DUIs and hit-and-runs are two of the most common vehicular crimes on California roads. Both have different legal requirements in order for a prosecutor to convict a driver; both come with their own penalties, but when these cases overlap, you need a strong defense a skilled attorney. Being convicted of a combination of DUI and hit-and-run can lead to hefty penalties and years behind bars.
Orange County Criminal Defense Blog
When a DUI and a Hit-and-Run Overlap
Potential Addiction Treatment Still Considered Illegal in the United States
California and many other states have shifted to treating addiction rather than punishing non-violent offenders, but our country is still struggling to find a reliable means of preventing repeat abuse. Millions of individuals have been unfairly mistreated by our criminal justice system when they needed medical and psychiatric care to deal with their conditions. Given the stigma that comes with drug addiction and the difficulties of finding reliable treatment, some addicts have looked outside the United States for new treatments.
How to Respond to a Police Warrant
Warrants are required for police officers to arrest suspects and acquire evidence in certain types of criminal cases. While most people have heard the terms “arrest warrant” or “search warrant” on television, many have no idea how to respond to these warrants or how to confirm whether they are legitimate.
When Your Car’s Black Box Becomes Evidence
Black boxes are often mentioned after plane crashes, but most people do not realize that many other vehicles have these devices. Most modern trucking companies use black boxes to record a trucker’s actions in the event of a crash, and a recent accident involving a Tesla Model S has brought to light the importance of black-box data in improving vehicle safety.
How California Defines Rape and Sexual Assault
The terms “rape” and “sexual assault” are often used interchangeably in the media, but there are clear legal differences between them. The legal definitions may seem similar, but they can make a world of difference when it comes to launching a defense in a criminal trial. A felony rape conviction can result in imprisonment in a California state prison, thousands of dollars in fines, and additional punishments, while sexual assault is a misdemeanor and a conviction can lead to a lighter sentence.
Honest Mistakes That Can Lead to Identity Theft Charges
Since the massive expansion of the internet and social media over the past two decades, the news media has constantly warned people of the dangers of identity theft. Even though these types of white-collar crimes occurred long before the internet, it has made perpetrating this crime easier. While most people assume that identity theft is orchestrated by hooded hackers in their basements, the reality is that everyday people can commit this crime, and often by mistake.
Understand California’s Mayhem Laws
California courts can issue harsh punishments for violent crimes, often requiring defendants to serve long prison sentences for assault and battery, especially if the incident involved a firearm or weapon. While the majority of these cases involve physical fights or violent robberies, California also has unique laws against disfiguring a victim. A mayhem charge allows courts to punish defendants with extensive penalties for disabling or disfiguring victims.
When Online Messages Violate the Law
It is almost impossible to go somewhere on the internet without encountering a massive argument. Users often use their anonymity to justify virtually screaming at each other on a variety of topics, ranging from their political views to their opinions on movies. In most cases, the arguments are harmless, but when these messages turn into online harassment or criminal threats, then it becomes a matter for the courts.
A Tale in Criminal Justice: STOP! (Kidnapping) In The Name Of Love. Wayne’s Story.
Cal Pen Code § 207. Kidnapping defined:
(a) Every person who forcibly, or by any other means of instilling fear, steals or takes, or holds, detains, or arrests any person in this state, and carries the person into another country, state, or county, or into another part of the same county, is guilty of kidnapping.
One day I was sitting in my office on a late, sunny afternoon when I received a call from a young Vietnamese man. For the sake of this story, I will call him Wayne. Wayne told me that he needed help because the sheriffs were looking for him.
Can a DUI Affect My Job?
The repercussions of a DUI often set in slowly for a defendant. At first, you may be focused on just keeping your license, avoiding jail time, and paying court fees, but there are further consequences you may have to deal with. While you may try to keep your arrest a secret for fear of hurting your reputation, your employer may eventually learn about your DUI. Even worse, if you are convicted, it could impact your career and ability to find future employment down the line.
Whether you're facing a felony or a misdemeanor, don't risk a conviction. Act quickly to redeem your reputation and protect your record by consulting with our Orange County criminal defense lawyer. Call today to schedule your free consultation.
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