From A Former Prosecutor
Despite the existence of things like audiobooks and e-books, actual physical books continue to be as popular as ever. One of the best ways to enjoy books is to borrow them from a library. America’s public libraries allow anyone to borrow books for free as long as...
California has some of America's strictest driving under the influence (DUI) laws. Even for a first-offense conviction, you can face up to $2,000 in fines and assessments, plus months of license suspension and jail time. While an officer can charge you with DUI if a...
Nobody likes the idea of their privacy being violated, especially by the authorities. In fact, the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution actually specifically protects you against “unreasonable” searches of your property. But does that protection extend to your...
If you face criminal charges, your future is on the line. This is not the time to follow the advice of friends or try to work out the best course of action alone. If you do this, you could make mistakes that deepen the trouble you are already in. Here are some...
Self-defense is a common defense invoked in cases involving violent crimes, such as murder, assault and battery. You may not have a case to answer if you can prove self-defense, as your use of force is legally justified. That said, a self-defense claim must meet...
Those charged with domestic violence are in much hotter water than they may believe. U.S. lawmakers typically take a hard stance against domestic abuse or violence and seek to punish offenders. Those accused of inflicting corporal (bodily) harm on a family member or...
Being summoned to court is not something anyone wants to experience. However, if you find yourself in this situation, there are consequences for failing to appear. In some cases, courtroom hearings may seem inconsequential or unimportant, but it's essential that you...
If the police suspect you of drunk driving, then may ask you to do a field sobriety test. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration uses these tests to evaluate the safety of drivers. There are several tests you may be asked to do. They include: 1. Horizontal...
Drug crimes can lead to high fines and jail terms. And like other offenses, drug crimes have classes, and one of them is simple drug possession – the possession of a small amount of a controlled substance for consumption/ personal use without the intent to sell or...
A surprising number of people who have been accused of criminal infractions in California plead guilty. They know they have a right to defend against the charges in question and may deeply believe their own innocence, but they think that going to trial will be too...