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Murder Charges in California: Legal Definitions and Defense Approaches

By Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney on August 29, 2025

Arrested man in handcuffs with handcuffed hands behind back in prison

In California, a murder charge can carry a sentence of 25 years to life in prison. The legal process is complex, and the stakes are high.

Posted in: Violent Crime

Navigating Robbery Charges in Los Angeles: Legal Defenses and Strategies

By Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney on August 24, 2025

Arrested man with cuffed hands

Being charged with robbery in Los Angeles is a serious matter. Robbery is considered a violent felony in California, carrying the possibility of state prison, a strike under the Three Strikes Law, and lifelong consequences.

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What if You’re Accused of Child Abuse During Your Divorce?

By Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney on May 30, 2024

two black figurines with a white figurine in the middle. A judges gavel is in the middle of the figurines.

Facing child abuse allegations during a divorce or custody battle is a serious situation that demands immediate action and strong legal guidance. In California, accusations of child abuse can have profound consequences.

Posted in: Violent Crime

Assault vs. Battery: Legal Distinctions and Defenses

By Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney on April 15, 2024

A close up of two fists

Assault and battery are often mentioned together, but they are separate offenses under California law. Assault is an attempt to threaten to injure another person, creating a reasonable apprehension of imminent harm. But battery involves actual physical contact or offensive touching without consent, regardless of injury. The two offenses are closely related because assault often leads to battery.

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What Constitutes a Deadly Weapon in California Assaults?

By Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney on July 15, 2023

Folding pocket knife with wooden handle. A small knife on a wooden surface.

The crime of assault is a misdemeanor under California law. However, assault with a deadly weapon is considered a felony under California Penal Code § 245. Because the penalties for felonies are more severe than misdemeanors, understanding what qualifies as a “deadly weapon” is vital to mounting an effective criminal defense strategy.

Posted in: Violent Crime

What the President’s Ghost Gun Order Means for Californians

By Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney on June 23, 2021

Man holding revolver at shooting range

“Ghost guns” have been an intensely debated subject over the past few years, as technological advances have allowed individuals to manufacture and distribute unregistered firearms. These ghost guns can be assembled with 3-D printers – which are now more affordable than ever – and lack serial numbers, making them untraceable. But a possible executive ban by President Joe Biden may drastically change how these ghost guns are handled in California.

Posted in: Violent Crime

Understanding California’s Gun Laws

By Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney on May 3, 2021

Most adults aged 21 and older have the right to purchase, own, and possess a gun in California, but state laws impose restrictions as to how firearms can be stored, transported, and carried. In addition, it is illegal to make, sell, or possess certain types of firearms, and you can face significant penalties and loss of rights in California if you violate these laws.

Posted in: Violent Crime

When Does Selling Weapons Become Arms Trafficking?

By Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney on January 27, 2021

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.

Posted in: Violent Crime

Simple Kidnapping vs. False Imprisonment

By Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney on October 29, 2020

Kidnapping and false imprisonment may seem like the same thing, as they both involve taking the liberty of another person without their consent. However, these two crimes are considered separate for good reason, as there are some key differences between kidnapping someone and holding them prisoner. Understanding what makes each crime tick in the mind of the prosecution an help you determine what the best defense for your case is, as well as help you avoid the harsh penalties both crimes bring upon conviction.

Posted in: Violent Crime

What Qualifies as a “Terrorism” Threat?

By Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney on October 15, 2020

When most people hear the word “terrorism threat,” they immediately think of suicide bombings, mass shootings, or large-scale attacks that occur in other countries. Surprisingly, the legal definition of this term refers to far less dramatic acts, and a conviction can lead to very significant penalties. It is essential that you understand the definition of this crime and when a threat becomes one of terrorism.

Posted in: Violent Crime

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