What Are the Penalties for Domestic Violence Charges in CA?
Fighting Domestic Violence Charges in Gold River, CA
Were you arrested for domestic violence charges in California? Domestic violence is a serious offense that can result in the loss of your rights and may result in jail time. In order to get the best possible outcome in your case, you need to speak with a criminal defense attorney.
At Chastaine | Jones, our lawyers will walk you through the legal process and help you understand what defenses arise in your case. We have over 50 years of combined legal experience to help you get the most favorable disposition in your …
5 Common Defenses Against DUI Charges
How to Defend Against Drunk Driving Charges in California
Driving under the influence is one of the most common criminal charges in California. Many people who have never been involved with the criminal justice system find themselves handcuffed and facing jail time for the first time. DUI charges are serious and can result in severe consequences. It is important to discuss your case with an attorney to determine your options.
At Chastaine | Jones, we represent individuals who have been arrested for driving under the influence in California. Whether it is your first offense or your third, we may be …
What If I Was Wrongfully Accused of a Crime?
How to Defend Against Being Falsely Accused in California
Were you wrongfully accused of a crime in California? You should never enter a plea to a crime that you did not commit. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and determine what defenses arise in your case. It is important to consult with an attorney as early in the process as possible to ensure you receive the best possible outcome in your case.
At Chastaine | Jones, our criminal defense lawyers will fight for you and your rights. We will work tirelessly to prove your innocence and protect your
Can I Refuse a Breath or Blood Test in California?
An Overview of California’s Implied Consent Law
It happens all too often. One second, you are enjoying a few drinks with friends, and the next moment, you are being pulled over by the police. Driving under the influence is a serious charge, one that carries harsh penalties. You might be inclined to refuse the officer’s request to take a breath or blood test in an effort to avoid a charge, but is that really in your best interest?
Were you arrested for and/or charged with DUI? Our Placer County criminal defense lawyers can help. At Chastaine Jones, we understand that …
Large Capacity Magazines, California Penal Code § 32310, and “Freedom Week”
Many people know that large capacity magazines are illegal in California. However, what many people may be unaware of are the caveats and history that affect the ownership and possession of “large capacity” magazines. California Penal Code § 32310 involves the importation, manufacture, and now possession of large capacity magazines. California Penal Code § 32310 is a “wobbler” meaning that it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony, in application it is often charged as a felony which can have massive implications on an individual’s rights. The law makes it illegal to import magazines that hold more than …
Understanding Child Molestation Charges
The crime “child molestation” is often thought of as the worst crime a person can commit. Many people who commit crimes like DUI, burglary, and even murder are viewed as redeemable by society – that grace is not often extended to people accused of child molestation.
“Child molestation” is actually not a crime itself – it refers to a group of sexual offenses committed against children. It is a broad category and includes a variety of specific crimes. This is significant, because each of these offenses carry with them specific elements of the crime that must be met. Importantly, …
California Penal Code § 647(a), Lewd Conduct in Public
It a misdemeanor crime to engage in lewd conduct in public, or to solicit someone to do lewd conduct in public under California Penal Code § 647(a). Both crimes have nearly similar elements except for soliciting involves an individual requesting someone else do the lewd conduct instead of the individual performing it directly themselves.
According to CALCRIM 1161, to prove that someone is guilty of lewd conduct in public the prosecution must prove that:
1. The defendant willfully engaged in the touching of their own, or another person’s, genitals or buttocks, or (female) breast.
2. The defendant did so with …
Does California Have a Romeo & Juliet Law?
Why Some States Allow for an Exception to Statutory Rape Laws
Among Shakespeare’s most well-known plays, Romeo and Juliet is a story about two teenagers who fall in love despite their relationship being forbidden by their families. The name of this play has been adopted to describe legislation across the United States that allows some exceptions to some states’ statutory rape laws. Below are the answers to commonly-asked questions about close-in-age exemptions and California statutory rape laws.
If you have been accused of or charged with a sex crime in California, such as statutory rape, we strongly encourage you …
Is Sexting a Crime in California?
When Sending Sexually Explicit Texts Is a Crime
Sexting or sending and receiving sexually explicit text messages is not always unlawful, but it can be in California. It is against the law to possess a video or photo of a person who is under the age of 18. Additionally, it is illegal to attempt to seduce a minor or send threatening or harassing messages. Depending on the message and the age of the parties, a sext could result in serious criminal penalties.
At Chastaine Jones, we represent individuals who have been charged with sex crimes in California. Our lawyers work …
What You Need to Know About Owning and Possessing Firearms in California
There has been a lot of news lately regarding the ownership and possession of firearms in the United States. The US Supreme Court has been addressing the issues of when you can and cannot carry firearms and what kind of guns you may legally own. Despite what many people believe, you have a constitutional right to own a firearm – even in California. As of 2021, according to the California Department of Justice, there is an estimated 19.8 million legally owned firearms in California. This does not include non-registered guns.
However, it is important to note that there are pretty …