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 When the law was originally enacted in 1998, it was very strict, and the penalty enhancements were mandatory.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 […]
Top Vista, California Arson Attorney on 451 and 452 (PC)
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 […]
Is Spitting on Someone a Crime in California?
Spitting in someone’s face is one of the greatest insults you can make without saying a word. It also can quickly escalate a verbal argument into a physical one and cause someone to get seriously ill, which is why spitting on or at someone is a crime. Similarly, if a restaurant worker or anyone else […]
What is the Sentence for Vehicular Manslaughter in California?
Vehicular homicide, detailed under California Penal Code section 192(c) (PC), is one of the most serious driving offenses a person can be charged with. It occurs when someone dies because another person was driving in negligently or unlawfully. You can even face vehicular manslaughter charges if you caused a fatal car accident while speeding. If […]
Is It Legal to Kill A Zombie in California?
The Walking Dead shambled back on the air last week with record ratings, making it the most-watched episode of any drama show in basic cable history. But with all the focus on the morality of life after a zombie outbreak, few people consider the legality of killing the undead. Let’s Assume There’s Still a Justice […]
The Downside to Wolverine Claws From a Legal Perspective
Wolverine’s claws are admittedly cool-looking, but they also offer some serious draw backs. Aside from the pain associated with the claws pushing through his skin every time they come out, they present a number of legal issues as well. For example, Logan could be accused of carrying a concealed weapon and if he ever uses […]
Penal Code 597.5 (PC): Dogfighting Laws in California
You can face serious criminal charges if you have been accused of training or entering your dog in a dog fight. California laws prohibit even witnessing dogfighting displays. Prosecutors take these cases very seriously, and juries are often filled with dog lovers prone to bias against those accused of these charges. It takes a skilled […]
Is it Illegal to be a Superhero?
Over the past decade, more and more people have taken to the streets in body armor, striving to become real-life superheroes. While any wannabe heroes may not be able to develop powers, like Superman, Wolverine or Spider-Man, anyone who is brave enough can choose to fight criminals the way Iron Man and Batman do. But is it […]
Are Switchblades Legal in California? Not Generally
California has some of the strictest weapons laws in the nation. While people often ask “are switchblades legal in California?” The answer is no, but California knife laws are notably complex, especially the parts that cover switchblade knives, to the point where sometimes those charged with the crime weren’t actually in possession of a switchblade. […]
Is Lester Nygaard Legally Responsible For Sam Hess’ Death In Fargo?
The Fargo series has a predictably violent plot that really gets started when ridiculously meek Lester Nygaard meets dangerous assassin Lorne Malvo in the hospital. What happens next is exactly the kind of occurrence that criminal lawyers deal with every day. If you haven’t watched the series yet, don’t worry, we’ll only be discussing what […]