Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

The charge you mention is a straight Felony. You may be eligible for diversion, but that may hinder your plans to leave the state. Speak with an expert in the field of criminal defense asap. I wish you well.... David Wallin

"work with" the DA?

Sure, as long as you are pleading guilty. Their workload has nothing to do with their attitude towards pro per defendants thinking they can game and sweet talk the system.

No amount of free 'tips and hints' from here or elsewhere are going to effectively help in a legal defense. If you don't know how to represent yourself effectively against an experienced prosecutor intending to convict, then hire an attorney who does, who will defend you, try to get a dismissal, charge reduction, diversion, programs, or other decent outcome through motions, plea bargain, or take it to trial if appropriate. Your attorney should be able to get a decent deal for a first time offender, if that defendant hasn't ticked off the DA first.

If serious about hiring counsel to help in this, and if this is in SoCal courts, feel free to contact me. I�ll be happy to help fight and get the best outcome possible, using whatever defenses and sympathies there may be. I�ve been doing these cases for many years.