714-997-4400How 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 […]
Breaking a Federal Law vs. State Law
The legal system can be daunting, especially when distinguishing between federal and state laws. Both sets of laws dictate what we can and cannot do in society, but they operate under different jurisdictions and carry unique consequences. Let’s explore the distinctions between federal and state laws and what could happen if you find yourself on […]
Digital Forensics: What Counts as Electronic Evidence?
Digital forensics has become a crucial aspect of the legal process, especially in criminal court cases. Understanding what constitutes electronic evidence, how a skilled attorney can legally use it, and its potential influence on the outcome of a case is essential for anyone involved in the legal system. What Is Digital Forensics? Digital forensics involves […]
What Is a Plea Bargain?
Plea bargaining influences the outcome of many criminal cases before they ever reach a trial. This practice involves a negotiated agreement where the defendant agrees to plead guilty under specific conditions, often leading to a lighter sentence or less severe charges. Let’s examine what a plea bargain is, how it functions and the strategic considerations […]
Probation vs. Parole
The criminal justice system can be daunting, especially when understanding complex terms like probation and parole. Both are alternatives to imprisonment but serve different purposes and come with distinct conditions. Anyone involved in the criminal justice system should understand these concepts, their differences and the implications of violating their terms. What Is Probation? Probation is […]