Three Qualities to Look for in a Lawyer

The decision to hire a lawyer is a very important decision. Don’t make it without knowing the facts. …
New California Criminal Laws for 2024

California has a number of new criminal laws for 2024. At Chastaine Jones we are vigilant about staying informed about new legal developments that will impact our clients. …
In Federal Criminal Case Sentencing, Facts Can Be Used for Multiple Purposes

In federal sentencing, the use of facts for dual purposes, such as both establishing the underlying offense and enhancing the sentence, is generally allowed but what are the rules and limitations there?…
Preparing for Your First Court Date

Attending your first court appearance can be a very stressful event. Knowing what to expect can help to alleviate some of the anxiety.…
What is the Difference Between “Pimping” and “Pandering”?

“Pimping” and “pandering” are related terms, often associated with illegal activities involving sex work, but they refer to different roles and activities within the context of prostitution and human trafficking. “Human trafficking,” on the other hand, is a broader offense that encompasses various forms of exploitation, including but not limited to sexual exploitation.
Pimping:
- Pimping involves the act of promoting or managing prostitutes for financial gain. A pimp is an individual who organizes and controls the activities of sex workers. Pimps typically arrange clients for sex workers, provide protection, and often take a portion of the earnings generated by the
What If I Was Wrongfully Accused of a Crime?

The Evolution of Sodomy Laws in California: A Journey Towards Equality

Introduction
Few issues have sparked as much controversy and transformation as the sodomy laws in California. From being instruments of oppression and discrimination to becoming emblematic of progress and equality, the journey of these laws reflects the evolving societal attitudes towards personal autonomy, individual rights, and LGBTQ+ inclusivity. This blog post will explore the fascinating evolution of sodomy laws in California, highlighting the milestones that have shaped the state’s legal landscape and contributed to a more just and equitable society.
Historical Context: Repressive Beginnings
The roots of sodomy laws in California can be traced back to its early history when …
What the District Attorney Does Not Want you to Know about a DUI

You Can Fight a DUI Allegation
The prosecutor and the police would have you believe that a DUI is a cut and dry crime. They want you to believe that the best thing is to rely on the system, give up the rights guaranteed to you by the Constitution and plead guilty. This is simply not true!
The fact is, there are many inappropriate arrests and mistakes are often made. Many people who are accused of DUI can successfully fight it, sometimes without even going to court.
When people come before the court without an attorney, they are at a …
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 …
How to Post Bail

There has been a lot of recent confusion over the issue of bail in California. In the past several years there have been a number of movements to abolish the use of bail.
In some ways the movement is short-sighted and fails to address the real issue – that the bail amounts are set too high.Despite new case law (See, In re Humphrey and In re White). Proposition 25 and Senate Bill 10, practically, not much has changed.
In California, if you are arrested or know that you are going to be, in the majority of cases you are …