What Is the Punishment for Filing a False Police Report in California?
September 30, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | Criminal Law
Knowingly reporting a crime that did not happen can lead to criminal charges in California. Under Penal Code § 148.5, knowingly making a false report of a felony or misdemeanor to law enforcement or another person authorized to receive the report is a misdemeanor. A conviction can result in jail time and a fine....
Read moreEverything You Need To Know About Restraining Orders in California
September 28, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | California Law
In California, a restraining order is a court order that restricts a person's conduct to protect another person or group of people. Depending on the order, it may require someone to stay away, stop contacting another person, move out of a shared home, or give up firearms and ammunition. What Types of Restraining Orders...
Read moreCalifornia 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...
Read moreArrested 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...
Read moreWhat 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...
Read moreWhat 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...
Read moreCan 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...
Read moreArrested 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...
Read moreHow 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...
Read moreDuress 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...
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