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How Do “Smart Start” Interlock Devices Work?

DUI charges often include more than just legal penalties. An individual’s driving privileges might be suspended or revoked, and before they can drive again, they might have an ignition interlock device (IID) installed in their car. The Smart Start interlock device is one of the most common of these instruments. What Is a Smart...

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What Is a California Protective Order?

Courts use protective orders in criminal domestic violence cases to prevent the defendant from contacting the accuser in any form whatsoever. California has several different types of protective orders. Below is a listing of them. Other states, such as Michigan, use Domestic Abuse No Contact Orders, known as DANCOs, to accomplish a similar purpose....

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Miranda Rights: What Happens If the Police Don’t Read You Your Rights

Many people believe that if the police don't read their rights to them when they arrest them, the whole case must be thrown out. This is absolutely not the case, and it's important for the defendant to understand what Miranda rights really are. What Are Miranda Rights? The first thing to understand is what...

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Are Police Scanners Legal in California?

Police scanners are legal in California, but you can be charged with a crime if you use the scanner for specific reasons. Before you purchase or use a police scanner, it is important to understand California police scanner laws. Violating these laws could result in criminal penalties. What Is a Police Scanner? A scanner...

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5 Easiest Ways To Get Your Criminal Case Dismissed

A complete dismissal of all criminal charges is the best outcome in any case. While this isn’t an option for every client, a strong criminal defense attorney will always pursue dismissal as the first line of defense. If the prosecutor agrees to dismiss your case, it means that they don’t want to pursue criminal...

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What Are Your Choices? What To Do After Getting Your First DUI

If you're dealing with the aftermath of receiving your first DUI charge, it's crucial to understand the choices available to you. Understanding your options as a defendant after a DUI arrest can help you make informed decisions that can significantly influence the outcome of your case.  Immediate Steps To Take After a DUI Arrest...

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Why Is There No Statute of Limitations for Murder in California?

Statutes of limitations in the criminal justice system set maximum time periods within which legal proceedings must be initiated after an alleged crime. These laws are designed to ensure that prosecutions occur while evidence is fresh and witness recollections are reliable. This protects individuals from facing perpetual uncertainty regarding potential charges. Murder, however, is...

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California Gun Laws

If you find yourself potentially facing charges related to California's gun laws–or even if you just live in or are visiting California–it’s crucial to understand the serious and complex nature of these regulations. California has some of the strictest gun laws in the United States, governing who can own firearms, how they’re purchased, and...

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What You Need To Know About Expungement in California

Expungement is a legal process that allows defendants to have their criminal records cleared. This offers a fresh start and an opportunity to move forward without the lingering effects of a past conviction. In California, expungement is governed by specific statutes and court procedures. Understanding these regulations is crucial for anyone seeking to clear...

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What Are the Safest Neighborhoods in San Jose, CA?

As a city, San Jose is already one of California’s safest. According to the San Jose Police Department, the violent crime rate per 100,000 people is 516.8, which is less than half of what the residents of some of the nation’s largest and most dangerous cities experience. Still, San Jose is home to a...

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