Criminal Defense Q&A: At a Preliminary Hearing, Can a Police Officer Testify to What Someone Else Saw or Heard?
Question: In criminal court, does the prosecutor's witness in a preliminary hearing, have to have first hand knowledge? I have been held to answer by the judge in criminal court after a police officer's testimony in prelim. During my lawyer's cross exam, the police officer says, "You know what I…
Criminal Defense Q&A: Does California’s Ban the Box Law Stop Employers from Discriminating Against Me Because I Have an Expunged Conviction?
Question: Can an employer deny employment after a conditional job offer based on an expunged conviction, or no charges filed after arrest? I’ve read about the new ‘ban the box’ law in California in effect as of January 2018. My understanding is that an employer cannot conduct a background check…
Criminal Defense Q&A: I’m 13 Years Old — What Can Happen to Me If I’m Caught with a Kubotan Keychain Knife?
Question: I'm 13 years old. Me and my friends usually go to watch the movie at the evening, and when the movie is done, it’s probably nighttime. I was wondering if it is legal for me to use a Kubotan for self defense at 13. Answer: A Kubotan keychain knife…
Criminal Defense Q&A: How Soon Can I Expunge My Domestic Violence Conviction If I Didn’t Get Probation?
Question: Can my case be expunged even if I have a misdemeanor with no probation? I was arrested for PC sec. 243(e)(1) and I was given a misdemeanor with no probation. Since my plea, I have no probation, only fines. Can I get it expunged immediately? Answer: Your misdemeanor conviction…
Criminal Defense Q&A: Can I Get Arrested for Trespassing While Playing Pokémon Go?
Question: Can I get charged with trespassing if I accidentally walked to a gated community with "No Trespassing" signs? I was playing Pokemon Go and looking down and looked up to see no trespassing signs posted. I left quickly after without touching anything when i was there for around 20…
The Consequences of Negligent Discharge of a Firearm Under Penal Code Section 246.3
Owning a gun is a constitutional right that should be enjoyed. But even though you are entitled to own a firearm, there are instances when you can be charged with the crime of negligent discharge of a firearm – even if you are a responsible gun owner. Read on to…