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In common law, there is typically a distinction between crimes committed with specific intent and those committed with general intent. In the State of California, certain criminal offenses are referred to as "specific intent crimes." If you're charged with one of these crimes, the prosecutor has...

If your criminal charges are dismissed without prejudice, it means your case is not moving forward, and you're no longer charged with a crime—but it also leaves the door open for the prosecution to refile the same charges against you if they see fit. In other words, a case dismissed...

If you're arrested and charged with a crime in California, the judge will decide whether to release you on your own recognizance or to set bail. Bail is a financial arrangement between you and the court to secure your release from jail before trial. You must promise to appear at all future...

A conviction for California Vehicle Code 23152 VC driving under the influence (DUI) can carry more than just legal ramifications; it can also profoundly impact your life and career. In California, a DUI offense can threaten your professional standing and livelihood if you hold a license...

The Fourth Amendment to the Constitution protects American citizens from "unreasonable searches and seizures," along with warrants issued "without probable cause." This raises the question about what constitutes "probable cause" and when it applies—and probing this ambiguity is...

If you’ve been charged with one or more criminal offenses in California, it can bring a massive sense of relief to find out that some or all charges have been dropped.  Having charges dropped is one of the most desirable outcomes in criminal cases, making it a common strategy for...

Being required to register as a sex offender can complicate life in many ways, limiting where you can live, work, etc. But how does it affect you if you need to travel internationally? For example, if you have business obligations overseas or plan on attending a family function in another...

In the State of California, the law acknowledges the right to self-defense, and the state permits using certain weapons for this purpose.  California has “Stand Your Ground” and “Castle Doctrine” laws. “Stand Your Ground” means that if somebody threatens you, you are not obligated...

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...