Henry Cantor
September 10, 2025
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 […]
Henry Cantor
July 25, 2025
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 […]
Henry Cantor
July 23, 2025
3July 22, 2025 – Los Angeles, CA A San Clemente man has been charged with 74 felony counts following an incident in which a vehicle struck dozens of people outside a nightclub in East Hollywood. According to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, Fernando Ramirez (age 29) faces 37 counts of attempted murder (Penal […]
Henry Cantor
June 24, 2025
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 […]
Henry Cantor
June 13, 2025
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 […]
Henry Cantor
April 30, 2025
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 […]
Henry Cantor
April 22, 2025
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 […]
Henry Cantor
April 21, 2025
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 […]
Henry Cantor
April 14, 2025
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 […]
Henry Cantor
April 7, 2025
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 […]
Henry Cantor
April 2, 2025
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 […]
Henry Cantor
March 31, 2025
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 […]
Henry Cantor
March 26, 2025
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 […]
Henry Cantor
March 19, 2025
Los Angeles Gang Leader and Music Executive Eugene Henley Faces RICO Charges LOS ANGELES, CA – Federal prosecutors have charged Eugene “Big U” Henley, a longtime figure in Los Angeles gang culture and the entertainment industry, with racketeering and multiple violent crimes. Henley, 58, is accused of leading a criminal enterprise that engaged in murder, […]
Henry Cantor
February 26, 2025
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 […]
Henry Cantor
February 13, 2025
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 […]
Henry Cantor
February 3, 2025
California Penal Code 203 PC: Mayhem Laws, Penalties, and Defenses Facing charges under California Penal Code Section 203 PC can feel overwhelming, especially given the severe penalties associated with this serious felony. Mayhem is defined as willfully and unlawfully causing another person to suffer a permanent physical injury or disfigurement. This offense encompasses actions such […]
Henry Cantor
January 31, 2025
Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney for Gang Enhancement Charges Facing gang enhancement charges in California can feel overwhelming, especially given the severe penalties associated with these allegations. Under Penal Code Section 186.22, prosecutors can seek additional punishment for crimes allegedly committed for the benefit of, at the direction of, or in association with a criminal […]
Henry Cantor
January 29, 2025
California Penal Code 206 – Torture Defense in Los Angeles Under California Penal Code Section 206, torture is a grave and highly severe criminal offense, reserved for cases involving the intentional infliction of extreme pain and suffering. Torture is defined as the deliberate and willful act of causing great bodily injury to another person with […]
Henry Cantor
January 16, 2025
Understanding the High Stakes of Federal Drug Conspiracy Allegations Federal drug conspiracy charges are among the most serious allegations in criminal law. Prosecutors bring these cases under 21 U.S.C. § 846, which criminalizes agreements to plan, distribute, or traffic illegal drugs. Unlike possession or trafficking charges, federal drug conspiracy cases do not require physical evidence […]
Henry Cantor
January 14, 2025
California Penal Code Section 647(a) PC: Lewd Conduct Lewd conduct in public is a charge that can have a significant impact on your reputation and future, even though it doesn’t involve physical harm to others. California takes such allegations seriously, as they pertain to maintaining public decency. A conviction under Penal Code 647(a) could result […]
Henry Cantor
January 9, 2025
Penal Code Section 415 PC, commonly referred to as “Disturbing the Peace,” criminalizes actions that disrupt public order, provoke violence, or interfere with others’ rights to quiet enjoyment. While often seen as a minor infraction, a conviction can lead to significant consequences, including fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record. If you are facing […]
Henry Cantor
January 6, 2025
Penal Code 337 PC – California’s Law on Bookmaking and Illegal Gambling California Penal Code 337 PC addresses illegal gambling activities, including pool selling, bookmaking, and wagering. While gambling is permitted in specific, regulated environments—such as licensed casinos, state lotteries, and certain private games—operating or participating in unauthorized gambling activities is a serious offense under […]
Henry Cantor
January 3, 2025
California Penal Code Section 186.10 PC: Defending Money Laundering Charges in Los Angeles Money laundering is a serious financial crime in California. This statute criminalizes conducting or attempting to conduct financial transactions involving monetary instruments exceeding certain thresholds, with the intent to promote illegal activity or with knowledge that the funds originated from unlawful sources. […]
Henry Cantor
January 1, 2025
Understanding Defenses for Public Intoxication Charges in California Under California Penal Code 647(f), it is illegal to be under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or both in a public place if your behavior: Endangers your own safety or the safety of others, or Obstructs or interferes with the free use of public ways or sidewalks. […]
Henry Cantor
December 30, 2024
Understanding the Difference Between Aggravated Assault and Attempted Murder When facing charges for aggravated assault or attempted murder in California, understanding the distinction between these serious crimes is crucial. While both involve acts of violence and intent to cause harm, they differ significantly in the level of intent, the required actions, and the potential penalties. […]
Henry Cantor
December 26, 2024
Under California Penal Code 148(a)(1) PC, it is illegal to willfully resist, delay, or obstruct a public officer, peace officer, or EMT performing their lawful duties.This includes everything from physical struggles during an arrest to giving false information or blocking an investigation. What Is Resisting Arrest Under California Law? To be convicted of resisting arrest […]
Henry Cantor
December 25, 2024
LAX Airport Criminal Defense Lawyer – Protecting Your Rights Being arrested or detained at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) for drug possession, trafficking, or related offenses can have serious consequences. LAX’s status as one of the busiest airports in the world means it is heavily monitored by agencies like the TSA, Los Angeles Airport Police, […]
Henry Cantor
December 20, 2024
How Social Media Impacts Los Angeles Criminal Cases In the age of digital communication, social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and Twitter (now X) have become an integral part of daily life. While sharing photos, videos, and thoughts may seem harmless, these posts can carry serious legal consequences. In Los Angeles criminal cases, social […]
Henry Cantor
December 19, 2024
Understanding Penal Code 212: The Role of Fear in California Robbery Cases Robbery is one of the most serious theft crimes under California law, involving more than simply taking property. Penal Code § 212 defines robbery as the unlawful taking of property from another person’s immediate possession through the use of force or fear. Among […]
Henry Cantor
December 16, 2024
On December 16, 2024, Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced additional charges in the murder of Dr. Hamid Mirshojae, who was fatally shot outside his Woodland Hills medical clinic on August 23, 2024. The DA’s office has filed charges against Dr. Mirshojae’s ex-wife, Ahang Mirshojae (also known as Ahang Kelk), in connection with […]
Henry Cantor
December 5, 2024
Check fraud is a serious financial crime in California, prosecuted under Penal Code 476 PC. This offense involves creating, using, or possessing a forged, altered, or counterfeit check with the intent to defraud another party. A conviction can lead to severe penalties, including jail or prison time, hefty fines, and long-term consequences such as a […]
Henry Cantor
December 4, 2024
Duress Defense in California: Can It Get Your Charges Dismissed? Facing criminal charges in California can feel overwhelming, especially when you acted under extreme pressure or threats. The duress defense—also known as “coercion”—is a legal argument that recognizes that some crimes are not committed out of free will, but because the defendant was forced to […]
Henry Cantor
December 3, 2024
The felony murder rule in California, established under Penal Code Section 189, allows for murder charges when a death occurs during the commission or attempted commission of certain felonies, even if there was no intent to kill. Historically, the felony murder rule held all participants in a qualifying felony equally liable for any resulting death, regardless […]
Henry Cantor
November 28, 2024
Understanding the Process of Getting Criminal Charges Dismissed in Los Angeles Securing a dismissal of criminal charges in Los Angeles can protect you from jail time, hefty fines, and a lasting criminal record. With the right legal strategies, it’s possible to challenge the prosecution’s case, highlight procedural errors, and avoid trial altogether. This guide will […]
Henry Cantor
November 20, 2024
Being charged with attempted murder under California Penal Code 664/187(a) is an incredibly serious situation with life-changing implications. Convictions for attempted murder can lead to decades in prison, life sentences, or even enhanced penalties if certain aggravating factors apply. The personal and professional consequences of a conviction are severe, impacting everything from your freedom and […]
Henry Cantor
November 14, 2024
On November 7, 2024, a Los Angeles jury convicted 33-year-old Heber Enoc Diaz of multiple charges, including murder, following the violent 2019 death of 76-year-old Chyong Jen Tsai in her Arcadia home. Diaz, a former construction worker employed by a contractor performing renovations on Tsai’s property, was found guilty of killing her during a burglary […]
Henry Cantor
November 13, 2024
Sun Valley Ralphs Shooting: Understanding the Incident and Legal Implications A tragic incident unfolded in Sun Valley late Tuesday night, leading to one teen’s death and another teen’s hospitalization following an altercation that escalated into gunfire inside a Ralphs grocery store. According to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), the violent encounter broke out around […]
Henry Cantor
November 8, 2024
California Health & Safety Code 11360(a): Transportation of Marijuana Even in California, where marijuana laws have evolved significantly, transporting marijuana without proper authorization remains a serious offense. Under Health & Safety Code Section 11360(a), transporting marijuana for sale or distribution can be charged as a felony, potentially leading to up to four years in prison, […]
Henry Cantor
November 7, 2024
What Is a Wet Reckless in California? When facing DUI charges in California, you may be able to reduce your charge to a “wet reckless.” But what does that mean, and how could it benefit your case? A wet reckless is a lesser charge that can result from a plea bargain in DUI cases, usually […]
Henry Cantor
October 30, 2024
What Is an Appeal in a Criminal Case? An appeal in a criminal case is not a new trial, but rather a request for a higher court to review the original court’s decision for legal errors. It’s important to understand that an appeal does not focus on re-examining the facts or evidence of the case. […]
Henry Cantor
October 25, 2024
Understanding False Accusations of Sexual Assault in California False accusations of sexual assault can be a life-altering experience. In California, the legal system treats all sexual assault allegations with the utmost seriousness, and even when claims are untrue, the consequences can be severe. The mere accusation, regardless of its validity, can tarnish your reputation, cause […]
Henry Cantor
October 14, 2024
When you’re facing a misdemeanor charge in California, one of your first concerns may be the cost of legal representation. Misdemeanors, while less severe than felonies, can still carry serious penalties, including fines, probation, and even jail time. Having an experienced attorney by your side is crucial in defending your rights and navigating the legal […]
Henry Cantor
October 3, 2024
The time it takes to resolve a criminal case in Los Angeles can vary significantly depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the case, the charges involved, and whether the case goes to trial or is settled through a plea deal. While some cases may be resolved in a matter of weeks, others […]
Henry Cantor
September 26, 2024
Key Differences Between State and Federal Crimes in California Determining whether a crime is prosecuted at the state or federal level is critical because it affects which laws apply, which court has jurisdiction, and the severity of potential penalties. In the United States, crimes are classified as either state crimes or federal crimes, based on […]
Henry Cantor
September 25, 2024
Understanding Prostitution Laws in California The laws surrounding escorting and prostitution are complex, and the difference between the two lies in whether a sexual act is exchanged for money or other compensation. Both activities can involve legal and illegal aspects, but while escorting itself is generally legal, prostitution—defined as offering or engaging in sexual activity […]
Henry Cantor
September 11, 2024
What Is the ‘Heat of Passion’ Defense? The “Heat of Passion” defense is a legal argument used in criminal cases to show that the defendant acted impulsively under intense emotional stress, rather than with premeditation. This defense is typically used in homicide cases to reduce the charge from murder to voluntary manslaughter. The key idea […]
Henry Cantor
September 6, 2024
Temple City, CA – Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón announced that Diego Santoscruz has been charged with two counts of murder following a fatal DUI crash that resulted in the deaths of a mother and her 10-year-old daughter. The tragic accident occurred on August 17, 2024, when Santoscruz allegedly drove under the influence […]
Henry Cantor
September 5, 2024
Redlands, CA – The San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office announced today that Michael Royce Sparks has been charged with two counts of murder following the deaths of his neighbors, Stephanie and Daniel Menard, who were reported missing from their home at the Olive Dell Nudist Ranch in late August. The couple’s bodies were discovered […]
Henry Cantor
September 4, 2024
Los Angeles, CA – Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón has announced charges against three men—Juan Gonzalez, Dion Hill, and Isaiah Rankins—in connection with a home invasion robbery that took place in Sherman Oaks on August 26, 2024. The defendants allegedly broke into a home while a woman was present and stole luxury handbags […]
