What Does Intent Mean in a California Criminal Statute?
For some crimes, the physical act of committing the crime is not enough for a conviction. In some cases, the prosecutor must also demonstrate that the perpetrator was in a state of mind to intentionally cause a specific harm. California categorizes crimes as general intent crimes and specific intent crimes. Specific intent crimes require that…
First Time DUI? Why You Need a San Diego DUI Lawyer
The state of California takes drunk driving very seriously. If you are pulled over and arrested for a DUI, even if it is only your first defense, you can face fines, jail time, probation and a suspended driver’s license. For most people, these penalties will significantly impact their finances and their freedom. Without an experienced…
What Are Your Rights After an Arrest?
You’ve been arrested. Most people who go through this experience feel panicked and overwhelmed at the road ahead. They worry about the impact on their family and their freedom if they were to be found guilty of the crime. They hope they can secure an experienced criminal defense attorney to assist them throughout the process.…
Can You Be Penalized for Missing Jury Duty?
As a citizen of the United States, it is your civic duty to serve on a jury when called to do so by the courts. While some people relish in the opportunity to participate on a jury and help uphold the rights given to citizens under the U. S. Constitution, others will try to avoid…
What is Considered Vandalism in San Diego?
Vandalism may not seem like a serious crime. After all, doesn’t it simply refer to innocent graffiti on a wall or some teenage fun? The reality is that vandalism can be a felony in the state of California, carrying with it hefty fines, jail time and a mark on your permanent record. If you have…
When Can You Claim Self Defense in California?
In the state of California, you have the right to defend yourself and other people from harm. In order to do that, there are circumstances that call for the use of force or behavior that may be otherwise against the law. Depending on the crime you’ve been accused of, you may be able to argue…
Preparing For Your San Diego DUI Trial
Have you been arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in California? Since the start of the pandemic, reports have indicated that there has been a rise in DUI arrests in the state of California. If you are facing a DUI arrest, it is critical that you secure an experienced DUI attorney who can protect…
Stealing Mail is Serious Business in California
Technology has become one of our primary means of sending and receiving information. But that does not mean that there is no place for traditional mail delivery and the United States Postal Service (USPS). And, with the enormous rise in online shopping in recent months due to the pandemic, more and more people are getting…
Murder or Manslaughter: What’s the Difference?
Murder is a serious crime that could result in life behind bars. But when is the death of a person considered manslaughter and not murder under the California law? Many people are unclear as to the difference between a murder charge and a manslaughter charge in the state of California. There are some key differences…
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…