Probation is one of the most common alternatives to incarceration and one of the most common sentences for both felonies and misdemeanors in California. But while people are usually familiar with the term, many don’t know what this sentence entails and how summary and formal probation differ. This overview offers a simple primer, but if […]
Smartphone Apps for Probation and Parole Monitoring
It seems like there really is an app for everything these days. In fact, there are even apps for those on probation, parole and pretrial release. Some researchers are hoping these technologies can one day be used to help past offenders who have been released to recognize and prevent situations that caused them to commit […]
Court-Ordered Community Service for Misdemeanors in Vista, California
If you have been charged with a low-level misdemeanor in Vista or the rest of San Diego County, you may be eligible for an incarceration alternative, which could include community service. Not everyone is eligible for these opportunities, so speak with an alternative sentencing lawyer if you hope to perform community service as part of your […]
What Alternative Custody Options are Available in Vista?
In recent years, courts around the country have offered an increasing number of alternatives to incarceration, including home arrest and electronic surveillance options. For a long time, San Diego County courts hesitated to take advantage of alternative sentencing options in all the most unusual cases. However, judges and prosecutors are now more open to these […]
1203.2 (PC): Probation Violation Lawyer in San Diego
California is increasingly turning to probation to save money over incarcerating non-violent offenders. If you have been charged with a crime in San Diego, you could be sentenced to probation in place of part or all of a potential jail or prison term, even if you are found guilty of a felony. While probation is […]
California Halloween Sex Offender Laws and Operation Boo
Halloween is the one day a year when children go to strangers’ houses expecting treats, which is why the holiday provokes more parental anxiety than any other day. While parental concerns seem reasonable, studies show that fears of poisoned candy, drug distribution, and rampant sexual abuse are unfounded. Although child molestation does not happen with increased frequency on Halloween (90% […]
What You Should Know About Victim Restitution Payments in Vista
If you are convicted of a crime, you may be required to pay compensation to the victim or be ordered to pay a fine, particularly if a victim was injured or suffered financial losses as a result of your actions. Here’s what you should know about victim restitution and criminal fines and how the two […]
What to Know About the DUI Program in San Diego
If you are convicted of drunk driving in San Diego County, you must complete a DUI program as part of your sentence. The course length will depend on how many previous DUIs you have on your record and how high your BAC was at the time of your arrest. If you have any specific questions […]
How is Sentencing Determined by Judges in Vista, California Courts?
State and local law sets out specific punishments for each type of crime, but ultimately, the judge still does decide the final sentence given to a defendant. After a defendant is found guilty of a crime, they go through a sentencing hearing where they will learn the punishment they will serve for the crime they […]
Is Impersonating a Cop a Felony or Misdemeanor in Vista, CA?
It’s normal for both adults and kids to pretend to be a policeman as a Halloween costume or when playing make-believe. But pretending to be a cop is legal as long as it’s not done to fraudulently trick another person into actually believing you are an officer of the peace. There is a significant distinction […]
