A sexual assault case in California can take anywhere from a few months to several years to resolve, depending on the complexity of the case, the court’s schedule, the availability of evidence, and whether the case goes to trial. Some cases resolve quickly through dismissal or plea agreements, while others involve extended pretrial motions and litigation.
The legal process includes several phases: investigation, charging, arraignment, pretrial hearings, and possibly trial. Each stage takes time, especially when forensic evidence, witness availability, or legal motions delay proceedings. To understand what timeline applies to your case, consult a Los Angeles sex crimes lawyer early in the process.
What Happens Before Charges are Filed
We often begin working with clients during the investigation stage—before any formal charges are filed. This period can last from a few weeks to several months, depending on how long police and prosecutors take to review evidence and decide whether to proceed.
During this time, we may be able to present evidence in your favor, correct false assumptions, or stop the case from moving forward altogether. Delays often occur while forensic labs process evidence or law enforcement interviews witnesses.
The more serious the accusation, the longer this early phase tends to take. That’s why it’s critical to have legal guidance early—to avoid costly missteps and protect your rights before things escalate.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 896-2723
Timeline After Charges are Filed
Once formal charges are filed, the legal process officially begins. The first court appearance is the arraignment, where you enter a plea. From that point, the court sets dates for pretrial hearings, motions, and potentially a trial.
A typical post-charging timeline might include:
- Arraignment: Held within days of arrest or notice to appear.
- Pretrial phase: Can last 3–9 months, depending on court backlog and discovery.
- Trial: If needed, trial may occur 6–18 months after arraignment.
Some cases move faster if the evidence is weak or a favorable resolution is reached early. Others stall due to complex legal motions, changes in representation, or scheduling conflicts between the court and attorneys.
What Can Cause Delays?
Sexual assault cases often involve sensitive evidence, complex investigations, and serious consequences. That leads to delays that are sometimes unavoidable but sometimes preventable with the right legal strategy.
Common causes of delay include:
- Backlogged forensic testing: DNA or toxicology results may take months.
- Unavailable witnesses: Travel, cooperation, or credibility can cause postponements.
- Pretrial motions: Motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges take time.
- Trial scheduling: Courts may push dates back due to overcrowded dockets.
While delays can be frustrating, they also create opportunities. We use them to gather evidence, build your defense, and work with prosecutors to reach a better outcome.
Speed vs. Strategy in Defense
Some clients want a quick resolution to move on with their lives—others prefer to fight all the way through trial. We tailor our legal strategy to your goals, keeping you informed at every stage of the process.
We never rush a case if it means compromising your defense. Rushing can lead to missed details, weak negotiation, or pressure to accept unfair plea deals. At the same time, we know how to move efficiently and cut through unnecessary delays.
Our job is to balance urgency with precision. Whether that means pressing for dismissal early or preparing for trial over months, we handle each case with the seriousness it demands.
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Can the Case Be Resolved Before Trial?
Yes—many sexual assault cases are resolved before trial. That can include dismissals, charge reductions, or negotiated pleas that avoid the harshest penalties. The earlier we get involved, the more options are available.
Some resolutions happen during the pre-filing stage, especially when we can challenge credibility, present alibi evidence, or demonstrate that key legal elements aren’t met. Other times, we use pretrial negotiations to avoid trial and reduce exposure.
Trials can take weeks and carry high risks. If avoiding trial is the right move for your case, we make that happen. If trial is necessary, we build a defense designed to win.
How We Manage Case Timelines
We keep your case on track by staying proactive. That means filing timely motions, responding to discovery demands, and holding the prosecution accountable for delays. We also request hearings when progress stalls.
Our timeline management includes:
- Early evidence requests: To avoid last-minute surprises.
- Court pressure: Ensuring deadlines are enforced when prosecutors drag their feet.
- Client communication: Keeping you updated so you’re never in the dark.
We’ve managed everything from rapid dismissals to multi-year felony trials. No matter the case length, we stay focused, responsive, and ready for what’s next.
Don’t Let the Timeline Work Against You
Sexual assault cases don’t move quickly—and waiting without a defense plan can hurt your case. Evidence may degrade, memories may fade, and prosecutors may assume you’re not prepared. That’s why starting early gives you the best shot at a fair result.
At Simmrin Law Group, we’ve handled sex crime cases of every size and scope. We know what slows them down, what moves them forward, and what wins them in court. Our experience allows us to protect your rights and build your defense from day one.
If you’re under investigation or facing charges, don’t wait to find out how long it will take—contact us now to take control of the process and your future.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form