714-997-4400California Supreme Court Overturned Three Cases
Figures from the U.S. Census indicate that there are more Latinos living in the state of California than Whites, about 14.99 million compared to 14.92 million. With that in mind, one would think that if a Latino is charged with a crime that goes to trial, there is a good chance that there would be […]
Proposition 64: Reducing a Felony to Misdemeanor
The passing of California’s Proposition 64 put a smile on millions of faces, but not just because adults could now get high without fear of punitive consequences. The bill, which passed last November, did more than open up a billion-dollar industry to the general public; written into the law was a provision that allows for […]
Income Bracket May Impact Traffic Fines
In California, the most populated state in America, there are billions of dollars in unpaid traffic tickets. In many instances, they are simply cases of people just not wanting to pay their fines. However, in perhaps the majority of cases, tickets go unpaid because offenders do not have the resources to pay the steep fines. […]
Former Sheriff Lee Baca Sentenced
On more than one occasion we have covered the ongoing case of former Los Angeles County Sheriff Lee Baca. Towards the end of March, Baca was found guilty of obstruction of justice (felony), conspiracy (felony) and making false statements to federal investigators looking into abuse of inmates in the county jail. The former Sheriff was […]
10-20-Life Law Called Into Question
California has long been given the title of “most progressive state.” We lead the country in more than one way; equal pay, abortion, and one’s “right to die” to name but a few. We lead the country and the world with respect to technological advancements, immigration and on protecting the environment. While that list could […]
Sixth Amendment: Ensuring Impartial Jurors
In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the State and district wherein the crime shall have been committed, which district shall have been previously ascertained by law, and to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be […]
California Moves to Ban The Box
About a year ago, almost to the day, we wrote about an important subject relevant to people with a criminal record. Specifically, regarding one’s ability to find employment with a less than ideal criminal history. It is no secret that people with felonies in their past will not even be considered for hiring by employers […]
Minimum Age for Juvenile Prosecution
In the United States, we do not have a Federal law on the books placing a minimum age for entering the juvenile justice system. As a result, individual states are left to their own devices to set such limits. So, then, what should be the minimum age for prosecution? While it is without question difficult […]
Money Bail Legislation Passes First Hurdle
In February 2017, we covered a story that was of particle importance to a number of Californians, especially those kept behind bars because that cannot afford bail. We felt it vital to follow up on a piece of legislation which seeks to end money bail throughout the state, as it could affect both current and […]