Blog

How Long Can A Misdemeanor Or Felony Conviction Stay On Your California Record? Misdemeanor and felony convictions will essentially remain on your record forever unless you take some sort of steps to clean your record. Cleaning your record could require you to seek a reduction of your charges from a felony to a misdemeanor. In some cases, this might involve reducing a misdemeanor to an infraction pursuant to Penal Code Section 17. Also, cleaning your record could include expunging convictions from your record under Penal Code 1203.4. Additionally, if you were found factually innocent of the charges and the case was either never filed or dismissed, you can seek the…Read More

Can Law Enforcement In California Search Your Car For Drugs Without A Warrant? In California, law enforcement will need to obtain a warrant signed by a judge before they can search your car in most circumstances. There are exceptions to this general rule, such as if consent is given to the search or if law enforcement has probable cause to believe the vehicle contains contraband or evidence of a crime. Additionally, if the search was pursuant to an inventory search, which is typically when your car is towed, law enforcement will conduct a brief inventory search of the vehicle. These are some of the exceptions in which your vehicle may…Read More

In this article, you can discover… Whether Fish and Wildlife officers need a warrant to seize your fish. How to handle an officer who is attempting to confiscate your catch. The next legal steps if an officer seizes your catch or fishing equipment. Can A California Fish And Wildlife Officer Legally Seize My Fish Without A Warrant? The short answer to this is yes, as officers can seize any fish and wildlife they believe to have been taken illegally, as well as the equipment used to take them. No warrant is required for this, as individuals have a limited Fourth Amendment right when it comes to possession of file and…Read More

In this article, you can discover… What to say when accused of illegal fishing or hunting by law enforcement. How to protect your legal rights when charged with illegal fishing or hunting. Whether you have the right to record your interaction with law enforcement. What Are My Rights When Being Questioned By A California Fish And Wildlife Officer? When you are being questioned by law enforcement, including Fish and Wildlife officers, you have the right to remain silent and a right to an attorney. These are constitutional rights guaranteed by the Fifth and Sixth Amendments of the US Constitution. However, you don't have an absolute right to remain silent here.…Read More

Drug possession is one of the most frequently charged crimes in California. Yet, it remains one of the least understood, with many myths and misconceptions surrounding possession charges and how to defend against them. This article addresses some of the most common myths to provide clarity. Along the way, you’ll learn: Why first-time offenders, those not caught with drugs on their person, or even medical marijuana cardholders may still face serious legal consequences. Why it’s essential to take drug possession charges seriously, even for marijuana. Why drug diversion programs are not a guaranteed solution for avoiding a conviction. Myth #1: First-Time Drug Possession Offenders In California Always Avoid Jail Time…Read More

In this article, you can discover… How to select a qualified attorney when facing a Fish and Wildlife violation. The most important questions to ask an attorney during a consultation. The importance of clear communication as your case moves forward. What Qualifications Are Most Prominent When Looking For An Attorney In My Fish And Wildlife Violation Case? It is important to work with an attorney who has experience representing commercial fishermen. It is a requirement that your lawyer understands relevant laws and regulations in order to properly defend your case. You will also want to be sure that your attorney has experience with the proper jurisdiction and proceedings, as wildlife violations are…Read More

In this article, you can discover… How to begin negotiations with the Department of Fish and Wildlife. The factors that can result in penalty reductions. How an experienced attorney can help you obtain an optimal outcome. Can I Negotiate My Penalties Prior To My Hearing In California? It is possible that the Department of Fish and Wildlife will negotiate punishments or penalties in lieu of proceeding with the hearing. The truth is that hearings are expensive, and the Fish and Game Commission will appoint an Administrative Law Judge and work with attorneys who can end up pouring hundreds of hours into their cases. These hearings can also last a number…Read More

In this article, you can discover… How to avoid legal penalties as a commercial fisherman in California. The fines and penalties you may face for fishing without a license. How an attorney can help you navigate disputes with the State as a fisherman. What Are Some Common Reporting Mistakes Of Commercial Fishermen, And How Can Any Associated Penalties Be Avoided? In California, commercial fishers must maintain accurate reports for each fishing trip that will be submitted to the Department of Fish and Wildlife. The requirements for these reports can be rather technical, requiring uploads through the internet, which many fishermen are either unaware of or unprepared for. Fishermen are also…Read More

While many Californians may not realize the benefits of contesting a traffic ticket, doing so can make a significant difference. This article focuses on three common mistakes that can harm your chances of success, including: Failing to gather evidence or check the officer’s notes. The biggest mistake people make when contesting traffic tickets (hint: it’s not failing to pay the fine). An alternative method to reduce the impact of certain traffic ticket convictions. Mistake #1: Failing To Gather Evidence In traffic cases, conducting a thorough investigation before trial is crucial. Since traffic case timelines are often shorter than those in other criminal matters, you must act quickly. To strengthen your…Read More

In this article, you can discover… What to expect at your hearing with the Fish and Game Commission. The documents that you will need to provide. How the presence of an attorney can greatly help your case. What Expectations Should I Have For My Hearing With The Fish And Game Commission? In California, an administrative law judge who is employed by the Office of Administrative Hearings will generally be appointed by the Fish and Game Commission to preside over a hearing. Since the COVID pandemic, all hearings are being conducted remotely, and there is essentially no courtroom for these types of hearings. Your hearing date will be decided by all…Read More