Sacramento, CA – Sometimes in a criminal case the prosecution and defense do not dispute the facts of the case and instead are in disagreement as to whether the defendant's actions were actually a violation of the law. An example of this would be when the defendant claims self-defense in a homicide case. While they do not dispute that defendant did indeed take a life, the defense will argue that their client was acting to preserve his or her own life against an attacker. A similar situation is coming to pass as law enforcement agencies raid so called 'sweepstakes cafes," throughout the state, accusing their owners of operating illegal gambling houses.
Silk and Stars, an internet sweepstakes cafe in a strip mall in Sacramento County, allows people to play video games that simulate games of chance such as slot machines. However, local law enforcement agencies have twice attempted to close down Silk and Stars this year, saying that the cafe's machines run afoul of state gambling regulations and that businesses like it can attract an unpleasant element, leading to increased crime and drug use.
One California lawmaker has introduced a bill in the assembly to ban businesses from using video monitors that simulate casino games and allow the state attorney general as well as district and city attorneys to sue these businesses in civil court. At issue is the fact that although the video games have predetermined results they appear to be randomized, like a slot machine. The state argues that the machines are deceptive, but business owners argue that they allow for customers to have the experience of playing casino games with less travel and expense.
In a case where the basic facts are not in dispute it is absolutely essential to retain the services of a criminal defense attorney who knows the law inside and out. A skilled criminal lawyer will put their years of training and experience to work for you and demonstrate that your actions were well within the bounds of law.
At the Law Office of Michael L. Guisti, our Orange County criminal defense attorneys have been defending clients in Orange County's state and federal courts for over 16 years, and in that time we've helped hundreds of clients fight felony and misdemeanor charges. The dedicated legal professionals on our staff know all the best courtroom strategies and can offer their advice and insight throughout the course of an investigation and trial. They can help you with everything from dealing with law enforcement and prosecutors to handling the myriad hearings and proceeding that accompany any criminal trial.
When you've been charged with a crime, it can be frightening and we'll do everything that we can to make the process easier for you. Our clients' peace of mind is our top priority. We're here to answer any questions that you might have 24/7, and we're proud to offer our clients foreign language assistance. Our four Orange County offices are conveniently located close to local courts.
Our commitment to high quality representation and client satisfaction is what's made our firm a fixture in the local legal scene. We've built up a strong reputation for representing our clients' interests while maintaining the highest standards of professional ethics. Our years of experience in Southern California courtrooms has allowed us to develop strong working relationships with local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and judges that allow us to give our clients the best possible defense.
Sources:
Thompson, Dan, Associated Press. "California cracks down on 'sweepstakes cafes.'" http://www.presstelegram.com/general-news/20140628/california-cracks-down-on-sweepstakes-cafes. Long Beach Press-Telegram. June 28, 2014.
