False imprisonment is one of the more easily understood sections of the California penal code as it involves illegally detaining someone against their will. Though the offense, as defined under California Penal Code section 236 (PC), is relatively straightforward, things can get confusing when distinguishing between this charge and the similar crimes of domestic violence, kidnapping, human […]
Is it a Crime to Doorbell/Ding Dong Ditch?
Ding dong ditching, or as many people in San Diego call it, “doorbell ditching,” involves ringing people’s doorbells and running away before they answer. The game is nothing new, dating back at least to the 1800s, when it was called “ring and run,” “knock, knock, ginger,” “knock door run,” “Knicky nine doors,” and “knocky door […]
Do You Need a Lawyer for an Open Container Law in California?
There’s a time and a place for everything. While there’s nothing wrong with cracking open a cold bottle of beer after work, it is a problem if you’re still in your car. California Vehicle law sections 23221-23229 (VC) set specific conditions for when an individual can or cannot drive with an open alcoholic beverage or […]
Facing Conspiracy Charges in California? Call My Offices Today
When people hear the word “conspiracy,” they typically think of some crackpot theory you might read online. Under California Penal Code section 182 (PC) though, a conspiracy occurs when two or more people work together to plan or commit any crime. Conspiracy allegations are drastically different than most criminal charges, as a person accused of […]
Resisting an Executive Officer in the Performance of Their Duties
Resisting arrest is a crime under 148(a) (PC), but some people go beyond just struggling against an arresting officer and instead attempt to use threats or violence to avoid arrest. When this happens, it is a violation of California Penal Code section 69 (PC), which prohibits preventing an executive officer from the performance of their […]
What Happens if you Miss Jury Duty?
Skipping jury duty is so common that it’s even a trope on television and movies. But while it may seem like no big deal, missing jury duty can actually result in your being charged with contempt of court. Though it is rare for those who ignore jury summons to face charges in California, many people […]
What are California’s Laws Against Deepfake Pornography?
It may seem hard to believe, but up through 2024, it was completely legal to create AI-generated pornography, even if it depicts a child’s likeness. However, this will all change in 2025, thanks to a new slate of laws signed by California Governor Gavin Newsom that target the sharing and creation of deepfake porn, namely […]
Self-Defense in California: The Castle Doctrine and Stand Your Ground Laws
In most cases, it is illegal to use unjustified force against others, but one of the strongest criminal defenses to these charges is arguing that you were acting in self-defense. California is known as a “stand your ground” state, which means you have the right to use force to defend yourself or another person without […]
California Penal Code 241(c) (PC) – Assault on a Police or Peace Officer
Assault is the threat or attempt to use force against another person. Ordinarily, simple assault is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine. However, when committed against a first responder or protected government employee, it becomes a more serious offense. These penalties are set by California Penal Code […]
Filing a False Police Report in California: 148.5 (PC)
We’ve all been annoyed, angered, or scared of someone before —sometimes all three at once. However, falsely accusing someone of a crime is illegal under California Penal Code section 148.5 (PC), meaning it is a poor choice for those hoping to seek revenge or prank others. This penal code also makes it a crime to […]
