714-997-4400The Difference Between Assault vs. Battery
Though people outside the legal community tend to conflate the terms “assault” and “battery,” California law defines them as distinct crimes with different implications. Anyone facing these serious accusations must understand what sets these two charges apart. Definitions of Assault and Battery State law defines assault as an unlawful attempt, coupled with a present ability, […]
Jury Trial vs. Bench Trial
Understanding the legal system can be complex for people facing criminal charges, especially when your case goes to court. Having a skilled criminal defense attorney to represent you and explain what to expect is critical, especially when making informed decisions about how to proceed. One of the most impactful choices you and your lawyer will […]
Consequences of Failing to Appear in Court
Showing up to court when summoned for a hearing or trial is a legal requirement, not merely a courtesy. Let’s explore the consequences of failing to appear in court and how a criminal defense attorney can work with you to mitigate the potentially severe repercussions. What Does Failing to Appear Mean? When you do not […]
California’s Stand Your Ground Law
In California, the concept of “stand your ground” provides people with the legal right to defend themselves. Understanding this principle is critical, as it defines when and how you can lawfully protect yourself or others from threats. However, it is not always a viable legal strategy, since California law has several nuances preventing unnecessary violence. […]
How to Handle Police Questioning
Encountering law enforcement can be intimidating, and how you handle police questioning can significantly affect legal issues that might arise from the interaction. You should understand your rights and the importance of having legal representation before or after an arrest. Understand Your Rights Miranda rights, familiar to many from television and movies, are foundational in […]
What Is Admissible Evidence?
Evidence is central to the integrity and outcome of criminal and civil trials. Understanding what constitutes admissible evidence is crucial for anyone involved in legal proceedings, as it determines what information you can present before the court to support or dispute a claim. Understanding Admissible Evidence Admissible evidence refers to any testimony, documentary material or […]
Does Mental Illness Affect Crime?
The relationship between mental illness and criminal behavior is a murky topic. Popular culture and media frequently portray people with mental health disorders as inherently dangerous or unpredictable, fueling widespread public misconceptions. However, research paints a different picture, showing that people with mental health diagnoses are no more likely to commit crimes than anyone else. […]
Character Witnesses in Criminal Defense
A character witness is someone who knows you well and can testify in court about your personality, behavior and reputation. In a criminal case, a character witness can play a crucial role in humanizing you to the judge and jury by telling relevant anecdotes about your positive traits. What Does a Character Witness Do? Unlike […]
Consequences of Failing to Appear in Court
Missing a court date in California is a potentially severe offense that can complicate your legal situation. Whether due to oversight or deliberate avoidance, it can lead to harsh consequences, depending on your original charge. What Constitutes Failure to Appear? In California, failing to appear is a “wobbler,” which means it is either a felony […]