Author: tmg_admin
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Gang Enhancement
In California, gang-related offenses are severe violations. The state punishes involvement in street gangs with harsher prison terms. You will be subject to increased penalties if found criminally liable for participating in or promoting gang offenses. If accused of any gang crime, you need to consult a lawyer knowledgeable about defending clients facing gang enhancement…
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Robbery
Being charged with robbery can seem like the world is coming to an end. Robbery is not just theft. In California, the definition of robbery includes causing bodily injury or threatening bodily injury. With such severe life-changing consequences as mandatory prison sentences and a permanent felony record, the stakes are high. Your future, your freedom,…
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Trespass
Property damage and criminal trespass are not simply petty annoyances, but serious threats to your security and financial integrity. As you will learn from the information below, trespass can result in significant penalties, including fines, restitution payments, and even prison sentences, and will be a permanent part of your criminal record if convicted. Determining whether…
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Third Offense DUI
Prosecutors and judges are strict on DUI cases because they are the leading cause of most fatal road-related accidents. If you are under arrest as a suspect in a third-time DUI offense, the stakes here are higher than in your first-time offense. A third-time DUI offense is not just another misdemeanor, and a conviction under…
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Battery
An arrest for battery could result in a serious impact on your life and freedom. California law has a broad definition of battery. It involves any unlawful use of force against another person, whether intentional or not. Prosecutors can file charges without the alleged victims having suffered any pain or visible injuries. The law focuses…
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Dissuading a Witness or Victim
Being charged with dissuading a witness or victim (California Penal Code 136.1) is a very stressful situation. Trying to stop someone from reporting a crime or testifying about it is not only a slight against the other person, but also a direct blow to the integrity of the justice system in the eyes of the…
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Burglary of a Safe or Vault
Being charged with burglary of a safe or vault under the California Penal Code (PC) 464 has a significant impact on your future and reputation. Los Angeles prosecutors aggressively pursue this specialized felony, which indicates a high degree of criminal sophistication, because it involves the use of dangerous explosives or high-heat torches. Upon investigation or…
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Statutory Rape
A consensual relationship gone awry can turn a life upside down in one day. In California, statutory rape is governed under Penal Code 261.5 and is a strict liability crime, meaning certain defenses, like mistake of age, are generally unavailable. A teen’s consent, or an honest mistake about his/her age, is no defense. One wrong…
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Damaging Phone, Electrical, or Utility Lines
An accident or a ‘heat-of-the-moment’ incident can lead to long-term consequences. Intentionally and maliciously damaging a cellular phone, electrical line, or utility line may constitute a serious crime under California Penal Code Sections 591 or 591.5. Utility and communication systems provide critical services to communities, businesses, and emergency responders, and the state considers tampering with,…
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Battery Causing Serious Bodily Injury
Battery causing serious bodily injury is a severe criminal charge. California law recognizes that this crime should be punished more severely, regardless of the types of injury the victim has suffered. On that note, you can be subject to a lengthy incarceration period, hefty fines, and other long-term repercussions upon conviction. You want to seek…