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 […]
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 When the law was originally enacted in 1998, it was very strict, and the penalty enhancements were mandatory.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 […]
California Vehicle Code 23582 (VC): Reckless Speed Enhancements in Vista
Driving drunk is dangerous enough, but it’s even riskier when it’s done at high speeds. Because driving under the influence at a high speed is so reckless, California institutes DUI sentencing enhancements for those who drive at dangerous speeds. In Vista, police often issue tickets to people speeding down Melrose and nearby streets —and arrest […]
Street Racing Charges in San Diego: 23109 (VC)
Teens and young adults have always participated in street racing to some extent. However, in recent decades, drag racing and unauthorized car shows, known as “street takeovers” and “sideshows,” have become increasingly common. San Diego police have stepped up enforcement by creating a dedicated street racing task force to combat these activities. At the same […]
What Happens if You Get a DUI With a Child in the Car in Vista?
Drunk driving is always risky, but when an adult rides with someone operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they typically understand the risks. The same can’t be said for children under 14, who have no choice but to agree to go on a ride with their parents when told to do […]
Excessively High BAC DUI Enhancements
It’s common for people to still feel sober after only one or two drinks, even when their Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is over 0.08%. But when someone’s BAC is nearly twice that, almost everyone can recognize that they are too intoxicated to drive, meaning those who choose to drive at this point demonstrate an increased […]
Defenses and Sentences for Hate Crimes In California
People commit crimes for many reasons, but jurors are usually more sympathetic when an offense was performed out of desperation or a result of a personal conflict rather than due to biased, hateful beliefs. To help protect the civil rights of individuals and punish those who victimize others based on prejudice, California has enacted many […]
Vista and San Diego Robbery Attorney With 40 Years Experience
Robbery is a serious felony that can result in penalties ranging from 3 years to life depending on the circumstances involved. If you have been accused of robbery, please call Peter Liss as soon as possible to discuss your defense.
What Are Drug Free School Zones in Vista and California?
You may have seen signs around that say “drug-free zone,” but if drugs are already illegal, then why post a sign to say as much? Well, these signs aren’t just stating the obvious; in fact, they’re actually declaring that any drug crimes committed within the designated “zone” are subject to enhanced penalties. Here’s what you […]
A Legal Look at the Drunk Driving in the 40 Year Old Virgin
The 40-Year-Old Virgin, starring Steve Carell, Seth Rogen, and Paul Rudd, is a cult favorite. While there are a lot of fantastic scenes in the movie, the one that really stands out in the mind of most DUI defense attorneys is the one where a drunk girl gives Andy the (terrifying) ride of his life […]
