A method for removing selected signals from a received signal prior to decoding begins by receiving communication signals from a transmitter over a CDMA air interface. The received communication signals are input to a traffic signal cancellation system for canceling unwanted traffic signals, thereby producing an output (O). The received communication signals are input to a pilot signal cancellation system for removing a global pilot signal, thereby producing an output (Oadd). The output (Oadd) of the pilot signal cancellation system is subtracted from the output (O) of the traffic signal cancellation system to provide a cancellation system output.