San Jose Criminal Defense Blog

California Sex Offender Laws

September 25, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | Sex Crimes

Being arrested for a sex crime in California is a daunting experience that can alter every aspect of your life all at once. In addition to the potential jail time and other penalties you might face, a conviction may require you to register as a sex offender under Penal Code 290, carrying lasting consequences...

Arrested at a Redwood City Caltrain Station? What Happens After a Trespassing or Disorderly Conduct Charge

September 22, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Redwood City, CA

An arrest at the Redwood City Caltrain Station can result in criminal charges, even if the incident does not involve violence. Trespassing, public intoxication, and other alleged misconduct can result in an arrest or citation, and some encounters may involve additional charges related to drugs or alcohol. If you need help after an arrest...

What Is Proposition 64 in California?

September 21, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | Drug Crimes Lawyer Near San Jose, California

California voters approved Proposition 64 in November 2016, making it one of the earliest states to legalize recreational marijuana. Officially called the Adult Use of Marijuana Act, the measure removed most criminal penalties tied to personal cannabis use for adults 21 and older. Licensed retail sales followed about a year later, beginning in January...

What Is a Disposition Hearing in California?

September 17, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | Criminal Defense Lawyer Near San Jose, California

A disposition hearing is the stage of a California juvenile criminal case when the judge decides what should happen after they determine that a youth has committed a criminal offense. It's essentially the juvenile equivalent of sentencing. The disposition hearing may take place the same day the court sustains the petition, which is the...

Can You Be Arrested for Doxing Someone in California?

September 15, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | Criminal Defense Lawyer Near San Jose, California

Yes, you can. Doxing, which involves sharing someone's private personal information online with the intent to cause fear or harassment, is a criminal offense in California. Under Penal Code 653.2, a conviction can result in up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Depending on the circumstances, the...

Arrested for Shoplifting at Santana Row or Westfield Valley Fair? A San Jose Retail Theft FAQ

September 14, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | Criminal Defense Lawyer Near San Jose, California

If you are arrested for shoplifting at Santana Row, Westfield Valley Fair, or another San Jose retailer, you may face a misdemeanor charge under California Penal Code § 459.5. California's shoplifting law generally applies when someone enters an open business intending to steal property worth $950 or less. If you have been accused of...

How Long Can Police Detain You Without Charging You in California?

September 14, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | Criminal Law

Police in California cannot detain you indefinitely while investigating a crime. However, there is no single time limit that applies to every police encounter. How long officers can hold you depends on whether you are temporarily detained for an investigation or have been placed under arrest. Different legal requirements apply to each situation. How...

Duress vs. Necessity: What’s the Difference Under California Law?

September 9, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | California Law

Duress and necessity are both defenses that may excuse otherwise criminal conduct, but they apply in different situations. Duress involves being forced to commit a crime by someone else's threat, while necessity involves choosing to break the law to prevent greater harm. Understanding each one is important because they have different elements that must...

Can You Refuse a Field Sobriety Test in California?

September 7, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | DUI

If you are stopped on suspicion of driving under the influence in California, an officer may ask you to perform a series of field sobriety tests. In most cases, you can refuse these tests. Standard field sobriety tests are different from the chemical testing requirements that can apply after a DUI arrest. Refusing a...

Do Arrests Show up on Background Checks?

September 2, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | Criminal Law

In some cases, arrests will show up on background checks in California, but not always. Whether an arrest shows up on a background check in California depends on several factors, including the type of background check being run, whether you were formally charged, if your case is still pending, if there was a conviction,...