Many consider themselves to be reasonable people who would never break the law aside from maybe driving a little too fast on the freeway. But if someone coerces them to do a criminal act by threatening their life or the lives of their family members, they may be willing to do just about anything […]
All About Manslaughter Under California Penal Code Section 192 (PC)
In most people’s minds, the distinction between manslaughter and murder charges is whether or not the killing was intentional or not. But in the legal system, things aren’t so simple as that. In fact, while involuntary manslaughter is usually a result of an accidental death that was caused by recklessness or criminally negligent behavior, voluntary […]
The Concept of Imperfect Self Defense and When it Can be Used in Vista
Self-defense is considered a “perfect defense,” meaning you automatically qualify for a full acquittal if the defense succeeds. However, even with a top criminal attorney, it can be difficult to prove all of the requirements for self defense, particularly in a case involving murder. When it’s impossible to prove self defense in a murder case […]
Resisting an Executive Officer in the Performance of Their Duties
Resisting arrest is a crime under 148(a) (PC), but some people go beyond just struggling against an arresting officer and instead attempt to use threats or violence to avoid arrest. When this happens, it is a violation of California Penal Code section 69 (PC), which prohibits preventing an executive officer from the performance of their […]
Can High School Fights Result in Criminal Charges in California?
A few decades ago, it seemed that every kid was involved in a fist fight in school at one point or another, but as schools clamped down on bullying and violence though, these incidents became more and more rare. And now some students and their parents find themselves surprised to end up talking to police […]
The Crimes Committed in Home Alone: Harry and Marv are Destined for Prison
Home Alone is considered a Christmas classic these days, and it’s no wonder when the plot revolves around a scared little boy fighting off two seriously bad dudes while trying to make the most of the holiday season. As a tribute to this holiday staple, lawyer Peter M. Liss is taking the opportunity to explore […]
Is Mutual Combat a Defense Against Assault Charges in California?
On any given day in any given city in the US, chances are that two people will engage in a verbal disagreement that ends up in a fistfight. But can you fight someone if you both agree? It depends where you are, but in California, fist fights are technically against the law, whether or not […]
Is Mace, Pepper Spray, or Bear Spray Legal in California? 22810 (PC)
California state law defines pepper spray and mace as forms of tear gas, meaning they are covered by the same penal code, 22810 (PC). Under this law, these aerosols are considered valid forms of self-defense, and, as such, they can be carried in public for personal safety. But that doesn’t mean anyone can use these […]
