Blog

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...

Protecting children from abuse and neglect is a high priority in California, and the laws are geared to bring swift action in response to any suspected abuse. Parents and those employed in occupations dealing with children should be aware that certain people are identified as "mandated...

Retailers and shop owners generally understand they have the right to take reasonable measures to protect their interests. To that end, most states, including California, have adopted the common law concept of "merchant's privilege"— the right of store owners and employees to detain...

Polygraph tests, also known as lie detector tests, have been used as a tool in criminal investigations since the early 20th century. The test measures an individual's physiological responses, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and perspiration levels, to determine whether they are...

In the State of California, it’s a criminal offense in itself to attempt to evade a police officer’s motor vehicle, defined under Vehicle Code 2800.1 VC.  Driving on the wrong side of the road is also a violation. However, when you do both at the same time, it’s much more dangerous. Driving in...

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is granted authority to enforce the state's roadways laws— CHP officers represent that authority. They primarily patrol the interstates and highways and are authorized to make arrests and issue traffic citations. They drive specially marked vehicles and...

Despite California's strict gun laws, the state does allow certain eligible residents to obtain a permit for a concealed carry weapon (CCW). That said, applicants for CCW permits must meet stringent eligibility standards detailed in Penal Code 26150 PC and Penal Code 26155 PC...

Like most states, California penalizes moving violations with traffic fines and points on your driving record. These penalties become more severe with subsequent offenses up to having your driver's license suspended or revoked. A habitual traffic offender is defined as driving on a suspended...

Bigamy refers to the act of entering into a marriage with someone while already legally married to another person. In California, bigamy is a criminal offense under Penal Code 281 PC. Simply put, this law makes it illegal to marry one person while you are still married to someone else...

Penal Code 527 PC makes it illegal in California to publish, sell, or offer any fake court order for sale, knowing that it's false or fraudulent. This law aims to maintain the integrity of the legal system and prevent individuals from using false court documents to deceive others or gain an...

California Vehicle Code 23582 VC is a sentencing enhancement that imposes additional penalties on individuals convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) while driving recklessly and at excessive speeds. This section aims to deter dangerous driving behavior that increases the risk...

The State of California imposes a stiff sentencing enhancement for convictions involving multiple charges of fraud or embezzlement involving large amounts of money. This enhancement, also called the "white-collar sentencing enhancement," is embodied in California...

In simplest terms, the act of "buying" or "selling" legislator votes is a serious form of corruption that undermines the entire legislative system. Therefore, it's a felony under California Penal Code 85 PC to give or offer a bribe to a legislator at any level of government. It's also a felony...

It's a serious crime in California to willfully add poison to food, water, or medicine to be consumed by humans. It is also a crime to falsely and maliciously claim that something has been poisoned. These crimes are embodied in California Penal Code 347 PC. If you are charged...