Prosecutors only have a certain amount of time to file charges after a crime takes place. This timeframe is known as the statute of limitations. For most criminal offenses, California institutes a three-year statute of limitations, but legislators may pass laws to extend this time period for specific offenses. In rape cases, for example, there is […]
Could the Us Use Income-Based Fines for Crimes?
An old expression says that if a crime is punishable by a fine, it’s only illegal for the poor. That idea can be very problematic in cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego, where there is such a massive disparity between the incredibly rich and the incredibly poor. Under traditional penalty structures, the […]
What Happens if you Miss Jury Duty?
Skipping jury duty is so common that it’s even a trope on television and movies. But while it may seem like no big deal, missing jury duty can actually result in your being charged with contempt of court. Though it is rare for those who ignore jury summons to face charges in California, many people […]
The 7 Types of Criminal Warrants in California
While most people have heard of search and arrest warrants, fewer are familiar with the other types used in the criminal justice system. Regardless of the variety, they are all used to help keep the justice system working as smoothly as possible, making it possible for police to do their jobs while ensuring witnesses and […]
Larry David Has ‘No Lessons Learned’ Regarding Courtroom Proceedings
Mark Twain advised entertainers to ‘never let the truth get in the way of a good story.” Throughout the twelve seasons of HBO’s Curb Your Enthusiasm, Larry David heartily embraced those words, making a farce of his own life as he plays a fictional version of himself. Of course, he already test-drove this recipe for success […]
Fines and Fees in the California Criminal Justice System
al Being poor shouldn’t be a crime, but in America, having too little income to pay court fines often leaves people behind bars when they can’t afford the penalties and fees that can frequently double or triple the original cost of the fine. California has attempted to rectify this situation by outlawing some of the most […]
The Good Samaritan Bystander Law in Seinfeld
In one of the most famous season finales in television history, George, Elaine, Jerry, and Kramer are all charged under a “Good Samaritan Law” for watching someone get carjacked and failing to offer assistance. But over 25 years later, countless fans still wonder if the Latham, Massachusetts Good Samaritan law in Seinfeld even exists. […]
Your Right to a Speedy Trial in California Courts
You probably already know that the US Constitution guarantees your right to a speedy trial, but what does that actually mean? Are your rights violated if you aren’t given a trial within a week? A month? A year? Well, the answer is a little complicated as it depends on the charges and whether you are […]
What is the Meaning of a Hung Jury?
We strive to explain the criminal process in a way that makes sense to the average person so our prospective clients know what to expect as they navigate the justice system. One aspect of the system that commonly confuses people is the concept of hung juries. While most people know that a jury must reach […]
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 […]
