Information on New Criminal Defense Laws in California
Blog - Page 18 of 19
Pre-file Investigations and the Criminal Process in Los Angeles
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It is essential to understand the criminal process, especially if you are facing criminal charges in California. You should speak to a reliable criminal defense attorney if you have been accused of a crime but have not yet been charged. A criminal defense firm conducts a pre-file investigation commonly abbreviated as PFI on behalf of a client before the prosecutor files formal charges against him or her. The pre-file investigation aims to persuade the prosecutor or the district attorney not to file charges against the suspect because of a lack of supporting evidence. A PFI could also be conducted to persuade the D.A. or the prosecutor to file charges for a lesser crime than what the prosecutor initially intended to do. If you face reckless driving charges under the California VC 23103, your criminal defense law firm may conduct a PFI by interrogating witnesses and other... Read More
What Leads to Felony Drug Charges in Los Angeles?
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California drug crimes can be prosecuted as either felonies or misdemeanors. The prosecutor’s decision is based on the type and amount of drug in question, the severity of the offense, and the offender’s criminal history. All drug charges, felonies, and misdemeanors are severely punished in the state. You will likely receive a lengthy prison term, hefty penalties, and other life-changing consequences upon conviction. You could receive even harsher penalties if convicted of a felony. That is why it is advisable to seek the help of an experienced criminal attorney if you face felony drug charges in California. Let us look at some of the factors that could lead to a felony drug charge. Factors that Lead to Felony Drug Charges in California If you are arrested on suspicion of committing a drug-related offense, the prosecutor can charge you with either a felony or... Read More
The Difference between Felony and Misdemeanor Charges and their Possible Consequences
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Many people who've been charged with crimes in California do not understand the difference between misdemeanor and felony charges. Although the terms "misdemeanor" and "felony" are usually thrown around in different legal contexts, many people still don't understand how these two terms relate and how they are different. It's recommendable to learn about these two terms to be sure of the types of charges you're facing. This article provides well-thought explanations about the difference between felony and misdemeanor charges and possible consequences. Misdemeanor Crimes in California Under California laws, misdemeanor refers to crimes that attract a maximum sentence of one year in county jail and a maximum fine of $1,000. Misdemeanor charges have two varying degrees; standard and aggravated misdemeanors. These two types of misdemeanors differ in their... Read More
What to Do When You Are Arrested at a Checkpoint DUI
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Driving under the influence (DUI) is a criminal offense that can alter your life in many ways. Apart from losing a driving license, you could be subject to hefty fines and prison sentences, especially if you have prior conviction history of the same offense. Steps you will take immediately after an arrest at a checkpoint for DUI will affect your case’s outcome in many ways. Traffic police officers at a checkpoint have a way of building DUI cases on flimsy evidence, making many people end up with wrongful convictions. This article will discuss what to do when you are arrested at a checkpoint DUI to know how to protect your legal rights and interests. What to Do Following an Arrest at a DUI Checkpoint If you were driving under the influence and the police arrest you at a DUI checkpoint, your next move will affect your case’s outcome. A DUI charge can impact your life in... Read More
What to Do When the Police Pull You Over for a DUI
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After enjoying dinner and glasses of wine - feeling satisfied, but not feeling high from the wine, or so you think - you sit behind the wheel and drive away en route home. A few blocks away from your house, you are pulled over. Anxiety begins trickling in while questions run in your mind. Why are the police pulling me over? Were the glasses of wine I drank too much? Will I face a DUI arrest? The end result depends on your conduct, and even if the traffic officers arrest you, the answers you give and actions you do during the DUI stop are vital. Below is a step-by-step guide of what to do when the police pull you over for driving under the influence. However, the guide is not an alternative for being cautious and avoiding actions that could put you at the risk of being stopped for a DUI. Also, it is not an alternative for seeking assistance from a DUI lawyer. If you need... Read More
The Penalties You Can Face for a DUI
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Drunk driving is a significant problem in all states across the country. California registers a high number of DUI-related accidents every year. It explains why the state has stringent DUI laws, with grave consequences for those found guilty of any DUI-related offense. The penalties an offender receives in California for DUI depend on several factors, including the facts of their case and the offender’s criminal history. If you face DUI charges today, understanding the penalties you are likely to receive is vital as it prepares you for the case ahead. Partnering with an experienced criminal defense attorney could cause the court to either drop or reduce your charges. An Overview of California Drunk Driving Laws California laws make it illegal for all motorists to operate under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It is also unlawful to drive a car with a BAC of 0.08% or... Read More
