Courts place a lot of weight on psychiatric exams, using them to determine whether someone is fit to stand trial, if they may qualify for a mental health diversion program, if they are not guilty by reason of insanity or if they were in their right mind when they committed a crime. But a recent […]
The Coronavirus’ Impact on the Criminal Justice System
Last week we covered some criminal charges that people may be more likely to break during the coronavirus outbreak as well as a small update about how the virus is affecting the due process rights of those charged with crimes. But the government’s efforts to contain this pandemic are creating a number of dramatic changes […]
Alternative to Incarceration In Vista: Alternative Sentencing Attorney
In recent years, courts around the country have been offering an increasing number of alternatives to incarceration including home arrest and electronic surveillance options. For a long time, San Diego County was hesitant to take advantage of these options in all but the most unusual cases, but as local jails became overwhelmingly overcrowded, judges and […]
Facing Perjury Charges In California? -Vista Perjury Attorney
When you swear to tell the truth, you are not only ethically held to telling the truth, you are also legally obligated to do so. If you are caught lying under oath, you can be charged with perjury charges in California. This does not only apply to courtroom testimonies, but also to government documents, such […]
What’s the Difference Between Jail and Prison in California?
Those who have never been in legal trouble and do not work in the legal industry often use the terms “jail” and “prison” interchangeably, but those familiar with the legal system understand that the two institutions actually operate quite differently. If you have been accused of a crime, Vista criminal lawyer Peter M. Liss believes […]
The Difference Between Summary and Formal Probation: Lawyers in Vista
Probation is one of the most common alternatives to incarceration and in fact, one of the most common sentences for both felonies and misdemeanors in California. But while people are usually familiar with the term, many don’t actually know what probation entails and what the difference between summary and formal probation is. This overview offers a […]
The Future of California’s Bail Structure is in Your Hands
In 2019, California’s state legislature passed, SB10, a bill designed to eliminate the state’s cash bail system completely. While it was set to take effect in October of last year, voters circulated petitions designed to allow citizens to vote on this important piece of legislation and now in the November 2020 election, everyone registered to vote in […]
False Imprisonment Charges in California: Oceanside Criminal Attorney
Most people think of false imprisonment as the act of illegally holding someone against their will and while that is a form of the crime, it is only one form of false imprisonment. In fact, in some cases, the crime is actually just a lesser form of kidnapping. If you have any questions about false […]
What to Know About New California Laws in 2020 That May Affect You
A new year just rolled in, and with it, a number of new laws. Some of the laws went into effect on January 1, but many others will not go into effect until later in the year. Here’s a rundown of some of the new California laws in 2020 and how they may affect you. […]
What Makes A DUI A Felony in California? Vista Felony DUI Lawyer
Drunk driving should always be viewed as a serious charge as it can result in jail time, massive fines, prevent you from being able to drive and leave you with expensive insurance deductibles even once you do get your license back. But some DUIs are even more serious and can even be charged as felonies. […]
