Facing Felony Charges in California? Here’s What You Need to Know About Felony Settlement Conferences
If you or someone close to you is facing felony charges in California, you may have heard the terms “felony settlement conference” or “felony readiness conference” mentioned. Here’s a breakdown of what these are and why they are important.
What is a Felony Settlement Conference?
A felony settlement conference, also known as a felony readiness conference, is a meeting that takes place between your arraignment (your first court date) and your preliminary hearing. After pleading not guilty at your arraignment, the court sets dates for your next appearances, and typically, this will be your next stop — the felony settlement conference.
Where Do Felony Settlement Conferences Happen in San Diego?
The location of the felony settlement conference will depend on where your case is being heard in San Diego County:
- Downtown: 11th floor of the State Courthouse (Departments 1101, 1102, or 1103)
- Chula Vista: Department 14
- Vista: Department 5 or 6
- El Cajon: Department 2 or 11
What’s the Point of a Felony Settlement Conference in Felony Cases?
Think of the felony settlement conference as a “check-in” meeting. Your attorney, the district attorney, and the judge come together to discuss your case. They decide whether the case can be settled, should be settled, or whether it needs to move forward to a preliminary hearing or even trial.
Why Should You Care?
These conferences are important because they are often the first time the judge is introduced to you and your case. It’s your attorney’s opportunity to make a strong impression and set the tone for the upcoming proceedings. A well-prepared defense attorney can demonstrate their thorough understanding of your case, which can significantly enhance your chances of achieving a favorable outcome.
What Actually Happens at a Felony Readiness Conference?
Picture this: From about 8:30 to 10:00 in the morning, it can feel like organized chaos. Lawyers, district attorneys, and judges are all trying to get into the same room to discuss cases, set dates, or negotiate potential deals. As the client, you might feel a bit overwhelmed, but this is perfectly normal.
How Should You Prepare for a Felony Readiness Conference?
Talk to your lawyer: Stay in the loop about what to expect and how to prepare.
Dress appropriately: Aim for business casual at a minimum. A collared shirt and nice jeans should be fine, but dressing a bit more formally won’t hurt.
What Could Happen at a Felony Settlement Conference in San Diego Criminal Court?
The best-case scenario? Your case could be dismissed (though this is rare). More likely outcomes include:
- Resolving the case with a plea bargain
- Pleading to the charges and moving forward to sentencing
- Setting new dates or confirming your preliminary hearing
The Bottom Line
Felony settlement conferences are significant. They’re your opportunity to start things off on the right foot. The key is to be prepared and ensure that your lawyer is well-prepared too. Even if everything isn’t resolved at this conference, you can still make progress and lay the groundwork for a better outcome down the road.
Remember, knowledge is power. Understanding this process helps you make better decisions for your future. If you found this helpful, share it with someone who might need it. Everyone deserves to understand their rights and options when facing serious legal challenges.
Disclaimer
The contents of this article and blog are meant for informational and marketing purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Viewing and/or use of the blog does not form an attorney-client relationship. No statements in this post are a guarantee, warranty, or prediction of a particular result in your case.
