California Penal Code 171.5 pc - Bringing a Weapon to an Airport

California Penal Code 171.5(b) – Bringing a Weapon to an Airport

Caught with a Weapon at a California Airport? If you’ve been arrested or cited for bringing a weapon into a sterile area of a California airport, you’re likely facing serious legal consequences — even if it was unintentional. Under Penal Code 171.5 PC, it’s a crime to knowingly possess certain weapons beyond TSA screening checkpoints. This […]
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Comparison between ghost guns and unregistered firearms under California law

What Is the Difference Between a Ghost Gun and an Unregistered Firearm in California?

Difference Between a Ghost Gun and an Unregistered Firearm in California California has some of the strictest gun laws in the country, especially when it comes to unserialized firearms and weapons not legally documented with the state. Two terms often confused by the public—and sometimes even law enforcement—are “ghost gun” and “unregistered firearm.” While these […]
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California Possession of Methamphetamine Law

How Much Meth Is a Felony in California?

Is Meth Possession a Felony in California? Here’s What You Need to Know Getting arrested for meth possession in California is a serious situation — and the penalties you face depend heavily on the amount involved and the specific charges filed against you. California, especially Los Angeles County, aggressively prosecutes methamphetamine offenses. Even a relatively […]
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Los Angeles Criminal Attorney – Attempted Murder Defense

What Is Attempted Murder Under California Law?

What Is Attempted Murder in California? | Fight Charges with a Criminal Defense Lawyer Attempted murder is one of the most serious criminal charges you can face in California—and the penalties can be nearly as severe as if the killing had occurred. Even if no one was physically injured, a prosecutor can still file attempted […]
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Criminal defense lawyer discussing case strategy with client before arraignment

How to Get Criminal Charges Dropped Before Court in California

Worried About a Criminal Charge? Here’s How to Get Charges Dropped Before Court Date in California If you’ve just been arrested or received a notice to appear in court, your first thought might be: can this be stopped before it goes any further? The answer is yes — in many cases, it’s possible to get […]
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What Is Constructive Possession of a Firearm Explained by a Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney

What Is Constructive Possession of a Firearm in California?

Understanding Constructive Possession of a Firearm in California The Second Amendment grants individuals the right to bear arms in the United States. However, under both federal and California law, that right is not absolute. People with felony convictions, certain misdemeanor convictions, or active restraining orders are legally prohibited from owning, possessing, or controlling firearms. In […]
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Federal Prison Penalties for Wire Fraud in California

Can You Go to Prison for Wire Fraud in California?

Can You Go to Prison for Wire Fraud in California? What You Need to Know Before It’s Too Late Wire fraud is one of the most frequently prosecuted white collar crimes in federal court. If you’ve been accused of wire fraud — or even just contacted by a federal agent — you might be wondering: […]
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Vandalizing a church or place of worship under California Penal Code 594.3

Penal Code 594.3 PC – Vandalizing a Religious Building

Vandalizing a Religious Building – California Penal Code 594.3 PC In California, vandalism is always a serious offense—but when the target is a place of worship, the law imposes even harsher penalties. Under Penal Code 594.3 PC, it is a felony to knowingly vandalize a church, synagogue, mosque, temple, or any other structure used for […]
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What Happens If You Get Caught with a Ghost Gun in California?

What Happens If You Get Caught with a Ghost Gun in California?

Caught with a Ghost Gun in California? Here’s What You Need to Know Possessing a ghost gun in California is a serious criminal offense that can result in felony charges, firearm bans, and even prison time. While “ghost guns” and “guns without serial numbers” are often used interchangeably, both refer to privately made, untraceable firearms […]
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Close-up of a person in handcuffs, viewed from behind, wearing red pants and a black shirt.

California Assault and Battery Laws

Understanding PC 240 and PC 242: California Assault and Battery Charges Explained Being charged with assault or battery in California is serious — and these two offenses are often misunderstood. While many people think of them as the same, assault and battery are legally distinct crimes with different elements and penalties. A single encounter can […]
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Los Angeles criminal defense attorney explaining plea deals and trial options

Should I Take a Plea Deal or Go to Trial?

If you’ve been charged with a crime in California, one of the most important — and often most difficult — decisions you’ll face is whether to take a plea deal or go to trial. It’s not just a legal choice. It’s a decision that could impact your freedom, your record, your future, and your peace […]
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Arrested for shoplifting in Los Angeles – criminal defense attorney near you

What Happens if I’m Caught Shoplifting in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles Shoplifting Laws and Penalties – What You Need to Know If you were recently caught shoplifting in Los Angeles — or if your child, spouse, or loved one was cited or arrested — you’re not alone. Shoplifting is one of the most commonly charged theft-related crimes in California, and many first-time offenders don’t […]
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California Penal Code 4573 PC makes it a felony to bring drugs into a jail or prison.

California Penal Code § 4573 PC – Bringing Drugs into a Jail or Prison

Bringing drugs into a California jail or prison is a felony offense under Penal Code 4573 PC. It doesn’t matter whether the drugs are for personal use, intended for someone else, or even successfully delivered — the act of knowingly bringing controlled substances into a correctional facility is enough to be charged. Prosecutors take this […]
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Cultivating peyote illegal under California HS 11363 law

Cultivating Peyote in California – HS 11363

HS 11363 – California Law on Cultivating Peyote Most people are familiar with California’s relaxed laws on marijuana—but not everyone realizes that cultivating other plant-based substances, like peyote, is still a crime. Under California Health & Safety Code 11363 HS, it’s illegal to grow, harvest, or prepare peyote, even for personal or spiritual use, unless […]
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Understanding how to legally carry a gun in your car under California firearm laws

How to Legally Carry a Gun in Your Car in California

California Gun Transport Laws: What Every Driver Needs to Know Understanding how to legally carry a gun in your car in California is critical to avoiding criminal charges. California enforces some of the strictest firearm transport laws in the country, and even small mistakes — such as storing a pistol in the glovebox — can […]
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Person reviewing financial documents with “EDD Fraud Investigation” text overlay

Will I Go to Jail If Charged with EDD Fraud in California?

EDD Fraud in California – Charges, Penalties & Defense Strategies Unemployment insurance fraud—commonly referred to as EDD fraud—can lead to serious criminal charges in California. Whether you’re accused of falsifying information, collecting benefits you weren’t entitled to, or using someone else’s identity to apply, prosecutors treat these cases aggressively—especially in the wake of widespread COVID-era […]
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Illustration of California hazing laws involving students, penalties, and legal action under Penal Code 245.6

California Hazing Laws – Penal Code 245.6 PC, Penalties & Legal Defenses

Hazing is commonly associated with initiation rituals in college fraternities, sororities, athletic teams, and student-run organizations. But in California, when those rituals endanger someone’s health or safety, they may cross the line into criminal conduct. What might be seen as tradition or team bonding can quickly escalate into a serious legal issue. Under California Penal […]
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Close-up of handcuffed hands under blue police light, signifying arrest or detention.

What Is the Difference Between 23152(a) and 23152(b) in California DUI Law?

Understanding the Difference Between VC 23152(a) and VC 23152(b) DUI Charges If you were recently arrested for DUI in California, you may have noticed that your paperwork includes two separate charges—even though there was only one arrest. This is completely normal and happens in the majority of DUI cases. Specifically, most DUI arrests involve charges […]
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Gavel and law book illustrating extortion charges under California Penal Code 518

California Extortion Laws: Definition, Penalties & Legal Defenses

California Extortion Laws – Penal Code 518 PC Facing extortion charges in California is a serious legal matter. Under Penal Code 518 PC, extortion—often referred to as blackmail—occurs when someone uses threats, intimidation, or coercion to obtain money, property, or to compel another person (including a public official) to act against their will. Under extortion […]
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California criminal defense for conspiracy and racketeering cases

Racketeering Conspiracy in California: Definition, Charges, and Defenses

Criminal conspiracy and racketeering (RICO) are two serious offenses under California law, and while they’re often charged together, they are not the same. Both involve coordinated criminal conduct, but the legal definitions, elements, and penalties differ significantly. Conspiracy typically refers to an agreement between two or more people to commit a crime, even if the […]
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California racketeering laws explained by a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney

California Racketeering Laws: Charges, Penalties, and Legal Defenses

California Racketeering Laws In California, racketeering refers to a pattern of organized criminal activity carried out to benefit a criminal enterprise—typically for financial gain. These cases often involve multiple illegal acts, such as drug trafficking, extortion, embezzlement, human trafficking, money laundering, or even violent crimes like murder. The goal of racketeering laws is to dismantle […]
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Child Neglect Laws in California | Penal Code 270 PC Defense

Child Neglect Laws in California – Understanding Penal Code 270 PC

What Is Child Neglect Under Penal Code 270 PC? In California, it is a crime for a parent or legal guardian to willfully fail to provide a child with basic necessities—such as food, clothing, shelter, or medical care—without a lawful excuse. This offense is defined under California Penal Code 270, and it can apply to […]
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California criminal defense attorney explains firearm sentencing enhancements

Understanding California’s Firearm Sentencing Enhancements: What You Need to Know

Firearm Sentencing Enhancements Under California Law In California, crimes involving the use or possession of a firearm often carry additional penalties beyond the punishment for the underlying offense. These are known as sentencing enhancements, and they can significantly increase the amount of time someone spends behind bars — sometimes adding 10 years, 20 years, or […]
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Cain Velasquez sentenced to five years in California prison for 2022 shooting case

Cain Velasquez Receives 5-Year Sentence for Attempted Murder in 2022 Shooting

Former UFC Champion Cain Velasquez Gets 5 Years for 2022 California Shooting Former UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez has been sentenced to five years in prisonfollowing a high-profile shooting incident in 2022 that left one man wounded and sparked national debate about vigilantism and justice. The incident, which occurred on February 28, 2022, involved an […]
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Difference Between Corporal Injury and Domestic Violence in California

Corporal Injury vs. Domestic Battery in California: Key Differences and Consequence

What Is the Difference Between Corporal Injury and Domestic Violence in California? When comparing corporal injury vs. battery under California law, it’s crucial to understand how each charge is defined, what evidence is required, and what penalties may follow. Many accusations arise from highly emotional or complex personal situations, often leading to serious criminal charges. […]
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DUI on a Bicycle in California | Los Angeles DUI Lawyer

Can You Get a DUI on a Bicycle in California? Here’s What the Law Says

Los Angeles is a bike-friendly city, with dedicated lanes and thousands of residents choosing bicycles for daily transportation. But many people still wonder: can you get a DUI on a bike in California? Unfortunately, the answer is yes. Under California Vehicle Code § 21200.5 VC, it is illegal to ride a bicycle while under the […]
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Netflix Fraud Charges Against Filmmaker Carl Erik Rinsch

Hollywood Director Carl Erik Rinsch Indicted for $55M Netflix Fraud

Netflix Fraud Case: Hollywood Director Carl Erik Rinsch Indicted for Misusing $55M in Production Funds LOS ANGELES, CA – March 18, 2025 Carl Erik Rinsch, a Hollywood writer-director best known for the film 47 Ronin, has been indicted on federal charges for allegedly defrauding Netflix out of $11 million. Prosecutors claim Rinsch misused the funds […]
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California Penal Code 653.23 PC – Supervising or Aiding Prostitution Defense | Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney

California’s Laws on Supervising or Aiding Prostitution – PC 653.23 Explained

California Penal Code 653.23 PC – Supervising or Aiding Prostitution How California Law Defines Supervising or Assisting Prostitution Under Penal Code 653.23 PC, it is a crime to knowingly supervise, direct, or assist another person in engaging in prostitution. This law is designed to target individuals who facilitate or benefit from prostitution without necessarily engaging […]
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A Los Angeles criminal defense attorney discussing a commercial bribery case under PC 641.3.

California Penal Code 641.3 – Commercial Bribery Charges & Defense

California Penal Code 641.3 – Commercial Bribery: Penalties, Charges & Defense In California, commercial bribery is a felony or misdemeanor offense that can cost you your career, reputation, and freedom. Prosecutors aggressively pursue bribery cases, even if no financial harm occurs. If you’re under investigation or have been charged with commercial bribery in Los Angeles, […]
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Cerritos Businessman Murder - Police Investigation and Arrests in California.

Two Suspects Arrested in Murder of Cerritos Businessman at Local Park

Siblings Arrested for Murder of Cerritos Businessman at Park CERRITOS, CA – Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of 66-year-old businessman Cuauhtémoc Garcia, who was gunned down in broad daylight while on his daily walk at Don Knabe Community Regional Park. Arrests Made Following Police Pursuit Authorities have identified the […]
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A California defendant in court for false imprisonment charges under Penal Code 236 PC.

California Penal Code 236 – False Imprisonment: Penalties, Charges & Legal Defense

False imprisonment is a criminal offense in California that occurs when a person intentionally restrains, detains, or confines another individual against their will without legal authority. Under California Penal Code 236 PC, this act is considered a violation of the victim’s personal liberty and can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending […]
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A person facing charges for possession of brass knuckles under California Penal Code 21810 PC.

Possession of Brass Knuckles – California Penal Code 21810 PC

Brass Knuckles Possession in California: Charges, Penalties & Defenses California Penal Code 21810 PC states:“Anyone who manufactures or causes to be manufactured, imports into the state, keeps for sale or offers for sale, or who gives, lends, or possesses any metal knuckles is punishable by imprisonment in a county jail not exceeding one year.” This […]
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Can I Be Charged with Assault If I Didn’t Hit Anyone? | Legal Answers & Defenses

Can I Be Charged with Assault If I Didn’t Hit Anyone?

Can You Face Assault Charges Without Physical Contact? Yes, you can be charged with assault in California even if you never physically touched anyone. Under California Penal Code 240, assault is defined as an unlawful attempt, coupled with the present ability, to commit a violent injury on another person. The law does not require actual […]
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CSU Long Beach employees accused of payroll fraud and grand theft in university financial misconduct case

CSU Long Beach Workers Accused of Stealing $36K in Payroll Fraud Case

Investigation into Alleged Payroll Fraud at CSULB LONG BEACH, CA – Two employees of California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) have been charged with grand theft and conspiracy after allegedly stealing $36,560 from the university’s Athletics Department through fraudulent payroll submissions. Oscar Perez Almanza, 39, and Hender Noe Maxwell, 38,, are accused of submitting false […]
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How Much Cocaine Is a Misdemeanor in California?

How Much Cocaine Is a Misdemeanor in California?

How Much Cocaine Can You Possess Before It Becomes a Felony in California? In California, possessing a small amount of cocaine for personal use is generally charged as a misdemeanor under Health and Safety Code 11350(a). However, the amount of cocaine, the circumstances of the arrest, and a person’s criminal history can all affect whether […]
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Hiring a Criminal Lawyer for a Guilty Plea – Is It Necessary?

Should You Hire a Criminal Lawyer Before Pleading Guilty? If you’ve been charged with a crime in California and are thinking about pleading guilty, you might wonder whether hiring a criminal defense lawyer is necessary. The short answer is yes—absolutely. Even if you believe you are guilty, pleading guilty without legal representation can have serious […]
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Assault vs. Battery - Legal Differences & Penalties in California

Assault vs. Battery in California – Understanding Legal Differences

California Assault and Battery Laws Many people use the terms assault and battery interchangeably, but under California law, they are two separate crimes with distinct legal definitions. The key difference is that assault is an attempt to use force or violence, while battery involves actual physical contact. Understanding Assault Under California Law Assault is covered […]
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How prosecutors prove gang affiliation in California criminal cases.

How Prosecutors Prove Gang Affiliation in California & How to Fight Back

Understanding Gang Affiliation in California Criminal Cases In California, gang affiliation plays a significant role in many criminal cases and can lead to enhanced charges and harsher penalties under California Penal Code § 186.22, also known as the Street Terrorism Enforcement and Prevention (STEP) Act. Prosecutors frequently allege gang involvement to portray a defendant as […]
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Domestic Violence Court Process in Los Angeles

Domestic Violence Criminal Court Process in Los Angeles

Domestic Violence Criminal Court Process in Los Angeles Being arrested for domestic violence in Los Angeles can be an overwhelming and confusing experience, especially for first-time offenders unfamiliar with the criminal justice system. The process moves quickly, and many people are unsure of what to expect or how to protect their rights. Law enforcement and […]
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California Penal Code 205 – Aggravated Mayhem

Aggravated Mayhem – California Penal Code 203 PC

What Is Aggravated Mayhem? Aggravated mayhem, as defined under California Penal Code 205, is a violent felony that involves intentionally causing permanent disability, disfigurement, or loss of a body part with extreme cruelty or reckless disregard for human life. This charge is more severe than standard mayhem because it requires proof that the act was […]
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California Search and Seizure Laws – What You Need to Know

California Search and Seizure Laws – Know Your Rights & Defenses

Understanding California Search and Seizure Laws The Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures, meaning law enforcement cannot search your home, vehicle, or person without legal justification. However, police often push legal boundaries, and many people unknowingly allow searches without understanding their rights. If law enforcement violates search and […]
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Crime scene in Encino where a husband was charged with murder in a deadly shooting

Husband Facing Murder Charges in Wife’s Fatal Encino Shooting

Encino Shooting: Husband Charged with Murder in Wife’s Death VAN NUYS, CA – A Santa Monica man has been charged with first-degree murder after allegedly shooting and killing his wife, 54-year-old Linda Farzan-Kashani, in front of their teenage son in Encino. Sean Farzan, 64, faces one count of first-degree murder and one count of felony […]
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California Penal Code 332 PC - Obtaining Money by Gaming Fraud

California Penal Code 332 PC: Obtaining Money by Gaming Fraud

California Penal Code 332 PC: Obtaining Money by Gaming Fraud Under California Penal Code 332 PC, gaming fraud occurs when someone uses deceit, trickery, or false pretenses to win or obtain money, property, or valuables through games, bets, or wagers. This law applies to casinos, card rooms, private games, and other gambling settings where fraudulent […]
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California defense lawyer explaining legal self-defense weapons laws.

Which Self-Defense Weapons Are Legal in California?

Legal Self-Defense Weapons in California – What’s Allowed? California law allows individuals to protect themselves, but strict regulations dictate which self-defense weapons are legal and how they can be used. While some tools—such as pepper spray, stun guns, and personal alarms—are permitted for self-defense, others, like brass knuckles, switchblades, and batons, are strictly prohibited. Even […]
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