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Can a DUI Be Expunged From My Record in California?
Yes, in many cases, a DUI is eligible for expungement from your criminal record in California. The primary legal tool for this is a petition under Penal Code 1203.4, which allows a judge to dismiss your conviction after you’ve successfully completed probation. This process is a powerful step toward putting a past mistake behind you…. read more
Read MoreA Guide to Expunging Drug Convictions in California
Expunging a drug conviction in California is a legal process that allows you to have a past criminal charge dismissed. This means that for most purposes, like job applications, it is as if the conviction never happened. Instead of checking “yes” on an application asking about prior convictions, you legally answer “no” in most situations…. read more
Read MoreThe Right Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney
When you’re facing a criminal charge, the person you choose to stand beside you in court is one of the most significant decisions you will make. The right questions reveal an attorney’s experience, communication style, and strategy. The wrong choice has lasting consequences on your freedom, finances, and future. This guide provides a clear framework… read more
Read MoreHow Does a Criminal Record Affect Employment in California?
In California, a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you from getting a job. State laws, particularly the Fair Chance Act, establish specific rules that employers must follow, ensuring you are judged on your qualifications first. An employer with five or more employees is not permitted to ask about your conviction history until after they… read more
Read MoreDo I Need a Permit to Carry a Gun in Los Angeles?
Yes, you must have a valid Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) license to carry a handgun, whether loaded or unloaded, on your person or in your vehicle in Los Angeles. Recent court decisions made these permits more accessible than in the past, but state and local laws have also created a complex web of restrictions on… read more
Read MoreHow California Handles Aggravated Assault Charges
In California, an aggravated assault charge under Penal Code § 245 means the prosecution believes you assaulted someone with a deadly weapon or with force likely to cause “great bodily injury.” This charge is treated as a “wobbler,” which gives the prosecutor the discretion to charge it as either a serious misdemeanor or a felony,… read more
Read MoreWhat’s the Difference Between Theft, Robbery, and Burglary in California?
Being charged with the wrong offense can have life-changing consequences. For example, being accused of robbery instead of theft can mean facing years in prison rather than a lighter penalty. These distinctions matter because each charge, theft, robbery, or burglary, carries different legal definitions and punishments under California law. Law enforcement or prosecutors may pursue… read more
Read MoreCan My Child Be Expelled from School for an Arrest?
An arrest can happen for many reasons, such as allegations of drug possession, fighting, or other criminal activity. A student’s arrest can threaten their education, leading to suspension, expulsion, or lasting damage to their academic record. Facing the criminal justice system and school disciplinary action at the same time can be overwhelming for families. Schools… read more
Read MoreWhat Are My Rights During a Police Stop in California?
Being stopped by police in California can be intimidating and may lead to serious consequences such as fines, arrest, or even a criminal record. You may feel pressured or unsure of what they can say or do, which makes you prone to mistakes that can harm their case. You have constitutional rights, including the right… read more
Read MoreWhat Happens After a DUI Arrest in Los Angeles?
A DUI arrest in Los Angeles can lead to license suspension, hefty fines, probation, and mandatory DUI classes. For a first-time DUI arrest in Los Angeles, potential jail time can range from 48 hours to six months. Further, a conviction stays on your record and may affect employment, insurance rates, and professional opportunities. Fighting a… read more
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