Los Angeles defense attorney discussing federal tax evasion charges and legal strategies with a client at The Law fOffices of Arash Hashemi

Federal Tax Evasion Defense: Can Your Charges Be Reduced?

Federal Tax Fraud and Evasion Defense Attorney in Los Angeles Facing federal tax fraud or tax evasion charges is an incredibly serious matter. These offenses can result in prison time, substantial fines, and long-term damage to your reputation. Often, these charges stem from extensive investigations by the IRS or the Department of Justice, leaving you […]
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Criminal defense attorney filing a 995 motion in Los Angeles courtroom

Dismiss Criminal Charges Before Trial with a 995 Motion in California

Understanding 995 Motions to Dismiss in California: Process, Strategy, and Case Results A 995 motion, as defined under California Penal Code, is a powerful legal tool for challenging the evidence presented during a preliminary hearing. This motion allows defendants to argue that the prosecution failed to establish probable cause or made procedural errors, which can […]
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Los Angeles criminal defense attorney discussing voluntary manslaughter case.

Voluntary Manslaughter Defense Strategies in California

Common Defenses in Voluntary Manslaughter Cases in California Voluntary manslaughter charges in California carry serious implications, including potential prison sentences, significant fines, and a permanent criminal record. However, California law provides various legal defenses that can reduce, or in some cases, dismiss these charges altogether. Below, we’ll outline the most effective defenses in voluntary manslaughter […]
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Penal Code § 267 PC - Abducting a Minor for Prostitution

Defending Against Battery Charges in California: Your Legal Options

Defending Against Battery Charges in Los Angeles: Key Strategies Facing a battery charge under California Penal Code 242 or an accusation of burglary in California is a serious matter that can have long-lasting effects on your future. Convictions for either offense can lead to harsh penalties, including fines, jail time, probation, and a criminal record […]
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Explanation of California self-defense laws and reasonable force under Penal Code 198.5.

Do Juveniles Have a Right to Self-Defense in California?

What Is Self-Defense Under California Law? Self-defense allows a person to use reasonable force to protect themselves or others from immediate harm. This right applies when an individual genuinely believes they’re in imminent danger and must act to prevent injury. To be valid, self-defense must meet two main legal standards: reasonable fear of harm and […]
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Los Angeles manslaughter defense lawyer representing murder charges

Can Murder Charges Be Reduced to Manslaughter in California?

Understanding the Reduction from Murder to Manslaughter in California Cases For individuals facing charges under California Penal Code 187 PC for murder, there may be specific legal strategies that can reduce the charge to voluntary manslaughter under Penal Code 192(a) PC. Voluntary manslaughter is a lesser charge and lacks the “malice aforethought” required for a […]
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Los Angeles DUI lawyer explaining probable cause in DUI cases

What Is Probable Cause in a Los Angeles DUI Case?

What Is Probable Cause in a Los Angeles DUI Case? In a Los Angeles DUI case, probable cause refers to the legal standard that law enforcement must meet before they can pull a driver over or arrest them for driving under the influence. Probable cause means that the officer must have a reasonable belief, based […]
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White-Collar Crime and Its Effects in California

How To Get Removed from the California Sex Offender Registry

Understanding California’s Sex Offender Registry System The California sex offender registry system is designed to track individuals convicted of certain sexual offenses, requiring them to register with law enforcement in their local jurisdiction. This system helps the state monitor offenders and provide public safety by ensuring that the locations and details of registered individuals are […]
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Simple possession vs. possession for sale in California

What’s the Difference Between Simple Possession and Possession for Sale in California?

What’s the Difference Between Simple Possession and Possession for Sale in California? Being arrested for drug possession in Los Angeles can be overwhelming, especially with California’s strict drug laws. Depending on the type and quantity of drugs involved, you could be facing serious penalties, including fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record. These consequences […]
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Expungement process after probation violation in California

How Does a Probation Violation Affect Expungement in California?

How Does a Probation Violation Affect Expungement in California? Expungement provides individuals with the opportunity to remove certain criminal convictions from their records, giving them a fresh start. However, if you’ve violated the terms of your probation, you may be concerned about whether this will prevent you from clearing your record. In California, a probation […]
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Tom Girardi, former attorney, August 2024 in Los Angeles, facing federal fraud charges alongside ex-CFO Christopher Kamon.

Defending Against Federal White Collar Crime Charges: What You Need to Know

Federal white-collar crimes are serious offenses that often involve complex financial transactions, deception, and fraud. These crimes are typically non-violent but can lead to devastating consequences, including lengthy prison sentences, steep fines, and restitution. Common federal white-collar crimes include wire fraud, securities fraud, embezzlement, and insider trading. If you or someone you know is facing […]
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Grand Theft Auto and Joyriding Charges for Minors in California

Juvenile Car Theft in California: Grand Theft Auto vs. Joyriding

Grand Theft Auto vs. Joyriding: How California Charges Minors in Car Theft Cases When a minor is charged with car theft in California, understanding the difference between grand theft auto (GTA) and joyriding is crucial. Each charge carries different penalties, and how your child is charged can depend on factors like intent, the value of […]
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California Felonies Reduced to Misdemeanors Legal Process Overview

How Much Does a Felony Defense Attorney Cost?

When facing a felony charge in Los Angeles, one of the key concerns is how much it will cost to hire a skilled defense attorney. Felony charges come with serious consequences, from lengthy prison sentences and hefty fines to long-lasting effects on your personal and professional life. The right attorney can make all the difference […]
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The Role of Intent in Burglary Cases | CA Penal Code 459 PC

Facing burglary charges under California Penal Code 459 can be overwhelming, especially when intent plays such a critical role in determining the outcome of your case. Whether you’re accused of entering a property with the intent to commit theft or another felony, the consequences of a conviction are severe. At The Law Offices of Arash […]
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Motion to Revoke Probation Legal Process

Motion to Revoke Probation in California | Understanding Your Legal Options

A Motion to Revoke Probation is a legal action filed by a prosecutor or probation officer that requests the court to terminate a defendant’s probation. This typically occurs when a defendant has allegedly violated the terms of their probation, which can range from failing to complete court-ordered programs to committing new offenses. If the court […]
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Is Failure to Report a Crime a Criminal Offense in California?

Is Failure to Report a Crime a Criminal Offense in California? In California, the general rule is that citizens are not legally required to report all crimes they witness. Unlike some other states, California law does not impose a broad duty on individuals to report crimes simply because they have observed them. For instance, witnessing […]
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Los Angeles misdemeanor and felony defense attorney

How a California Defense Attorney Can Help You Navigate Criminal Charges

How a California Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help Navigating the criminal justice system can be overwhelming, especially when facing serious charges. A California criminal defense attorney plays a crucial role in helping clients understand the complexities of their legal situation. This includes explaining the charges they face, the potential consequences, and the legal procedures involved. […]
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Understanding Probable Cause in California: Key Legal Scenarios and Your Rights

Key Situations Requiring Probable Cause in California Probable cause is a fundamental legal requirement in California, ensuring that law enforcement actions are justified and based on a reasonable belief that a crime has been committed. This standard is necessary in several critical scenarios, including arrests, searches, and seizures. For an arrest, probable cause means that […]
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California Arrest Laws: Your Rights and the Legal Process

Arrest Procedures in California An arrest signifies a critical moment when law enforcement takes control of an individual, restricting their freedom to leave. This action is the beginning of the formal legal process in which a person is taken into police custody. While handcuffs or other restraints may be used, their application depends on the […]
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DUI defense attorney in Los Angeles discussing case with client after DUI arrest

How Long After a DUI Can You Get a CDL in California?

The Impact of a DUI on Your CDL in California A DUI conviction in California significantly affects your ability to obtain or regain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). If you are convicted of a DUI, whether while driving a commercial vehicle or your personal vehicle, your CDL privileges will be suspended. For a first DUI […]
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L.A. Gang Members Facing Federal Charges

Federal Grand Jury Charges Florencia 13 Gang Members with Fentanyl Trafficking and Murder

LOS ANGELES – Federal and local law enforcement officials have unsealed indictments from a grand jury against 37 members and associates of the South Los Angeles-based Florencia 13 (F13) street gang. These indictments mark a significant move to dismantle the gang’s criminal operations. The charges include fentanyl trafficking, extortion, and three murders, one of which […]
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Los Angeles Third Time DUI :: Los Angeles Third Time DUI Attorney

DUI with Minors in California

What Are the Legal Consequences of a DUI in California? Driving under the influence (DUI) in California carries severe legal consequences. Penalties for a first-time DUI offense may include fines ranging from $390 to $1,000, mandatory attendance at DUI school, probation, and a license suspension for six months. Additionally, you may face up to six […]
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Arson Defense Attorney California Penal Code 451 and 452

Navigating Federal Plea Agreements in California

What Is a Federal Plea Agreement? A federal plea agreement is a legal contract between a defendant and the federal government in which the defendant agrees to plead guilty to one or more charges. In return, the government may offer certain concessions, such as reducing the number of charges, recommending a lighter sentence, or dismissing […]
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Los Angeles attorney defending client in marijuana transportation case

Understanding Marijuana DUI Testing Procedures in California

What Constitutes a Marijuana DUI in California? In California, a marijuana DUI occurs when a driver operates a vehicle while under the influence of marijuana, impairing their ability to drive safely. Unlike alcohol, there is no specific legal limit for THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive component of marijuana, in a driver’s system. Instead, the law states […]
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White-Collar Crime and Its Effects in California

Deferred Entry of Judgment in California

What is Deferred Entry of Judgment? If you have been charged with a substance abuse-related crime, you may be wondering what Deferred Entry of Judgment is and how it can benefit you. DEJ is a legal process in California that allows defendants to avoid a formal conviction by successfully completing a probationary period. This option […]
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Arson Defense Attorney California Penal Code 451 and 452

What Is the Difference Between an Acquittal and Not Guilty?

  What Does “Not Guilty” Mean? A “Not Guilty” verdict means that the jury or judge has concluded that the prosecution did not prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. This verdict does not necessarily declare that the defendant is innocent, but it does indicate that the evidence presented was insufficient for a conviction. […]
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Understanding Your Rights: Can the Police Search Your Cell Phone in California?

Understanding your rights regarding cell phone searches is crucial in today’s digital age. Cell phones contain vast amounts of personal information, and knowing when and how law enforcement can legally access this information is essential. This guide provides valuable insights into your rights and protections under the law, helping you navigate the complexities of cell […]
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The Role of Witness Testimony in Domestic Violence Cases

Why is Witness Testimony Important in Domestic Violence Cases? Witness testimony can significantly impact the outcome of a domestic violence case. The accounts provided by witnesses help the court understand the circumstances surrounding the incident and assess the credibility of the allegations. Witness testimony can corroborate or refute the allegations made by either party in […]
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Former Accounting Manager Sentenced for Insider Trading, Profiting Nearly $500,000 from Non-Public Information

A former accounting manager at a Pasadena-based company has been sentenced for insider trading. He used non-public information to purchase company shares, leading to nearly $500,000 in profits. He received a nine-month prison sentence and additional penalties. In early 2021, Marco Antonio Perez, who worked at General Finance Corp., accessed confidential information about the company’s […]
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Understanding the Difference: Guilty Plea vs. No-Contest Plea

Facing criminal charges requires making critical decisions, one of the most significant being how to plead. The choice between a guilty plea and a no-contest plea can greatly influence the legal outcomes and future implications for defendants. Understanding these differences is crucial for effective navigation through the criminal justice system. In legal terms, a plea […]
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14-Year-Old Faces Murder Charge in Los Angeles

Los Angeles police recently arrested a 14-year-old girl on charges of allegedly murdering a 20-year-old woman near a South Los Angeles elementary school. This case draws significant attention due to the young age of the suspect and the grave nature of the accusation. Such circumstances present a complex interplay of juvenile justice and severe criminal […]
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FBI Most Wanted poster of Cesar Villareal for 2010 Los Angeles County murder

Wanted Man Sought by FBI for Deadly 2010 Shooting in Los Angeles County

Photo Credit: (https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/murders/cesar-villarreal) The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has intensified its search for Cesar Villareal. They placed him on the FBI’s Most Wanted list due to his alleged role in a 2010 fatal shooting in Los Angeles County. In response to these allegations, the FBI offers a reward of up to $5,000 for information […]
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Ventura Man Pleads Guilty to 10 Charges Including Bank Fraud and Identity Theft

In 2023, Oscar Aguirre Silva, Edward Donaldo Ramirez Martinez, and David Rey Reyes engaged in a calculated crime spree across Ventura County. These men recently entered guilty pleas to multiple charges including extortion, armed robbery, bank fraud, and aggravated identity theft. Their criminal activities ranged from violent threats to extensive financial fraud, culminating in federal […]
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How Criminal Convictions Impact Professional Licenses in California

A criminal conviction in California carries significant consequences for those with professional, occupational, or business licenses. These individuals may face probation, encounter obstacles to career growth, or, in the most severe instances, see their licenses suspended or entirely revoked. The law aims to ensure that professionals adhere to standards that protect public safety and trust, […]
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Wire Fraud Conviction: Beverly Hills Man Misleads Investors Out of $18 Million in Fake CBD Business

  Mark Roy Anderson, a 69-year-old Beverly Hills resident, has entered a guilty plea to two counts of wire fraud, acknowledging his role in orchestrating schemes that led to substantial financial losses for investors, totaling over $18 million. This fraudulent activity occurred as Anderson was concluding a sentence for a prior criminal case, showcasing a […]
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California Spousal Abuse Charges

Understanding California Spousal Abuse Charges California takes spousal abuse very seriously. This type of abuse is more than just physical harm. It includes a wide range of harmful actions and behaviors that hurt someone’s safety and well-being. In California, spousal abuse isn’t only about what a spouse or ex-spouse does. It also covers harmful acts […]
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Two L.A. County Men Face Serious Charges for Massage Parlor Robberies

Two men from Los Angeles County are charged with a series of armed robberies. These incidents targeted massage parlors in Los Angeles and Orange Counties. The charges against them include interference with commerce by robbery under the Hobbs Act and using a firearm during a crime of violence. Legal Charges and Penal Codes Interference with […]
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Son of a former member of ‘Real Housewives of Orange County’ Josh Waring Faces Assault Charges After Hospital Incident

Josh Waring, connected to “The Real Housewives of Orange County,” got arrested for reportedly punching a security guard at Chapman Global Medical Center in Orange, California. This incident happened while security was escorting him out of the hospital early Wednesday morning. Charges and Legal Basis Assault: Police suspect Waring of punching the security guard, possibly […]
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COVID-19 Fraud and Auto Title Theft Land Granada Hills Man 17.5-Year Sentence

  United States District Judge Josephine L. Staton sentenced Eduard Gasparyan, 38, from Granada Hills, to 210 months in federal prison for leading a scheme that fraudulently obtained over $1.5 million in COVID-19 unemployment benefits and stole dozens of car titles. Judge Staton also ordered Gasparyan to pay $2,232,767 in restitution. In February 2023, Gasparyan […]
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Ex-LAPD officer goes on trial for killing man in Costco in Corona

The case of Salvador Alejandro Sanchez, a former LAPD officer involved in the fatal shooting at a Corona Costco, presents a complex legal scenario. This article delves into the specifics of the incident, the charges filed, and the applicable California Penal Codes, offering a comprehensive overview for those interested in the intricacies of criminal defense […]
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Simple possession vs. possession for sale in California

San Fernando Valley Drug Trafficking: Cocaine, Meth, and Fentanyl Ring Busted

Law enforcement officials arrested four individuals in Los Angeles for operating a drug trafficking ring in the San Fernando Valley, as detailed in a 15-count federal grand jury indictment. This operation involved distributing cocaine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl. The Operation The indictment reveals a structured drug trafficking network. Giselle Buraye, 23, from Van Nuys, along with […]
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Former Los Angeles Councilman José Huizar Sentenced to 13 Years in Federal Prison for Racketeering Conspiracy and Tax Evasion

Former Los Angeles City Councilman José Huizar, was sentenced to 13 years in prison Friday in a high-profile corruption case. He was found guilty of accepting at least $1.5 million in cash and benefits. These were in exchange for his assistance in approving various real estate projects in downtown LA. A year ago, Huizar pleaded […]
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Lancaster Road Rage Shooting: Man Faces Murder Charges for 4-Year-Old Boy’s Death

In Lancaster, a road rage incident has taken a tragic turn, leading to serious legal charges against Byron Burkhart. This case, progressing through the California legal system, highlights the severe consequences of such violent actions. Byron Burkhart, accompanied by his girlfriend, reportedly instigated a road rage incident on Sierra Highway. This situation escalated when Burkhart […]
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Arrest Warrant Issued for Fan Accused of Aggravated Trespassing at Steph Curry’s Home for Autograph

Incident Description Sheng Gao, 18, is facing a charge of aggravated trespassing for an alleged incident at the Atherton home of NBA Warriors star Steph Curry. Gao managed to access Curry’s property by manipulating the security gate keypad, granting him entry to the premises. Once inside, he proceeded up the driveway and entered the residence […]
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Gareth Pursehouse Receives Life Sentence in the Amie Harwick Murder Case

Gareth Pursehouse Receives Life Sentence On Wednesday, December 6, Hollywood sex therapist Amie Harwick’s ex-boyfriend received a life sentence without parole. This decision was announced by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. Gareth Pursehouse, 45, was convicted of murder in September. He threw Harwick over a balcony at her Hollywood Hills home on February […]
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