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New psychoactive substances (NPS) have been a growing concern for public health and safety in recent years. Often referred to as "designer drugs" or "bath salts," these substances are chemically engineered to mimic the effects of regulated drugs like cocaine, MDMA, or LSD while....

Possession of child pornography is one of the most aggressively prosecuted crimes in California. Under Penal Code 311.11 PC, it is unlawful to knowingly possess or control any material that depicts a minor engaged in sexual conduct. This statute applies broadly, encompassing....

Suppose you are being held in custody while awaiting trial for a criminal offense, depending on the nature of the crime and your prior history. In that case, a good California criminal defense attorney may be able to negotiate a "time served" plea agreement on your behalf....

Body-worn cameras have emerged as crucial tools in modern policing. They document encounters between law enforcement and the public and foster transparency and trust. When used correctly, these devices provide a clear record of contentious incidents, offering reassurance to....

Trade-Based Money Laundering (TBML) is one of the most complex and challenging forms of financial crime that federal authorities investigate. It involves using trade transactions to disguise the origins of illicit funds and integrate them into the legitimate financial system. If you've....

Understanding the nature of a "dawn raid" is crucial. It's an unannounced search carried out by law enforcement and/or regulatory agencies at a company's premises. These raids often occur early in the morning, catching businesses off guard. They're typically part of investigations...

Facing federal criminal charges is always a serious matter. The potential penalties for federal crimes are severe, often involving high stakes and extensive investigations. This seriousness is heightened when compared to crimes prosecuted at the state level, making it crucial to understand the fe...

In California, certain crimes require prosecutors to establish that the defendant's actions were not just a mere oversight or carelessness, but a level of negligence that put someone else in grave danger. This is what we refer to as criminal negligence, a serious matter that goes beyond typical o...

Understanding the nuances of victim restitution in California criminal cases is crucial for legal professionals and victims. It's in these important areas of practice that injured victims seek restitution following civil settlements. Civil settlements don't erase the requirement for....

Occupational safety is not just a responsibility, but a fundamental duty every employer must uphold to protect their workforce. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) establishes these standards through regulations designed to minimize workplace risks....

The death of a spouse is a deeply emotional experience, often accompanied by a whirlwind of feelings. It also brings a series of challenges and responsibilities, one of which is the need to notify the Social Security Administration (SSA) if your deceased spouse was receiving Social...

California law surrounding arson has always been strict, aiming to safeguard lives, property, and natural resources. However, effective January 1, 2025, a significant change was made to Penal Code 452 PC, the statute addressing reckless burning. The bill received approval from Governor Gavin News...

Effective January 1, 2025, California introduced significant amendments to its DUI laws, aiming to clarify the regulations surrounding blood alcohol content (BAC) testing procedures and to impose stricter penalties for drivers who refuse to submit to blood tests under the state's implied.....

Driving comes with responsibilities, and one of the most important is stopping and taking appropriate action if you're involved in an accident. Failing to do so is considered a "hit-and-run" under California law. This offense is taken seriously and can have significant legal consequences, even if...

Effective January 2025, California has significantly escalated its DUI laws, adding more penalties and restrictions. These stringent regulations are a clear message from lawmakers: intoxicated driving is a serious offense that will not be tolerated, with the ultimate goal of reducing...

The United States takes seriously its duty to protect the identities of individuals who act as "covert agents" for the government (including intelligence officers, agents, informants, and sources). For this reason, being accused of revealing the identity of covert agents under federal....

The Laken Riley Act, signed into law by President Donald J. Trump in January 2025, represents a significant shift in the enforcement of immigration laws in the United States. It specifically focuses on criminal activity by non-citizens. Named after Laken Riley, a Georgia nursing...

If you have an active warrant for your arrest in California, whether for a missed court appearance, unpaid fines, or suspicion of committing a crime, it's natural to feel anxious and uncertain about what to do next. Many individuals in this situation are tempted to ignore the...

A "smash and grab" robbery is a severe crime in which thieves forcefully break into a property, often through the front windows or glass doors of a store, and swiftly steal as much merchandise as possible before fleeing the scene. These types of robberies are not just quick but also....

Suppose you've been accused of an offense involving a deadly weapon in California, depending on the circumstances. In that case, prosecutors might charge you either with brandishing a weapon or assault with a deadly weapon. Although these offenses may sound similar, they carry...

Willfully attempting to evade a peace officer in pursuit is a criminal offense in California in and of itself (Vehicle Code 2800.1 VC). However, if someone is seriously injured or killed as a direct and natural result of your actions, the charges become much more serious. Under California...

California has long recognized the unique challenges faced by military veterans, particularly those dealing with the psychological and emotional impacts of their service. Until recently, the state's military diversion program primarily focused on misdemeanor charges, offering an alternative pathway to justice for veterans...

When California law enforcement shows up at your door with a search warrant to inspect your property, it can be particularly intimidating--even if you feel you have nothing to hide. However, bear in mind that search warrants in California are subject to stringent legal requirements in compliance with the Fourth...

Artificial intelligence technology has advanced to the point where it can generate highly realistic images, including content that depicts illegal activities. This new reality leads to an important question: is it illegal to view or produce AI-generated child sexual abuse material (CSAM), commonly referred to as child pornography...

The United States has a wide range of laws aimed at protecting the environment, and it prosecutes individuals and companies that violate these laws. The Environmental Crimes Section (ECS) of the U.S. Department of Justice plays a key role in investigating and prosecuting violations...