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 […]
Vista and San Diego Restraining Order Attorney: TRO & PRO
When someone you know, even love, accuses you of assault, harassment, stalking, or domestic violence, you may feel hurt and betrayed. You may not know what to do. But what you can’t afford to do is wait to hire a lawyer experienced at defending against restraining orders (sometimes called “protective orders” or “stay-away orders”). Attorney […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
Understanding the Gang Enhancement Law of California
California is home to some of the nation’s longest-running and most deadly street gangs. In 1988, to curb the violence associated with these criminal organizations, the state enacted Penal Code section 186.22 (PC), known as the California Street Terrorism Enforcement and Prevention (STEP) Act. Unfortunately, these measures ended up being disproportionately used against minority communities […]
Is Bullying a Crime? It Depends on the Circumstances
There have been a lot of efforts to reduce bullying over the last few decades, with more teens facing serious consequences for doing what was once considered simply hazing or typical schoolhouse fun. But even today, most forms of bullying, while problematic, are still not a crime. That being said, there are many activities that […]
