Category: blog
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Difference Between Murder and Homicide in California – Is There One?
Whether on TV, in the news, or even in casual conversations, we frequently hear the terms “homicide” and “murder” used interchangeably. While these two crimes are closely related because they involve the killing of another person, they hold different meanings in the Penal Code that make a significant difference in the sentence you could face…
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Can a Felon Own a Gun in California?
Unfortunately, a conviction for certain crimes carries long-term consequences beyond jail time and fines. In addition to affecting your employment opportunities and eligibility to acquire a practice license, a criminal conviction history could strip you of your gun rights, especially if the offense you have on your record is a felony. A felony conviction typically…
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What Felonies Cannot Be Expunged?
Expungement is a legal tool you can use after a conviction to erase the conviction record from your criminal record. Since these records are usually publicly available, erasing a sentence makes it unavailable for anyone running a background check on you. People who treat others according to their criminal past will not have anything to…
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Is It True That Shoplifting Can Be A Felony?
According to Penal Code 459.5 PC, shoplifting involves entering a commercial establishment intending to steal property worth $950 or less during working hours. Courts often charge shoplifting as a misdemeanor in California. However, if an individual is accused of shoplifting, the presence of some factors can significantly enhance the severity of the crime, escalating it…
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Falsely Accused of a Sex Crime – What Do I Do Next?
A false allegation of committing a sex crime is one of the most serious claims anyone can make against you. If someone has falsely accused you of committing this offense, you should treat the accusations with seriousness, even if you know you are innocent. The consequences of such charges are harsh. For example, a criminal…
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Petty Theft vs Grand Theft in California – The Difference?
Theft laws in California classify crimes depending on the monetary value of stolen property and the surrounding circumstances. These laws mainly categorize theft into petty and grand theft, with specific penalties and legal definitions. Knowing these differences is helpful for anyone facing theft charges as it affects the severity of the charges. It can also…
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What is the Statute of Limitations For Hit & Run in California?
A hit-and-run in California occurs when you are involved in an accident while driving, and you flee the scene without waiting for the police, offering assistance to the injured persons, or leaving your contact details. The law requires drivers to stop and wait for the police if they are involved in an accident, even if…
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How Do I Convince the Prosecutor to Drop My Charges?
Being under arrest or charged with a crime can be a confusing and overwhelming experience for anyone. However, you do not have to worry since you are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Figuring out how to have the alleged charges dropped by the prosecutor before the trial should be your priority. That is where the…
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What Is The Sentence For DUI Manslaughter In California
You can face serious repercussions under California law if you drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. However, the stakes will be exponentially higher if your offense leads to a fatality. A DUI that causes the death of another person can attract a charge of DUI manslaughter. This severe crime attracts penalties as severe…
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What Happens if a Victim or Witness Refuses to Testify?
Testimonies are critical for uncovering the truth and ensuring justice is delivered. When a victim or witness does not want to testify, it interrupts the court process, and serious consequences follow. When you receive a subpoena asking you to testify and refuse to do so without a proper legal justification, this failure usually amounts to…