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While shoplifting is a misdemeanor offense under California Penal Code 459.5 PC, being arrested should not be taken lightly. This law makes it illegal to enter a commercial establishment intending to steal while it is open during regular business hours. The property's value must not exceed...

Let’s review whether your misdemeanor conviction will appear on a California background check. One of the defendants' most significant concerns regarding convictions is how it will affect their job ability. If you are convicted of a misdemeanor, a relatively minor offense, you might receive...

It's something of an archetype in the modern age, the stuff of coming-of-age films as well as real life: two people having sex in a car. The question is, is it illegal, and could you be charged with a crime for doing so? While no specific statute on California's books directly addresses this issue...

Let’s review a Ramey Warrant and how it’s different from a regular arrest warrant. Law enforcement cannot arrest you without a warrant unless you are arrested in a public place for probable cause, such as at a traffic stop or public disturbance. An arrest warrant is typically executed....

Let’s review the subtle differences between "acquitted" and "not guilty" outcomes in a criminal trial, which are often interchanged as synonymous with each other and accomplish the same thing. Either determination in a criminal trial will absolve you of responsibility and invoke "double...

Let’s review the often controversial issue of corporal punishment in California, which has strict laws against child abuse and harsh penalties for anyone convicted as defined under Penal Code 273d PC. While corporal punishment (spanking) is not illegal under California law, the state's...

The California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System, or CLETS, is an essential tool for law enforcement agencies across California. This system plays a vital role in maintaining public safety. Suppose you have a criminal record, a restraining or protective order, or DMV violations...

As a resident of California, you live in a state that takes a strong stance against domestic violence (DV). While the law protects victims like yourself, it's not unusual for those who have reported domestic violence to consider retracting their statements later. This happens for various...

Let’s review the sure signs that the prosecutor’s criminal case against you is weak and what your defense lawyer can do about it. As an individual accused of a crime, understanding the nuances of your case can significantly enhance your defense strategy. The simple fact that you are...

Suppose you are convicted for multiple offenses during the same trial in California. In that case, whether for separate crimes or multiple counts of the same violation, the judge must decide during your sentencing whether to impose the sentences consecutively (served one after the other)...

Let’s review how MVARS (Mobile Video Audio Recording Systems) can help or hurt your California DUI or criminal case. Suppose you are pulled over in California by local police or a California Highway Patrol (CHP) officer. In that case, there's an increasing possibility that your interaction...

A bench warrant is a type of arrest warrant issued by a judge, or "the bench," hence the name. Unlike other types of warrants, a bench warrant isn't issued due to suspected criminal activity but is primarily issued when an individual fails to adhere to court rules, orders, or other instructions....

Emergencies demand immediate action to save lives, and people present during an emergency should be able to render aid without fear of unintended repercussions. Recognizing this, California's Health and Safety Code 1799.102, known as the "Good Samaritan Law," was enacted to....

The State of California gives citizens the right to defend themselves against attackers--but that doesn't mean that you couldn't still face criminal charges for killing someone even if you believe you did so to protect yourself or someone else. Self-defense can be a viable defense against...

In the State of California, if you agree to conceal the commission of a crime in exchange for any compensation (monetary or otherwise), you can be prosecuted at or near the same level of severity as the original crime itself. This is known as compounding, a crime defined under California...

Let’s review the importance of hiring a private investigator for your California criminal defense case because facing a criminal charge can be a daunting experience. Depending on the nature of the crime and the case facts, a conviction could lead to significant penalties, including fines...

The laws of California are stringent when it comes to domestic violence. Penal Code 13700 PC defines the crime of domestic violence in California as an act or attempted act to inflict injury on a current or former intimate partner. It also encompasses direct and indirect threats, such...

In California, judges are given broad discretion to dismiss certain charges or criminal enhancements if they determine that the charges are unfair, unnecessary, or frivolous. In other words, they can dismiss charges and enhancements "in the interest of justice." This authority is granted...

Statutes of limitations are a cornerstone of our legal system that sets the maximum duration during which legal proceedings may be initiated following an alleged offense. This principle upholds justice by ensuring that potential defendants are not indefinitely exposed to prosecution and...

As of July 1, 2023, California has implemented one of the country's most aggressive criminal justice reform policies. Commonly referred to as the Clean Slate Law, Senate Bill 731, built on its predecessor, Assembly Bill 1076, this law represents a significant shift in the state's approach to...

Sexual battery, as defined by California Penal Code 243.4 PC, involves touching another person's intimate parts without consent for sexual arousal, gratification, or abuse. PC 243.4 PC also defines various misdemeanor or felony actions that are considered sexual battery, such as...

Under California and federal laws, asking someone for money is protected free speech under the First Amendment. But when the solicitation occurs in a public place and is aggressive in nature, it's considered "panhandling" (also called "soliciting of alms"), it becomes a crime under...

If you've been accused of a sex crime in California, you may be in for a difficult period. The Golden State is renowned for its stringent laws regarding sex crimes and the potential long-term consequences one might face if convicted. Even if you are acquitted, the charges are dropped...

California law identifies some crimes as misdemeanors and others as felonies. Naturally, felony charges come with enhanced penalties upon conviction. However, a great many crimes, including numerous sex crimes, are identified as "wobbler" offenses, meaning they can be charged...

In the State of California, if you’re released on your own recognizance after having been cited for an infraction or charged with a more serious crime, you’re asked to sign a written agreement promising to appear in court at your appointed date and time. If you willfully violate this...