Illustration of strategies for how to get a drug trafficking charge dismissed, with legal support from Los Angeles drug crimes lawyer Arash Hashemi

Fighting Drug Trafficking Charges in California: How Dismissals Happen

Can You Get a Drug Trafficking Charge Dismissed in California? Drug trafficking charges in California are high-stakes felonies that can carry years in prison, heavy fines, and long-term consequences for your future. While challenging, dismissals are possible when the defense suppresses key evidence, undermines “intent to sell,” or exposes flaws in how the case was […]
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Los Angeles traffic defense lawyer handling cases under Vehicle Code 21453 VC for running a red light

California Vehicle Code § 21453(a) VC – Running a Red Light

Vehicle Code § 21453(a) VC – Running a Red Light Under California Vehicle Code § 21453(a), a driver facing a steady red signal must come to a complete stop at the limit line, or if none, before the near crosswalk, or if none, before entering the intersection, and remain stopped until a permissive indication appears. […]
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How to beat a constructive possession of a firearm charge with defense strategies explained by a Los Angeles gun crime lawyer

Fighting a Constructive Possession of a Firearm Charge in California

How to Beat a Constructive Possession of a Firearm Charge Facing a constructive possession of a firearm charge can feel overwhelming, especially if the gun wasn’t actually found on you. In California, prosecutors don’t need to prove you had a weapon in your hand to file charges. Instead, they often rely on the theory of […]
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Illustration of defending against grand larceny charges in California with a criminal defense attorney strategy

Charged With Grand Larceny in California? How to Beat the Case

Can a Grand Larceny Charge Be Dismissed? Being charged with grand larceny in California — legally referred to as grand theft under Penal Code § 487 PC — is a serious matter. Unlike petty theft, grand larceny usually involves property valued at more than $950 or items such as vehicles or firearms. It is often […]
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Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer representing clients accused of lying in wait murder under Penal Code 189 PC

Lying in Wait Murder in California – Laws, Penalties & Defenses

In California, committing a killing while lying in wait makes it first-degree murder under Penal Code § 189. If prosecutors also allege and prove the lying-in-wait special circumstance under Penal Code § 190.2(a)(15)—which requires an intentional murder carried out while lying in wait—the sentence becomes life without the possibility of parole (LWOP) or death. California […]
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Counterfeit bills and documents symbolizing California Penal Code 475 PC possession of counterfeit items case.

California Penal Code § 475 PC – Possession of Counterfeit Items

California Penal Code 475 PC  makes it illegal to possess or receive a forged, altered, or counterfeit financial instrument when you know it isn’t genuine and intend to pass it as real. This includes checks, drafts, money orders, cashier’s checks, traveler’s checks, bank notes, and similar documents. You don’t have to actually use the item […]
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Courtroom gavel and financial documents symbolizing California Penal Code 424 PC misappropriation of public funds case.

California Penal Code § 424 PC – Misappropriation of Public Funds

In California, being accused of misusing public funds is a serious matter — and it doesn’t just apply to politicians.Whether you’re a city employee, government contractor, or anyone entrusted with taxpayer money, even a small mistake can lead to felony charges, prison time, and a permanent ban from holding public office. Under California Penal Code […]
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Los Angeles gun crime lawyer explaining the difference between PC 25400 concealed firearm charges and PC 25850 loaded firearm charges

What Is the Difference Between PC 25400 and PC 25850?

If you’ve been arrested for a firearm offense in California, the legal paperwork can be confusing. Many people are surprised to see more than one gun law listed on their charge sheet — especially when it involves Penal Code 25400(a)(1) PC (carrying a concealed firearm) and Penal Code 25850 PC (carrying a loaded firearm in […]
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Los Angeles defense attorney explains how to beat a concealed weapons charge under California Penal Code § 25400 PC

Arrested for Carrying a Concealed Weapon in California? Here’s How to Fight the Charge

Can You Beat a Concealed Weapons Charge in California? Being arrested for carrying a concealed weapon in California can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first encounter with the criminal justice system. California has some of the strictest gun laws in the country, and prosecutors often push aggressively for convictions to “make an example” out […]
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Los Angeles criminal defense attorney for Penal Code 496 PC receiving stolen property cases

California Penal Code § 496 PC – Receiving Stolen Property

Being arrested for receiving stolen property under California Penal Code 496 can feel overwhelming, especially when you know you didn’t intend to do anything wrong. Many of these cases arise out of everyday situations — buying an item from a pawn shop, picking something up secondhand, or accepting goods from someone you trusted. What seems […]
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Los Angeles criminal defense attorney explaining how to get a simple battery charge dropped in California

How to Get Simple Battery Charges Dropped in California

If you’ve been arrested or cited for a simple battery charge in Los Angeles County, your first question is usually: can this be stopped before it turns into a criminal conviction? The answer is yes. In many cases, it’s possible to get charges dropped or reduced early — but only with immediate action, a clear […]
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Los Angeles criminal defense attorney discussing how to get a reckless driving charge dismissed under VC 23103

Can You Get a Reckless Driving Charge Dismissed in California?

Being arrested or cited for reckless driving under Vehicle Code § 23103 is more than just a traffic ticket — it’s a misdemeanor criminal charge that can carry jail time, heavy fines, and a permanent mark on your record. In California, prosecutors often file reckless driving when they believe your driving showed “willful or wanton […]
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Los Angeles criminal defense attorney defending a weapons on school grounds charge under California Penal Code 626.10 PC

California Penal Code § 626.10 PC – Weapons on School Grounds

California enforces strict laws to keep weapons off school property. Under Penal Code 626.10 PC, it is a crime to bring or possess certain dangerous weapons on the grounds of any public or private K–12 school — and, in some cases, on college or university campuses. A conviction can mean jail or prison time, steep […]
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Los Angeles criminal defense attorney for Penal Code 466 PC Possession of Burglary Tools charges

California Penal Code § 466 PC – Possession of Burglary Tools

California Penal Code 466 PC makes it a crime to possess certain tools with the intent to commit burglary, theft, or another unlawful entry. These tools can include common items such as screwdrivers, crowbars, pliers, or even keys that have been altered—meaning you can face charges even if no break‑in ever occurred. This law exists […]
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Los Angeles criminal defense attorney for Penal Code 222 PC Administering Drugs to Commit a Felony charges

California Penal Code § 222 PC – Administering Drugs to Commit a Felony

Being arrested for administering drugs to commit a felony under California Penal Code 222 is a serious matter. In Los Angeles County, prosecutors treat these cases aggressively because they involve allegations of using a substance to impair someone in order to carry out another crime. PC 222 applies whether the substance is illegal, a prescription […]
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California Penal Code 21510 PC prohibits possessing, carrying, or selling a switchblade knife with a blade two inches or longer.

California Penal Code § 21510 PC – Possession of a Switchblade

California Penal Code  21510  makes it a misdemeanor to carry, possess in a public place, sell, or give away a switchblade knife with a blade two inches or longer. This law is far stricter than many people realize — there is no “open carry” exception, and it applies whether the knife is hidden in your […]
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Chart showing which misdemeanors prohibit gun ownership in California under state and federal law

What Misdemeanors Prohibit Gun Ownership in California?

If you live in California and are facing a misdemeanor charge—or already have a misdemeanor on your record—you may be wondering if that affects your right to own, possess, or purchase a firearm. This is a common and important question, especially for those who are law-abiding citizens, parents, or individuals who need firearms for work […]
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Guard escorting inmate to jail for a conviction under Penal Code 21310 PC carrying a concealed dirk or dagger

California Penal Code § 21310 PC – Carrying a Concealed Dirk or Dagger

Carrying a concealed dirk or dagger is a serious weapons offense in California. Under Penal Code 21310 PC, it is illegal to carry a concealed dirk or dagger on your person—whether it’s hidden in a pocket, waistband, boot, or bag. This law is frequently misunderstood, and a conviction can result in severe criminal penalties, even […]
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Great Bodily Injury Enhancement – California Penal Code 12022.7 PC

California Penal Code § 12022.7 PC – Great Bodily Injury (GBI) Enhancement

In California, certain felony charges can become even more serious when prosecutors add a Great Bodily Injury (GBI) enhancement under Penal Code 12022.7. This enhancement isn’t a separate charge, but it can add years of extra prison time if the defendant is found to have personally caused substantial physical harm during the commission of a […]
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California Penal Code 244 PC – Assault with Caustic Chemicals

California Penal Code 244 makes it a felony to willfully and maliciously throw or place a caustic chemical, flammable substance, or corrosive acid on another person with the intent to injure or disfigure their body. This offense is treated seriously under California law, as it targets actions designed to cause lasting harm. The statute specifically […]
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Felony drug manufacturing charges in California – Los Angeles drug crime lawyer representation.

Drug Manufacturing Laws in California – Penalties & Legal Defense

Drug manufacturing charges in California are prosecuted aggressively and can carry life-changing consequences. Under California Health & Safety Code § 11379.6, even possessing chemical components or basic lab equipment may be enough to trigger felony charges. If you’re under investigation or have already been arrested, it’s critical that you speak with a Los Angeles drug crime […]
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California Penal Code 23900 PC prohibits altering or removing a firearm’s serial number

Altering or Removing a Firearm’s Identification Marks in California – Penal Code 23900

California treats crimes involving firearms with extreme seriousness, and that includes not just illegal possession or use—but also tampering with a firearm’s identifying marks. Under Penal Code 23900 PC, it’s a felony to alter, remove, obliterate, or destroy a firearm’s serial number or any other identifying information. Whether you’re a gun owner, collector, or simply […]
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Misdemeanor convictions that result in a 10-year firearm ban under California PC 29805

Misdemeanor Offenses That Trigger a Firearm Ban in California

California has some of the strictest gun laws in the country—and they’re getting tighter every year. While most people assume that only felony convictions affect your right to own a firearm, the truth is more surprising. In fact, certain misdemeanor convictions in California can trigger a firearm ban lasting 10 years—or even for life. If […]
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Los Angeles street with parked vehicles, representing legal risks of car sex in public view"

Is It Illegal to Have Sex in a Car in California?

In California, there is no law that directly makes it illegal to have sex in a car. However, depending on where and how the act occurs, it may still result in criminal charges. The key issue is whether the activity takes place in public view or in a space considered open to the public. At […]
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How to get a gun charge dismissed in California

How to Get a Gun Charge Dismissed in California

Arrested for a Gun Charge in California? Here’s How You May Be Able to Get It Dismissed If you’ve recently been arrested for a gun charge in California, the consequences you’re facing are serious — even if you weren’t doing anything violent. California’s firearm laws are some of the strictest in the country, and even […]
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California Penal Code 186.11 PC authorizes asset seizure and freezing in major fraud cases

California’s Freeze and Seize Law – Penal Code 186.11 PC

Understanding California’s Freeze and Seize Law – Penal Code 186.11 PC California’s “Freeze and Seize” law, outlined in Penal Code 186.11, allows prosecutors to freeze a defendant’s assets before trial in major white collar crime cases. The law applies when someone is charged with multiple felony offenses involving fraud or embezzlement and the total alleged […]
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Juvenile arrested for gun possession in California under Penal Code 29610

What Happens if a Minor Is Caught with a Gun in California?

Facing a Juvenile Gun Charge in California? Here’s What Happens When a Minor Is Caught with a Firearm If you’re trying to understand what happens if a minor is caught with a gun in California, you’re not alone—and you’re right to be concerned. These situations are serious, and without immediate legal guidance, the consequences can […]
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Los Angeles DUI lawyer helps reduce felony DUI to misdemeanor in California

Can a Felony DUI Be Reduced to a Misdemeanor in California?

How to Get a Felony Reduced to a Misdemeanor in California Being charged with a felony DUI in California can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re worried about prison time, a permanent criminal record, or how it could affect your job and your future. But in many cases, a felony DUI can be reduced to a […]
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How to beat a felony gun charge, firearm charge, or concealed weapons charge in California

How to Beat a Felony Gun Charge in California

Charged with a Felony Gun Crime in Los Angeles? Here’s How We Can Help You Fight Back If you’ve been arrested for a felony gun charge in Los Angeles, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed — and for good reason. A felony firearms case can carry serious consequences: state prison time, a permanent ban on owning weapons, […]
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How to Beat a Drug Trafficking Charge

How to Beat a Drug Trafficking Charge in California

If you’ve recently been arrested for drug trafficking in California, the stakes are high — but your case may not be hopeless. A conviction for trafficking can lead to years in prison, thousands in fines, immigration consequences, and a permanent felony on your record. But being charged is not the same as being convicted. With […]
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A police officer handcuffing a suspect through bars indoors, signifying arrest and law enforcement.

Difference Between Robbery and Extortion: How California Law Separates the Two

What Is the Difference Between Robbery and Extortion Under California Law? Criminal activities like robbery and extortion are two of the most commonly prosecuted theft-related offenses in California—and while they can sometimes overlap in a single case, they are legally distinct crimes with very different elements. At their core, both involve unlawfully obtaining money, property, […]
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How to Fight a Criminal Conspiracy Charge in California

How to Fight a Criminal Conspiracy Charge in California

Being charged with criminal conspiracy in California can feel like a legal trap. You might not have committed the actual crime — but if the state believes you “agreed” to it, you’re now facing felony charges, years in prison, and a serious criminal record. Many people are blindsided when they’re arrested or questioned about a […]
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Close-up of a police officer handcuffing a man outdoors. Law enforcement in action.

How to Beat a Misdemeanor Drug Charge in California

Charged with a Misdemeanor Drug Offense in Los Angeles? Here’s How to Beat It If you’ve recently been arrested for a misdemeanor drug charge in California, there’s no need to panic — but there is a need to act fast. A charge like this may feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first encounter with the […]
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Los Angeles white collar crime lawyer discussing pretrial settlement options with client

Can I Settle My White Collar Case Before Trial in California?

How to Settle a White Collar Crime Case Before Trial in California If you’re being investigated or have already been charged with a white collar crime in California, you may be asking one critical question: Can I avoid going to trial? In many cases, the answer is yes. White collar offenses like fraud, embezzlement, identity […]
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Constructive possession of drugs charges in California explained by Los Angeles drug crime lawyer

Constructive Possession of Drugs in California — How These Charges Work

Constructive possession happens when someone is charged with having control over illegal drugs, even if they were not physically holding them. Prosecutors in California — and especially in Los Angeles County — often rely on this legal theory to file drug possession charges when drugs are found in homes, vehicles, or other shared spaces. In […]
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How to beat a felony evading charge in California under Vehicle Code 2800.2 VC

How to Beat a Felony Evading Charge in California

Charged with Felony Evading? Here’s How to Fight Back in Los Angeles If you were arrested for felony evading in California, you’re likely overwhelmed, anxious, and wondering if you’re going to jail. A felony evading conviction under Vehicle Code 2800.2 VC — often called felony reckless evading — can result in severe penalties — is […]
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Self-defense murder case representation by Los Angeles criminal defense attorney

Can You Claim Self-Defense in a Murder Case?

Self-Defense in California Murder Cases: What You Need to Know Being accused of murder is one of the most serious legal challenges a person can face — and for some, the incident may have been an act of protection, not aggression. In California, the law does allow self-defense as a legal justification for homicide, but […]
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Judge signing documents at desk with focus on gavel, representing law and justice.

Can a Bank Fraud Case be Settled Before Going to Trial?

Facing a Bank Fraud Charge in Los Angeles? Here’s What You Need to Know About Settling Before Trial If you’ve been accused of bank fraud in California—whether under state law or in a federal investigation—one of the most urgent questions on your mind may be: Can this case be settled before trial? The answer is […]
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