RSSLos Angeles Criminal Defense Blog
Prescription Fraud: Doctors Under the Microscope
As the opioid crisis in America has escalated, with media reports about prescription drug use and abuse filling the headlines every week, doctors have come increasingly under fire. The actions of physicians and healthcare workers who can write prescriptions are under review more than ever before, and charges of prescription fraud have become increasingly common. While there have certainly been negligent, even malicious, medical practitioners who have contributed to this epidemic, there are also a lot of honest doctors caught in the blast zone of these investigations.
California Gun Laws and Violations
California has some of the strictest gun laws in the country, and more laws on the books regarding guns than any other state. This makes it very easy for the average person to lack a real understanding of what’s allowed and what can get them into trouble when it comes to firearms. There are specific laws regarding who can own a firearm, the process required to legally buy a gun, and who is forbidden from owning a firearm.
College Admissions Scandal Creates Many Questions for Those Implicated
Fifty people, so far, have been indicted in what U.S. Attorney Andrew Lelling has described as “the largest college admission scam ever prosecuted by the Department of Justice.” Those charged include high-profile actresses, a fashion designer, business leaders, and other wealthy parents; as well as nine athletic coaches from such prominent universities as Yale, Georgetown, USC, and UCLA. The alleged “scam” involved bribing coaches, falsifying SAT and ACT scores, questionable claims of learning disabilities, and the creation of fake athletic resumes. In short, the allegation is that wealthy parents were presented with and took advantage of various tactics to help ensure their children would gain admission into elite colleges across the country.
It’s That Time of Year: Tax Season and Tax Fraud
Another year has gone by, and that means tax season is upon us. Many of us dread it, some look forward to it (to get those refunds), but everyone has to fill out a tax form. This year may be brighter for many of us, because of the new tax laws. But with opportunity also comes danger, as they say. We’re expecting to see a serious uptick in fraud charges this year due to the new laws.
CA Court Makes Landmark Title IX Ruling
In June 2015, Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP was retained by Bryce Dixon, a star tight end on the USC football team, to defend him against Title IX allegations made by another USC student. Following several years of intense legislation, our firm was successful in obtaining a positive ruling. Because of John Doe v. University of Southern California, Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP is now further strengthened to continue fighting for students against Title IX allegations. This Los Angeles Times article outlines our efforts.
What Happens If You Are Accused of Bank Fraud?
Financial regulations are complicated. Even people in the financial industry have a hard time keeping track of them, especially since many states have their own laws that create an added burden on businesses. It’s no wonder many people run afoul of federal regulators without even realizing they’ve done anything wrong until it’s too late.
Why White-Collar Defense Isn’t the Same as Criminal Defense
Are you under investigation for committing a white-collar crime? If so, you are probably frightened of what it might mean for your reputation. Even the suspicion of guilt can have ramifications on your career and permanently damage your life moving forward.
That’s why you shouldn’t wait to fight back. When it comes to white-collar crime, law enforcement is willing to spend months, if not years, compiling evidence and putting together a case that is seemingly beyond dispute. The sooner you hire your own legal team, the better your chances of reducing the charges against you or avoiding them altogether.
The Ins and Outs of California Healthcare Fraud
Since the beginning of Medicare, healthcare fraud has been a serious issue affecting the entire healthcare industry. This criminal activity can take many forms, and may hinder doctors and hospitals in providing affordable treatments to patients, especially those who are economically disadvantaged. Law enforcement takes allegations of healthcare fraud very seriously.
Beware Serious Penalties for DUI Repeat Offenders
A conviction for a first DUI can have serious consequences on a person’s life and leave a lasting criminal record. Additional DUI offenses, in particular, a third offense or “third strike” within a 10-year period is given harsh punishments—as are any convictions beyond that point.
Understanding Recent Criminal Law Changes
In recent years, California has led the nation in criminal justice reforms, especially those designed to protect minors and the disabled. A number of bills were recently signed by Governor Jerry Brown and went into effect to change several statutes on the books. The passage of these bills is good news for anyone facing criminal charges, as well as those convicted who are facing lengthy prison terms.