.
Does homeless court clear my record?
No, but after homeless court you can file an expungement, which can take the conviction off your record. Stand alone Misdemeanor expungements should be filed by the individual themselves. Instructions […]
Will I be taken into custody or sent to jail?
No! The Homeless Court Program key players (judges, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and homeless shelters and service agencies) agree, “No one goes into custody against their will.” This agreement respects the […]
I have a ticket from a different county. Can I resolve it at homeless court?
Unfortunately, no. We can only clear monies owed on Ventura County cases. We suggest contacting the county where the incident occurred and asking if they have a similar program or […]
I owe a lot of fines. Will homeless court help me?
Yes! There is no limitation on the amount of eligible fines and fees that can be cleared in Homeless Court. If you owe thousands of dollars, you can still benefit […]
I am in a treatment program now. can I participate in homeless court?
Yes! The treatment and community service hours provided by the program can be used to clear some fines/fees.
Do I have to be homeless?
No! Homeless Court is for persons who are homeless, at imminent risk of being homeless, and all indigent individuals.
Can homeless court help with my DMV hold?
Yes! If fees and fines owed to the Court are causing a DMV hold, participating in homeless court can get the hold lifted. Unfortunately, can’t use Homeless Court hours to pay fines and […]
What types of cases are heard in homeless court?
All infractions are automatically eligible. Some non-violent misdemeanors can be eligible with DA approval. *Parking tickets are NOT eligible for Homeless Court
What is an Appeal?
An appeal is a claim that the superior court judge made an error of law that affected the outcome of your case. Many trial court errors are viewed as harmless […]
When do I meet my Public Defender?
There will be a Public Defender in court for you on your first court date. Usually that attorney will not be your permanent Public Defender. It takes a few days […]
Am I financially eligible to get a Public Defender?
This depends upon your income, assets, expenses, and type(s) of charges. During your first court appearance you can apply. You will fill out a financial information sheet (we call it […]
Can I Appeal?
With a few exceptions, no appeal can be filed until after you have been sentenced. There are no appeals from a deferred entry of judgment. A plea of Guilty or […]
Does the Public Defender work on my type of case?
Most of our clients need our help in one of the following: Criminal Defense: Defense of both indigent adults and minors who are charged with a crime. We also defend […]