714-997-4400Petty Theft Defense Strategies
Even a seemingly minor incidence of theft can have serious consequences in California, leaving you with a criminal record that affects your ability to secure employment, housing or educational opportunities. While petty theft charges are less severe than grand theft, either can disrupt your life and reputation. That’s why knowing your rights and defense options […]
What Felonies Cannot Be Expunged in California?
A criminal record can have long-lasting consequences, affecting your ability to find a steady job, earn promotions, secure housing and make a fresh start in your life. Even decades-old convictions for crimes like DUI, theft, embezzlement, shoplifting, domestic violence, robbery, assault or battery can raise red flags for potential employers or landlords – regardless of […]
What to Do if You’re a First-Time Drug Trafficking Offender
Facing drug trafficking charges for the first time can be overwhelming. California treats drug trafficking as a serious felony offense with potentially life-altering consequences, including prison time, fines and a permanent criminal record. But being a first-time offender doesn’t mean your future is over – especially if you act quickly, understand your rights and retain […]
Elder Abuse Laws in California
California has some of the nation’s strictest laws about protecting seniors, but many people don’t fully understand what qualifies as elder abuse or how courts handle these charges. Whether you face an accusation or need clarity on this complex area of law, you should understand how California defines elder abuse and what your legal rights […]
What Is a Pitchess Motion in California?
If you face criminal charges in California, a law enforcement officer’s conduct and credibility can significantly impact your case’s outcome. A Pitchess motion is a way for defense attorneys to investigate an officer’s history. Named after the landmark 1974 case Pitchess v. Superior Court, this legal tool allows a defendant to request access to specific, […]
How the Right to a Speedy Trial Can Affect a Case
As part of the Bill of Rights, the Sixth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees crucial protections for anyone facing criminal prosecution – including the right to a speedy and public trial by an impartial jury. While this right is critical in safeguarding justice, many defendants don’t understand what it means – or how it […]
The Castle Doctrine in California
You have a right to defend yourself and your loved ones if someone breaks into your home – but how far does that go under California law? Our state’s laws are nuanced, and you must understand what you can and cannot do in these tense, emotionally fraught situations. What Is the Castle Doctrine? While it […]
Failure to Report a Crime in California
In California, failing to report a crime is not always illegal, but it can sometimes lead to serious legal consequences. While the law doesn’t require private citizens to report crimes they witness in every circumstance, there are exceptions – particularly in cases involving vulnerable people or helping a criminal evade justice. You can avoid liability […]
Legal Implications of Police Body Cameras
Police body cameras have become a valuable tool in law enforcement, offering additional transparency and accountability. California’s body camera policies are evolving to balance public interest, police protection and individual privacy rights. While body cameras can provide crucial evidence in court cases, they also introduce unique legal challenges. Understanding these implications – and how they […]