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What Constitutes Domestic Violence In California?
Courts take domestic violence charges very seriously. Domestic violence is physical, emotional, financial, or sexual abuse against an intimate partner. Domestic violence can also include threatened abuse. Under California law, an intimate partner includes: A spouse or former spouse A cohabitant or former cohabitant A romantic partner or former romantic partner The mother or father… read more
Read MoreWhat’s the Difference Between OVI, DUI, DWI, and OMVI?
Every state has laws that prohibit drunk driving. Most states call them DUI laws because “DUI” is an easily recognizable term. However, some states use different acronyms for the same offense, each with a slightly different meaning. It is always important to discuss your specific DUI charges with an experienced criminal defense lawyer who understands… read more
Read MoreManslaughter vs. Criminally Negligent Homicide in California
Taking the life of another human being falls under the catchall phrase of “homicide.” However, there are different levels of homicide in California with different degrees of criminal culpability. Understanding these differences is important to understanding the nature of the charges against you. If you were charged with manslaughter or criminally negligent homicide in California,… read more
Read MoreCan I Face Criminal Charges For a Car Accident?
In most cases, traffic violations do not result in criminal charges. Instead, the driver pays a fine for violating California traffic laws. However, if the driver caused an accident, they could be civilly liable for damages the victims sustained because of the car crash. However, there are some situations where a driver could be charged… read more
Read MoreWhat Are the Safest and Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles is the second biggest city in the United States, with almost 4 million residents. There are several neighborhoods within Los Angeles, some safer than others. Unfortunately, Los Angeles sees a lot of criminal activity, from petty crimes to violent crimes. Thankfully, violent crimes are nowhere as frequent as they used to be, but… read more
Read MoreDoes California Have Romeo and Juliet Laws?
A Romeo and Juliet law decriminalizes teenage sex. It states that it is not a crime when two minors consent to sex. Romeo and Juliet laws vary by state. Generally, Romeo and Juliet laws generally allow someone over 14 to have consensual sex with another person who is also a teenager. California does not have… read more
Read MoreCalifornia Gun Laws Overview
Some federal laws, such as the National Firearms Act of 1934 and the Gun Control Act of 1968, already regulate access to guns. New legislation is in the works that would tighten regulation at the federal level. All states and some local governments have their own gun laws regulating firearms. With over 100 laws regulating… read more
Read MoreWhat Does “Motion for Discovery” Actually Mean in a Docket Entry in California?
A criminal court docket may have many entries for a case, including several motions. A standard entry on criminal dockets is “Motion for Discovery.” This motion is a tool your criminal defense lawyer uses to access the prosecution’s information and evidence against you. Virtually every criminal case that reaches trial will undergo the discovery process…. read more
Read MoreHow Do “Smart Start” Interlock Devices Work?
Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious problem in the United States. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, one person dies due to a drunk driving accident almost every 45 minutes. Legislatures across the country have passed numerous laws to try to combat this menace. One such law passed by the California legislature… read more
Read MoreWhat Could Happen If My Dog Attacks Another Dog?
California’s dog bite statute holds dog owners strictly liable for damages caused when their dog injures a person. California Civil Code §3342 states the dog owner is liable for damages suffered by any person whom their dog bites. The dog owner is still liable even though the dog has not shown any viciousness before biting… read more
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