Law & Information
Reckless Driving Penalties and Defenses | PC 23103
Reckless Driving Penalties and Defenses | PC 23103 Reckless driving is a serious offense in California, and can result in severe penalties if convicted. This article will give an overview of what reckless driving is and the possible consequences if you are found guilty. We will also discuss possible defenses and how a defense attorney can help. According to California Vehicle Code 23103, reckless driving is the willful or wanton…
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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…
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Self-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…
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Can Eavesdropping Be Illegal?
Can Eavesdropping Be Illegal? Eavesdropping is the act of secretly listening in on a private conversation without having permission to do so. In California, this can be considered illegal under certain circumstances. But before we dive into the legality of eavesdropping in California, let's first understand what exactly constitutes eavesdropping. Generally, it involves using an electronic device or physically placing oneself in a position to overhear conversations that are meant…
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When Does Petty Theft Become A Felony?
When Does Petty Theft Become A Felony? Petty theft generally applies to shoplifting instances. Petty theft is the taking of property valued at less than $950, and it is considered a misdemeanor in California. However, if the accused has two prior convictions for petty theft or grand theft, then it could be charged as a felony. There are other circumstances that can make petty theft a felony, such as the…
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Is Prank Calling Illegal? When Can A Harmless Joke Turn Criminal?
Is Prank Calling Illegal? Prank calling can seem like harmless fun, but depending on what’s said, it may turn into a criminal offense. If you or someone you know has been charged with prank calling in California, it’s important to understand the implications and punishments that could come with this crime. Choosing Wallin & Klarich to represent your case puts you in a better position to receive the best outcome…
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Without Proper Regulation, Prosecutorial Misconduct is Likely to Continue
What this Means for Criminal Defendants and their Attorneys Last year, Ted Stevens, the 85-year-old former Senator from Alaska was convicted of corruption charges. Charges against Stevens played a pivotal role in voters failing to reelect the seven-term senator to office. But months after jurors found Stevens guilty, the Attorney General dismissed the case citing prosecutorial misconduct. This case is a prime example of the potential for misconduct by both…
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Top 5 Most Common Crimes In Los Angeles
Top 5 Most Common Crimes in Los Angeles In recent years, Los Angeles has seen a rise in crimes all across the board including property crimes and violent crimes. Because of this upward trend, the Los Angeles Police Department has put more effort into making arrests for these crimes in an effort to curb the City’s crime rates. If you have been arrested and charged with a crime, it is…
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The Legal Battle Surrounding California’s Doctor-Assisted Suicide Law
In 2016, California Governor Jerry Brown signed a landmark bill allowing doctors to assist certain patients in committing suicide. The End of Life Option Act (ELOA) gave patients who had six months or fewer to live the right to seek life-ending medication and prevented criminal and civil prosecutions against doctors for providing these patients with life-ending medication. However, since the bill was passed into law by Gov. Brown, there has…
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California Lawmakers Trying to Make It Easier for Individuals with a Criminal Record to Obtain State Licenses
Everyone knows that a criminal conviction comes with consequences that could include jail or prison time and expensive fines. What most people do not realize is that having a conviction on your criminal record could prevent you from getting a state professional license, which is required for jobs such as barbers, building contractors, paramedics and social workers. However, California lawmakers may be changing that soon. A few proposed laws could…
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