Social Media and the Police: Are You Innocent Until Proven Guilty?
In the American legal system, defendants are presumed to be innocent until proven guilty. This fundamental principle has been challenged, however, by social media. Law enforcement has regularly posted mugshots of defendants to social media sites like Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Just this month, this policy will change with Assembly Bill 1475. Gov. Gavin Newsom…
Could Your Confession Be Thrown Out of Court?
A confession to a crime is not always as straightforward as it may seem. While it may appear to be strong evidence of guilt, there are circumstances in which a confession must be thrown out of court. The law protects defendants by putting safeguards in place to ensure that they are aware of their rights…
Do You Qualify For House Arrest in California?
You would be hard-pressed to find many people who want to serve time in jail. Jail time is a punishment because the loss of one’s freedom is a difficult and disturbing prospect. In the state of California, certain defendants may be eligible for house arrest instead of jail time. In this article, we will share…
Do You Need to Take a Field Sobriety Test in California?
When you think of a DUI arrest, what comes to mind? For many people, the answer is the field sobriety test. Field sobriety tests, or FSTs, are commonly depicted in the media and are generally well-known by the public. However, there’s a lot more to field sobriety tests than may meet the eye. Did you…
How to Prepare For Your Defense Attorney Consultation
You have found yourself in the position where you need a criminal defense attorney. Surely, you are feeling a range of emotions from fear and anxiety to frustration and anger. Facing criminal charges is not easy for defendants and their families. Criminal convictions can result in hefty fines, time in jail and significant repercussions for…
Can the Police Lie to You?
Many people naively believe that the police cannot lie to citizens while performing their jobs. In reality, they can and often do lie to suspects to gain a confession or obtain evidence in a case. Police lies can trap innocent people into confessing to a crime they did not commit. The result is a miscarriage…
What is Police Misconduct?
Police misconduct is a hot button issue in this country today. What exactly constitutes police misconduct? What should you do if you feel that your rights have been violated by law enforcement? If you have an encounter with the police, it is in your best interest to understand your rights and know which actions could…
Will Your Felony Cause You To Lose Your Rights?
One of the greatest advantages of living in this country is the rights you enjoy under the law. However, those rights can be taken away if you are convicted of a felony. Convicted felons in the state of California will face many serious consequences including jail time, fines and the loss of certain rights. If…
Understanding Assault with a Deadly Weapon Charges
In the state of California, assault charges are taken very seriously. Penal Code 245 PC (a) 1 provides a definition for assault with a deadly weapon: “Any person who commits an assault upon the person of another with a deadly weapon or instrument other than a firearm shall be punished by imprisonment in the state…
How to Choose the Right Criminal Defense Attorney For You
When you are in trouble with the law, you need help right away. A criminal defense attorney is your greatest ally when you are facing charges for DUI, domestic violence, theft, assault and battery or traffic violations. Your freedom is one of your most valuable assets. Jail time, hefty fines and other restrictions can seriously…