Criminal Defense
Preventing and Addressing Wrongful Convictions in Southern California: The Importance of DNA Evidence
Preventing and Addressing Wrongful Convictions in Southern California: The Importance of DNA Evidence Did you know that California leads the nation in the number of DNA exonerations? It's true - since 1989, there have been over 200 individuals in California who have been wrongfully convicted and later exonerated through DNA evidence. This is more than any other state. But why is this important? How does DNA evidence help prevent and…
Read MoreSelf-Defense Laws: When Can You Use Force To Protect Yourself?
Self-Defense Laws: When Can You Use Force To Protect Yourself? Self-defense is a legal concept that allows you to use reasonable force to protect yourself from harm. In the state of California, self-defense laws are specifically outlined in the penal code and can be used as a defense for certain crimes. So when exactly can you use self-defense to protect yourself in California? The answer is not as clear cut…
Read MoreConcurrent vs. Consecutive Sentences | Everything You Need To Know
Everything You Need To Know About Concurrent vs. Consecutive Sentences Concurrent sentences are usually handed down when multiple criminal offenses are committed at once or when someone is charged for multiple counts of the same crime. In these cases, the sentences are "concurrent," meaning they overlap and are served simultaneously. This means that instead of serving multiple jail terms one after the other, the individual may only have to serve…
Read MoreNo More Fees in California?
When it comes to criminal justice reform, California likes to do things differently. The past few years have seen changes to the types of offenses that result in jail time, a reduction in penalties for non-violent crimes, and the elimination of cash bail. The latest proposed change involves the elimination of several administrative fees that, while not part of a sentence for a crime committed, are just as punishing to…
Read More