Under California Penal Code 69, it is a crime to use threats or violence to prevent an executive officer from performing their duties, or to knowingly resist an officer through force or violence. While a typical resisting arrest charge under Penal Code 148 is always a misdemeanor, PC 69 is a wobbler, meaning prosecutors can
California Penal Code § 69 PC – Resisting an Executive Officer Read More »
The consequences of a criminal record in California do not end when the case closes. Once a conviction is on your record, it can follow you into job interviews, rental applications, professional licensing, firearm ownership and immigration proceedings. Even an arrest that never led to charges can appear in some records. Understanding these consequences, and
The Consequences of a Criminal Record in California and How It Affects Your Future Read More »
California Penal Code 463 PC makes it the crime of looting to commit burglary or theft during a declared state of emergency, a local emergency, or an evacuation order. Looting carries harsher punishment than ordinary burglary or theft, including mandatory jail time if probation is granted. The penalties are highest when the crime happens inside
California Penal Code § 463 PC – Looting Read More »
A DUI arrest in California starts two separate cases at the same time. The first is a criminal case filed under Vehicle Code 23152, where a conviction can bring jail, fines, probation, and a permanent record. The second is an administrative case with the DMV, which decides whether your driver’s license is suspended. Each case
9 Common Mistakes to Avoid After a DUI Arrest in California Read More »
Under California Health and Safety Code 11366.8 HS, it is a crime to possess, use, or control a false compartment in a vehicle with the intent to store, conceal, smuggle, or transport a controlled substance. It is also a crime to design, build, install, or alter a false compartment for that purpose. Owning a vehicle
California Health and Safety Code § 11366.8 HS – Concealing Drugs in a False Compartment Read More »
A string of angry texts, a post naming someone online, or a message sent in the heat of an argument can lead to criminal charges in California. There is no single “cyber harassment” law. Instead, prosecutors choose from several statutes depending on what was sent, how often, and whether it contained a threat. Some are
California Cyber Harassment Laws: Charges, Penalties, and Defenses Read More »
Fentanyl cases are among the most aggressively prosecuted drug charges in Los Angeles County. Whether a fentanyl case is filed as a misdemeanor or a felony depends on more than the amount found. Prosecutors look at why they believe you had the drug, your prior record, and, since Proposition 36 took effect on December 18,
How Much Fentanyl Is a Felony in California? Read More »
Pulling out a toy gun, a replica prop, or a BB gun during an argument can lead to an arrest just as quickly as a real firearm. Under California Penal Code 417.4 PC, it is a misdemeanor to draw or exhibit an imitation firearm in a threatening manner that causes someone to fear bodily harm.
California Penal Code § 417.4 PC – Brandishing an Imitation Firearm Read More »
Adderall is so widely prescribed that many people treat it as a harmless study aid or productivity boost. Under California law, however, Adderall (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine) is a Schedule II controlled substance. Possessing it without a valid prescription is a crime, and sharing or selling even a single pill can lead to a felony charge.
Possession of Adderall Without a Prescription in California Read More »
Under California Penal Code 532 PC, it is a crime to knowingly obtain someone’s money, labor, or property through a false or fraudulent representation. Unlike traditional theft, the victim hands over the property voluntarily, but only because they were deceived. California prosecutes theft by false pretenses under PC 532 and the state’s general theft statute,
California Penal Code § 532 PC – Theft by False Pretenses Read More »
If someone is attempting to steal from you, it is important to understand your rights when it comes to defending your property with force. In California, Penal Code 693 and California’s criminal jury instructions (CALCRIM 3476) allow you to use reasonable force to protect your property from theft or damage. However, deadly force is only
Can You Use Force to Protect Your Property in California? Read More »
Understanding the cost of hiring a DUI defense attorney in Los Angeles is a critical first step when facing charges under California Vehicle Code Section 23152, or driving under the influence causing injury under Vehicle Code Section 23153. Legal fees vary depending on attorney experience, case complexity, and billing structure. For a first-offense misdemeanor DUI,
How Much Does a DUI Lawyer Cost in Los Angeles? Read More »
