Which Crime Is California Toughest On?
Data Shows State Heavily Prosecutes Violent Offenses
In an effort to reduce recent upticks in criminal activity, California has taken a tougher stance on certain crimes. Violent crimes, for instance, are heavily prosecuted in the state. With more pressure on the state and law enforcement agencies to crack down on crime, it is likely that there will be more arrests over the coming years.
At Chastaine Jones, we are experienced criminal defense lawyers. Our firm works tirelessly defending the rights of our clients. We know that anyone can be in the wrong place at the wrong time or end up …
What you need to know about your right to remain silent
If you’re under investigation or suspect that the police will come knocking soon, now is the time to start thinking about your criminal defense. This is because far too many people end up talking themselves into trouble when they interact with the police well before any formal criminal charges are levied against them. With that in mind, it’s imperative that you know how to interact with the police and understand your rights.
What is your right to remain silent?
We’ve all seen the television shows and movies where individuals are told that they have the right to remain silent. But …
Since pot is legal now, can I fly with it?
California has legalized marijuana, the current administration has pardoned many simple marijuana possessions, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration legalized CBD products with less than 0.3% THC. Although it looks like weed is legal at all levels for a Golden State resident, does that mean you can travel with it?
Can I bring weed on an airplane flight?
No. Marijuana is still a Schedule 1 illegal narcotic federally. Since air travel is regulated by the federal government, marijuana is illegal on airplanes.
Will I be arrested for bringing marijuana on a plane?
In California, the answer is “no.” Transportation …
Defending against drug charges in California
If you have been charged with drug possession or distribution, you are potentially looking at years in prison, thousands of dollars in fines and a permanent criminal record. As a result, you may have a difficult time finding employment or re-entering the community once your sentence has been served.
If you are facing charges for a drug crime, you should consider consulting with a criminal defense attorney to discuss your options. Your attorney may choose one of the following defense strategies.
- Illegal search and seizure: Under the Fourth Amendment, officers generally must have a warrant to search your
Murder or Involuntary Manslaughter?
Under California law, the crime of murder is defined as: “Murder is the unlawful killing of a human being, or a fetus, with malice aforethought.” (Pen. Code, § 187.) In order to be convicted of murder, a necessary element the prosecution must prove is that the defendant acted with malicious intent.
Malice may either be expressly shown by the evidence – for example, if there is evidence of premeditation, such as planning out a murder – or, it may be implied, such as in circumstances where the defendant’s conduct creates a grave risk of harm, although the defendant did not …
Why attacking witness credibility may be key to your case
The evidence being presented against you in your criminal case might be overwhelming. But regardless of what the prosecution is prepared to present against you, you might have strong criminal defense options that, if properly utilized, will better protect your interests. Among these are seemingly minor tactics, such as attacking witness credibility.
Why you should be concerned about witness credibility
Witness credibility is a big part of your case. This is because the deciding factor in your case, whether that be the judge or jury, will give more weight to the testimony of witnesses who seem credible and thus reliable. …
Is self-defense the right argument in your case?
Verbal altercations can quickly escalate, turning physical in nature. When that happens, someone can end up hurt and the police may be called. Depending on what’s said at that time, you may find yourself being accused of criminal wrongdoing. Being charged with a violent crime can not only be surprising, but it can also be threatening to the life that you’ve worked so hard to create.
Fortunately, even if the evidence is overwhelming that you physically struck someone, you may have effective criminal defense strategies available to you. If effectively utilized, you may be able to beat the prosecution, avoid …
Two state consultants fined for allegedly submitting fraudulent invoices
California pays huge sums of money to many firms from whom it purchases specialized scientific services. Two such firms, both providing environmental consulting services, were recently found guilty of allegedly conspiring to submit false invoices to the Underground Storage Tank Cleanup Fund, a fund managed by the State Water Resources Control Board.
The charges
According to a statement released by the State Water Resources Control Board, the two consulting firms performed various services for the board and then conspired with a laboratory to submit inflated invoices that substantially overstated the actual charges.
The State Water Board’s Fraud, Waste and …
Man charged with murder in connection with fentanyl death
Can you be charged with murder in California if you supplied the drug with which someone else fatally overdosed? This question has come up many times recently amid a rash of fatal overdoses connected with an epidemic of opioid addiction.
The answer is yes, but the details are complicated.
Placer County man faces murder charge
A recent case helps illustrate the issue.
According to news reports, a Placer County man was arrested and charged with murder after police said he supplied fentanyl to a 25-year-old woman who later died from a fatal overdose of the powerful narcotic.
After the …
How to defend against a false sex crime accusation
As we’ve seen in recent times, a sex crime accusation can ruin a person’s entire life. Accusations, with little evidence, have caused people to lose their jobs, families and reputations.
If sex crime charges are filed, the situation becomes even more serious. A sex crime conviction can mean that you never work in your chosen career again or rebuild relationships. You also face major penalties such as fines and even prison time.
California’s sex crime statute of limitations
The statute of limitations for sex crimes in California is rather long, which means a false accusation could come as a surprise. …