News & Events

Yes. Family support of a criminal defendant is critical, and we strongly encourage family members to attend hearings of their loved ones.  However, family and friends may not speak directly to the judge unless they are asked to do so.  Audience members who are being disruptive will be removed from the courtroom...

Visitors to the courtroom cannot speak or communicate in any way with a defendant in custody...

Yes, but every effort should be made to keep young children quiet while court is in session. Some courtroom topics may be inappropriate for young children...

Yes. Please remember to turn off your smartphone, tablet, smartwatches, and pagers before entering the courtroom. The use of cameras, camera phones, and recording devices inside the courtroom is prohibited. These rules are strictly enforced by the Court and the U.S. Marshals...

When you enter the courthouse, you will go through a metal detector. Your handbag, briefcase, backpack, and any containers will be x-rayed, and you will be required to remove your shoes. Metal objects including knitting needles, scissors, nail clippers, pocket knives, and any kind of weapon, are not permitted and will be confiscated. Alcoholic beverages are not permitted. The use of cameras, camera phones and recording devices inside the courtroom is prohibited. Security officers may confiscate any items they think are hazardous. If you have […]..

Central Violations Bureau (CVB) refers to those petty offenses (as defined under 18 USC 19) that occur on federal property, such as federal buildings, national parks, military bases, post offices, Veteran Affairs centers, Social Security Administration Offices, local national forests (i.e., Angeles Crest, Los Padres National Forest), and any other areas that are patrolled or under the jurisdiction of the federal government. In the Central District of California, CVB matters include violations occurring on Vandenberg Air Force Base (VAFB), the Naval bases out of Ventura […]..

No. CVB offenses do not include any felony offenses. Felony offenses are prosecuted separately by the United States Attorney’s Office...

CVB offenses are governed by 18 U.S.C. section 19. This statute specifically states that petty offenses include Class B misdemeanors, Class C misdemeanors, and infractions. We will also see Class A misdemeanors on the CVB docket. Here is a breakdown of the particulars for each type of citation: Class A Misdemeanors: The maximum sentence is one year of imprisonment; a fine of up to $100,000; a $25 special assessment; a $25 CVB processing fee; and up to one year of supervised release or 5 years […]..

The court will appoint an attorney to represent you only if the government is seeking either a jail sentence or a sentence that includes a term of probation. This will depend on the type of charge. For example, if you are arrested for a DUI, you likely be afforded court-appointed counsel. The reason for this is that DUI convictions will include no less than a sentence of probation. The Federal Public Defender’s Office is often appointed on petty theft, drug possession, and disturbing the peace […]..

If you intend to contest your charges, you must appear in California. If you are interested in resolving your case through a guilty plea, there is a provision under Rule 58(c)(2) of the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure to allow transfer of your case for plea and sentencing...