California has one of the longest wildfire seasons in the country, and it continues to get longer every year, which is why the state also has some of the strictest arson laws in the nation. Those convicted of this crime can even be subjected to a statewide arson registry similar to that used to track […]
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 […]
California Knife Laws: 21310 (PC)
Knife laws in California can be notoriously confusing, with multiple penal codes dictating what is and is not legal to possess and carry in the state. Additionally, many local city and county ordinances add further restrictions. Before you carry any weapon, it’s wise to learn what restrictions may apply so you do not run afoul […]
Is Suicide Illegal In California?
Suicide isn’t an easy discussion topic for most people, but it’s also subject to several myths when it comes to the law. For example, many people think it is a crime to kill yourself in California and that you can be charged with attempted suicide if your attempt fails. In actuality, suicide (and attempted suicide) […]
California Extortion and Blackmail Law: 518 (PC)
California’s extortion laws prohibit the obtaining of money, property, sexual favors, political actions, or anything else of value through the use of force, fear, or coercion, which could include someone threatening to reveal a secret, expose nude pictures, or provide evidence that someone committed a crime. While the state’s main extortion law is defined under […]
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 […]
Child Kidnapping Laws: 277, 278, and 278.5 (PC)
Thanks to Amber Alerts and around-the-clock news networks, it sometimes feels like kids are abducted daily. Movies and TV shows would have you believe that these children are all captured by child molesters and criminals looking for hostages, but the reality is that 90% of abducted children are actually taken by a parent. Because child […]
The 10-20-Life Law of California
California Penal Code 12022.53 (PC), also known as the “10-20-Life” statute or “Use a Gun and You’re Done” law, adds additional penalties when you use a gun during the commission of certain crimes. When the law was originally enacted in 1998, it was very strict, and the penalty enhancements were mandatory. It has since been […]
Famous Domestic Violence Cases
The popular image of domestic violence usually involves a beer-swilling, shirtless husband beating his wife to vent his frustration with life. But in reality, people of all classes, genders, and orientations are accused of committing domestic violence, including actors, musicians, athletes, and more. In fact, many real-life domestic abuse cases involve individuals who are both […]
Understanding California Statute of Limitations Laws
It makes sense that someone could be charged with murder 30 years after the victim dies, but it wouldn’t be fair for someone to be accused of shoplifting that many years later. The statute of limitations is a legal way to ensure that those who committed heinous acts can be held responsible for their actions […]
