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 »
California Penal Code Section 381b PC makes it a misdemeanor to possess nitrous oxide, frequently referred to as “laughing gas” or “whippets,” with the specific intent to inhale or ingest it for recreational intoxication. Because nitrous oxide maintains widespread, legitimate utility across dentistry, culinary operations, and automotive performance tuning, simple possession of the substance is
California Penal Code § 381b PC – Possession of Nitrous Oxide Read More »
A standard traffic stop or street encounter can instantly escalate into a life-altering legal crisis if police find both illicit drugs and a firearm in your vehicle or on your person. In California, possessing a firearm while in possession of certain controlled substances is not a minor infraction or simple misdemeanor. It is charged as
You can clear an active warrant in California without going to jail, provided you take proactive legal action before law enforcement arrests you. The most effective way to resolve a warrant is to have our criminal defense team file a motion to “recall and quash” it in court. Depending on whether your warrant stems from
How to Clear a Warrant in California Without Going to Jail Read More »
California Penal Code 484g PC makes it a crime to knowingly use a credit card, debit card, or account number you’re not authorized to use in order to get money, goods, or services. Most people know this charge as fraudulent use of a credit card. Credit card fraud charges like this one come up often
Penal Code § 484g PC – Fraudulent Credit Card Use Charges in California Read More »
If you’re pulled over on suspicion of drunk driving, the breathalyzer result is just one piece of evidence officers can use. Even without a high number, they may still find enough reason to arrest you for DUI. Passing that test does not guarantee you won’t be charged. Many drivers are surprised to learn that a
Can You Still Be Charged With a DUI If You Pass the Breathalyzer? Read More »
When a police officer stops, questions, or searches you in California, that action has to be backed by real legal justification, not just a hunch. The two standards that decide whether an officer acted lawfully are reasonable suspicion and probable cause, and people often treat them as interchangeable even though they carry very different legal
