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How 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
Read MoreWhat Does It Mean to Be in Jail With No Bond?
Bail is money that a person posts with the court to be released from jail pending a trial. A person may post bail by: Depositing cash with the court Signing a bail bond Putting up property as bail (property bond) The California Supreme Court has ruled that it is unconstitutional for courts to hold someone… read more
Read MoreAre Police Scanners Legal in Los Angeles, California?
The short answer is yes, the possession and use of a scanner are legal in California. However, it is illegal to use one during the commission of a crime, such as to use the messages received to aid in the escape of custody. It is also illegal to install or use a scanner inside a… read more
Read MoreCan I Shoot Someone in California Who Is Trying to Steal My Car?
Typically, the answer is no. While there are a few exceptions, most states, including California, do not allow the use of deadly force simply because someone is trying to steal your car. However, if someone is stealing the car by means of armed robbery, for example, that is a completely different matter – that situation… read more
Read MoreCan a 17 Year Old Girl Date an 18 Year Old Boy? And if They Have Sexual Relations at That Age Is It Illegal in California?
California does not set a minimum age for someone to date within the state legally. However, if an adult has sexual relations with a minor, the adult can be charged with statutory rape. Therefore, you may date someone who is 17 if you are 18 years old, but if you have sexual relations with that… read more
Read MoreFalse Domestic Violence Allegations: How You Can Avoid Wrongful Allegations
Domestic violence allegations are extremely serious and can lead to devastating consequences for a person’s reputation, career, and life in general. Unfortunately, false allegations of domestic violence are made all too often. How can you avoid wrongful allegations of domestic violence? Continue reading to learn more. How Can You Avoid Wrongful Allegations? Protect yourself by… read more
Read MoreCriminal Defense: 10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Attorney
It’s an emotional and overwhelming experience to be charged with a crime, whether your charged with a DUI or a homicide. It’s critical to find a legal representative who will give you the highest probability of a positive outcome in your case. Unfortunately, most people are unsure about how to find a good criminal defense… read more
Read MoreBreaking Down Attorney-Client Privilege: What it Means and How it Can Affect Your Case
Attorney-client privilege protects your communications with an attorney from being shared with other parties. When you meet with a criminal defense attorney to discuss your criminal case, you can openly talk about what occurred without fear of what you say being used against you in court. It applies whether you are innocent or guilty of… read more
Read MoreWhat is Criminal Mischief?
Criminal mischief is a common property crime often referred to as vandalism. California also refers to this crime as malicious mischief. Criminal mischief is defined under California Penal Code Section 594 as maliciously harming the property of another. In California, criminal mischief is a “wobbler” crime, meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor… read more
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