Los Angeles Criminal Defense Blog
Understanding a Hate Crime Charge in CA
When someone is accused of committing a hate crime, they face enhanced penalties under both federal and state law that can extend their sentence. Hate crimes are essentially any crime that involves an element of bias, such as crimes committed based on the victim’s race, gender, or sexuality. These charges not only come with harsh criminal penalties, but can forever damage your reputation if you do not have a strong legal defense.
Intent Crimes: What Do They Mean for You?
With certain crimes, to get a conviction, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant not only committed the criminal act but also intended to commit a certain harm.
What You Need to Know About CA’s Good Samaritan Law
The Good Samaritan law has ancient roots. However, your understanding of it is likely based on how it is portrayed in pop culture. In truth, trying to be a good person is not always an excuse for your actions. Understanding the limitations of this law should help you make the difficult decision between admitting to breaking the law and helping someone in need.
Synthetic Cannabis: Still a Schedule I Drug
Cannabis, more commonly known as weed, has been legal for recreational use in California since 2016. For those over the age of 21, it is perfectly legal to use the drug, whether that means smoking it or consuming it. However, synthetic cannabis is still illegal. In fact, it is considered a Schedule I drug, meaning the penalties for using it are incredibly harsh.
After a Felony Conviction, What Rights Do You Lose?
As an American citizen, you have certain rights that you may assume you’ll never lose. Sadly, that may not be true. After a felony conviction, you will lose incredibly important rights. This kind of loss can leave your life in shambles.
When Does Selling Weapons Become Arms Trafficking?
California has incredibly strict gun restrictions. While the ownership of a firearm is protected under the Second Amendment, the state laws set in place around gun ownership are restrictive. This is especially true when it comes to the selling of guns. Arms trafficking is a serious offense that could result in several months behind bars. Knowing what is and what is not legal when it comes to firearm sales is key to ensuring your own freedom.
What Is Cyberstalking?
The fact of the matter is, the life of the average American is now predominantly online. We check in with family and friends via video calls. We update the world about our life through social media. Many of us are even working remotely these days. However, this rise of online living has also impacted the way we interact with each other, and it has made way for a new kind of crime: cyberstalking.
What You Should Do Immediately After an Arrest
Being arrested is chaotic and frightening. From the flashing lights to the sirens to the tightening of the handcuffs, you may feel overwhelmed and at a loss as to what to do next. That is completely understandable. However, a slip-up could result in a conviction, so knowing what to do and what not to do is paramount when it comes to being arrested.
What Is the California Realignment Program?
Every state in America has an issue with overcrowded prisons, and has been facing this issue for the past decade. California is no exception. Among the many solutions that the state government has tried over the years is the California Realignment Program, which is meant to keep non-violent convicted criminals out of prison. If you are facing such a conviction, then the program may be the perfect opportunity for you.
Behind Bars: What Are Your Rights?
Inmates are often treated like second-class citizens in America. If someone is convicted of a crime, then they need to pay the time. Sadly, that sentiment often results in serious rights violations, because inmates are actually guaranteed certain rights under the law. Everyone, inmate or no, should be aware of these rights, as you never know when you or a loved one will accidentally end up on the wrong side of the law.
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