Navigating Orange County Justice System

Navigating the Justice System in Orange County

This blog marks the first in a series providing insights into the facilities and processes of the justice system in Orange County, California, focusing specifically on how it relates to individuals who have been arrested. Every state and county in California is required to operate in alignment with the U.S. Constitution, ensuring that fair policies are maintained for all parties seeking legal decisions. While technological advancements and growing social awareness have improved procedures, challenges remain due to increasing civil litigation, crime (along with expanding definitions of criminal offenses), and a growing population.

Justice Centers in Orange County

There are five justice centers in Orange County, serving different regions and addressing various cases, including adult and juvenile matters. Four of these centers handle cases for adults awaiting trial or dealing with the initial disposition of charges or revisiting cases if re-arrested due to failure to appear. The fifth center specifically caters to juvenile issues and programs.

Central Justice Center

Serving residents of Orange, Santa Ana, Tustin, and Villa Park

• Address: 700 Civic Center Dr. West, Santa Ana, CA 92701
• Phone: (714) 834-2801

Harbor Justice Center

Serving residents of Aliso Viejo, Costa Mesa, Dana Point, Irvine, Laguna Beach, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Woods, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, Newport Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano

• Address: 4601 Jamboree Blvd, Newport Beach, CA 92660
• Phone: (949) 476-4822

North Justice Center

Serving residents of Anaheim, Buena Park, Fullerton, La Habra, La Palma, Placentia, Yorba Linda

• Address: 1275 N. Berkeley Street, Fullerton, CA 92835
• Phone: (714) 773-4523

West Justice Center

Serving residents of Huntington Beach, Cypress, Fountain Valley, Garden Grove, Los Alamitos, Midway City, Seal Beach, Stanton, Westminster

• Address: 8141 13th Street, Westminster, CA 92683
• Phone: (714) 896-7310

Lamoureaux Justice Center (Juvenile Justice Center)

Serving all of Orange County for juvenile matters, including misdemeanors, felonies, and determining whether juveniles will be tried as adults.

• Address: 341 The City Drive South, Orange, CA 92868
• Phone: (714) 935-7858

What Happens After an Arrest in Orange County Without Posting Bail?

If you're arrested in Orange County, you will be held for an arraignment, where you will enter a plea—guilty, not guilty, or no contest. This process can take up to 48 hours, excluding weekends or holidays. In the event of a three-day holiday weekend, the best time to avoid long waits is to avoid being arrested on Wednesday after 4 pm.

You may be able to post bail in cash or through a bail bond for release prior to arraignment. Alternatively, charges may be dismissed if the prosecution determines there’s not enough evidence or if the real perpetrator is found.

Plea Options After Arrest

Guilty

A guilty plea indicates you acknowledge the charges and are accepting responsibility. For instance, in a DUI case with a clear BAC reading of 0.11, it would be difficult to argue the test result.

Not Guilty

A not guilty plea means you are denying the charges and are ready for a trial. You would want to consider this plea if you are confident that you are not guilty and have legal support to prove it.

No Contest

A no contest plea means you are not contesting the charges but are also protecting yourself from further civil litigation related to the offense.

What Happens After Posting Bail?

Posting bail allows you to leave jail while awaiting your arraignment and hearing, but you must appear at both to avoid further legal consequences. Missing these appearances can lead to the forfeiture of bail or bond, additional penalties, and the issuance of a new arrest warrant.

The Role of an Attorney

Regardless of your plea, an attorney is invaluable in helping you navigate the arraignment and hearing processes. Attorneys provide legal guidance and may negotiate on your behalf to secure the best possible outcome. They can also protect your rights during questioning by detectives and help avoid potential pitfalls in more serious investigations.

Disclaimer

The information provided on this site is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. The opinions expressed here may not reflect those of Mr. Nice Guy Bail Bonds, Inc.