Chambers Law Firm

The Hidden Dangers of DIY Drug Labs

Homemade drug labs are more common than many people realize, but they come with serious risks. From hazardous chemicals to devastating explosions, operating a DIY drug lab can have life-threatening consequences. On top of the physical dangers, the legal consequences...

Diabetes and DUI: What You Need to Know

Diabetes is a common condition in the United States, affecting approximately 10% of the population according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While diabetes can be managed with diet, medication, and other interventions, uncontrolled diabetes...

California’s Battery Laws and Penalties

When Can I Be Charged With Battery? California law defines battery as “any willful and unlawful use of force or violence upon” another individual. You can face battery charges even if you do not cause another person to be injured. In fact, the “force” required for a...

Understand Your License Suspension

A DUI charge can result in several consequences if you receive a conviction. A court may suspend your license, and you will be unable to drive until the suspension period is over. How Long Will You Lose Your License? The length of a suspension depends on the number of...

Bad Check Laws in California

Is It Illegal To Bounce a Check? Bouncing a check occurs when you have less money in your account than the amount drawn on the check. For a bounced check to be a crime in California, you must know you did not have enough money in your account to cover a check....

California’s New Felony Murder Rule

What Is the Felony Murder Rule? Under California’s “felony murder rule”, you can be convicted for a homicide if another individual dies while you are committing a crime. This is true even if you did not kill the individual yourself or intend for them to die. The state...

California’s Auto Burglary Law

Can I Commit Burglary on a Car? In California, burglary is defined as entering a structure with the intent to commit a crime. But what about breaking into a car? Vehicles are different from buildings or structures, so California created a specific law to address auto...

Rising Blood Alcohol and DUI Arrests

Can I Use the “Rising Blood Alcohol” Defense To Fight My DUI Charge? Because the human body takes time to process alcohol, you may cite rising blood alcohol as a reason you were not driving under the influence. Your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) can...

Resisting Arrest Charges in California

When Can I Be Charged With Resisting Arrest? During recent protests and high-profile incidents on camera, the question of when someone is resisting arrest has been a contentious matter. In California, the crime is defined broadly, which allows a wide array of conduct...

California Drive-By Shooting Laws

What Are the Penalties for Driving-By Shootings? In California, if you are convicted of a drive-by shooting, you can face substantial penalties. In fact, you do not even have to be the person who pulled the trigger to face jail time. Drive-by shootings can also lead...

Altering a VIN Crimes in California

Is It Illegal To Change a VIN? There are actually two California laws that criminalize changing a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which is used to register motor vehicles or a part of a car, such as an engine. Typically, you can find your VIN on the driver’s side...

Credit Card Crimes in California

What Is Credit Card Fraud? California law criminalizes various type of credit card fraud, and there are different laws that address each type of misuse. However, in some instances, you may commit credit card fraud without even using stolen information. This blog is a...

Drug DUI Laws in California

What You Need To Know About California Drug DUIs You can be arrested for a drug DUI in California. Unlike an alcohol DUI, where your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) will be measured, drug DUIs only require that your driving be impaired. If you have been pulled over...

Lie Detector Test Laws in California

Are Polygraph Tests Admissible in Court? For decades, law enforcement has attempted to use polygraph tests in court to persuade juries a suspect was guilty. Polygraphs are also known as lie detector tests, and their reliability has been challenged since they were...

California Stun Gun Laws

Can I Own a Stun Gun in California? Protecting yourself and your family can be a constant worry in today’s society, and owning a stun gun can help put your mind at ease. Also referred to as a taser, a stun gun is a defensive weapon that uses an electric shock to...

Diabetics and California DUI Laws

Can Diabetes Cause a False Positive on a Breathalyzer? Medical conditions, such as diabetes, can result in false positives on a breathalyzer test. The consequences of a false positive breath test are severe. They can include a DUI arrest, an automatic driver’s license...

California EDD Fraud Laws

What Is Considered Unemployment Fraud Under California Law? The law criminalizes anyone defrauding California’s unemployment insurance system, whether they are an employee or an employer. California’s unemployment program is run by the state’s...

The No Driving Defense for DUI Arrests

Can I Be Arrested for DUI for Sitting in My Car? Driving under the influence convictions can ruin your day-to-day life. Your license will be suspended, and you may face jail time and steep fines. Additionally, DUI charges can cost you a job or promotion. California...

Inciting a Riot Laws in California

Can Someone Be Arrested for Inciting A Riot? Throughout the past year, incitement, rioting, and protesting have frequently been in the news. What is the difference between a protest and a riot? When does someone go from peacefully exercising their constitutional right...

Custom Hydraulic Systems in El Monte CA

At Bernell Hydraulics, we know that out of the box hydraulic systems don’t work for everyone. You might have different needs or different specifications than standard hydraulic systems and equipment can supply. Thankfully, Bernell Hydraulics offers custom hydraulic...

Ride-Share DUI Laws in California

When Can an Uber Driver Get a DUI? Ride-sharing mobile apps like Uber have grown to become part of everyday life in many places. Whether it is an Uber, a Lyft, or another operator, ride-share drivers take on immense responsibility. When you drive for a ride-share, the...

California Statutory Rape Laws

What Is the Age of Consent in California? California law is precise in that only someone over the age of 18 years old can consent to have sexual intercourse. Unlike other states, there are no so-called “Romeo and Juliet” laws in California that allows minors to...

Third-Time DUIs in California

What Are the Penalties for a Third-Time DUI? California punishes each DUI you commit more harshly than the last. The penalties for a third-time DUI are more severe than for a second DUI, which are more serious than the sanctions when you commit your first DUI. Because...

Extortion Laws in California

What Is Extortion? Also called blackmail, in California, the crime of extortion is committed when you make someone give you something or do something that you want through threats or violence. Many situations may seem like extortion but do not rise to the level of a...

California Assault Charges

Assault With a Deadly Weapon vs. Means Likely To Produce Great Bodily Injury Anytime you unlawfully attempt to cause someone else a violent injury, you have committed the crime of assault in California. The way you go about trying to cause the harm will determine what...

California BB Gun Laws

Are BB Guns Illegal? California law generally allows adults to own BB guns, but it criminalizes their display or use in public. Additional crimes may be committed if you shoot someone else or their property using a BB gun. The punishments you could face if you are...

California Assisted Laws

When Is Assisted Suicide a Crime in California? While it is not necessarily a crime to attempt suicide in California, you can be charged with a felony for assisting someone else’s suicide. California recently passed the End of Life Option Act, which creates a legal...

California Red Flag Laws

In response to gun violence and the increasing demand for gun law reforms, states across the country have amped up their “red flag” laws. Red flag laws attempt to prevent gun crimes by removing firearms from the possession of someone who is potentially dangerous. In...

Can I Get a DUI Expunged?

A DUI conviction can hang over your head for years, but California may now allow it to be expunged from your record. While a DUI expungement will not affect how the DMV treats you, it can help your employment prospects. Read on to learn the process for DUI...

Attempted Murder Laws in California

When Can I Be Charged With Attempted Murder? Attempted murder, where you take concrete action towards killing another individual, can be punished by life in California’s state prison system. If you want to kill someone else and take any action towards killing them but...

Criminal Hit and Run in California

When Is a Hit and Run a Crime? At what point does a car accident become a hit and run? In California, there is a requirement that you attempt to make contact with the owner of any property damaged in a car accident. Leaving the scene without trying to make contact is...

California Child Endangerment Laws

When Can I Be Charged With Child Endangerment? In California, there are a variety of crimes that can stem from how you treat a child, one of which is child endangerment. Endangerment laws prohibit putting a child in a situation that unnecessarily exposes them to risks...

California Fire-Starting Laws

Arson vs. Reckless Burning There are two separate crimes for starting fires in California: arson and reckless burning. The differences between the two are substantial, and punishments can range from six months in jail to almost a decade in prison. Knowing what is a...

California Restraining Order Laws

What Happens if I Violate a Restraining Order? You have had a restraining order imposed against you, and you are worried about violating the order. In California, no matter what the court calls the order — protective, stay-away, TRO, or restraining order — it is a...

California Vehicular Manslaughter Laws

What Are the Types of Vehicular Manslaughter? Under California criminal law, there are four different types of vehicular manslaughter. If you are arrested for killing somebody with your vehicle, the degree of your negligence, your purpose, and whether you were under...

Blood Test Procedures in California

How To Challenge a DUI Blood Test If you were pulled over on suspicion of DUI in California, law enforcement might draw a DUI blood test to prove you had an illegal Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC). After an arrest for an alleged DUI, you will likely be offered...

California Money Laundering Laws

The Types of Money Laundering Crimes in California The state of California has two different types of money laundering crimes on its books. Both crimes specifically target people who have actual knowledge that the cash came from an illegal source or was going to be...

Underage DUI Offenses in California

Can I Be Convicted of Both a DUI and an Underage DUI? California has enacted a zero-tolerance law for underage DUI. Generally, a person cannot be convicted of more than one DUI offense stemming from the same traffic stop. However, underage DUI is an exception to the...

Refusing a Breathalyzer in California

Can I Refuse To Take a Breath Test? If you have been stopped by a law enforcement officer in California, you can refuse to take a breath test. The roadside preliminary alcohol screening (PAS) test, which is commonly known as a breathalyzer, is optional in most...

Hate Crime Laws in California

What is a Hate Crime? California has a separate law that punishes anyone who commits a hate crime. A hate crime is a criminal act conducted because of ill will directed towards a specific group of people. To be convicted of a hate crime, you must also commit an...

Criminal Revenge Porn in California

The term “revenge porn” describes the act of sharing a private, sexual image or video in order to harm the person exposed in the material. The rise in the incidence of revenge porn led to California recently adding a law making certain instances of sharing...

California Protest Laws

The summer of 2020 was defined by protesters in the streets across America. Many times, people would use the words ‘protest’ and ‘riot’ interchangeably. You may have wondered, when does a protest become a riot? In California, the right to protest is constitutionally...

Punishments for Identity Theft

Can I Go To Jail for Identity Theft? The short answer is that, in California, yes, you can go to jail for identity theft. Identity theft is a growing area of crime, and California laws allow severe punishments for identity theft. Personal Identifying Information and...

Elder Abuse Law in California

What Is Elder Abuse? California has enacted a law that explicitly punishes anyone who has committed elder abuse. This statute adds an extra layer of protection for a vulnerable population and backs up that protection with severe punishments. However, there are very...

Sobriety Checkpoints in California

Are DUI Checkpoints Legal in California? On your way home from a night with a few friends, you encounter a DUI checkpoint in the road. After a brief interaction, the police officer or highway patrol trooper asks you to step out of the car. Though you only had a couple...

Looting Laws in California

When Can I Be Charged With Looting? You’ve watched on the news as people break into stores across the country. A broken plate-glass window, and suddenly a mass of people are pouring into the Gap or Best Buy and taking whatever they can grab. This seems like...

Criminal Torture in California

How Does California Define the Crime of Torture? You may think of torture as something done by corrupt foreign governments. Or that it’s a strategy the police use to get you to confess to a crime. What you might not know is that torture is a well-defined crime...

California DMV DUI Hearings

What Is a DMV DUI Hearing? A Driving Under the Influence (DUI) arrest in California is a serious event that can impact your life in numerous ways. After being stopped for a DUI, two processes will begin: A criminal case, including possible jail terms, fines, and...

Arguing Self-Defense in California

When Can I Argue Self-Defense? California law recognizes that you have the right to defend yourself, your property, and other persons. Self-defense is a doctrine that functions as a legal defense, arguing that you are not legally liable for a crime. If your argument...

What is the Meaning of Probable Cause?

You hear the term on prime time television shows such as Law & Order and Chicago PD, yet few of our clients understand the legal implications of probable cause. What is the meaning a “probable cause,” and how is the legal term applied in criminal cases? Overview...

Interlock Ignition Devices in California

Will I Have To Install an Interlock Ignition Device if I’m Convicted of DUI in California? Being convicted of a DUI can be embarrassing, inconvenient, and expensive. You may have to spend time in jail, pay hefty fines, take expensive educational classes, lose...

Defenses to Forgery in California

The Most Successful Defenses if You’re Charged with Forgery in California In today’s world, a signature is required for all kinds of transactions. You squiggle your name on electronic receipts every day. Often spouses or close family members may not think twice...

Homicide Laws in California

The Different Types of Homicide in California In 2019, California’s homicide laws changed. Before 2019, you could be convicted of murder in California if someone died while you were committing a felony, regardless of whether you intended to kill someone or were...

California DUIs with a BAC Under 0.08%

Can I Be Charged with DUI in California if My BAC Is Less Than 0.08%? Generally, 0.08% is the legal limit for Blood Alcohol Concentration (“BAC”) in California while operating a personal motor vehicle. However, in some circumstances, you can be charged...

Theft of Trade Secrets in California

What Is Theft of Trade Secrets Under California Criminal Law? Imagine a spy film from the 1960s. A young agent is bustling down a crowded sidewalk, looking over her shoulder as she carries a black leather briefcase full of secret documents. When you think about trade...

False Imprisonment in California

What Does False Imprisonment Mean under California Laws? The store security guard orders you to their office. Your spouse blocks the door so that you can’t leave during an argument. A police officer says you have to wait in the back of the patrol car for a few...

Habeas Corpus Law in California

What Is Habeas Corpus, and Can It Get Me Out of Jail? After your arrest, as your case crawls through the legal system, you may have overheard lawyers or judges throwing around the word “habeas corpus.” It sounds legal and important, but what does it mean?...

Sealing and Expungement in California

What Is the Difference Between Expungement and Sealing Records in California? Your dream job opens up. You have all the qualifications and are an ace at all the required skills. You’ve built up years of experience in this field. This is the job for you! On the...

California Kidnapping Charges

The Definition of Kidnapping According To California Law A robber takes a bank teller hostage. An absent parent suddenly picks their child up from school. A powerful businessperson’s children go missing from their home. Are these all examples of kidnapping? The answer...

California Field Sobriety Tests

What Are Field Sobriety Tests and Do I Have To Take Them? If a police officer pulls you over on suspicion of drunk driving, they may ask you to participate in field sobriety testing. Field sobriety tests (FSTs) are a series of physical and mental tests that are...

Assault and Battery in California

What Is the Difference Between Assault and Battery in California? In movies and on crime-based TV shows, the terms “assault” and “battery” are often used together, leading many people to believe that they are a single offense. However, in...

Shoplifting Laws in California

What Crime Will I Be Charged With if I’m Arrested for Shoplifting in California? From a kid sneaking a candy bar from below the checkout counter to a thrill-seeking adult stuffing an expensive shirt in their bag at the mall, shoplifting happens every day....

Burglary vs. Robbery in California

Burglary vs. Robbery: What’s the Difference in California? In casual conversation, people often discuss robbery and burglary interchangeably. However, California laws have distinct definitions for each term that reveal substantial differences between the two...

What Is a Negligent Operator Hearing?

You will lose your license if you are deemed a negligent operator. In every driving under the influence (DUI) case, there are two components. First, there is an administrative aspect, as the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will administratively suspend...

SR-22s and California DUI Laws

What Is an SR-22 and When Do I Need One in California? If you’ve been convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) in California, your car insurance is probably the last thing on your mind. However, it is essential if you want to get your driver’s...

When Can I Be Charged with Kidnapping?

Kidnapping may be charged in one of two ways. The crime of kidnapping happens less often than people may think. More frequently, what we refer to kidnapping is often better described as custodial interference or child abduction, which occurs when a person is deprived...

Can I Get My Plea Deal Reversed?

Plea agreements are generally binding — with some exceptions The overwhelming majority of criminal cases never make it to court. While defendants in criminal cases have a right to have their case heard by a jury of their peers, most charges are resolved prior to...

California Seeks to Diversify Jury Pools

The Fair Juries Act expands the jury pool to include taxpayers. A fundamental principle of our criminal justice system is the right to trial by a jury of your peers. If you are charged with a criminal offense, you not only have a right to take your case to trial — but...

What Is Domestic Battery?

Domestic battery can only be charged in certain situations. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. At the Chambers Law Firm, we understand just how serious domestic violence can be, whether it involves physical abuse, emotional abuse, reproductive coercion, or...

Should You Vote “No” on Prop 25?

Many progressive groups have come out against this criminal justice measure. Election Day is fast approaching, or if you have already received your mail-in ballot — is already here. In addition to choosing a president, you will be asked to vote yes or no on a number...

New Law Will Allow DUIs to Be Dismissed

AB 3234 would permit individuals to enter into a diversion program for most DUIs California has long been known as a state that is tough on crime. Studies have shown that our harsh criminal justice laws haven’t actually reduced crime — which has led to a wave of...

Can I Be Extradited to California?

The state must follow specific procedures to have you brought back to California. If you have been charged with a crime in California, you may be tempted to flee the state to avoid being brought to justice. If you do so and are apprehended in another state, then...

What Happens During Arraignment?

An arraignment is one of the first steps in the criminal justice process. After you are arrested, you may be overwhelmed by what is happening. It can be a time of incredible stress and anxiety, regardless of whether you have previously been involved with the criminal...

Can I Challenge a Search Warrant?

A Franks motion is the legal document used to challenge the truth of the information used to support a search motion. If you have been arrested for a crime, your arrest may have been based on evidence that the police seized pursuant to a search warrant. But what...

Will Getting a DUI Affect My Job Search?

Even with California’s “ban the box” law, having a DUI conviction can make it harder to find a job. California takes the crime of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs (DUI) seriously. Anyone convicted of a DUI — even for a first-time offense — may be...

What Is California’s 10-20-Life Law?

Your sentence in a felony case may be enhanced if you used a gun during the crime. It’s no secret that California has tough gun laws. California has strict limitations on who can buy, sell, and possess both firearms and ammunition. The state also seeks to reduce gun...

What Is Criminal Negligence?

Criminal negligence means that a person acted with a disregard to obvious risks to human life and safety. Under California law, criminal offenses typically require a prosecutor to prove that a defendant acted in a certain way. Some crimes require that a person acted...

What Is False Imprisonment?

False imprisonment involves detaining, restraining or confining someone without their consent Picture this scenario: you’re in a fight with your partner and they try to leave the room in the middle of the argument. Angry, you grab you partner’s shoulders and prevent...

Is Loitering a Crime in California?

By itself, loitering isn’t a crime. You have probably heard of loitering — perhaps on TV or in a movie, or on a sign. It basically means that someone is hanging around a public or private place for no apparent purpose. For example, if a group of teenage boys are...

What Are My Rights During a DUI Stop?

You never have to take a field sobriety test. Imagine this: you’re on your way home from a friend’s house after a few glasses of wine. You know your tolerance, and that you are safe to drive based on the amount of alcohol that you had over a period of a few hours. But...

What Is Evidence Tampering?

Evidence tampering is a form of obstruction of justice. The California Criminal Code has a vast array of laws that penalize certain actions. This includes a variety of acts that interfere with the administration of justice (both civil and criminal). One such crime is...

Will I Lose My CDL If I Get a DUI?

Any DUI conviction will result in a loss of your CDL. Most people know that it is against the law to drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs in California. What many people aren’t aware of is the serious consequences of doing so. Not only do you put your own...

What Is Hazing?

Hazing is a crime in certain situations in California. If you follow the news, you have likely seen stories about hazing, such as the Penn State student who died after his fraternity brothers forced him to drink large amounts of alcohol and then didn’t seek medical...

Understanding California’s Arson Laws

Willfully and maliciously burning a structure, forest land or property may be charged as arson under California law. In a state that regularly faces raging wildfires, it is little wonder that the crime of arson is taken so seriously. A person who commits this crime...

Is Bookmaking Illegal in California?

Taking and paying out on bets could result in a felony or misdemeanor charge. Placing bets on something, like a sporting event, may not seem like that big of a deal. But if you are the person taking, recording, and paying out on the bets, you may be charged with a...

Can You Get a DUI on Private Property?

Even if you’re driving on your own property, you can still get a DUI charge. If you think about what may happen during a typical DUI stop, you probably imagine that a person is pulled over on a highway or road. Most DUI arrests do come from a person driving under the...

What Is a Deferred Entry of Judgment?

Putting off sentencing and a judgment is an option for crimes that are eligible for diversion. The state of California has strict laws regarding both crime and how those crimes should be punished. At the same time, the state recognizes that in some cases, a person...

Will Smoking Affect a Breathalyzer Test?

Smoking can lead to a higher reading on a breathalyzer test. In California, there are two ways to be charged with a DUI for driving under the influence of alcohol. First, you may be charged with a “per se” DUI, which can be charged when you drive with a blood alcohol...

What Is a Sexually Violent Predator?

A person who has committed a sexually violent offense must undergo a special evaluation before they can be released from prison. In California, certain types of crimes may result in harsher sentences — or even additional challenges to being released from prison. This...

What Is Measure R?

Los Angeles County voters approved the measure in March. In March, Californians went to the polls (or mailed in their ballots) to vote for a candidate in the presidential primary. For voters in Los Angeles County, there was another important issue at stake in this...

Is Swatting a Crime in California?

Sending emergency responders to a fake emergency — known as swatting — may lead to criminal charges. In recent years, the practice of “swatting” has become all-too-common. Swatting occurs when a person tries to get police to respond to another person by creating a...

What Is White Collar Crime?

White collar crime can include both misdemeanor and felony offenses. If you follow the news, you have probably heard the term “white collar crime.” This phrase is often used to describe something that an executive did, like embezzling. It may also be used when a...

California Sued Over Private Prison Ban

A new California law that bans all private prisons in the state is under attack by the federal government. If you watched the hit Netflix series Orange Is the New Black, you are likely familiar with the arguments against private prisons. In short, when a prison is run...

Can You Get a DUI on an E-Scooter?

California law forbids operating any type of motor vehicle while impaired. Electric scooters — or e-scooters — are becoming increasingly popular in cities across California. Offered for rent by companies like Lime and Bird, e-scooters are an environmentally-friendly,...

What Are the Benefits of Expungement?

There are many reasons to pursue expungement of your criminal history. Expungement is a legal process that releases a person from most of the “penalties and disabilities” that are connected with a criminal conviction. It is available to a large number of Californians...

What Is Fraudulent Conveyance?

The crime may also be referred to as concealing assets from creditors. If you owe money to someone or to a company, you probably want to find ways of getting out of debt. This may include setting up a budget, taking out a loan to pay off higher-interest credit cards,...

Is a DUI a Criminal Charge in California?

A DUI may be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony offense. There is a misconception among some Californians that driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs (DUI) is a traffic violation, rather than a criminal offense. While the Department of Motor...

What Is Witness Tampering?

This crime may be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor. If you have been charged with a criminal offense, or a loved one has been charged with a crime, you may be feeling stressed and overwhelmed. It may be tempting in this scenario to reach out to a witness (or the...

When Can Bail Be Denied in California?

In murder cases, a judge may deny bail entirely. In recent years, California has worked to reform its bail system, attempting to outlaw the cash bail requirement that often prevented people without financial resources from being released for even minor crimes. This...

Can You Get a DUI on a Motorcycle?

Just as in a car, you can get a DUI while riding a motorcycle. In Southern California, motorcycles are incredibly popular. With temperate weather, it is possible to ride a motorcycle nearly year-round in this area of the state. Choosing a bike over a car also can help...

Attempted Murder Under California Law

Attempted murder is a felony offense Killing someone is a criminal offense, typically referred to as murder. However, in some cases, you can be charged with a crime — and spend the rest of your life in prison — for attempting to kill a person, even if you do not...

Understanding a DUI Murder Charge

If have a prior DUI conviction, you can be charged with murder if someone dies while you were driving under the influence. We know that driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs is against the law, and can result in serious criminal charges. But is there a...

What Happens If You Get Three Felonies?

The answer depends on whether the felonies are considered serious or violent. In California, any crime for which you can be incarcerated for more than a year is considered a felony offense. A felony is the most serious type of criminal offense. Capital crimes, such as...

What Happens After You Are Arrested?

After an arrest, you will be booked and arraigned. In California, there are several things that will happen after you are arrested on suspicion of committing a crime. Along the way, you will have the option of asserting your rights. Doing so can help to protect your...

What Is SB 1437?

Under California’s new felony murder rule, only certain people can be convicted of this offense. SB 1437 is California’s new felony murder rule. Governor Jerry Brown signed this bill into law in September 2018. SB 1437 limits who can be prosecuted for felony murder....

Should You Refuse a Breathalyzer?

Most people should refuse the roadside breathalyzer test. If you are stopped by the police on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI), you will likely feel intimidated. This isn’t surprising — after all, the law enforcement officer has the power in this...

Can I Refuse a DUI Checkpoint?

While you cannot refuse a DUI checkpoint once in it, you can avoid the checkpoint entirely. Although it may seem counterintuitive, driving under the influence (DUI) checkpoints are legal in California. These checkpoints are an exception to the general rule that the...

What Is Extortion?

In most cases, extortion is charged as a felony Blackmail is a major plot point of many television shows, movies and books. A politician may be extorted into voting a certain way, or a baseball player may be blackmailed into blowing a big game. It all seems very...

What Is Failure to Appear in California?

You can be sent to jail for not appearing in court There are any number of reasons why a person may not make a court date. Your car may break down, you may become sick, or maybe you just forgot about it. But in certain circumstances, if you don’t appear in court when...

Three Strikes Lawyer in California

Contact a Three Strikes Lawyer in California if You Have Been Accused of a Three Strikes Crime The alleged purpose of the Three Strikes laws in California is to prevent repeat offenders from being released over and over again in the system. The unfortunate truth about...

Understanding Felony Probation

Learn about what will be expected of you on felony probation If you have been charged with a felony offense, your criminal attorney Los Angeles County, CA may be able to negotiate a deal for you to serve your time through felony probation instead of in county jail or...

What Is a Diversion Program?

Diversion programs allow you to seek help — rather than be punished If you are charged with a California criminal offense, you are likely worried about the possible outcome. A criminal conviction can have a serious impact on your life. It may prevent you from getting...

Can a Judge Deny Bail in California?

In certain situations, a judge can keep you in jail after an arrest In recent years, California has enacted a number of criminal justice reforms. This includes a law that is designed to abolish the cash bail system. While this law is currently being challenged in...

Three Ways to Defend a California DUI Case

A good defense can lead to a positive outcome In California, a DUI can lead to a number of serious consequences. Even for a first conviction, you may be facing jail time — or probation. You will also likely be required to perform community service, attend mandatory...

Can You Sober Up in Your Car in California?

You could be charged with a DUI in certain circumstances In an ideal world, we would all plan ahead when we go out for a few drinks. We would have a designated driver, make sure that we have the Uber or LYFT app on our phone, get a hotel, or have a friend who can come...

Current Case News

UPDATED 10-08-2020: Chambers Law Firm Frees Client Who Spent 16 Years in Prison   UPDATED 02-26-2020: New Netflix series raises striking parallels To Chambers Law Firm’s upcoming death penalty trial involving Kareem Leiva...

The Advantages of a DUI Plea Bargain

Plea deals usually involve either a sentence reduction or a charge reduction If you have been charged with driving under the influence (DUI) in California, you may be feeling overwhelmed or scared about what may happen to you. A conviction for DUI carries serious...

What Is Extradition?

There are several steps involved in the extradition process If you are a fan of tv shows that involve the criminal justice process or the “true crime” genre, you have likely heard the term “extradition.” For example, you may have heard of a suspect in a murder case...

What Is an Alford Plea?

This type of plea is permitted in all states except Indiana, Michigan and New Jersey In the criminal justice system, situations may arise where a person has been charged with a crime, even though they are innocent. Yet they feel trapped, because there simply is not...

What Is a “Ghost Gun”?

These types of guns are an end run around California’s strict gun laws In August, a convicted felon shot and killed a California Highway Patrol (CHP) officer and wounded two others during a shootout in Riverside. In the exchange, the shooter was shot and later died at...

First Inmate Released Under AB 2942

The law permits prosecutors and — in some cases — inmates to have unduly harsh sentences reviewed This summer, a California man got a new lease on life when he was released from prison after 16 years, despite being sentenced to 50 years to life. Kent Williams had not...

When Can Police Use Anonymous Tips?

The police must be able to demonstrate that the information supplied by a tipster is reliable. In many crime dramas, the police uncover wrongdoing through an anonymous call.  They then rush to the scene, arrest the suspect, and save the day.  But does it work like...

Degrees of Robbery in California

In our everyday lives, we may use legal terminology to describe something that happened, like saying that a person got robbed, without necessarily knowing if that is the accurate term.  In most cases, the common understanding of the word is fine: most people know what...

What Is Restitution?

If you fail to pay restitution, you could face a civil judgment If you are convicted of a crime, you may expect to be sentenced to jail or prison, to pay fees, or to be required to do community service.  What many people do not realize is that restitution is a part of...

Just Say No: Refusing Field Sobriety Tests

Taking field sobriety tests is optional Picture this scenario: you’re driving home from work (after having an after work drink with your colleagues) when you see lights and hear a siren. You pull over, wondering what you could have done wrong. The officer approaches,...

What Is Embezzlement is California?

Embezzlement charges can be filed when large or small sums of money are taken Famed California lawyer Michael Avenatti — the man who made it his goal to take down President Donald Trump — was recently arrested on a number of criminal charges related to fraud and...

New Bill Would Target Package Thieves

The offense could be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor In recent years, more people than ever before have come to rely on online retailers for everything from holiday shopping to stocking up on their daily necessities. In turn, this has spawned a new crime way:...

Can You Modify Your Sentence?

A motion for resentencing asks a judge to modify a criminal sentence For many people, the criminal justice process is a mystery. Their only experience with it may be through episodes of Law & Order, or what they have seen on other courtroom dramas. While it is...

Proposed Bill Would Lower DUI Limit

If it becomes law, California would join Utah as states with a .05 legal limit It is no secret that DUIs can be incredibly dangerous, and often deadly. Driving under the influence is considered a serious crime under California law, and if two lawmakers have their way,...

Understanding Attempt Crimes

If you intend to commit a crime and perform a direct act towards it, you may be charged with an attempted crime Charges involving “attempt” crimes can often be confusing. It may seem as though something that hasn’t actually happened can’t be charged, but the reality...

Is Driving on Ativan Illegal in California?

Even if you have a prescription, you may be charged with a crime if you drive on Ativan For many people, anxiety is a fact of life. Ativan is often used to treat anxiety, along with other conditions, such as epilepsy and other seizure disorders. It belongs to a class...

California Bench Warrant Basics

A bench warrant puts you at risk of arrest If you’re a fan of criminal justice-type TV shows and movies, you may have heard the term “bench warrant.” It’s a common term used in pop culture, but its meaning isn’t always clear. It is important to know what a bench...

Defending Against a Three Strikes Case

A skilled attorney can use several strategies to defend against a Three Strikes case California has one of the harshest sentencing schemes in the country with its “Three Strikes” law.  Under this law, which was first enacted in the 1990’s, repeated offenders who are...

Can You Use Waze to Avoid DUI Checkpoints?

Some law enforcement believes that the app allows drunk drivers to avoid detection The navigation app Waze is incredibly popular, and for good reason. Waze, powered by Google, allows users to submit real-time traffic updates so that other drivers can avoid hazards...

What is a “Heat of Passion” Murder?

This type of murder is usually charged as voluntary manslaughter Devotees of true crime — or anyone who watches soap operas — may be familiar with the term “heat of passion.” A person may be accused of killing someone, but claims that they did not plan to kill anyone...

How a DUI Can Impact Your Career

The consequences of a DUI go beyond criminal sanctions You may not think that getting a driving under the influence (DUI) charge is that big of a deal. Perhaps most people in your social circle get behind the wheel after a few drinks, so you don’t feel particularly...

What Is the Meaning of Premeditation?

A premeditated murder is one that involves some degree of planning. In California, murder is defined as the unlawful killing of another human being with malice aforethought and without legal justification. This relatively straightforward definition seems simple — but...

What Is Witness Intimidation?

There are a number of ways that this crime may occur. If you have been charged with a criminal offense, it may be tempting to attempt to talk to the witnesses in the case. Perhaps you believe that they have misinterpreted your actions, or that you can explain...

How Is a DUI Counted as a Prior Conviction?

A DUI is a “prior offense” for a period of 10 years. When it comes to driving under the influence (DUI) offenses, there is considerable confusion about what it exactly means to have a conviction on your record. After all, it is technically a criminal offense — but the...

The Connection Between DUIs and Veterans

The study shows an increase from 1.6 to 2.5%. Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol is something that is not limited to any specific type of person. People of all races, religions, classes, and occupations are charged with drinking and driving. As an...

How Are Dash Cams Used in California?

If a dash cam was used, you have a legal right to view the footage. In California, some — but not all — law enforcement vehicles are equipped with dash cameras, or what are commonly referred to as “dash cams.” The technical name for this equipment is Mobile...

California Arrest Rates at Historic Low

The statistics do reveal stark racial disparities in California arrests. One of the big fears of opponents to criminal justice reform in California is that if penalties for crimes were reduced in any way, crime rates would soar. A recent report has demonstrated that...

DUI Arrests Increase Over the Holidays

The California Highway Patrol schedules a maximum enforcement period during the holidays. The holiday season is upon us. Not only are we all treated to endless holiday music in stores, restaurants and seemingly everywhere else, but it is also the time of year for...

What Is a Motion to Compel?

This legal document asks the court to order the state to provide evidence to the defendant. In a criminal case, defendants are entitled to receive certain documents, recordings, photographs and other evidence in the possession of the prosecution and law enforcement....

What Is the Necessity Defense?

A person may be found not guilty if they had a good reason to commit a crime. Life is complicated, and rarely is the answer as simple as it seems. This is often the case in criminal law cases, where a person may not have committed a crime just to “be bad” or because...

What Is California DUI Probation?

Complying with the terms of probation is necessary to avoid serving jail time. If you have been charged with driving under the influence (DUI) in California, you may be worried about the consequences that you will face. In particularly, you might be concerned about...

What Is the Cost of a California DUI?

The total cost may be over ten thousand dollars. If you are stopped for a DUI in California, what is your first thought? That you’re worried about losing your license? That you don’t want to spend the night in jail? That you’ll be embarrassed? What you might not think...

What Is a Motion to Disqualify?

A party can move to disqualify a judge for cause at any time during a case. In any given courthouse, you will likely find a party to a legal case (civil or criminal) who is convinced that the judge is not fair. While judges are required to be impartial by their code...

How Accurate Are Field Sobriety Tests?

The tests are relatively accurate, but only in near-perfect conditions. Even if you have not experienced them in real life, you have likely seen depictions of field sobriety tests on television or in the movies — follow the police officer’s finger with your eyes, walk...

What Is a Mitigating Factor?

These factors can be used at sentencing to reduce your sentencing. If you have been through a California criminal trial and found guilty of a crime, you may believe that all is lost. While it is dispiriting to lose at trial, there is still another step in this initial...

California Releases New Crime Statistics

The stats show a decrease in certain types of violent crimes, with an increase in other types. Recently, Attorney General Xavier Becerra released a report on California’s most recent crime statistics, showing how crime numbers have changed between 2016 and 2017. These...

Is Threatening Someone for Sex a Crime?

Blackmailing someone for sex is considered a form of extortion under California law. When thinking about sexual assault or other sexual offenses, most people generally consider a violent sexual offense. Yet under California law, there are many possible sexual offenses...

What Is Attempted Murder?

California prosecutors can charge this crime if you intend to kill someone and take steps towards doing so, but he or she does not die. While many of us have picked up a lot of legal terminology due to the number of legal and police shows on TV, the reality is that...

Are Bump Stocks Illegal in California?

Possessing, manufacturing or lending someone a bump stock is illegal in California. After the mass shooting in Las Vegas in fall 2017 and again after the shooting at the high school in Parkland, Florida in February 2018, the topic of gun control is a subject of...

What Is Trespassing?

Trespassing is most often charged as a misdemeanor offense. We have all seen no trespassing signs.  But what exactly does it mean to trespass?  Can a person only be charged with trespassing when one of those signs is hung up on a property? Under California law,...

Can the Keto Diet Lead to a DUI?

An extreme low carb diet can lead to false positives on DUI breath tests. In 2018, the keotgenic diet is more popular than ever before. This diet has long been recommended for patients with certain medical conditions, such as epilepsy. Yet in recent months, it has...

What Is Embezzlement?

Embezzlement can occur in any number of situations, and often involves relatively small amounts of money. When you think about embezzlement, chances are that you think of high stakes, high dollar white collar crimes — a business person who secreted away millions of...

How California Drug Courts Work

Successful completion of a treatment program could result in dismissal of charges Most people recognize that drug addiction, like alcoholism, is a disease. That is why California has established what is known as “drug courts.” These are an alternative to traditional...

Is Making a False Report a Crime?

California makes it a crime to falsely report a crime to certain law enforcement officials In recent weeks, there has a rash of news reports of women and men alike making allegations of sexual assault, harassment and misconduct against politicians, actors, directors...

What Is the Brady Rule?

This rule requires prosecutors to turn over evidence to the defendant in criminal cases It seems fairly obvious: the only way that a person can defend themselves against criminal charges is to know exactly what evidence the police and prosecution has against them. Yet...

What Is Sexual Battery?

Sexual battery can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony Recently, the news has been filled with headlines of famous and powerful men being accused of sexual harassment and abuse. Women and men alike are stepping forward to make allegations against directors,...

New Law on Gun Enhancements

On October 11, 2017, Governor Brown signed SB 620 into law. SB 620 deletes the prohibition on striking an allegation or finding of firearm use and, instead, allows the judge, in the interest of justice and at the time of sentencing or resentencing, to strike or...

New Law Reduces Drug Sentences

On October 11, 2017, Governor Brown signed SB 180 into law. SB 180 amends Health and Safety Code section 11370.2 and reduces potential sentences for many defendants who are facing certain drug offenses. Prior to the passage of SB 180, section 11370.2 imposed on a...

New Credit Calculations Under Prop 57

The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation has issued new credit calculations pursuant to Proposition 57, which was passed by the California voters in November 2016. These new calculations include additional credits for inmates convicted of violent...

What Is Disturbing the Peace?

If you use offensive words in a public place, you could be charged with disturbing the peace. Disturbing the peace is one of those criminal charges that it seems that everyone has heard of but few people know what it actually means. Of course, that is partially...

Are Police Allowed to Question Minors?

California police can interrogate juveniles if they suspect that they have committed a crime. When it comes to teens and youth under the age of 18, many of us assume that they have an entirely different set of rules and rights than adults in the criminal justice...

What Is Health Care Fraud?

Health care fraud can involve any number of false claims, typically committed by a health care provider. If there is one thing that many Americans know for certain, it is that the insurance system is complicated. Most of us barely even glance at the bills that we...

What Is Voluntary Manslaughter?

Voluntary manslaughter involves killings committed during a sudden fight or in the heat of passion. Television crime shows, books and other forms of pop culture focused on the law have led many of us to gain some level of knowledge on the legal system and police...

Will a DUI Charge Impact Your Side Hustle?

A DUI can prevent you from driving for Uber or Lyft. In today’s economy, having a side hustle is more important than ever as a way to pay your bills, get ahead on your student loans, or just to enjoy life’s little luxuries. While some may turn to more creative...

When Is Mistake a Defense to a Crime?

If you are mistaken as to a fact or the law, it may be a defense to certain crimes under California law. If you have been charged with a crime, you may be tempted to respond with something that might have worked on your parents when you were a child — “I didn’t know I...

When Can the Duress Defense Be Used?

The defense of duress can only be used in limited situations. It sounds like something that a child might say: he made me do it! Yet under California law, that excuse can actually be a defense to a crime. Known as duress, this defense can be used whenever someone else...

Are You Eligible for a Pardon?

A pardon can restore many of your personal, civil and political rights. If you have been convicted of a crime, you are familiar with the weight that a criminal conviction has. Having a criminal record can make it difficult to find a job, own a gun, serve on a jury, or...

What Is a Crime of Moral Turpitude?

A conviction for this type of crime can impact your immigration status and cause you to lose a professional license. In California, a conviction for a crime of moral turpitude can have very serious consequences on a person’s life, particularly if that person is an...

Dos and Don’ts of California DUI Stops

Keep your wits about you to minimize your chances of being arrested for a DUI. In California, a DUI (driving under the influence) charge is a serious offense. If you are convicted of DUI, you could be facing time in jail, the loss of your license, fines, mandatory DUI...

What Is a Coerced Confession?

An involuntary confession cannot be used in California courts. We are all influenced by popular culture. Many of us are big fans of crime and legal dramas, and have picked up a fair amount of lingo along the way. That’s why so many of us cannot fathom why someone...

Getting a DUI Charge Reduced

If you have been charged with a California DUI, you may be feeling panicked, and rightfully so. A DUI is a criminal charge, and it can have a serious impact on your life. But with an experienced San Bernardino DUI defense lawyer on your side, you can have peace of...

DUI with Kids in the Car: Don’t Risk It

It could lead to a separate criminal charge in addition to a DUI sentencing enhancement. With a holiday weekend fast approaching, many people are gearing up for picnics and celebrations. Parents often bring their kids to these events — barbecues at the pool, family...

What Is a Bench Warrant?

A bench warrant is issued by a judge and is not based on suspected criminal activity. Most Californians are aware that a warrant is something that allows the police to search their home (or vehicle, or another place or thing), or to arrest a person. However, the...

Your Right to a Speedy Trial

A Serna motion can be made to dismiss charges if your right to a speedy trial is violated. In a criminal case, a defendant has a right to a speedy trial. This right is guaranteed by both the Sixth Amendment of the United States Constitution and Article 1, Section 15...

What Happens with a Third California DUI?

A third DUI will likely result in jail time. It’s no secret: the state of California takes the crime of drinking and driving (and driving while under the influence of drugs) seriously. If you are a repeat offender, then you can expect extremely harsh penalties for...

How a DUI Conviction May Impact Your Job

A DUI conviction may cause difficulties in your career, depending on your field of work. If you go out for drinks after work with a few co-workers, you may not think much of getting behind the wheel and driving home — until you see the flashing lights of a police car...

What Is a Pitchess Motion?

Pitchess motions are used to gather information on police misconduct, which can be used if an officer testifies at trial. In many California criminal cases, a police officer will be called to testify against the defendant. The officer may testify that he or she...

When Is Intoxication a Defense to a Crime?

Intoxication may only be a defense if it is involuntary. In popular culture, you may have heard people claim that they can’t be held responsible for their actions because they were drunk or otherwise under the influence.  But in the real world — and in the courtroom —...

How A DUI Case May Be Resolved

Pleading guilty, seeking a plea bargain or going to trial are three ways to resolve your case. If you have been charged with a California DUI, you are likely stressed and overwhelmed.  You have likely had your license confiscated by the police, are worried about the...

Asset Forfeiture Basics

Asset forfeiture is often used in drug cases to take property suspected of being used in drug crimes. Recently, Attorney General Jeff Sessions made headlines when he announced that he intended to expand the use of asset forfeiture in federal drug cases.  Asset...

What It Means to Impeach a Witness

Impeaching a witness can be an effective tactic for showing that a witness is biased. If you are on trial for a criminal offense, you may be feeling a lot of things — scared, overwhelmed, anxious, and more than a little bit stressed. You may also be angry,...

When Is Evading Arrest a Crime?

Evading a police officer is a misdemeanor offense. It may be a natural instinct — you see flashing lights in your rearview mirror, and instead of hitting the brakes, you hit the gas. Nobody wants to be pulled over by the police after all, and so you attempt to outrun...

Is a Traffic Stop an Arrest?

You are not typically under arrest during a traffic stop. Most Americans have a fairly muddled view of the criminal justice system as a result of our viewings of Law & Order and other police and legal dramas on television and the movies. We know a lot of things,...

What Is Discovery?

Discovery is the process where you can learn about the state’s case against you. If you have been arrested for a crime, you may be curious about what exactly the police have against you — and when you’ll find out what the state knows. That question will be answered...

California Bail Bill Advances

According to some, the bill would fix California’s broken bail system. If you are arrested for a crime, you may be asked to post bail in order to be released from police custody before being arraigned on the charges. California’s bail system currently is set on a...

How to Avoid a DUI This Fourth of July

Follow these tips this upcoming holiday to avoid being arrested for a DUI. The Fourth of July is here, and although the holiday falls on a weekday this year, that does not mean that there will be a lack of celebration. Instead, many picnics and parties will likely...

In the News: What Is Perjury?

The crime of perjury has made national news. But what exactly does it mean to commit perjury. Whether you are a political junkie or someone who tries to stay out of the fray, it is hard to avoid the recent news out of Washington. With nonstop Congressional hearings...

What Is Double Jeopardy?

Double jeopardy is a constitutional principle that protects you from being tried or punished more than ones for the same crime. For many Americans, the concept of double jeopardy is a murky one — something that they might have seen on a television show or a movie, but...

What Is Aggravated Assault?

If certain factors exist, your assault charge could be elevated to an aggravated assault. While many Americans are fans of crime shows and novels, many of us regularly misuse a common legal term — assault. Most people use it to mean that a person has been hit or hurt...

Proving an Alibi Defense

An alibi can create reasonable doubt as to whether you committed a crime. Most Americans are familiar with the concept of an alibi defense. In essence, it is claiming that you could not have committed a crime because you were someplace else when that crime was being...

Alternatives to Jail: House Arrest

One alternative to jail may be home confinement, or house arrest. Going to jail seems like a nightmare for most people, especially if this is your first experience with the criminal justice system. Fortunately, if you have been convicted of certain crimes and meet the...

How Long Will My DUI Case Take?

The length of time it will take to resolve your DUI case depends on a number of factors. If you have been arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), you are probably feeling overwhelmed by what will happen next. Will you lose your license, or go to jail? How will...

Standing Your Ground in California

California’s Castle Doctrine allows you to use self defense in certain situations. The “stand your ground” doctrine has received a fair amount of attention in recent years, due to high profile cases in the news media and political battles over whether homeowners and...

Will I Go to Jail for My First DUI?

California does not impose a mandatory jail term for first-time DUI offenders. Drinking and driving — or driving while under the influence of drugs — can have a deadly impact. In fact, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a leading cause of fatal and...

Do You Really Need a DUI Lawyer?

A DUI lawyer can help make sure that your rights are protected. In terms of criminal charges, if you have been arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you may think that a California DUI is not that big of a deal.  Most DUIs in California DUIs...

What You Need to Know about DUI Checkpoints

Before you head out, learn these basic facts about DUI checkpoints. As a society, we have decided that drinking and driving is something that we want to stop — and for good reason. Drunk driving leads to a shocking number of accidents, injuries, and fatalities each...

What You Should Say and Do During a DUI Stop

Your behavior before and during a DUI stop can affect whether or not you are arrested. It’s every motorist’s nightmare — you’re driving along, minding your own business, when suddenly, you see flashing blue and red lights in your rearview mirror. Perhaps you have had...

What Is a No Contest Plea?

If you plead “no contest” to a crime, you are not admitting guilt to the charge. If you are a fan of crime or legal television dramas, you may be familiar with the part of a criminal proceeding where a defendant gets to enter a plea, known as the arraignment. In most...

What Happens at an Arraignment?

An arraignment is the first formal court hearing after an arrest. If you have been arrested for a crime, you may be feeling a complicated mix of feelings — stress, fear, and confusion. You may also be wondering what will happen next with your case — and where you can...

What You Need to Know about Perjury

You could be charged with perjury even if you haven’t testified in court. It’s a lesson most of us learn in childhood: don’t lie.  And from television, movies and even politics, most of us are familiar with the oath that people take before the give testimony in a...

Defending Against Stalking Charges

A threat must be credible in order for a stalking charge to stand. Stalking has been a hot topic in the news, with this crime getting increased attention as a serious crime. California has one of the nation’s toughest stalking laws, making it a crime to follow, harass...

Do You Have to Attend a DMV Hearing?

After a DUI arrest, you have 10 days to request a DMV hearing to contest your license suspension. Being arrested for a DUI in California carries many consequences, one of which includes the loss of your license. Before you are convicted of a DUI, the California...

A Far Too Common Crime: Welfare Fraud

Depending on the facts of the case and your criminal history, you could be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony. California provides a number of benefits programs meant to help its most vulnerable citizens, including those who are unemployed, unable to work, or who...

Play It Safe This St. Patrick’s Day

Learn how you can celebrate all things Irish without risking a DUI. This Friday, it seems that we are all Irish — no matter what our heritage actually is! St. Patrick’s Day is a time to let loose, perhaps eat some traditional Irish food (or not), and drink some green...

A Different Kind of Theft

Theft by false pretenses is a type of theft by trickery that is punishable under California law. The crime of theft seems pretty straightforward: a person takes something from someone else, usually by force.  It may involve taking something from a store, or grabbing a...

Types of Elder Abuse in California

The elderly are often uniquely vulnerable to abuse, which can lead to the state aggressively prosecuting these crimes. Elder abuse is considered a serious crime in the United States, and it is a grave crime in California as well. The California penal code makes it a...

How Social Media Can Land You in Jail

Posting pictures of guns, drugs and more can have real-life consequences Love it or hate it, social media has taken over modern life.  From Facebook to Snapchat, it seems that everyone from tweens to senior citizens is on social media today.  It has become a place to...

Will I Go to Jail If I Get a DUI?

Jail time is a possibility for a California DUI conviction. If you have been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, chances are good that you are in a state of panic or stress.  What is going to happen?  Will you lose your license? ...

Will a DUI Show Up on a Background Check?

A DUI is a criminal charge, so if you are convicted, it will be part of your record. Under California law, driving under the influence is a serious offense.  While most cases are charged as misdemeanor rather than felony offenses, if you are ultimately plead guilty to...

How to Get a Reduction to a Wet Reckless

A wet reckless conviction can be a very beneficial plea bargain for anyone charged with a California DUI. If you are charged with a DUI in the state of California, your DUI lawyer in Tustin, CA will likely attempt to engage in a series of negotiations with the...

Deportations and DUIs

A DUI can have a negative impact on your immigration status. In today’s political climate, the topic of immigration — both legal and illegal — is a hot one. Immigrants who are here on visas, green cards and without proper documentation are all on edge, as we wait to...

Can You Really Fool a Breathalyzer Test?

These myths won’t help you get around a breathalyzer test. It is understandable that if you’re driving after having a few drinks, you may panic at the sight of lights flashing behind you.  If you’re pulled over after having one or more alcoholic beverages, it is...

Get the Facts on California DUIs

Learn more about DUI law and how you may be charged with driving under the influence.  Like all other states in the United States, California takes the crime of drunk driving very seriously.  That is why there are grave penalties for DUI convictions, including the...

Learn When DUIs Are Charged As Felonies

A DUI is usually charged as a misdemeanor — unless one of these circumstances exist. Under California law, a charge of driving under the influence is a criminal offense, and being convicted of DUI will result in a person having a criminal record.  Most people are...

What Happens During Field Sobriety Tests

You A re Not Required to Perform Field Sobriety Tests Picture this: you’re driving home from a friend’s house, where you had a cocktail while relaxing after dinner.  Suddenly, you see flashing lights in your rearview mirror, and the next thing you know, a police...

Will Coffee Really Sober You Up?

Contrary to popular belief, a strong cup of coffee won’t help matters if you’re drunk. Most of us have been there at some point in our lives: out with our friends at a bar or at a party, when suddenly, we realize that we’ve had too much to drink.  Sometimes, your...

DUI Science: What Is Mouth Alcohol?

Medical conditions, using mouthwash or even dentures can lead to the presence of mouth alcohol. If you have been stopped by the police on suspicion of driving under the influence, the officers may ask you to take a roadside breathalyzer test.  You should know that if...

Why You Need a Top-Notch DUI Lawyer

Experience counts when it comes to protecting your legal rights. For most Californians, the prospect of facing criminal charges for a DUI is a nightmare. The potential consequences for a DUI conviction are high, ranging from losing your license to paying steep fines...

Avoid a DUI on Superbowl Sunday

Be smart during and after the big game so you don’t find yourself facing criminal charges. The Superbowl is just around the corner! And while no California teams will be headed to the big game, many of us will still be celebrating.  After all, the Superbowl is about...

How Are DUI of Marijuana Cases Proven?

Chemical tests are highly unreliable when it comes to showing impairment due to marijuana. After the most recent election day in November 2016, many Californians celebrated the legalization of marijuana.  While medical marijuana use had long been permitted in...

Will I Go to Jail for a DUI?

Depending on the facts of your case, you may be sentenced to jail time for a California DUI conviction. When someone is arrested for a DUI, they may be confused and overwhelmed.  They are also likely scared of what will happen to them.  Will they go to jail? Lose...

Getting A Restricted License After A DUI

A restricted license can ease the burden of having a suspended license after a DUI. When it comes to DUI consequences, one of the penalties that many people struggle with is the loss of a license.  For some people arrested for a DUI, it comes as a surprise when the...

What Is a High BAC DUI?

If you drive with a high level of alcohol in your system, you could be facing enhanced sentencing. In California and throughout most of the country, it is against the law to drive with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 percent or higher.  This number is fairly...

What Are SCRAM Devices?

If you want to avoid jail time after multiple DUIs, this monitoring bracelet may be the ticket. In California, DUIs are considered serious offenses.  Judges and prosecutors do not tend to give DUI offenders the benefit of the doubt — especially if the person in...

What Is A DUI Enhancement?

If you do certain things while driving under the influence, you may face additional penalties. California takes the crime of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs quite seriously.  Anyone convicted of a DUI in California can be sentenced to jail time, DUI...

How to Fight a DUI Case

A skilled DUI defense attorney can present a number of factual and legal defenses to help you win your case. If you’ve been arrested for a DUI, you may be in a state of panic, falsely believing that there is nothing that you can do — but there is hope!  Just because...

DUI Blood Testing Errors

An independent test can reveal the presence of errors. In California and across the country, it is illegal to drive your vehicle while intoxicated.  The legal limit for driving in California is .08 percent blood alcohol content (BAC) for most drivers.  This limit is...

How Breath Tests Work

A chemical breath test can give a false positive result based on the way that it operates. Most people are familiar with what happens in a DUI stop.  Even if we have never been pulled over or stopped at a DUI checkpoint ourselves, we have seen it on TV or in the...

How to Request a DMV Hearing

Learn the basics of DMV hearings when you have been charged with a DUI. One of the first consequences that people who have been arrested for a DUI in California will face is the loss of their license.  In California, a DUI arrest triggers a process whereby the...

What Does It Mean to Get a DUI of Drugs?

A DUI of Drugs can be charged even if you are taking prescription medication. Most people associate DUIs with alcohol, which is understandable given the many campaigns against drunk driving in California and across the country.  But California law does not just...

Never Drive With A Suspended License

Don’t take the chance of being charged with an additional crime. In California, your driver’s license could be suspended for any number of reasons, from a driving under the influence charge to being declared a negligent operator from committing too many traffic...

What to Expect with Your Third DUI

Repeat DUI offenses can lead to incredibly serious consequences. In California, the crime of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is treated very harshly.  This is particularly true for anyone convicted of a repeat DUI offense.  Any drug or alcohol-related...

What Are Your Rights At a DUI Checkpoint?

Learn what you can and cannot do at a DUI checkpoint. Although many people may view DUI checkpoints as a type of entrapment, they are legal.  The United States Supreme Court has repeatedly ruled that these checkpoints are legal, as long as certain rules are followed....

What Are Typical DUI Fines?

For a first-time DUI, fines can reach as high as $1,800. Many people arrested for their first DUI may believe that it is not a big deal, and that they can move forward without an attorney.  As a general rule, first-time DUIs are misdemeanor offenses, so many arrestees...

How to Avoid a DUI Arrest

Drive carefully and exercise your rights respectfully to minimize your risk of being arrested for a DUI. The best way to avoid being arrested is to not drive after you drink or use drugs in any amount.  If you know that you are under the influence, the best course of...

What Is A DUI Wobbler?

In some situations, a prosecutor has discretion to charge a DUI as either a felony or a misdemeanor. When it comes to criminal charges, prosecutors in California have a certain amount of leeway in how they charge cases.  Guided by the law, prosecutors typically charge...

What Happens If You Refuse A Breathalyzer

If you drive in California, you are required to submit to a chemical breath or blood test after a DUI arrest. Like many states, California has a law on the books that requires drivers to consent to submit to a breathalyzer test if they are arrested for driving under...

Do You Need An Attorney for a First DUI?

Whether it’s your first offense or your fourth, it’s a good idea to hired a skilled DUI lawyer. If you have been arrested for a DUI in California, chances are good that you are feeling scared and overwhelmed.  You may be tempted to plead out to the charges just to get...

When A DUI Is Charged As A Murder

Known as a Watson murder charge, DUI murder is typically charged whenever a person has prior notice of the potential for fatal consequences for driving drunk. If you drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs and kill someone as a result, you could be charged with...

What Is A Motion to Suppress?

If the police illegally gathered evidence against you, your attorney may be able to have that evidence thrown out of court. If you’re involved in a California DUI case or are just a fan of law and crime shows on television, you may have heard the term “motion to...

Learn About DUI Driving Patterns

Knowing what the police look for in terms of erratic driving can help you avoid an unjust DUI stop. Many DUI cases do not involve drivers who are extremely intoxicated or past the point where they can drive safely; instead, they involve people who had a few drinks and...

Out-of-State Drivers and California DUIs

A skilled DUI lawyer can help you navigate the California process if you have been charged with a DUI as an out-of-state driver. With the holidays fast approaching, California will soon see an influx of tourists from other states.  Whether you’re taking a vacation or...

Enjoy Your Holiday Parties Safely

Throughout the month of December, opportunities for fun — including parties involving alcohol — abound.  Stay safe with these safe holiday party tips. The holiday season is upon us, and most Americans have a whole bunch of parties over the coming weeks.  No matter...

DMV Hearing FAQs

Learn the answers to these frequently asked questions about California DMV hearings. After you are arrested for a DUI, you face not only criminal action but an administrative suspension of your license by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).  You have...

California’s Open Container Laws

Driving with an open container of alcohol is a violation of California law — even if you’re sober. Most people know that driving drunk is a crime, and try to avoid situations where they may get charged with this crime.  But did you know that just driving with an open...

How Blood Test Errors Impact Your DUI Case

Improper collection of blood tests in California DUI cases can be a defense against the charges. After you are arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol in California, you will typically be required to submit to one of two types of chemical tests...

How Can I Resolve My DUI Case?

Your DUI case can be resolved through a plea bargain, at trial, or if the charges are dismissed entirely. If you have been arrested for a DUI in California, you are not yet guilty of anything; you are still entitled to the presumption of innocence.  The prosecution...

Should I Go to DUI Court Without A Lawyer?

You can represent yourself in court — but should you? Being arrested for a DUI is a scary experience, and it can be an expensive one.  If you are facing DUI charges, you may be asking yourself if you should hire an attorney.  Like many people, you may be concerned...

What Are My Rights During a Traffic Stop?

Knowing your rights is the first step in preserving them. It is every motorist’s worst nightmare: you have a drink or two at happy hour after work, and as you drive home, you see lights flashing in your rearview mirror.  You’re being pulled over — and you have...

Is Entrapment a DUI Defense?

Unless a police officer forced you to drink and then forced you to drive, you will not likely succeed in arguing that you were entrapped into driving while intoxicated. If you’re a fine of crime, law or police shows, you may be familiar with the term entrapment. ...

What Is A Negligent Operator Hearing?

In addition to the criminal consequences of a DUI, the DMV can also suspend your license if you are deemed a negligent operator under California law. When you first get your driver’s license, you are chock full of information about the driving code and the rules that...

The Rising Blood Alcohol Content Defense

Chemical tests measure blood alcohol content at the time the test was taken — not when you were driving. California law is strict when it comes to driving under the influence. If you are arrested on suspicion of DUI and your blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08 percent...

How A DUI Impacts Your Commercial License

The law sets strict limits and sets harsh punishments for anyone with a commercial driver’s license who drinks and drives. Across California, we rely on truck drivers and others with commercial drivers’ licenses (CDLs) to move goods, get our kids to school, transport...

Diabetes and DUI

Diabetes can trick an officer into thinking that you are intoxicated — and even result in a false positive breath test! Diabetes can be incredibly hard to live with, between the need for regular testing, medication and a strict diet.  But if you have diabetes, there...

What A DUI Defense Lawyer Can Do For You

A DUI has many legal and non-legal consequences that can have a seriously negative impact on your life. In California, the police and the legislature are cracking down on drunk driving.  Governor Jerry Brown recently signed a new bill that would make ignition...

DUI of Pain Pills

You may need painkillers to cope with chronic pain — but if you drive while under the influence of these drugs, you may find yourself facing criminal charges. If you’re like many Americans, you may be living with chronic pain.  Whether it’s from an illness or injury,...

How A DUI Impacts Your Car Insurance

In addition to legal penalties, a DUI can have many collateral consequences on your life — like losing your car insurance. A California DUI — like DUI convictions in many other states — is a serious offense.  Because of the potential for fatalities, the legislature...

What Is DUI Probation?

If you’re convicted of a DUI in California, you will likely be placed on probation.  Read on to learn more about what this means — and how failing to comply with your probation terms can impact your life. If you are convicted of a DUI in California, you will face a...

Why You Need A DUI Defense Lawyer

A skilled DUI defense attorney can help to minimize the impact of a DUI conviction on your life. In California and across the nation, the police are cracking down on drunk driving — and they have tough laws to back up their enforcement. If you’re arrested for a DUI in...

Be Careful of Halloween DUIs

Halloween is a great weekend to celebrate — but a DUI could be the scariest part of the holiday. Halloween is almost here! With the holiday falling on a Monday this year, we have an entire weekend to celebrate the spookiest of holidays.  People in San Bernardino and...

The Hidden Dangers of Sleeping Pills

Sleep medicine may be necessary, but it can be dangerous.  Learn more about how you may be charged with a DUI of sleeping pills. Millions of Americans suffer from insomnia, and many turn to sleep aids to help them catch some ZZZ’s.  While medications to help you sleep...

What To Expect At A DMV Hearing

A DMV hearing is an administrative process that can preserve your right to drive before the criminal case is heard. After a California DUI arrest, the police will usually confiscate your license and give you a notice of your right to a hearing.  This notice will serve...

The Probable Cause Requirement In DUI Cases

Except during DUI checkpoints, the police must have probable cause to pull you over for a DUI. If you watch TV crime shows, you may be familiar with the term “probable cause.” Perhaps you hear the police discuss probable cause to get a warrant, or see a defense lawyer...

The Danger of Multiple DUIs

Multiple DUI convictions carry the risk of jail time, a lengthy license suspension and more. Drunk driving is a serious offense, with a high potential to hurt or even kill other drivers, passengers and pedestrians.  That is why California takes DUI convictions so...

What Happens If Your DUI Causes An Injury

If your DUI results in another person being hurt, you could be charged with a felony offense — and be facing years in prison. It is every driver’s worst nightmare: you’re involved in a car accident, and you hurt another person.  What makes an awful situation even...

How To Get a DUI Plea Deal

If you have the facts or law on your side, you may be able to make a favorable deal on a California DUI charge. Contrary to popular belief, most legal cases — both criminal and civil — never make it to trial.  In the criminal world, plea bargains are struck in the...

Low Carb Diets and DUIs

Diets low in carbohydrates may be healthy — but they can result in production of a chemical compound that causes false positive breathalyzer tests. Millions of Americans are attempting to lose weight at any given point in time — and many of them turn to low carb or...

What Is A Dry Reckless?

A dry reckless charge may be a good option for anyone charged with a DUI in California. Being charged with a DUI is a scary prospect and it can be incredibly overwhelming.  But with a smart, aggressive San Bernardino DUI lawyer, you may be able to have that DUI charge...

What Exactly Does a Breath Test Measure?

Breath tests measure energy absorbed by certain chemical compounds — which can include substances other than alcohol. It’s a common scene in movies or television: a person is pulled over on suspicion of drunk driving and immediately made to blow into a small portable...

DMV Hearings: What You Need to Know

Requesting a DMV hearing is an important step in not only avoiding an automatic license suspension, but getting a preview of the state’s case against you. In California, if you are arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, your license will likely...

Staying Safe On The Road After The Big Game

Football games often mean drinking — which means that fans need to make smart choices so that they are not driving under the influence. Fall is here, and with it comes one of our favorite pastimes: watching football! Across Southern California, we have plenty of teams...

Tourists Beware: Out of State DUIs

Even if you don’t live in California, getting a DUI here can result in serious consequences. Southern California is a fabulous place for a vacation, with our temperate weather, easy access to beaches, Hollywood attractions, natural beauty and theme parks.  But if you...

When You Hurt Someone While Driving Drunk

A DUI is a significant crime — but it has the potential to become even more serious if you hurt someone while driving under the influence. In California, if you are charged with driving under the influence as a first-time offense, it most likely will be charged as a...

How Accurate Are Saliva Swabs?

While roadside saliva tests may show the presence of drugs like marijuana in your system, they are not conclusive evidence that you were driving under the influence. In California and a growing number of states across the country, marijuana is legal, either for...

Slow Down: Speed Enhancements in DUI Cases

If you’re caught speeding while driving under the influence, you may be hit with additional punishments — but only if the prosecutor can prove each element of the enhancement. If you’re convicted of driving under the influence in California, the penalties will likely...

Your Rights At a DUI Checkpoint

Being stopped at a DUI checkpoint does not mean that you have given up your legal rights. It’s every motorist’s nightmare: you have a few drinks at happy hour with some co-workers, and on your way home, you see the flashing lights and traffic that signify a DUI...

Let’s Make A Deal: DUI Plea Bargains

Resolving a DUI through a plea deal is a common way of handling these cases.  Whether the charge is dismissed or reduced or the penalties are lessened, an agreement with the prosecutor can often result in a much better outcome for defendants in DUI cases. Most...

How Is A DUI Proven?

You’ve been arrested for a DUI, but don’t think that you were actually too intoxicated to drive. How will the prosecutor prove the case? California takes driving under the influence very seriously — and with good cause.  Drunk driving is estimated to cause...

What Happens at DUI School

DUI classes are required if you are convicted of driving under the influence in California. The number of classes you have to take will depend on the severity of the offense. Under California law, anyone who is convicted of a DUI or “wet reckless” must attend DUI...

How A DUI Impacts Your Immigration Status

In some situations, a DUI conviction may result in severe immigration consequences. including deportation and inadmissibility. America is a melting pot — and perhaps no state highlights our nation’s diversity as well as California.  But if you are in Los Angeles...

What Happens in Criminal Court for a DUI?

If you’ve been arrested for a DUI, there are several steps to the criminal court process — which may ultimately include a jury trial. For most people, the thought of going to court is a terrifying idea —particularly if it involves a criminal charge.  While being...

How A DUI Impacts Your Insurance

If you’ve been convicted of a DUI, you may face more than jail time.  Car insurance may either be impossible expensive — or impossible to get. Being convicted of a DUI in California carries with it many legal consequences.  From license suspension to possible jail...

What Is SR 22?

If you’ve been convicted of a DUI, you’ll have to prove that you have car insurance before you can get your license back. In California, you are required to carry insurance in order to legally drive a car.  So what happens to your insurance after your license is...

Alternatives to Jail Time for a DUI

A tamper-proof device that can detect alcohol in your sweat may be the key to avoiding jail time for Californians with multiple DUI convictions. For anyone who has been convicted of multiple California DUIs, jail time is a very real possibility.  The length of your...

DUI Hit & Runs

A prosecutor may charge you with many offenses if you leave the scene of an accident while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It’s against the law to leave the scene of an accident in California.  If you are involved in an accident, you must immediately...

When Can Your DUI Sentence Be Enhanced?

If your DUI involves certain factors, you may be subject to DUI sentencing enhancements. If you look online for the potential penalties for a DUI conviction in California, you will likely find a number of tables that list penalties (jail time, probation, DUI classes,...

How DUI Marijuana Cases Are Proven

Chemical tests only reveal that marijuana is in your system — not that your driving was impaired.  This reality can make it hard for a prosecutor to prove that you committed the crime of driving under the influence of marijuana. In California, using marijuana is legal...

What Is DUI Manslaughter?

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is dangerous — and can lead to serious consequences if your actions cause the death of another person. One of the most important reasons why California and other states have such strict drunk driving laws is to prevent...

The DMV Process, Explained

A DUI arrest leads to two separate processes: the administrative DMV hearing and the criminal case.  Knowing what happens during the DMV process can help you make a better decision about how to proceed with your DUI case. If you’ve been arrested for DUI, you may be...

Why Painkillers & Driving Don’t Mix

If you drive under the influence of narcotics, you may be arrested for DUI Drugs. If you have a chronic condition, are recovering from surgery, or have any other kind of health issue, you may need to use painkillers.  But even if your doctor has prescribed this...

Felony DUIs: What You Need to Know

If you have prior DUI convictions or hurt another person, you find yourself facing a felony DUI charge. If you’ve been charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in California, it will most likely be a misdemeanor offense.  While it is still a serious charge, the...

Getting A Restricted License After a DUI

Losing your ability to drive can have many consequences on your life.  Learn how you can get a restricted driver’s license after you have been arrested for DUI. An arrest for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) carries many penalties, from fines to possible jail time to...

What Happens After You Are Arrested for DUI

If you’ve been arrested for DUI in California, what happens next depends on just how intoxicated you were — and whether you hire an experienced Upland DUI attorney. If you have been stopped on suspicion of DUI in California, there is a good chance that you will be...

How to Fight Back Against DUI Charges

If you’ve been arrested for DUI, learn how you can defend yourself against these charges and minimize the impact of their heavy consequences on your life. In California, if you drive with a blood alcohol content of .08 percent or higher, you may be charged with the...

How You Could Be Charged with DUI Drugs

Driving under the influence of drugs carries the same penalties as a DUI charge. Learn more about how you could be charged with DUI Drugs even if you’re only taking legally prescribed medications. In California, it is a crime to drive under the influence of drugs —...

Stiff Penalties for Under 21 DUI

California law is harsh on anyone who drives under the influence while under 21.  Learn more about how an Upland DUI attorney can help defend you against these charges. Drinking and driving is a serious offense that can result in jail time, mandatory alcohol classes,...

The Collateral Consequences of a DUI

DUIs can result in more than penalties, alcohol classes and a suspended license.  Learn how a DUI can affect your life. In California, a conviction for driving under the influence (DUI) can result in some fairly serious consequences, including possible jail time,...

Study Finds No Basis for Marijuana DUI Laws

State laws that criminalize driving under the influence of marijuana are not supported by science, according to a study by AAA. Like many states, California makes it a crime to drive while under the influence of marijuana.  This crime may be punishable by jail time,...

Can Chemical Test Results Be Suppressed?

If your blood alcohol has been measured at over the legal limit, a knowledgeable Upland DUI attorney can take steps to challenge the admissibility of this evidence. If you have been stopped for a DUI, the police officer may have required you to submit to a field...

Increased Penalties for Higher BACs

If you have been charged with a DUI, you may be subjected to enhanced penalties if your blood alcohol content was way above the legal limit.  You’ll need a top-quality San Bernardino DUI lawyer on your side to fight these increased penalties. Under California law, it...

Are DUI Checkpoints Legal?

Although DUI checkpoints may seem like a violation of your rights, they are legal.  Learn more about what you can do if you see a DUI checkpoint. If you’ve been charged with a DUI, you may feel that you were unfairly trapped, whether it was through a targeted...

Boating Under the Influence

If you operate a boat or other vessel while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you may be charged with a crime.  In the summer, many Californians take to the water.  What better way to enjoy our beautiful weather than with a day on a boat?  But if you plan to...

Biking Under the Influence

If you ride a bike after using drugs or alcohol, you could be charged with Cycling Under the Influence. Throughout the year, people in Orange County can be seen riding their bikes, particularly in towns along the coast.  Biking is a great way to get in shape or to...

How Many Drinks?

Estimating your blood alcohol content can be very difficult, leading to DUI charges if you wrongly assume that you are OK to drive.  An experienced Orange County DUI attorney can help you with your case. Many adults enjoy unwinding at the end of a long day with a...

Could I go to jail for underage DUI?

If you’ve been arrested for underage DUI, you probably have so many questions swirling around your head: What will happen now? What should I do? Who can help me? What are my parents going to think? What’s going to happen to my future? Is it ruined? Pause – take a deep...

Surprising Statistics about underage DUI

There are many surprising statistics about underage DUI. It’s important to be aware of the facts to prevent underage DUI arrests. Many people have no idea that they can be charged with underage DUI if they drive and have any amount of alcohol or drugs in their body....

Prior DUIs: What You Need to Know

In California, a 10 year “look-back period” for DUIs can lead to increased penalties.  An experienced Los Angeles County DUI attorney can help if you’ve been charged with a second, third or fourth DUI. California law provides stiff penalties for any DUI conviction,...

DUI Arrests And The Fourth of July

This holiday weekend, keep yourself and others safe by avoiding impaired driving. The Fourth of July is almost here, and this year, it falls on a Monday — giving us an entire weekend to celebrate our nation’s independence.  Many people in Orange County and across the...

Child abuse and child endangerment

If you are facing criminal charges of child abuse or child endangerment in Southern California, you need to get advice from an experienced criminal defense attorney like Dan E. Chambers as soon as possible. Don’t wait! Charges as serious as child abuse and child...

Fighting charges of an attempted crime

Have you or a loved one been accused of attempting to commit a crime in Southern California? If you’re being accused of attempted murder, attempted felony, or attempted misdemeanor, a conviction can still mean jail time. You deserve an experienced attorney who will...

Shocking Consequences of an Underage DUI

Most, if not all, people have no idea about the shocking consequences of underage DUI. You’d think the law would be more lenient on minors who may not know or understand the consequences of drinking and driving, but California underage DUI law is incredibly harsh. If...

Will pot be legal soon in California?

If supporters get enough signatures to get the initiative on the ballot in November 2016, California voters could legalize pot for all adults over 21, not just for medicinal use. There would still be plenty of restrictions, but this could mean that your prior...

7 Things You Don’t Know about DUI

Everyone knows the phrase, “Don’t drink and drive.” It’s pretty much pounded into every public school student in middle and high school. But you may not know that DUI cases are a lot more nuanced than this simplistic phrase infers. Here are 7 facts about real DUI...

Check Out Our DUI Calculator

Want to avoid getting arrested for DUI? One the best ways you can avoid it is by using our DUI calculator. You can calculate an estimate of your blood alcohol level based on the kinds and amounts of drinks you’ve had, your weight, gender, and the time it took you to...

Diabetes and DUI: What you should know

Are you a diabetic? Many people throughout the world have diabetes, and it continues to be a growing problem here in the US. According to the American Diabetes Association, in 2012, 29.1 million Americans, which is about 9.3% of the population, had diabetes. Current...

DUI defense attorney in Riverside CA

If you’ve been accused of DUI/DWI in Riverside, CA, don’t just assume that it’s game over for you! You deserve to have an experienced, dedicated DUI defense attorney by your side, fighting for you every step of the way. Whether it’s your first DUI or you already have...

DUI defense attorney Vista, CA

There are so many great things about Vista, California – from the Moonlight Ampitheatre, The Wave Waterpark, the Art Beat on Main Street, and so much more. It really is a fantastic place to live! But your idyllic hometown can quickly become the scene of a nightmare...

Have you been accused of statutory rape?

Society has changed a lot over the years, but the law doesn’t necessarily reflect that. In California, the crime of statutory rape (also known as unlawful sex with a minor) prohibits any sex with a minor under the age of 18. So technically, a 17-year-old who is dating...

Factors that Affect BAC

There are many factors that affect each individual’s BAC (blood alcohol level), according to this Stanford University article. After a few drinks, different people’s bodies react in unique ways, so it’s impossible to predict with absolute certainty what someone’s...

Will a DUI ruin my life?

Have you been arrested for DUI? California has some of the harshest DUI laws in the country, so you want to do everything in your power to avoid a conviction. 1st DUI charge Even if a DUI charge is the only negative mark on your record, your life will be affected. No,...

Are blood and breath tests always accurate?

You may be surprised to find out what blood and breath tests aren’t always accurate. There are many ways in which blood and breath tests can provide overly high results when measuring intoxication levels. If you’re facing a DUI charge where a key piece of evidence...

Is that a threat?

Can you go to jail for making threats in California? In school or in the workplace, threats are taken seriously and can get you in real trouble. But people trash talk all the time. When does a threat cross the line and actually become a criminal offense? Freedom of...

What is Admin Per Se?

If you know anything about DUI law, you may have run across the term, “Admin per se.” Do you know what it means? Most people don’t. Here’s a quick overview. As always, if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask Attorney Dan Chambers of the Chambers Law Firm....

Los Angeles DUI Defense Lawyer

DUI is probably one of the most common criminal charges in Los Angeles, so if you’re facing one, know that you’re not alone. Many people have no idea how much alcohol can result in a DUI charge, and inadvertently get behind the wheel to drive home without realizing...

Orange County DUI defense lawyer

There’s so much fun to be had in Orange County, California – at Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, Angel Stadium, the Orange County Fair, and much more. But things can quickly get out of hand and you can end up with a DUI charge. Whether you’re an Orange County resident...

How long will a DUI stay on my record?

Getting a DUI is no one’s idea of a good time. It brings serious, immediate repercussions like steep fines, license suspension or revocation, mandatory DUI class attendance, probation, and sometimes even jail time. Long-term DUI consequences But the consequences don’t...

DUI Arrest as a Juvenile

How could a minor be arrested for DUI? California has a Zero Tolerance Law that specifies that minors may not have any alcohol in their system when driving. So if a minor is stopped and found to have a blood alcohol level as low as .01%, he or she could be charged...

Death Row, California

Out of all 50 states, California has the most inmates on Death Row. Currently, there are approximately 750 inmates on Death Row in San Quentin State Prison. On average, two people a month are sentenced to death. But, like every other prison in California, Death Row is...

Undocumented immigrants and DUI

Where are you from originally? Mexico, Brazil, Canada, El Salvador, France, Germany, Russia, China? No matter where you were born or how long you’ve been living in the US, if you don’t have proper documentation, you may be deported if you commit certain crimes. This...

DUI Probation Conditions

Each DUI case carries with it the possibility of certain penalties, including jail time, fines, probation, required DUI school attendance, license suspension, and maybe even more. Depending on the circumstances of each case, certain penalties may or may not be...

What is implied consent in DUI cases?

If you’ve ever been arrested and charged with DUI, or know someone who has, you’re probably aware that there are so many legal terms that may be confusing to those who aren’t familiar with California DUI laws. One of these terms that we at the Chambers Law Firm would...

Pondering Plea Bargains

Lots of people have heard of plea bargains, either from the news, crime shows, or friends’ cases, but many of us have only a vague notion of what they are. No worries! We at the Chambers Law Firm are on a mission to help people like you understand the criminal justice...

How much does a DUI cost me?

When most people go out to a party or club for a few drinks with their friends, they’re just thinking about having a good time. When the bill comes and it’s time to split the check, everybody throws in their credit cards to split the cost. Your friends are low-key and...

Truckers: What you need to know about DUI

If you’re a truck driver, it’s important that you’re aware that if you’re arrested and convicted of a DUI, the consequences will be even harsher than they would normally be. Those who hold commercial driver licenses are held to higher standards because of the...

Got a DUI while on vacation in California?

California is an excellent vacation spot. There’s so much to do in Southern California alone – from the sunny beaches, gorgeous parks, fantastic mountains, multifaceted cuisine – not to mention Disneyland! There are so many fantastic attractions that draw millions of...

Difference between DUI, OUI, and DWI

Have you ever wondered what the differences between DUI, OUI, and DWI are? They’re terms that are often mentioned in the context of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, but they’re not specifically defined very frequently. If you recently got arrested for...

Juveniles and drug crimes

If your son or daughter has been arrested and charged with any kind of drug crime in Southern California, help him or her by retaining an experienced juvenile drug crime attorney, NOW. An expert criminal law attorney like Dan E. Chambers can help you and your son or...

DUI FAQs

While just about everyone has heard of a DUI charge, many people aren’t really aware of what a DUI entails, its potential consequences, and other essential information about DUIs. At the Chambers Law Firm, we’re committed to providing helpful information to all our...

On Probation and Got a DUI?

Your #1 priority right now The most important step you can take to protect yourself today is to contact a criminal defense lawyer for expert advice that pertains specifically to your exact situation. In Southern California, the ideal choice is Attorney Dan Chambers of...

What is a Drug Recognition Expert?

If you’ve ever been pulled over on suspicion of a drug DUI, the police officer who evaluated you and may have ended up arresting you was a Drug Recognition Expert (DRE). He or she has received special training about investigating drug use. Designating certain police...

Know your rights—California car searches

So the cops found some small reason to pull you over—for speeding, forgetting your turn signal, or a broken brake light—and now they’re asking to search your car. Is that legal? Do you have to let them? Can they search your entire car? The police don’t have unlimited...

Cocaine DUI in Southern California

California law prohibits the use of cocaine and other drugs before operating a motor vehicle. It defines drugs as any substance that could affect your nervous system, brain, or muscles. If you take cocaine and drive, in all likelihood you won’t be able to function as...

What is a “wobbler”?

Here at the Chambers Law Firm, we pride ourselves on our ability to effectively communicate with our clients and prospective clients. Our blog is active every single week, we tweet every day on Twitter, and our website is always being updated with new information...

Marijuana DUI in Southern California

Many people don’t even know that it’s possible to get arrested and charged for a DUI after ingesting marijuana in California. Sure, marijuana has been legal for medical use in California since 1996, and possession of marijuana without a prescription has been...

Is a DUI always a felony?

Have you been arrested for DUI in California? If so, then it’s important for you to know about the potential penalties. California has some of the harshest DUI laws in the country, so you want to prevent getting convicted of a DUI as much as you possibly can. What is...

Avvo Top Rated Attorney Dan Chambers

Attorney Dan Chambers has been a part of the Avvo.com community for years. Avvo.com is a legal website that’s been designed to help people get the legal help they need in the most seamless, efficient way possible. Anyone who’s dealing with a legal issue needs to find...

When is a fatal car accident your fault?

Accidents happen. Everyone takes a risk when they back out of their own driveway and onto a public road. When someone gets hurt or killed while driving, when does your mistake become a criminal offense? If you are involved in a car accident that resulted in someone’s...

Out-of-state DUI

Have you recently seen those ominous flashing red, white, and blue lights behind your car while driving in California? A police officer pulled you over, likely ask you to complete a field sobriety test and submit to a chemical test, you complied, and you were arrested...

What You Need to Know about Underage DUI

If you or a loved one has been arrested and charged with DUI recently, you’re probably very concerned. California has some of the toughest DUI laws in the entire country, with consequences often being driver’s license revocation, fines, jail time, and mandatory class...

Accused of Solicitation? What to do Now

Have you been arrested and charged with solicitation? You might feel like you’re drowning with no one to turn to, but that’s not the case – turn to Southern California’s top criminal defense attorney, Dan Chambers. As a prospective client, you may schedule a meeting...

Armed Robbery Charges and Defenses

Robbery and theft crimes Robbery is one of the most serious types of theft crimes in California, because it involves violence, or the threat of violence. All robberies are considered felonies under California law, but when a gun is involved, even more is at stake....

Arrested for Hacking?

If you were recently arrested for hacking, you’re probably really stressed out right now. It can be tough to know what to do when you feel like you’ve been backed into a corner. Perhaps you’ve never even been arrested for anything before, and your head is practically...

Should I accept a DUI Plea Bargain?

Attorney Dan Chamber’s is a top Southern California attorney who specializes in DUI cases. He has successfully represented clients in thousands of DUI cases over his multi-decade career, so it’s safe to say that his DUI advice is always reliable. One question we hear...

Caught Shoplifting While on Probation?

Have you been accused of shoplifting while on probation? There are many potential outcomes to your situation. The most important action you can take now is contacting a lawyer who specializes in probation violation cases. Who is Attorney Dan Chambers? Attorney Dan...

How Expungement Works in California

If you have a felony or misdemeanor conviction on your criminal record, you likely feel the affects of this just about every single day, particularly if it’s a felony. Having a conviction on your criminal record can result in real discrimination, make it hard to get...

Can you kidnap your own kid?

Are you facing kidnapping charges? Even if the alleged victim is your own child, you could face serious penalties for kidnapping and related charges. The fact that you are the parent of the child might be a defense in some circumstances, but there are a variety of...

Arson and “junk science”

If you’ve been accused of arson in Southern California, you need the help of a serious criminal defense attorney who knows how to defend clients against junk science and myths. Outdated theories about arson are still used by unqualified fire “experts” to convict...

Defending a Cyberstalking charge

Have you been accused of cyberstalking? California’s stalking laws are some of the toughest in the country. Experienced cybercrimes defense attorney, Dan E Chambers of the Chambers Law Firm can help you make your best defense. How is cyberstalking different from...

Proposition 47 – One year later

It’s been a year since Proposition 47 went into effect in November 2014, and over 160,000 Californians have taken action to change their lives. Up to a million Californians may be eligible, and many don’t even know it. It doesn’t matter how old your felony conviction...

Top Rated DUI Lawyer in Irvine CA

If you recently saw those dreaded flashing police lights behind your car and realized you were being pulled over on suspicion of DUI, you’re probably feeling pretty panicked right now. It’s understandable, because Irvine, CA and California as a whole imposes severe...

When is a Juvenile Tried as an Adult?

If you or a loved one is a juvenile who has committed an offense in the eyes of the law, you probably have lots of questions about juvenile court procedures, and may be wondering whether he or she might even have to face adult criminal procedures. Every case is unique...

Help! My employer thinks I am embezzling

If you’ve been accused of employee theft—even if charges have not been formally filed—or even if you suspect that you are under investigation, you need a top embezzlement defense attorney NOW. Whether you ever had any intent to take anything or not, or you are being...

Wet Reckless Plea

If you are arrested for DUI, but the prosecutor doesn’t have a strong case against you, you may be offered a “wet reckless” charge instead of the more serious DUI charge. But should you take it and plead guilty, or fight the DUI charge in court? If you plead guilty to...

Potential Penalties for Hackers

Cybercrime is one of those buzzwords that seem to get thrown around a lot, and it frequently refers to simply hacking another person’s computer or network. But it’s actually a much broader term that refers to anyone tampering, interfering with, damaging, or accessing...

When are search warrants necessary?

It’s a real nightmare scenario: you’re relaxing after work and suddenly the police pound on the door, demanding to search your home. What do you do? You ask for a search warrant, but they just keep asking to come in to search. What’s going on? When are search warrants...

California’s Elder Abuse Problem

Did you know that California has one of the highest rates of elder abuse in the entire nation? According to the National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA), there are as many as six million cases of elder abuse in the United States each year, and 11% of those cases occur in...

Welcome to Our New Website

Check back soon for more blog posts Welcome to our new website. Everything has been completed revamped and redesigned to serve your needs better. We hope you’ll enjoy exploring this new, user-friendly site. We’ve made an effort to provide comprehensive information...

The Courtroom Gets Emotional

If you’ve been charged with a crime and you’re expecting to go to trial, it’s important to be prepared. A courtroom can be an intensely emotional place during a criminal trial because there is often so much at stake. The defendant’s freedom, financial security, and...

Criminal Appeals Process

If you’ve been charged with a crime and then convicted, you may feel really discouraged. But rest assured that it’s definitely not “game over” yet—if you don’t want it to be. California has a rather elaborate appeals system set up for people to protest convictions....

California’s Top Criminals on Death Row

California’s last execution of a death row inmate was in 2006, and there is currently de facto moratorium on capital punishment in effect. The 751 inmates currently sitting on California’s death row at San Quentin prison aren’t currently in danger of being executed,...

How to Prepare for a Criminal Trial

If your case is about to go to trial, it’s absolutely imperative that you follow this advice. It will make your life so much easier as you go through this rather stressful process, and increase the likelihood of achieving an ideal outcome. #1 Most Important, Don’t...

Are You a Prop 47 Candidate?

Proposition 47 passed California voters in November 2014, and the aftereffects are still being experienced throughout the state. Are you wondering if you’re a Prop 47 candidate? Find out below. If you’ve been charged with a nonviolent crime in California, whether it...

Do Pot Breathalyzers Really Work?

Current California laws about marijuana seem to be constantly changing these days, but here’s the current status: Possessing less than an ounce of marijuana for recreational use is a civil infraction (not a misdemeanor or felony) that bears about the same weight as a...

Cybercrime defense strategies

Cybercrime, also known as internet crime, is a term that can encompass many different actions committed online—such as internet fraud, hacking, cyberstalking, downloading or sharing child pornography, and others. Cybercrime prosecution Depending on the type of crime...

Beverly Hills CA DUI Lawyer

If you’ve been caught in Beverly Hills for DUI, you might be thinking that this is a rather common charge, and it’s no big deal. But actually, there can be serious consequences for even the most minor DUI infraction, including getting your license suspended and having...

Anaheim DUI Lawyer

If a police officer stops you when you’re driving for a regular traffic violation or for seemingly no reason at all, he or she may request that you submit to a breathalyzer test. If you refuse, you will be taken to the police station to take the test there. California...

Anaheim Criminal Defense Lawyer

Anaheim is one of the most beautiful cities in the entire US, with its consistently mild temperatures, sunny days, and plenty of fun things to do. People come from all over to go to Disneyland, hike through Yorba Regional Park, Honda Center, and the Anaheim Packing...

ABCs of Jury Selection

If you’re about to head to court where there might be a jury, you’re probably curious about what, exactly, a jury is, how each person was selected, and how much power a jury has to determine the outcome of your case. For all the information you need about juries, read...

What Makes Someone a Sex Offender?

There is a wide range of crimes that fall into the category of sex crimes in the United States. Many people are surprised to find that relatively harmless offenses, such as public urination and streaking, can lead to someone being labeled a sex offender. Here’s what...

When Do You Have to Disclose a DUI?

DUI arrests and convictions may need to be disclosed to employers in limited situations. If you have been involved in a DUI, you hardly want to advertise this fact. You would probably prefer to forget the incident altogether, after completing any penalties such as...

Criminal Charges and Hit & Run Accidents

Recent train accident spurs many to wonder about drivers’ criminal liability in an accident. At the end of February, a serious train accident took place in Oxnard CA, involving an LA-bound Metrolink train and a pickup truck hauling a trailer. The circumstances of the...

Death Row is Out of Room

Governor proposes expanding into cells opened by Prop 47. California has long been known as one of the most progressive states in the union on a variety of social issues. However, we have lagged behind on one issue: the death penalty. California still technically has...

How Does California Define Elder Abuse?

If you or a loved one is dealing with an elder abuse charge, it’s essential that you know exactly how California state law defines it. According to the California Department of Justice, Office of the Attorney General website, there are 11 sections of state law that...

Even More Search Warrant Exceptions

Learn about warrantless vehicle searches and administrative search exceptions. Thanks to an abundance of crime dramas on TV, most everyone knows that police need to obtain a warrant in order to conduct a search. What many people do not realize is that there are...

Two Common Search Warrant Exceptions

Police do not need a warrant to seize evidence in plain sight or evidence found when searching your person following an arrest. Though the 4th Amendment does provide protection against unreasonable searches and seizures, this does not necessarily mean law enforcement...

Most Dangerous Prisons in America

When someone is being tried for a crime, especially if it’s a felony charge, it’s normal to wonder about prison conditions. Are the horrific conditions many of us see on TV and in movies actually accurate for many prisons? That generally seems to be the case—sometimes...

General Requirements for a Warrant

Learn about the basic requirements set out by the Constitution to protect against unreasonable searches and seizures. In any criminal case, it is extremely important to understand the defendant’s 4th Amendment rights against unreasonable search and seizure. This can...

Effects of Proposition So Far

Proposition 47 passed in November 2014, and analysts are already attempting to figure out what the effects have been and whether the law will result in a net positive or negative. Proposition 47 stipulated that various non-violent felony crimes would be downgraded to...

The Jury: Selection and Process

Anyone who is about to enter a courtroom naturally becomes curious about how the jury is selected, and what process each member has to go through in preparation for a trial. Here’s a rundown of the basic procedure for every jury selection. The Jury Selection Process...

Will Robert Durst Get the Death Penalty?

Get an experienced defense attorney’s perspective on the Robert Durst murder case. Following the airing of the final episode of HBO’s “The Jinx,” in which alleged killer Robert Durst appears to confess to three murders, speculation about the case and the trial has...

Internet Crimes: The Defense

Internet crimes such as cyberstalking, pornography, identity theft, fraud, hacking, skimming and more are becoming more widespread. Learn about internet crimes and how prosecutors and defendants are thinking about this divisive topic. Internet crime is fairly new, but...

Don’t Let Trust Issues Ruin Your Case

Full disclosure to your criminal defense attorney is always the best policy. Unfortunately, sometimes individuals accused of a crime are hesitant to share all the details of their case with their criminal defense attorney. This usually happens for one of the following...

Financing Your Criminal Defense

Chambers Law Firm gives you options for affording quality criminal defense services. While it’s never really a good time to get tangled up in a criminal case, at Chambers Law Firm we understand that for some individuals present financial limitations can make the...

Take DUI Charges Seriously

DUI charges are time-sensitive and more complicated than more people think. There seems to be somewhat of an attitude among the general public that DUI charges are a sort of low-level offense that doesn’t really need to be taken seriously. The reality is, a DUI is a...

What Counts as Resisting Arrest?

The California statute on “resisting arrest” covers more ground than you might think. When most people think of “resisting arrest,” a pretty narrow definition comes to mind: a suspect physically resisting an officer who is about to place handcuffs on them. In reality,...

What’s at Stake in a Sex Crime Case

A sex crime conviction can follow you your whole life. Protect yourself with aggressive representation from a skilled defense attorney. Have you been accused of a sex crime? If the charge is very minor, you may be tempted to just pay the fine and serve your probation...

Understanding the Limitations of Prop 47

Learn if you qualify for sentencing relief under Prop 47 with help from Chambers Law Firm. If you’ve been following the media coverage of Prop 47, you might be very excited about the possibility of reducing your felony conviction to a misdemeanor under the provisions...

When a Comment Becomes a Sex Crime

California law makes it a crime to “annoy” or “molest” a minor child with words or actions. California takes sex crimes, especially sex crimes against children, very seriously. One example of this is found in California Penal Code Section 647.6, which makes it a crime...

8 Key Steps of a Criminal Case

Learn how your criminal defense attorney can help you at each of the 8 key steps in your case. Are you a suspect in a criminal case? If so, the sooner you contact an experienced criminal defense attorney the better. After all, your attorney will provide vital help and...

Entrapment as a Defense

For a successful entrapment defense, you need the services of an experienced criminal defense attorney. Do you believe that a law enforcement officer pushed or tricked you into committing a crime? You may have grounds for an entrapment defense. While this blog will...

What is an Accessory After the Fact?

Learn what actions qualify as accessory after the fact and how to defend against this charge. Under California Penal Code 32 PC, anyone who knowingly assists a perpetrator in escaping arrest, trial, conviction, or punishment following the commission of a felony crime...

Probation FAQ

Get helpful information about the requirements and rules of probation in California. If you or a loved one has been sentenced to probation, it is essential that you understand all the requirements that will need to be fulfilled. This FAQ should help. If you don’t see...

What is Civil Forfeiture?

Innocent people can lose cash and assets through civil forfeiture. Did you know that if you are stopped by law enforcement officials, any private property they believe is involved with a criminal activity can be confiscated? This is true even if you are never...

No More Death Sentences in California?

Recent ruling may force prosecutors to take the death penalty off the table entirely. California hasn’t held an execution since 2006, when a judge ruled that the state’s three-drug lethal injection procedure constituted cruel and unusual punishment. However,...

The Perils of Predictive Policing

Some watchdogs worry that predictive policing leads to unlawful stops and searches. Predictive policing, or the use of data and statistical analysis to determine when and where officers should patrol to thwart certain types of crimes, was hailed as one of Time...

Watch What You Say on Facebook

Supreme Court to hear case on the credibility of threats made on Facebook. Considering the abundance of jokes, cat videos, and other memes on Facebook, it can be hard to take anything said on this social media platform seriously. But you might want to think twice...

Medical Marijuana and Drug Charges

Be sure you understand your rights and privileges under California and federal law. California has a very progressive attitude towards medical marijuana, with this type of use and cultivation having been legalized way back in 1996 via the California Compassionate Use...

Teen Alcohol and Drug Usage

Alcohol or drug related crime can have a huge impact on a teen’s future. Some people seem to regard experimenting with drugs and alcohol as a sort of rite of passage for American teens. However, the fact of the matter is that far from being “normal” or acceptable...

California 2013 DUI Statistics

Part of the DUI arrest statistics? Don’t automatically become part of the conviction statistics—get help from a DUI defense attorney. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious safety issue, both for the drivers and for the public. With the virtual...

The Effects of Drinking & Driving

Driving & driving puts drivers and the public at risk for serious consequences Like most laws, California’s DUI laws exist to protect the public at large—and to protect individuals from themselves. Driving while intoxicated by alcohol is never a good idea, yet...

The Cost of Arson in California

With a state-wide drought still ongoing, arson is very real threat There are two main types of arson: willful and reckless. Drought conditions tend to set the stage for both. During a drought, reckless acts such as flicking a cigarette into high grass are more likely...

Fire Season and Arson Cases

Reckless burning can result in arson charges during fire season Fire season is coming early this year. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection has recently issued a release urging property owners to ensure that they are in compliance with California...

Field Sobriety Tests – What to Expect

Field sobriety tests are designed for you to fail. Don’t take them! When law enforcement officers stop drivers for any reason, they are always on the lookout for possible signs of DUI. This is true whether they have stopped you for a routine traffic violation or at a...

Orange County DUI Penalties & Fines

Orange County DUI penalties and fines are a strong deterrent to driving under the influence. Every year in California, there are roughly 200,000 DUI arrests and between 140,000 and 150,000 convictions. Since the dangers of driving while under the influence of drugs or...

5 Defenses for Domestic Violence Charges

Don’t let unfounded domestic violence charges ruin your life. Hire an expert defense attorney and explore these 5 common defense strategies Domestic violence is taken very seriously in the state of California. Victims who have allegedly suffered violence or abuse at...

10 Dumb California Laws

Just because a law is dumb doesn’t mean you don’t need a quality defense attorney Many dumb laws exist across the country, and California certainly has its share. Some laws are dumb because they’re outdated, while others are poorly written or downright unenforceable....

Have You Been Accused of Elder Abuse?

An expert elder abuse attorney may have several different options for your defense Being accused of elder abuse can be an extremely unpleasant experience. Individuals caring for their own relatives at home may feel shocked and betrayed by accusations from elderly...

When Are Miranda Rights Required?

Three important variables control whether or not Miranda Rights must be givenThe Miranda Warning is an advisory designed to inform suspects of their rights when being questioned by law enforcement officers. It contains two key “Miranda Rights,” namely the right to...

Five Common Myths About DUI Cases

When someone is arrested for DUI, oftentimes they turn to friends, family, or the Internet for help in determining how to handle what seems to be an overwhelming situation. Unfortunately, although many of these sources are trying to be helpful, much of the information...

DMV Perjury Cases

DMV perjury cases can be complicated, so you need an expert defense attorney to fight for your rightsLying to the DMV, whether you mean to or not, can land you in serious hot water with the authorities. If charged with misdemeanor DMV perjury under California Vehicle...

Do You Understand Your Miranda Rights?

If you are arrested for a crime, it is almost always in your best interests to exercise your Miranda Rights “You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney. If you cannot...

Updates to California Gun Laws

Governor Jerry Brown signed 11 new gun laws last month California is already regarded as having some of the strictest gun laws in the country. As of October, 11 more laws have been added to the books to further regulate the ownership, availability, and storage of...

How to Expunge Your Criminal Record

With help from an expert criminal defense attorney, some criminal convictions can be removed from your criminal history If you’ve been convicted of a crime, you may find that your criminal record continues to haunt you even after you’ve paid your debt to society by...

Most Common Criminal Offenses

Dan E. Chambers has a wealth of experience defending against charges for these common criminal offenses According to the Uniform Crime Reports, the most common felony crimes in the US include drug crimes, property crimes, DUI, and assault. Although the overall crime...

The Life of a Criminal Defense Attorney

There’s no “typical” day in the life of a criminal defense attorney, but what every day does have in common is my dedication to my clients. People often ask me how I can serve as a criminal defense attorney for clients that I know for a fact are guilty. I think this...

NYPD “Stop and Frisk” Policy

A federal judge struck down the New York Police Department’s highly contentious stop-and-frisk policy Monday, prompting an allegation of bias and the promise of an appeal by New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg. Civil liberties advocates hailed the 195-page...

Sentencing and Felonies

“Many clients and their families have questions about sentences for felonies as a result of the changes made by the Criminal Justice Realignment Act of 2011 (“CJRA”).  This new law applies to any person sentenced on or after October 1, 2011.  The...

Miranda and Self-Incrimination

Appellate court rules that specific objection at trial on grounds of self-incrimination is necessary to avoid introduction of precustody/pre-Miranda statements defendant makes to detective On May 10, the California Court of Appeal, Third Appellate District, ruled that...
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