The world at large is against sex offenders, particularly those who target children. To that end, many people have argued that all people who commit a serious sex offense should be subject to chemical castration. But others argue that such a law would be highly unethical as well as a serious violation of the US […]
A Definition of Juror Misconduct Along With a Few Examples
The American criminal justice system is based upon the ability of a defendant to present his case before an unbiased jury of his peers. But jury misconduct may occur if a juror fails to follow the law or a judge’s instructions. While these acts could negatively affect a defendant’s right to a fair trial, the […]
What Happens If You’re Caught Having a Weapon in Prison
Those sentenced to jail and prison are subject to many additional laws not applicable to those not behind bars, particularly when it comes to what they are or are not permitted to possess. These rules can apply to things like cellphones or alcohol, but the most serious form of contraband in prison are weapons. If […]
Smartphone Apps for Probation and Parole Monitoring
It seems like there really is an app for everything these days. In fact, there are even apps for those on probation, parole and pretrial release. Some researchers are hoping these technologies can one day be used to help past offenders who have been released to recognize and prevent situations that caused them to commit […]
Could a Scientific Advancement Make People Less Likely to Drink and Drive?
Most people who drink and drive don’t actually want to do so. Instead, they do it because they wanted to enjoy themselves while out but then don’t have any other way to get home. But what if they could drink with friends and then sober up in the last half an hour before driving? A […]
The Juvenile Record Expungement Process in California
Practically everyone does something they later regret in life when they are young. That’s because teens don’t have the necessary life experience to make the right choices when confronted with difficult decisions. This is why the juvenile court system is designed to reform more than it is to punish and this is also why it […]
How to Help a Teen Who Has Been Arrested in California
One of the most upsetting calls a parent can get is one notifying them that their child has been placed under arrest. If you receive such a call, how you react in the upcoming days can make a dramatic impact not only on the immediate outcome of your child’s case, but on their entire future […]
California’s Prop 25 to Eliminate Cash Bail Failed. Now What?
Many criminal justice advocates, including attorney Peter Liss, have been pushing for the elimination of cash bail for years. That being said, when California’s Proposition 25 appeared on the ballot, many of those same advocates actually opposed the measure because those considered to be “high risk,” which would more often than not be people of […]
What to Know About Drug Free Zone Laws in California
You may have seen signs around that say “drug free zone,” but if drugs are already illegal, then why post a sign to say as much? Well, these signs aren’t just stating the obvious, in fact, they’re actually declaring that any drug crimes committed within the designated “zone” are subject to enhanced penalties. Here’s what […]
San Diego Jails Are Deadly. Reducing the Jail Population Could Help
A recent Reuters story discusses the incredible risk of life those housed in jails across the nation face. While the numbers are shocking, what is even more shocking is that California’s jails have a higher than average rate of death per 1000 inmates -and San Diego’s jails are some of the most deadly in the […]
