Information on New Criminal Defense Laws in California
Blog - Page 2 of 19
Is Blackmail a Crime?
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Federal and state statutes prohibit blackmail, which refers to obtaining property, services, or money from another person using coercion or fear. In California, blackmail is also known as theft through coercion or extortion, which falls under the broader scope of extortion under PEN 518. If you have been arrested for blackmail, you will wonder if it is a crime. Yes, blackmail is a felony violation that carries severe penalties, including lengthy incarceration, hence the need to protect yourself and your reputation by hiring an experienced criminal attorney. Blackmail Overview Blackmail is unlawful conduct involving threatening to release a person's confidential secret to coerce or force them into particular actions unless they agree to your demands. From this definition, blackmail is an act of extortion. You can face extortion charges if you threaten to expose a... Read More
California Abortion Laws – What You Need to Know
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California has stood as a defender of reproductive rights for decades. The state enacted reproductive rights laws before the Roe v. Wade decision became national law. The case was overruled nationally. Proposition 1, an amendment to the state constitution, became law in 2022, which ensures Californians can get abortions regardless of federal changes. The legal right to abortion exists, but specific restrictions still apply to its availability. Under current California law, abortion is restricted by gestational periods, and the state bans specific procedures after viability reaches 24 weeks unless necessary for saving the mother's health. Healthcare providers must help minors with their abortion decisions even though they do not require parental consent. The established rules attempt to establish an equilibrium between personal rights while upholding medical, social, and... Read More
Enticing a Child to Prostitution
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Enticing a minor to prostitution is a grave criminal act in California per Penal Code 266. This crime entails enticing, coaxing, or compelling a child to participate in commercial sex. A violation of PC 266 is considered very serious by the prosecution because it involves children deemed vulnerable by the law. If you are convicted of violating Penal Code 266, you could face severe penalties, such as imprisonment and hefty fines. You could also be deported or deemed inadmissible to the country if you are an immigrant. You could also lose your right to own or possess a firearm. Because the consequences are severe, it is crucial that you understand the laws governing this statute, your rights, and possible defenses to challenge these accusations. If you or a family member has been accused of enticing a child to prostitution, talk to a criminal defense lawyer as soon as... Read More
What is Child Neglect?
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Being accused of child neglect can destroy your reputation and result in enduring criminal penalties. California judges and prosecutors take strong stances against violating PC 270 and impose hefty fines and lengthy incarceration duration. Consequently, these cases should be handled by an experienced legal team that can review your criminal charges, develop the most effective legal defense, represent you in court, and fight for your rights and freedom. Defining Child Neglect Per PC 270, child neglect happens when a legal guardian or parent willfully fails to offer necessities to a minor. While child neglect differs from maltreatment, physical abuse, domestic violence, emotional abuse, and sexual abuse, neglect can adversely impact a minor’s well-being, general health, welfare, and mental health. The absence of emotional support and supervision, among other forms of... Read More
Penal Code 267 PC – Abducting a Minor for Prostitution
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California PC 267 makes it a crime to abduct a child for prostitution. Prostitution, in this case, could be the exchange of sexual favors for money or compensation. A violation of PC 267 is a form of sex trafficking, which makes it a severe offense. You are liable for this offense if the prosecuting attorney establishes that you took a child away from their parent's or guardian's care. Additionally, your intent to entice the child or force them into prostitution must be clear. Since the offense is classified as a felony, your conviction for abducting a child for prostitution can result in severe legal and collateral consequences. The penalties will include serving time in prison, fines, and mandatory sex offender registration. Additionally, you will have a criminal record, which will have lasting effects on your prospects. You must hire and retain a defense attorney... Read More
All About Aiding and Abetting
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Undoubtedly, being under investigation or arrest as a suspect in a criminal case can be a terrifying experience, especially when you are not the person who directly committed the crime. According to aiding and abetting laws codified under Penal Code (PC) 31, the prosecutor can file criminal charges against you even if you did not directly commit the alleged unlawful act. Upon conviction under this statute, your penalties could include hefty fines and lengthy jail time. However, an arrest as a suspect in any criminal case does not mean a conviction is inevitable. With the help of a skilled and aggressive attorney, you could avoid a conviction or secure a lighter sentence for your offense. If you are under arrest or have pending PC 31 charges, your attorney can offer you legal guidance and help you navigate the complex legal process to secure a favorable outcome. Aiding... Read More
