Criminal Law

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....

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...

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,...

What Does “Motion for Discovery” Mean on a Court Docket?

August 21, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | Criminal Law

If you see a "motion for discovery" on a court docket, it generally means that one party has asked the court to address access to evidence or information relevant to the case. In a California criminal case, discovery can include police reports, witness information, recordings, photographs, test results, and other evidence. Discovery is an...

What Does “Disposed” Mean in a Criminal Case Status?

July 21, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | Criminal Law

If you've been checking the status of a criminal case online and noticed the word "disposed," you might be wondering what it actually means. It's one of the most misunderstood terms in the court system, and it often causes confusion for defendants and their families. Understanding what "disposed" really means can help you figure...

What Happens If You Violate Parole in San Jose

July 6, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | Criminal Law

Parole gives many people the opportunity to return to their communities after serving time in state prison, but that freedom comes with strict conditions. Failing to follow those conditions can lead to serious consequences, even if the violation is unrelated to a new criminal offense. California's parole system is designed to balance public safety...

Can I Shoot Someone in California Who Is Trying to Steal My Car?

May 6, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | Criminal Law

Having your car stolen is an infuriating experience, and it is natural to want to protect your property. However, before you consider using a firearm against a car thief in California, it is important to have a firm grasp on where the law draws the line. The short answer is that California law generally...

Is a Court-Appointed Attorney a Good Option?

April 9, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | Criminal Law

If you’ve been charged with a crime in California, one of the first questions you may face is whether to rely on a court-appointed attorney or hire private counsel. That decision can shape how your case is handled from the very beginning. Court-appointed lawyers are an essential part of the legal system, ensuring that...

What Criminal Offenses Are Deportable in California?

March 18, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | Criminal Law

If you are a non-citizen living in California, a criminal conviction can do more than just land you in jail. Depending on the charge in question and the facts of your case, it could also lead to deportation. Knowing which crimes carry immigration consequences is important to know in advance, as even a minor...

What Is a Hung Jury?

March 9, 2026 | Nafiz M. Ahmed | Criminal Law

A hung jury occurs when the jurors in a criminal case cannot reach a verdict. In California, the law requires that verdicts in criminal trials must be unanimous, meaning every single juror must agree to convict or acquit the defendant. If the jurors cannot unanimously agree on a verdict, the jury may become deadlocked...