The Constitution may protect you from unreasonable search and seizure, but many people have no idea how complex search warrant laws are. For example, the police cannot search your cell phone without a warrant, but they can search your car without a warrant if they have “reasonable suspicion.” In fact, they can do many things […]
What to do When You are Being Investigated & Signs it’s Happening
In television and movies, the suspect almost always knows the police are investigating them and acts accordingly. But in real life, things are rarely so obvious. You do not legally have to be informed of an investigation, and police often prefer not to notify someone that they are a suspect until they formally charge them […]
All About California Dash Cam Laws
Under California law, dash cams are legal, but the state does place some restrictions on the devices. Whether or not you would benefit by installing such a device in your vehicle is a personal question that depends on how you drive and what situations you are likely to find yourself in. In some cases, the […]
How to Help Protect Undocumented People You Care About from ICE
If you’ve been spurred to action to help protect their neighbors, friends, and family members who may be targeted by the ramped up ICE raids, do your research before taking action. While social media users have a lot of “advice” for how to protect people from ICE and Border Patrol raids, much of their suggestions […]
Here’s How to Legally Film California Police
Between all the recent cases where police have been accused of sexual abuse, racism, and brutality, it’s hardly surprising that more and more people in California are choosing to film their interactions with the police. Criminal attorney Peter M. Liss offers these tips for those who want to record their experiences with law enforcement officers […]
What to Do (and Not Do) During an Arrest in Vista
Protecting your rights starts from the first time you speak with a police officer, which is why it’s important to remain silent when you’re being placed under arrest.
What to do if You’re Accused of Evading the Police in California
When you see a police car’s flashing lights, you are expected to pull over, even if only to get out of the way. But failing to do so does not constitute evading arrest in California, nor is the definition limited to the high-speed chases commonly seen on TV news programs —in fact, most cases of […]
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 […]
Sightseeing or Unauthorized Entry into an Emergency Area
When emergency personnel are called to handle a fire, hostage situation, car crash, or any other situation that threatens the public’s safety, they must be able to do their jobs without interference. It is for this very reason that California has instituted multiple laws to help protect first responders while they handle dangerous situations. These […]
What Surveillance Tools do Police in San Diego County Use?
Overall, Americans are against the idea of statewide surveillance programs, which is why there are no nationwide camera systems complete with facial recognition like there are in many other countries. But Americans, like most people, also want police to be able to solve crimes, especially serious and violent offenses. Balancing the public’s desire for privacy […]
