Under California Penal Code 243 (PC), battery is usually punishable by up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine. But if the battery involves attacking a police officer, firefighter, or other protected worker, the penalties are more severe as described in Penal Code 243(b) and 243(c). If you are accused of battery against a […]
Misdemeanor and Felony Assault Lawyer in Vista, California
Assault is among the most frequently charged crimes in San Diego County and throughout California. It happens daily in bars, microbreweries, parties, and even on freeways. If you are facing assault charges, Vista defense attorney Peter M. Liss can help. Please call 24/7 to schedule a free consultation. What is Assault Under California State Law? […]
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 […]
What is a Crime Involving Moral Turpitude (CIMT)?
Under both state and federal law, some offenses are considered “crimes of moral turpitude,” meaning they involve serious dishonesty, fraud, or something morally reprehensible. While the term may sound old-fashioned and outdated, it is still very relevant when it comes to the law, as it can result in additional post-conviction consequences. Unfortunately, what crimes fall […]
What is Aggravated Assault Under California Law (245 (PC))?
Though assault and battery are frequently confused with one another, assault typically only involves the threat or attempt to use violence, not the actual use of force. When someone elevates this threat or attempts to use force, the assault is considered to be aggravated, making it a potential felony offense filed under California Penal Code section […]
Human Trafficking Laws in California: 236.1 (PC)
Human trafficking is the legal name for slavery, but these laws aren’t limited to only involuntary servitude but also include forced sexual encounters. In fact, if you break California’s pimping and pandering laws and the prostitute in question is a minor, you could also be charged with violating human trafficking laws in California under Penal […]
The Felony Murder Rule of California: 189 (PC)
Under California law, violent offenders can be charged with murder if they kill someone while committing a felony. This section of the law is known as the felony murder rule and is detailed under California Penal Code 189 (PC). At one point, even accidental deaths that occurred during the commission of a felony could result […]
What’s The Difference Between Assault and Battery In California?
Assault and battery are often mentioned together, especially in police procedurals, and some states even charge the two offenses together. In California, however, they are separate offenses—the key distinction is the use of force. Assault is the threat or attempt to use force, whereas battery involves the actual use of force. The Definition of Assault […]
Hazing in Vista Under California Penal Code 245.6 (PC)
One of the first things people associate with fraternities is the centuries-old tradition of hazing new pledges. Still, after multiple students died during hazing activities over the years, many states, including California, started banning dangerous initiation rituals. While not all forms of hazing are illegal, those likely to result in injuries are. If you have […]
Kidnapping Charges in California: 207, 208, and 209 (PC)
When most people envision kidnapping, they imagine a person snatching a young child off the street, but what California law defines as kidnapping is quite different. In many cases, kidnapping does not involve the abduction of a child at all. When it does, the offense is filed as an enhanced charge punishable by even more […]
