You no longer can be thrown in jail for taking part in that office betting pool when March Madness or Super Bowl comes around. In early August Governor Schwarzenegger signed a law that changes the penalty for participation in a non-commerical or an office “sports betting pool” from a misdemeanor, punishable by fines up to $1,000, to an infraction, punishable by a fine not to exceed $250.

This change in the law came three years after a 76-year old grandmother and bartender at the Elks Lodge in Riverside County was convicted and fined for a organizing a betting pool. The woman organized a betting pool on football in which 10 people put in $5 each. She was fined $130, had her fingerprints and mug shot taken and was cited for running a betting pool.

The California Legislature and the Governor agree that law enforcement resources should be expended to investigate serious crimes. Such resources should not be expended arresting and prosecuting an elderly woman betting on football.

Don’t let this happen to you or a loved one; a defendant needs an experienced Riverside criminal defense attorney to fight a realistic and reasonable outcome in any criminal matter. If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges, please contact the experienced California defense attorneys at Wallin & Klarich.

Wallin & Klarich has over 30 years of experience handling criminal defense. Let Wallin & Klarich advise you and ensure your rights and freedom are protected under the law. Contact Wallin & Klarich for a consultation at 1-888-280-6839. Also, visit us online at www.wklaw.com to learn more about your case and what can be done.