Los Angeles Criminal Lawyer Blog

Many new criminal laws will be taking effect in 2011 that are certain to effect individuals throughout Los Angeles and all of California. If you are charged with any crime, it is best to contact an experienced Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer who understands the most current laws and will ensure you receive the best defense possible.

Below is a partial list of these laws:

• Medical Parole - Inmates who are permanently medically incapacitated may be paroled out of the state prison system to less costly medical facilities.

• Alternative Punishment - SB 1266 establishes an alternative punishment arrangement for woman, including those who are pregnant or primary caregivers of dependent children. The program uses electronic monitoring to supervise the inmates while they attend various rehabilitative classes such as parenting and vocational programs, or receive substance abuse treatment.

• Sex Crimes - Adoption of "Chelsea's Law" which increases the penalties for forcible sex acts against minors, as well as creating "safe zones" around parks and mandating lifetime parole for specific sex acts.

• Fraud/Harassment - Adoption of SB-1411 which makes it a misdemeanor to impersonate another on-line through a website, e-mail or social media.

• Drug Crimes - Possession of less than 28.5 grams of marijuana will now be considered an infraction, rather than a misdemeanor with a fine of no more than $100.

Continue reading "Los Angeles Criminal Law Changes For 2011" »

This year many Angelenos have something to cheer about - the Los Angeles murder rate is at its lowest in over 40 years. Despite predictions of increased crime due to economic hardship - such as theft and robbery - murder rates have dropped by some 75%. Although law enforcement is quick to take credit for the drop - asserting more effective crime-fighting methods and stricter sentences are the reason for the improved safety, experts throughout the Los Angeles area cite a different reason - the significant reduction in Los Angeles' drug epidemic.

Setting aside politics, the drop in murder rate is good news. Increased safety within the greater L.A. region is a step in the right direction. However, for those being investigated or facing charges of murder or other crimes, the stakes are becoming even higher. If you are facing any criminal charges, it is critical to contact an experienced Los Angeles criminal defense attorney. Your choice of attorney may substantially impact your future and your freedom.

Continue reading "Los Angeles Murder Rate Drops Significantly" »

The LAPD is seeking three suspects accused of robbery and attempted murder at a medical marijuana clinic. West Valley Area officers responded to calls of a shooting at the clinic. When they arrived, they found two people with multiple gun shot wounds. The individuals were treated and are in stable condition.

Detectives have released images of the suspects and is seeking help in solving this crime. If investigated for this crime, it is crucial to contact an experienced Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer. Robbery and attempted murder are serious felony charges. If convicted, they face potential jail time, fines and loss of significant liberties.

Continue reading "Three Suspects Sought In Northridge For Robbery And Attempted Murder" »

The Orange County Daily Pilot reports that the Los Angeles County district attorney has postponed the arraignment of the former Beverly Hills Unified School District Superintendent on felony charges of embezzlement.

During an arraignment, a defendant makes his or her first appearance in court. The court will formally advise you of the charges against you and your constitutional rights.

Here, the former superintendent is accused of giving another employee an unauthorized stipend of $20,000 and an increase in her car allowance. The employee is also accused of "misappropriation of funds." Misappropriation of funds or embezzlement, is punishable as either a felony or misdemeanor. Because the sum is over $400, it will be charged as a felony.

Continue reading "Beverly Hills School Superintendent To Be Charged With Embezzlement " »

The Los Angeles Times has released a video of a man and woman robbing a downtown jewelry store. The couple stole $8000 in cash. During the Los Angeles robbery, one of the suspects pulled out a gun and forced the jeweler to kneel on the floor. After initial resistance the jeweler turned the money over to the robbers.

The couple faces potentially serious charges. Robbery is considered a "strike" under California's "Three Strikes Law." Additionally, because a gun was used in this case, prosecutors may seek penalty enhancements, which may result in additional prison time.

Contacting an experienced Los Angeles criminal defense attorney at once is crucial if you are under investigation for a crime or have been charged or arrested. Skilled attorneys can point to potential holes in a prosecution's case and argue to get charges reduced or dismissed.

Continue reading "Los Angeles Armed Robbers Hit Jewelry Store" »

The Whittier Daily News reports that a suspect has been arrested in a "smash-and-grab" jewelry robbery that occurred at the Pico Rivera Indoor Swap Meet.

According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's department, the 18-year-old man was one of seven involved in the robbery, and was left behind by the other six who fled the scene. Police allege the men involved were part of a gang.

Robbery prosecutions depend heavily on the facts of the case. It is critical to contact a Los Angeles robbery defense attorney at once to challenge the evidence presented against you. An experienced defense attorney can raise questions about eye witness testimony and circumstantial evidence.

If convicted of this California crime, the young man could face potentially serious penalties, such as prison and receiving a "strike" under California's "Three Strikes" Law.

Further, the sentence may be enhanced if shown to be connected to gang activity.

Although this robbery has not been linked to other area robberies, similar "smash and grab" robberies have occurred in Pasadena, El Monte, Los Angeles, Glendale and Orange County. The smash and grabs take place with groups of men smashing open display cases with hammers and grabbing out jewelry, then fleeing in getaway cars.

Continue reading "Pico Rivera Jewelry Robbery Suspect Arrested" »

KTLA reports that seven Riverside County employees have been accused of stealing more that $500,000 from a fund for needy children. They have been charged with embezzlement, grand theft and fraud. Embezzlement is defined as the "fraudulent appropriation of property by a person to whom it has been entrusted." An embezzlement conviction requires proof that the defendant did not own the property.

Here, the District Attorney has alleged that the county workers diverted funds from the government to relatives and family members for several years. Prosecutors claim the money was then used to go on elaborate vacations. If convicted, the suspects face 5 to 7 years.

In many instances, charges of embezzlement can be explained by errors in accounting or inaccurate reporting. An experienced Los Angeles criminal defense attorney can analyze the facts of any alleged embezzlement scheme and determine possible defenses. In some cases, early intervention of an embezzlement defense lawyer can result in a civil compromise and avoid a criminal conviction and penalties.

Continue reading "Riverside County Employees Accused Of Embezzlement" »

According to Fox News Los Angeles, Hawthorne Mayor Larry Guidi has been bound over for trial on California theft charges.

Police allege that he stole a commercial food mixer and a cart from the Hawthorne School District where he worked as a warehouse operations manager. He is being charged with commercial burglary and grand theft. Theft is considered a felony where the value of the item(s) stolen is in excess of $400.

If you have been charged with a felony, the court will conduct a preliminary hearing to determine whether sufficient evidence exists to support the case against you. This threshold is much lower than the "beyond a reasonable doubt" standard set forth at trial. Although your attorney will have an opportunity to present your case at this time, he or she usually does not do so for strategic purposes.

Here, Mayor Guidi was bound over for trial.

Continue reading "Hawthorne Mayor Faces Theft Charges" »