714-997-4400What Is Manslaughter?
Taking someone else’s life is a grave offense with severe legal consequences. In California, a homicide can be either a murder or manslaughter charge. These two crimes have different definitions and penalties. Murder vs. Manslaughter California Penal Code 192 defines manslaughter as “the unlawful killing of a human being without malice.” A violation of this […]
Types of Probation in California
If you commit a crime in California, a judge might put you on court-ordered probation, either after serving jail time or in lieu of serving a sentence. While some offenders are not eligible for the offer of probation, others who qualify can remain in their communities if they agree to meet specific conditions. California has […]
California Penal Code 602: Trespassing Laws
Trespassing is a crime you can commit by being on someone’s property without their express permission. In most cases, it’s a misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in jail and a fine of $1,000. However, this offense carries varying degrees of severity under California law. Types of Trespassing California Penal Code 602 defines dozens […]
How to Beat Obstruction of Justice Charges
As U.S. history buffs know, obstruction of justice was one of the charges at the heart of the Watergate scandal, which eventually led to President Richard Nixon’s infamous resignation from office in 1974. While obstruction of justice has been the downfall of several politicians and other prominent figures, committing this offense can also land everyday […]
Types of Burglary Charges in California
California Penal Code 459 defines burglary as a crime against property, punishable by up to six years in state prison. You commit this offense when you enter any commercial or residential building or locked vehicle with the intent to commit grand theft, petty theft or any felony offense once inside. First-Degree and Second-Degree Burglary California […]
How to Avoid Jail Time for Driving on a Suspended License
If your driver’s license has been suspended due to reckless driving or a DUI, and you decide to drive anyway, you should be aware of the consequences you might face. California Vehicle Code 14601 makes it a misdemeanor to knowingly drive with a suspended or revoked license, punishable by up to six months of jail […]
What Is PC 148?
California Penal Code 148 makes it illegal to resist an arrest performed by a law enforcement official or first responder in the line of duty. The punishments for violating PC 148 are a fine up to $1,000, one year of imprisonment in a county jail or both. Learn why resisting arrest is against the law, […]
Average Sentence for Drug Possession in California
According to California Health and Safety Code 11350(a), you can face legal consequences if the authorities catch you in possession of any usable amount of illicit drugs like cocaine or meth, or medications obtained without a valid prescription. What does a drug possession charge entail, and what should you know if you are facing these […]
Public Intoxication in California
Under California law, being publicly intoxicated is a misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. As part of the state’s disorderly conduct law, California Penal Code 647(f) broadly defines public intoxication as a state of being under the influence of drugs, alcohol or a combination of […]