There’s often great debate about whether or not police officers are legally allowed to search your car, and if so, exactly what circumstances warrant it. While you may think you’re safe from a vehicle investigation as long as the police officer doesn’t have a warrant, the laws surrounding this issue are confusing and sometimes ambiguous. In fact, it’s not as uncommon as you might think for a police officer to search a vehicle without a warrant, as there are several exceptions and loopholes that allow officers to do so.

Generally, the Fourth Amendment safeguards against unlawful search and seizure, which makes random police car searches illegal. If you’ve been the subject of one of these searches and think your rights have been violated, it’s essential that you get in touch with a Santa Barbara criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Police searches are a serious matter, and your attorney may be able to review the evidence in your case and help you determine whether to file a motion to suppress illegally obtained evidence.

When Can Police Search My Car Without Permission in California: Examining the Rules

Under California law, the police always have the right to search a car if they have a lawful search warrant. A warrant is valid if it’s signed by a judge, based on probable cause, and specifically describes the vehicle being searched. Absent a warrant, however, you may wonder when the police are allowed to search your vehicle. Consider the following exceptions:

You Grant the Police Permission to Search Your Car

If a law enforcement officer doesn’t have a warrant, they may ask for your permission to search the vehicle. If you provide consent to a search without a warrant, anything found or recovered from within the vehicle may be used as evidence in court and may be used against you. Note that consent is only valid if given freely. It’s illegal for the police to force or coerce a driver to consent to search the car in any way. Most criminal defense attorneys advise against giving consent to a search without a warrant.

The Police Have Probable Cause to Search Your Car

Although a car is still an individual’s personal property, a car isn’t as protected against searches as a home would be. The Fourth Amendment protects citizens from unlawful searches and seizures, but there are exceptions under California law. Within the search warrant requirement, there’s an automobile exception that permits authorities to search a person’s vehicle if they have probable cause to search. Probable cause is established when the police find enough evidence that a reasonable person would believe a crime has been, is being, or will be committed. So, police can search your car without a warrant.

You’re Arrested, or Your Vehicle is Impounded

Another instance in which a police officer can search your car without a warrant is if you are arrested. If the police arrest you, they may also search your vehicle. This is called a “search incident to arrest.” Likewise, the police may search your vehicle if it’s impounded, which is called an inventory search. Anything inside the vehicle may be inventoried and used against you in court.

Something Illegal is in Plain View

Even if a police officer pulls a person over for a broken taillight, they have the right to seize an item and make an arrest if there’s an illegal item or contraband in plain view. For instance, if a bag of cocaine is sitting visibly in the passenger seat, the police have the right to a more invasive search of the car. Likewise, the plain view includes a plain smell. So, if an officer gets a whiff of marijuana or alcohol when you roll down the window, you may expect an extended stop.

What’s Classified as Probable Cause for a Vehicle Search?

Authorities have the right to legally search a car if they have probable cause that there’s evidence of a law being broken in the vehicle. Probable cause means that the police know specific facts, and these facts would justify the issuance of a warrant to search the car. For instance, probable cause may be based on reliable information that the car contains evidence of breaking the law, facts that the police personally observe or smell, and suspicious acts by the driver of the car or any passengers in the car.

Without probable cause, any evidence obtained may be considered the result of an unlawful search and could be inadmissible in court.

Understanding Probable Cause vs. Reasonable Suspicion in Vehicle Searches

In law enforcement and search procedures, the terms “probable cause” and “reasonable suspicion” hold significant weight, particularly concerning vehicle searches. But what exactly is the difference between these two legal standards? Understanding these standards is crucial, as they determine the legality of warrantless searches.

Probable Cause

Probable cause refers to the level of belief that a crime has been committed or is being committed and that evidence of the crime can be found in a particular location. In the context of car searches, probable cause means that an officer with sufficient facts or incriminating evidence to believe that a search will uncover evidence of a crime. This evidence must be more than just a mere suspicion or hunch—it should be based on specific facts, circumstances, or observations that would lead a reasonable person to believe that a law violation has occurred or is occurring. Probable cause is essential for a lawful police search of your vehicle.

Reasonable Suspicion

Reasonable suspicion, on the other hand, is a lower standard of proof than probable cause. It refers to the belief that a person may be engaged in criminal activity based on specific facts or circumstances. In terms of car searches, reasonable suspicion may arise from observations such as erratic driving behavior, visible contraband, or other suspicious behavior that gives rise to a justifiable suspicion of criminal wrongdoing. While reasonable suspicion is enough to justify a brief investigatory stop or detention, it is generally not sufficient to authorize a full vehicle search without consent or another legal basis. Police may also conduct a brief stop for their own safety if they suspect criminal activity.

Contact an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer at The Aron Law Firm

Defeating an improper search is often complicated, and failing to do so may mean jail time, fines, or other serious consequences. Fortunately, help is right around the corner. If you’ve been stopped by the police and have questions about your rights or need a defense strategy, contact the Santa Barbara criminal defense lawyers at Aron Law Firm today. Our legal team is well-versed in California search warrant defense laws and may help you avoid the consequences that stem from a conviction. If you have questions about a police search of your car, contact our experienced legal team.

At the Aron Law Firm, we have experience helping clients with a variety of criminal charges. We want to make the legal process as straightforward as possible. To speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney, schedule a consultation by calling (805) 618-1768 or completing our online contact form today.

In California, those convicted of sex crimes are subject to stringent rules under California law designed to monitor and manage their integration back into society. These rules, shaped by legislative acts such as Senate Bill (SB) 384, aim to categorize offenders into a tier system, dictating the duration and specifics of their registration requirements. Understanding these rules provides insight into the balance California seeks to strike between public safety and rehabilitation opportunities for offenders.

If you have been accused of illegal sexual behavior and you’re worried about being forced to become a registered sex offender, not all hope is lost. An attorney from Aron Law Firm can support you in many ways throughout this difficult time, reducing the severity of penalties and consequences related to your accusations. We encourage you to retain our support and get in touch with us as soon as possible to begin fighting for and protecting your rights.

Do I Have to Become a Registered Sex Offender?

Registered sex offenders are subjected to strict regulations in California. Because of this, convicted sex offenders are banned from partaking in some activities, holding particular jobs, and living in certain places.

However, you do not need to face the full severity of penalties just because you have been accused of being a sex offender. A sex crime lawyer from Aron Law Firm can support you in this difficult time and fight the accusation that you are a sex offender.

Being suspected of a sex crime in California is a serious matter that should never be taken lightly. Even if the accusations are completely false, now is the time to contact a criminal defense attorney, as you could still face severe, lifelong penalties if convicted.

When you partner with an Aron Law Firm sex crime lawyer, we will create a solid defense strategy for your case. Please contact us if you want to protect your rights and avoid unnecessary penalties and restrictions related to being a registered sex offender.

What Rules Do Sex Offenders in California Have to Follow?

Few criminal charges can upturn your life and destroy your reputation, like a sexual offense. Convictions for these types of crimes not only come with tough social stigmas but legal regulations as well. Additionally, sex offender residency restrictions dictate where convicted sex offenders can live, often prohibiting them from residing near schools or parks.

Sex Offenders in California Must Publicly Register Online

Under California Penal Code 290 and Megan’s Law, anyone convicted of a sex crime in the state must register themselves on the California Megan’s Law Website, where their information (including their name, photo, and other identifying information) will remain for many years, depending on the conviction.

According to California Senate Bill (SB) 384:

• A Tier 1 sex offender must maintain their registration for a minimum of 10 years.
• A Tier 2 sex offender must maintain their registration for a minimum of 20 years.
• A Tier 3 sex offender must maintain their registration for life.

Sex offender registration information must be updated with the local authorities every year or any time the offender moves to a new address. Those deemed “sexually violent” must update their information every 90 days.

California Sex Offenders Must Disclose Their Status When Working with Children

Registered sex offenders in California who receive or apply for a paid or volunteer position that entails working directly with minor children must disclose their sex offender information to the organization or employer at the time of their application or acceptance of the position.

However, if any sex crimes convictions involved a minor under the age of 16, they are prohibited from applying for or accepting a position that entails working directly with a minor.

Sex Offenders Are Restricted on Where They May Live

In general, registered sex offenders are restricted from places where children tend to congregate. Living or working within 1,000 feet of a school or park is prohibited for most California sex offenders.

Registered sex offenders, in addition to disclosing where they frequent and reside, are also subject to this limitation as well. Violating this offense as a sex offender may come with penalties, including up to a year in county jail and fines of up to $1,000, and the local law enforcement agency is responsible for enforcing these restrictions.

How Can an Attorney Support You in Your Legal Battles Related to Sex Offenses?

If you have been subjected to any sex offenses and want to avoid the negative aspects of sex offender registration law, you do not have to face legal matters alone. While the California penal code can be harsh, we can support you.

Rather than fighting to represent yourself alone, we recommend you work with an attorney instead. A lawyer from Aron Law Firm can support you in many ways throughout the process, including but not limited to the following:

• Conduct an independent investigation
• Negotiate with every party
• Prepare your case for court
• Collect evidence
• Consult with experts
• Assure that all documents are filed correctly and in a timely manner
• Communicate with the other parties on your behalf
• Organize and present the evidence
• Access research methods and tools only available to legal professionals
• Quicker delivery of documents from any local law enforcement agencies
• An understanding of the legal system and how to make it work for you
• Interview witnesses
• Help formulate a plea
• Evaluate potential sentences
• Review search and seizure procedures

We encourage you to refrain from representing yourself during these legal matters. If you represent yourself, you may face many unnecessary consequences that not all people convicted of sexual offenses should. To reduce the odds of residency restrictions, joining a sex registry, lifetime registration, and other consequences associated with severe sex crimes and expansive criminal history, please contact us.

A lawyer from Aron Law Firm can support you in many ways, with many different kinds of cases.

What Kinds of Sex Offender Cases Does Aron Law Firm Handle?

We handle sexual offense cases involving indecent exposure, sexual battery, unlawful sexual intercourse, misdemeanor sex offenses, child pornography, continuous sexual abuse, lewd acts, gang rape, a habitual sex offender, aggravated sexual assault, oral copulation, and many more.

We may be able to help certain low-risk offenders, average-risk sex offenders, transient offenders, and high-risk offenders as well. We can also handle claims involving Megan’s law or Jessica’s law. Some of these may be determined on a case-by-case basis, and there is potential that certain sex offenders will have their statuses reduced to be less severe. Please contact us if you wish to avoid joining the California sex offender registry, and we will do our best to support you.

Do Not Risk a Sex Offense Conviction in California Without a Criminal Defense Attorney

Spending time behind bars, hefty fines, and other harsh sex offender regulations are high-stakes penalties that you should not risk by trying to fight your case alone. If you were arrested for a sexual offense in California, attain the help of a qualified Aron Law Firm criminal defense lawyer. We may be able to reduce your odds of having to add yourself to a sex offender registry. Our team will support you during your case by helping you understand your legal options, what to expect during the process, and building a strong defense to safeguard your interests.

You do not have to take an accusation of a sex offense without a fight. We have a track record of bringing positive results to many individuals who have been accused of crimes of all kinds. When you retain our support, you can gain invaluable support from a criminal defense attorney who can simplify the process. Call us at (805) 618-1768 or complete our contact form to discuss your sex crime case with our team today.

Proposition 21 of ‘The Juvenile Justice System Initiative’ is No Longer Upheld

For over a decade, 14- to 17-year-olds could face adult charges in the state of California through Proposition 21 of “The Juvenile Justice Initiative.” The minimum age at which juveniles could be tried as adults under Proposition 21 was 14, but recent changes have aimed to address concerns about this practice. However, in February 2021, a unanimous decision by the California Supreme Court put an end to the harsh measures, which led to overcrowded prisons and developmental issues for juvenile offenders.

Why Are Some Minors No Longer Tried as an Adult?

The law allowed minors to face adult consequences for crimes and possibly transfer a 14- to 17-year-old into an adult criminal court. The public perception that juvenile crime is on the rise influenced these laws, leading to a trend among states to lower the minimum age of eligibility for waiver into adult court. Many found that these laws were too harsh and led to significant social, developmental, and economic problems for the minors charged as adults.

What Has the California Supreme Court Changed?

The new change makes it so 14-year-olds and 15-year-olds cannot be charged as adults for most crimes. However, the severity of the crime can still determine whether a young minor is charged as an adult.

Regardless of the crime, minors facing criminal charges can encounter severe consequences that affect the rest of their life. If your child is being charged with a crime, speak with a juvenile defense lawyer to determine the best possible options for your case.

When Can Juveniles Be Tried As Adults in California?

Generally, most minors are arrested for smaller crimes and don’t face the same punishments for their actions. Most California juvenile cases often adjudicate as delinquency matters in juvenile court, and minors encounter rehabilitation instead of punishments.

California allows 16- to 17-year-olds to be tried as adults in California in the California Superior Court through the following procedures:

• Filing a fitness hearing
• Filing directly in an adult criminal court at the prosecutor’s discretion
• Through certain predetermined aggravated offenses that allow for an automatic trial

However, not all minors 16 or older will be punished through the adult criminal justice system, as this is typically required only for the most severe crimes. Depending on the circumstances, you may still be tried within the juvenile justice system instead of in adult court. Serving sentences in adult jail or prison lacks the rehabilitative programs available in juvenile detention centers and carries an increased stigma.

We encourage you to work with a juvenile defense attorney if you want to avoid being tried as an adult in adult criminal court. An experienced lawyer from Aron Law Firm can support you, helping you avoid adult jail, life imprisonment, more severe sentences, and other negative penalties for certain crimes.

When Can Children Under 16 Be Tried as an Adult?

Even while California’s law now prohibits children under 16 from being prosecuted as adults, some situations can lead to an adult trial. The following are some crimes that a minor can still encounter adult charges according to the California Welfare & Institutions Code Section 707(b):

• Murder
• Certain sex crimes
• Kidnapping
• Assault with a firearm or destructive device
• Torture
• Voluntary manslaughter

If your child is facing harsh legal consequences, contact a juvenile defense lawyer as soon as possible. Every case is unique and requires extensive amounts of evidence and documentation. With the help of an experienced lawyer, you’ll have someone on your side to guide you through the process.

In the best-case scenario, Aron Law Firm can help reduce the severity of any penalties you would face in adult criminal court, meaning you can receive a lighter sentence. In many cases, we can help ensure you are only penalized within the juvenile system and are not tried as an adult.

We know an adult correctional facility can be too harsh or overbearing for a juvenile defendant, so we will fight on your behalf through the legal process. In comparison, juvenile courts and juvenile records are much more likely to handle a juvenile’s case more fairly, especially in comparison to the adult criminal justice system. If you are facing charges and any California state laws put you at risk of severe penalties, feel free to contact Aron Law Firm.

What Is A Juvenile Court Fitness Hearing?

Fitness hearings are legal proceedings that decide whether juveniles who have committed a serious crime can amend themselves through rehabilitation programs and other youth services. If they are deemed “unfit” for rehabilitation or educational consequences within the juvenile justice system, they can be charged as adults.

When filing a fitness petition, a prosecutor can request a hearing as well. Once in the hearing, a juvenile court judge will determine whether the minor is fit for juvenile rehabilitation consequences by evaluating the following:

• Prior delinquent history, including whether the minor is a repeat offender
• Degree of criminal sophistication and intent, including felony offenses, whether it was a violent crime, and whether there are issues relating to impulse control
• Expiration of the juvenile court’s jurisdiction for the minor
• The success of previous rehabilitation attempts
• Circumstances and severity of the alleged offenses

Other factors may also impact a court’s decision. Suppose the California judge decides that the juvenile offender is unlikely to change from rehabilitation by the juvenile delinquency court. In that case, their case will be transferred to adult court, and the minor can face traditional prosecution and consequences.

Contact a Dependable California Juvenile Defense Lawyer at Aron Law Firm

Everyone makes mistakes, but sometimes, they have harsher consequences than our children imagine. When your child faces severe punishment and the possibility of adult charges, their freedoms, future, and life are at risk. The juvenile justice system is far less likely to have a negative impact on your child’s life than adult court. It’s essential that you speak with an experienced juvenile defense lawyer. Our lawyers at Aron Law Firm have years of experience protecting our clients from severe legal penalties.

We understand that every case is unique and will provide you with legal services tailored to your case and needs. With our resources and tools, you can count on our team for representation you can trust. Call (805) 618-1768  or fill out our contact form to learn how our Santa Barbara criminal defense lawyers can help you.

As if a DUI arrest isn’t enough trouble, many California DUI defendants also have to worry about the effect the DUI may have on their auto insurance rates. Your insurance company will likely raise your premium about 20 to 30 percent for a period of time after you’re convicted of DUI. An auto insurance agent can help you find the best car insurance options after a DUI. The exact rate depends on several factors, including your age, BAC level, whether the DUI caused bodily injury or property damage, and whether the DUI was your first.

Here’s the good news: according to California law, your auto insurance company can’t cancel a policy or raise premiums midterm. This means that even if you’re convicted of a DUI, your auto insurance provider must wait until the end of your policy’s term to cancel or raise rates. Unfortunately, however, once your auto insurance policy does end, a drunk driving conviction almost always leads to a higher car insurance rate.

If you’ve been arrested for driving under the influence in California and are worried about your insurance premiums increasing, among other associated penalties, contact the experts at The Aron Law Firm for help protecting your legal rights.

How a DUI Conviction Affects California Car Insurance Rates

When an insurer is considering selling or renewing an insurance policy, they typically pull two sets of records: the driver’s DMV driving record and their California criminal record.

Insurers decide whether to insure someone—and, if so, at what cost—based on their assessment of the risk the driver poses. Following this line of logic, car insurance companies consider drivers who have a DUI on their record as high-risk. As a result, prices increase for these individuals. It is crucial to compare car insurance premiums to find the best rates available.

The exact rate at which your premiums may increase depends on a number of factors. Again, it’s illegal for insurance companies to adjust your policy before it comes up for renewal. For example, if you get a DUI and you still have eight months left on your policy, your rate is fixed for those eight months.

California law requires that a DUI conviction remain on your driving record for ten years. If you were enjoying some special privileges from the insurance company before the conviction, such as safe driver discounts, these may disappear once your insurance company discovers that you’ve been involved with a DUI at the start of your new coverage. Fortunately, rates typically start to drop three to five years from the date of the DUI and may return to normal after seven to ten years. It is essential to look for the best auto insurance options after a DUI to ensure you are getting the most affordable rates.

Do You Have to Report a DUI Arrest to Your Car Insurance Company?

There’s no legal requirement that says a driver has to notify their auto insurance carrier of a driving under the influence offense. This rule applies equally to DUI arrests, DUI convictions, and DMV administrative driver’s license suspensions. However, insurance policies do require drivers to notify their insurers if they were involved in an accident. This means that drivers must notify their insurance company of a DUI offense if it involves an accident.

What Is an SR-22 and How Does It Relate to Car Insurance after a DUI?

Even though drivers are under no legal obligation to inform their insurance provider of a drunk driving offense, insurance providers typically learn of an offense after running a background check when a driver’s existing policy comes up for renewal or if the driver requests an SR-22 certificate. Finding affordable car insurance in California after a DUI can be particularly challenging due to the increased risk factors associated with such convictions.

An SR-22 is a document—formally known as a “California Insurance Proof Certificate”—that your insurer files with the California Department of Motor Vehicles. While some people call it “SR-22 insurance,” this does not refer to an insurance policy but rather your insurer’s guarantee that you have at least minimum coverage insurance. If you do need an SR-22, there’s no way to avoid it: you

Contact an Experienced Santa Barbara DUI Lawyer at The Aron Law Firm

If you are facing a DUI charge near Santa Barbara and wish to avoid an increased insurance rate, speak with a trusted DUI defense attorney as soon as possible. For questions about how a conviction may affect your insurance policy or to discuss DUI defense strategies with one of our California criminal defense lawyers, contact The Aron Law Firm today. Our expert attorneys are dedicated to protecting your rights by investigating your case in detail and building a robust defense. Our legal team is well-versed in DUI defense law and may help you avoid the consequences that stem from this offense.

At The Aron Law Firm, we have experience protecting clients from a wide variety of criminal charges. We take a client-centered approach that aims to make the legal process as painless as possible. To speak with a DUI defense attorney, schedule a consultation by calling (805) 618-1768 or completing our online contact form today.

In the state of California, under California law, it’s illegal for someone 18 or older to have sex with someone younger than 18, even if the sex is consensual. This is considered statutory rape under state law. However, if you’ve been accused of this crime, you may be wondering if the law still applies if the alleged victim turns 18 while the statutory rape investigation is pending or if they don’t report the crime until they’re 19 or 20. While most cases may still be pursued after the victim turns 18, the answer depends on the statute of limitations that pertains to your case.

Statutory rape cases have a statute of limitations in California, which sets the maximum time for parties involved in the dispute to initiate legal proceedings. In short, the statute of limitations for statutory rape in California is either one year or three years, depending on the circumstances of the case, the age of the victim, and the age difference between the victim and defendant. Here’s what you need to know.

What is Statutory Rape?

According to California Penal Code (CPC) §261.5, statutory rape is defined by the following terms:

“Unlawful sexual intercourse is an act of sexual intercourse accomplished with a person who is not the spouse of the perpetrator if the person is a minor. For the purposes of this section, a “minor” is a person under the age of 18 years, and an “adult” is a person who is at least 18 years of age.”

The age of consent in California is 18, meaning individuals under this age are legally incapable of consenting to sexual intercourse.

Statutory rape laws are based on the assumption that minors are incapable of giving informed consent to sexual activities. The following elements, which must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt, must be true:

• The defendant and alleged victim had sexual intercourse
• The alleged victim was under 18 years of age at the time of the incident
• The defendant and alleged victim weren’t married at the time of the incident

It’s important to note that, for the purpose of the statute, a person becomes one year older when the first minute of their birthday has begun.

Understanding the Statute of Limitations for Statutory Rape in California

The statute of limitations for statutory rape under California statutory rape law is either one year or three years, depending on if the charge is a misdemeanor or felony. For misdemeanor charges, it must be filed within one year. For felony charges, it must be filed within three years. This means that the case may be pursued even if the alleged victim turned 18 while the statutory rape investigation is pending, as long as it’s within that one or three-year period. However, if it’s not filed within this timeframe, the charge may be dismissed.

Here’s a breakdown of misdemeanor and felony charges for statutory rape in California:

Misdemeanor Statutory Rape Charges

In California, statutory rape is considered a misdemeanor if the intercourse was with a minor who is less than three years younger. Suppose the minor was more than three years younger. In that case, it’s considered a “wobbler,” meaning that the charge may be prosecuted either as a felony or misdemeanor, depending on the prosecutor’s discretion. The factors that will help them make this decision include the following:

• The severity of the crime
• Prior offenses
• Level of cooperation with law enforcement
• Likelihood of continued criminal activity
• The defendant’s age
• The strength of the prosecutor’s case
• Eligibility for probation

If convicted of misdemeanor statutory rape, the defendant may face up to one year in county jail.

Remember that the statute of limitations for misdemeanor statutory rape cases is one year.

Felony Statutory Rape Charges that Require Sex Offender Registration

Statutory rape may be charged as a felony if the minor was under 16 and you were at least 21 at the time of the incident or the minor is at least three years younger than you were. These are also wobblers, meaning it’s up to the prosecutor’s judgment whether to pursue a felony or misdemeanor charge. If convicted of statutory rape as a felony, the defendant may face more severe penalties, including longer imprisonment terms. If charged as a felony, the statute of limitations is three years.

Contact a Top California Statutory Rape Defense Lawyer at The Aron Law Firm

If you’ve been arrested for statutory rape and have additional questions about the statute of limitations, penalties, or anything else pertaining to your case, it’s important that you get in touch with the experienced lawyers at the Aron Law Firm. Navigating California’s criminal justice system can be complex, and having an experienced lawyer by your side is crucial. Our best-in-class team of lawyers is dedicated to helping you defend your rights and protect your future. We’ll investigate your case in detail, build a strong defense, and remain by your side throughout the legal process.

At the Aron Law Firm, we have years of experience helping protect clients from a variety of criminal charges, including statutory rape. We’re committed to dedicating our full attention and care to each and every one of our clients. To talk with a high-level criminal defense attorney, schedule a consultation by calling (805) 618-1768 or completing our contact form.

In the United States, domestic violence hotlines receive over 19,000 calls nationwide reporting domestic crimes on a typical day. Actual domestic violence cases are not a foreign topic in California. However, many instances of false domestic violence accusations may result in a misdemeanor charge for the Californian accuser. People use false allegations to leverage a benefit in custody battles, revenge plots, misunderstandings, or other intents. Facing false accusations can be terrifying, but a skilled lawyer may be able to build a strong defense and prove your innocence. 

Being wrongfully accused of a crime, particularly in domestic violence cases, causes varying damages for the individual, such as penalties and challenges in their daily life. At Aron Law Firm, if you are wrongfully accused of a crime, our legal team works to prevent a wrongful conviction and acts fast to limit the adverse effects of false accusations on your life. 

Is Lying About Domestic Violence a Crime in California?

Creating a false police report in California has consequences upon discovering an accuser’s lie. If an accuser makes a false statement by knowingly accusing someone of a crime, it may lead to their own guilty verdict and a misdemeanor on their record. Making false allegations against someone may also result in a lawsuit for slander, and lying under oath in a courtroom may lead the accuser to be penalized for committing perjury. 

Under California law statute 148.5:

“…Every person who reports to any peace officer listed in Section 830.1 or 830.2, or subdivision (a) of Section 830.33, the Attorney General, or a deputy attorney general, or a district attorney, or a deputy district attorney that a felony or misdemeanor has been committed, knowing the report to be false, is guilty of a misdemeanor…”

Being a victim of false accusations is not uncommon. Unfortunately, many people face trouble with the law from bad relationships, custody battles, and other situations that provoke people to retaliate against another person. Domestic violence accusations are taken seriously, but if you have been falsely accused, a skilled California criminal defense lawyer can partner with you in your journey to be proven innocent. 

How Will My Lawyer Defend Me if I am Falsely Accused of Domestic Violence?

The penalties for domestic violence convictions often vary between misdemeanor and felony charges, depending on the circumstances. Domestic violence accusations are not taken lightly, and law enforcement takes action to dissipate any violent situations when they arise. Cases of untrue claims against an individual may result in a wrongful conviction.

Defenses you may have in a false accusation case include:

• The accuser uses false claims to leverage an advantage or favorable outcome on their side of a divorce, separation, or child custody case.
• The accuser is motivated by revenge to make false domestic violence allegations and intentionally harm or retaliate against you.
• You were not the perpetrator of violence and may have been the victim.
• You did not commit any violent physical or verbal acts towards another person.

If you face legal trouble because of false accusations of domestic violence, a skilled lawyer will help you gather evidence and refute the wrongful testimony used against you. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the incident, there may be different reasons false allegations are made. After an arrest, practicing your right to remain silent, speak with a lawyer, and obtain legal representation immediately is essential. The sooner we get a hold of your case, the faster we will review the details and take action. At Aron Law Firm, our legal team works diligently to refute any false statements, witnesses, evidence, and other pertinent details in a case. An experienced criminal defense attorney is crucial to protecting your rights and best interests.

What Evidence Do You Need if You Are Wrongfully Accused of Domestic Violence?

Being wrongfully accused of domestic violence is a serious and stressful situation that can have significant legal, personal, and social consequences. To defend yourself effectively, gathering and presenting the right evidence is crucial. Here’s a detailed guide on the types of evidence that can help prove your innocence if you are facing such accusations.

Physical Evidence

Physical evidence can be critical in disproving false allegations of domestic violence. This type of evidence includes:

• Photographs and Videos: Any visual evidence showing the condition of both you and the alleged victim before, during, or after the alleged incident can be crucial. Photos of injuries, or the lack thereof, can help establish the truth.
• Medical Records: Documentation from healthcare providers can demonstrate that the alleged victim did not seek medical treatment for injuries consistent with their claims or that you have no injuries consistent with being the aggressor.
• Damage Reports: Reports of property damage or lack thereof can also support your case. If the alleged victim claims the property was destroyed, evidence that no such damage occurred can be beneficial.

Being wrongfully accused of domestic violence is a serious matter that requires a well-prepared defense. Collecting comprehensive evidence is crucial for demonstrating your innocence. 

Witness Testimonies

Witnesses who can testify to your behavior and character, as well as the events in question, can be pivotal in your defense:

• Eyewitnesses: Neighbors, friends, or family members who were present during the alleged incident and can attest to what actually happened.
• Character Witnesses: People who can speak to your general behavior, personality, and past interactions, providing a broader context that counters the allegations.
• Professional Witnesses: If applicable, therapists, counselors, or other professionals who can testify to your non-violent behavior and history.

An attorney works on your behalf to obtain the best possible witness statements for your case.

Communication Records

Records of communication between you and the alleged victim can provide context and evidence that may contradict their claims:

• Text Messages and Emails: Conversations that show no signs of conflict, threats, or abuse can be helpful. Conversely, messages that reveal a motive for false allegations, such as a custody battle or personal vendetta, can also be crucial.
• Social Media Posts: Posts, comments, or messages on social media platforms that contradict the alleged victim’s claims or show normal, non-violent interactions.
• Phone Records: Call logs and voicemail messages that can provide a timeline of events and indicate the nature of communications between you and the alleged victim.

False imprisonment is a serious issue, which is why it’s crucial to have an attorney who is as determined as you are to prove your innocence. 

Alibi Evidence

Establishing an alibi can be one of the most effective ways to prove your innocence:

• Receipts and Financial Records: Proof of transactions that place you away from the scene of the alleged incident at the time it occurred.
• GPS Data: Location data from your phone or car that shows you were not present at the time of the alleged incident.
• Witnesses: Individuals who can testify that you were with them at the time the alleged incident took place.

Fake allegations can have a serious impact on someone’s life. Having a strong attorney at your side means you have the best chance of obtaining a fair outcome for your case. 

Surveillance Footage

If available, video footage from security cameras, nearby businesses, or street cameras can provide objective evidence of your whereabouts and actions during the time of the alleged incident. This type of evidence can be particularly compelling in court.

Legal Documents

Certain legal documents can also be instrumental in your defense:

• Protection Orders: Any existing protection orders, their terms, and your compliance with them.
• Custody Agreements: Documents related to custody or divorce proceedings that might provide context for why false allegations could be made.

Working closely with an experienced attorney can help ensure that all pertinent evidence is gathered and presented effectively in court. By meticulously building your case, you can better protect your rights and work towards clearing your name of false accusations.

Call Aron Law Firm for a Skilled Criminal Defense Lawyer to Represent You in a Domestic Violence Case

If you are falsely accused of domestic violence, speak with an experienced lawyer as soon as possible to initiate a plan of action for a better outcome. Attempting to handle these cases alone, especially as the accused in a criminal case, may leave you with few options against the prosecution. Facing a false accusation can be terrifying, feeling like your accuser’s story will be believed over yourself. Fortunately, the legal process is innocent until proven guilty.  

At Aron Law Firm, we understand that every case of false domestic violence allegations is unique. We listen to your experience to evaluate the next best course of action for a better future. Our domestic violence lawyer understands California law and may present skilled defense strategies and legal resources, resulting in reduced or lessened charges. To put your best foot forward and take action to secure your innocence, complete a contact form or call our office at (805) 618-1768.

We all know that when police officers have a search warrant, they are given a free pass to examine your vehicle without permission. However, there has long been discussion in popular culture about whether or not law enforcement officials are allowed to search the confines of your car without a search warrant. After all, the laws surrounding vehicle searches are confusing and ambiguous and carry several exceptions. When a police officer pulls you over, it can be a scary situation, making it challenging to think or act clearly. While it is commonly believed that police must always have a valid search warrant to search your car, the truth is more nuanced. In general, the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects individuals from unreasonable searches by police officers, which means that with a few notable exclusions, you can refuse a police search of your vehicle. It is important to understand your rights when the police stop you to protect your constitutional right to be protected against an unlawful search.

While a police officer cannot legally rummage through your car at first glance, there are a few exceptions, including if the police have probable cause, you permit them, you are arrested, or something illegal is in plain view. If you think you have been the subject of an illegal police search and believe your rights have been violated, it is crucial that you get in touch with an experienced Santa Barbara criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Police searches should be to help uphold the law.

What You Need to Know About Refusing a Vehicle Search

If you are stopped in your vehicle by a police officer, it is essential to know your rights. One of the foremost privileges provided to you by the Fourth Amendment states that you can decline if asked for a vehicle search. As long as the officer does not possess a warrant and you are not under arrest, you can tell the officer that you do not consent to a search. 

However, it is important that you do not do so aggressively and that you do not overstep your rights when talking with the police. Politely but firmly say, “I do not consent to a search of my vehicle.”

Exceptions That Allow Police to Search Your Vehicle

A police officer does not always need to seek permission to search a vehicle, even if they do not have a warrant. It is important to note the instances in which the police are given reign to search your car. Here are a few of the most common:

Consent

Of course, even without probable cause, the police are permitted to search your car without a warrant if you provide them with consent to do so. Once you have consented to a search, the officer is free to investigate your vehicle as they see fit, and any illegal items or evidence obtained through such a search is valid in a court of law in the same way as anything would be if collected through probable cause or a warrant.

Plain Sight

Even if you refuse a police search of your vehicle, an officer is still permitted to seize illegal items if they can clearly see them in your vehicle, thanks to the plain view doctrine. For example, if you are pulled over for speeding and an officer can clearly see an open container of alcohol in the cup holder, that bottle can be seized for evidence, and you may be arrested with the need for a search warrant.

Probable Cause

One of the foremost ways a police officer can search without a warrant is to have probable cause. In this case, it is crucial to differentiate reasonable suspicion from probable cause. Reasonable suspicion is the level of justification law enforcement must have to pull you over in the first place. It is important to note that police do not have to witness you committing a crime to pull you over. However, they do need to have some form of explanation for stopping you, which is often the result of suspicious behavior. Reasonable suspicion allows an officer to conduct a pat-down of your outer clothing, but this is the extent to any search an officer can conduct with reasonable suspicion.

Probable cause is a higher standard that officers must meet in order to conduct an arrest and search your car. For example, if the police see you swerving across the road or if they smell alcohol on your breath, they likely have probable cause to search your vehicle and make an arrest.

Exigent Circumstances

Exigent circumstances refer to situations where law enforcement officers have an immediate and pressing need to take action, often to prevent imminent harm, destruction of evidence, or the escape of a suspect. In vehicle searches, exigent circumstances may arise when there is a reasonable belief that evidence of a crime is present in the vehicle, and there is a risk that the evidence will be destroyed or removed if immediate action is not taken. For example, if officers have probable cause to believe that a vehicle contains illegal drugs and they observe the driver attempting to discard a baggie out of the window, they may have exigent circumstances to conduct a search without a warrant.

However, it is essential to note that this doctrine does not grant law enforcement officers unlimited authority to search vehicles without a warrant. The circumstances must be genuinely urgent and not created by the actions of the police themselves. Additionally, the scope of the search must be reasonable and proportionate to the exigency at hand. While exigent circumstances can justify warrantless searches in certain situations, law enforcement must still adhere to constitutional principles and ensure that their actions are justified under the law.

Get in Touch With an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer at The Aron Law Firm

If you have any additional questions about when the police can search your vehicle or if you would like to discuss your case with one of our Santa Barbara criminal defense lawyers, get in touch with us at the Aron Law Firm today. Our top-notch attorneys are committed to protecting your rights by investigating your case in detail and building a rock-solid defense. Our legal team understands and has dealt with the California laws surrounding vehicle searches, and we may be able to help you petition to have the evidence excluded from the proceedings by filing a motion to suppress.

At the Aron Law Firm, we have years of experience protecting our clients from various criminal charges. We are dedicated to protecting your rights and helping to make the legal process as forthright as possible. To speak with a criminal defense attorney, schedule a consultation by calling (805) 618-1768 or completing our contact form today.

Revenge porn is a form of sexual harassment that involves the distribution of private, sexually explicit images or videos posted online without the consent of one or more parties involved. The practice is illegal in California, where it is considered a crime to distribute such material if you know you do not have permission to do so.

California penalizes any sex-related crimes as serious offenses. Therefore, if you have been accused of revenge porn in California, you could be facing severe, lifelong penalties. Do not face these consequences alone. Get in touch with an experienced Santa Barbara criminal defense attorney who may help. At Aron Law Firm, we have the skills needed to protect your interests.

What You Should Know About California’s Laws Against Revenge Porn

California’s revenge porn law makes it illegal to post an image of nudity or sexual activity without the consent of the depicted person under California Penal Code 647 j. The law covers any images or videos published or sent on or through:

• SMS text message
• Messaging apps (such as WhatsApp or Messenger)
• Social media platforms (such as Instagram, Facebook, or Snapchat)
• Video-sharing platforms (such as YouTube or TikTok)
• Other websites or apps (such as OnlyFans or pornography websites)

If you are accused of sharing or posting revenge porn, there are a few things you should not do:

• Do not panic: It is natural to feel anxious and confused, but panicking will not help the situation.
• Do not say anything to the police without first speaking with your attorney: Even if their intentions seem innocent, every word could be used against you later on in court.
• Do not give them access to your phone or computer without first speaking with a lawyer: In cases such as these, where technology is involved, and charges may be serious, what might seem like an innocent mistake could be seen as evidence of wrongdoing by prosecutors.

If you are facing revenge porn charges, it is important to talk to an attorney about your case. A seasoned criminal defense attorney may help you understand revenge porn laws such as California Penal Code 647 j and how they may apply to your case and craft an effective defense strategy to protect your rights.

When Is Revenge Porn a Crime?

To secure a conviction under California’s revenge porn law, the prosecution is required to demonstrate several key elements:

• Possession of naked pictures depicting a person’s intimate body parts who can be recognized or explicit images showing you in sexual acts such as sexual intercourse, oral copulation, masturbation, sodomy, or sexual penetration.
• Nonconsensual pornography
• Deliberate dissemination of private and intimate images. An example may be sharing videos online.
• An agreement or mutual understanding with the person depicted that these sexual or nude images were to be kept confidential.
• Awareness, or the reasonable expectation of awareness, that sharing the image would likely lead to emotional distress for the depicted identifiable person.
• Actual and serious emotional distress experienced by the alleged victim in the image as a result of its distribution.

Facing revenge porn charges may be a serious crime. Contact a skilled criminal defense lawyer at Aron Law who has specialized knowledge of revenge porn cases as soon as possible.

What Is the Definition of “Intimate Body Part” Under PC 647j4?

The term “intimate body part” is defined, for the context of PC 647j4, as including:

• Genitals
• Anus
• For females, any part of the breasts below the top of the areola

An “identifiable person” refers to situations where it is likely that others could recognize the alleged victim depicted.

What Constitutes Intentional Distribution?

Intentional distribution occurs when:

• You personally distribute or share the image
• You purposefully get someone else to share it
• You understood that it may cause serious emotional distress

This can happen through various means, such as emailing, texting, sharing on social media, using another digital platform, in person, or by posting revenge porn on an adult content site.

Circumstances Exempt from Guilt

Under the specific statute, you are exempt from guilt in cases where the distribution occurs:

• While reporting illegal activities
• In compliance with a legal order, such as a subpoena, for use in legal proceedings
• As part of a lawful public proceeding

Contact a lawyer if you believe a revenge porn charge is exempt from guilt. We are well-versed in California revenge porn laws.

Possible Penalties for Posting Revenge Porn Images or Videos in California

A violation of California Penal Code section 647(j)(4) may be difficult to prove because there are many ways people may share your photos online without your knowledge or permission.

However, any accusation that you have posted revenge porn should never be taken lightly because the penalties for violating California Penal Code 647(j)(4) are harsh. They include:

• Up to six months in jail
• $1,000 in fines for a first offense

For each subsequent offense, penalties may increase by one-year imprisonment and an additional $1,000 fine.

You may also be required to register as a sex offender under California law, which means that you will have to provide personal information, such as your address and whereabouts to the state registry.

This public registry keeps track of all registered sex offenders and makes this information available on its website for anyone who wishes to view it.

In addition, if you are required by court order or other applicable law to pay restitution for the alleged victim for losses or injuries arising from the crime, then this would also be part of your sentence.

Potential Defenses for Revenge Porn Charges

Facing charges related to revenge porn in California can be both stressful and complex, given the serious implications of such accusations.

However, several potential defenses can be employed to contest these charges, depending on the specific circumstances of the case. These defenses can mitigate the charges or potentially lead to an acquittal. It is crucial to work closely with a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney to navigate these legal strategies effectively. 

1. Lack of Intent to Cause Harm

One of the foundational elements of revenge porn charges is the intent to cause emotional distress or harm by distributing explicit material without consent. The defense may argue the accused did not have the requisite intent to cause harm.

For instance, if the distribution of revenge porn was accidental or the result of a misunderstanding, this could be a viable defense.

2. Consent Was Given

If it can be demonstrated that the person depicted in the images or videos had given their consent for the material to be shared, this could negate the revenge porn charges.

The person’s consent must have been clear and unequivocal, and proving this may involve text messages, emails, or other forms of communication in which consent was given.

3. Mistaken Identity

In the digital age, where anonymity and impersonation are not uncommon, a defendant might argue mistaken identity.

They could claim that someone else distributed the material while impersonating them or without their knowledge. Digital forensic evidence may be critical in proving this revenge porn defense.

4. Lack of Knowledge

A revenge porn defense might assert that the accused was unaware they were distributing private, sexually explicit material. This could apply in situations where the accused believed the material was not explicit or was otherwise misinformed about the content they were sharing.

5. First Amendment Rights

Though a more complex and less commonly used revenge porn defense, arguing the First Amendment rights to freedom of speech and expression might be applicable in certain contexts.

However, this defense must be carefully balanced against the rights of the individual depicted in the material, as revenge porn laws are designed to protect against non-consensual distribution.

6. Unlawful Search and Seizure

If the evidence against you was obtained through a violation of the Fourth Amendment against unlawful search and seizure, the evidence might be deemed inadmissible in court. This could involve instances where law enforcement searched personal property without a necessary warrant or probable cause.

7. The Material Is Not Considered Explicit by Legal Definition

The legal definition of what constitutes sexually explicit material can vary. A defense might argue that the content shared does not meet the legal threshold for being considered explicit and thus does not qualify under revenge porn laws.

Accused of Publishing Revenge Porn? Hire a California Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

If you are facing a revenge porn allegation in California, it is important to contact an Aron Law Firm attorney immediately. Our team has experience protecting clients from an assortment of sex crime-related criminal charges, so we know and understand all California revenge porn laws, including those related to revenge porn.

Contact our office today to begin discussing your situation with an Aron Law Firm criminal defense attorney by calling (805) 618-1768, or you may complete our contact form. Reach out to us any time, day or night.

If you’re among the estimated one in three California residents with a criminal record, you may be worried about how it will affect your job search. After all, it’s not uncommon for employers to ask about criminal history on job applications, and if you have a criminal record, it could end the process before it’s even begun. The rules surrounding background checks can be hard to understand. This is especially true in California, where background checks require special considerations.

If you have a criminal record and are worried about whether it might show up during your California criminal background check, you’re not alone. While criminal background checks can reveal a wide variety of information about your history, job seekers with criminal history still have substantial protections under California law. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is a Background Check?

A criminal background check is a process a company uses to verify your history. This includes information about your criminal history, education, employment, and other activities from your past. This can include negative information on a credit report, worker’s compensation records, and DMV driving records. When it comes to your criminal history, a criminal background check will generally reveal if you’ve been convicted of a misdemeanor or felony, though there are several exceptions.

It’s unlawful for an employer or company to gain access to information regarding an arrest that didn’t lead to a conviction, a conviction dated more than seven years from the date of the check, a conviction for which the person checked received a pardon, an arrest leading to the completion of a successful diversion program, expunged and sealed convictions, and certain marijuana offenses.

Regarding your criminal history, it’s illegal for an employer or company to access details about:

• An arrest that didn’t result in a conviction (unless the arrest is currently pending)
• Any conviction that occurred over seven years before the date of the criminal background check
• A conviction that has been pardoned
• An arrest that was resolved through successful completion of a diversion program
• Convictions that have been expunged or sealed
• Specific offenses related to marijuana

Understanding the Exceptions to Background Checks in California

While background checks are legal in California, California law imposes several restrictions and obligations on employers when performing them. Some of these are found in:

• California’s Ban-The-Box Law: Officially known as the “California Fair Chance Act,” this law bans employers from asking about your criminal history before making a job offer. Even after making an offer and realizing your criminal background, the employer can’t deny you because of a conviction without making an individualized assessment.
• The Los Angeles and San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinances: This ordinance, which was in place before ban-the-box, offers similar protections: if an employer decides to deny employment based upon your criminal history, you have a chance to provide evidence of why employment is still justified.
• The Fair Credit Reporting Act: This law states that employers are required to gain your written consent before they conduct a criminal background check. Likewise, they must provide notice to the applicant if they deny employment because of this information.
• The California Information Privacy Act: This law states that if an employer is doing a criminal background check, they must give you the option to view this check.
• Anti-Discrimination Laws: State and federal laws prohibit California employers from discriminating against applicants, including those with a criminal record.

Likewise, it’s important to note that negative information may be cleared from a criminal background check through expungement, Certificates of Rehabilitation, Governor’s pardons, sealing juvenile records, and petitions for a finding of factual innocence.

How Far Do California Criminal Background Check Go?

In California, the reach of employment background checks extends back to the previous seven years.

The California 7-Year Rule Explained

Once a job applicant receives a conditional offer of employment in California, the employer is permitted to conduct a criminal background check covering a period of up to seven years, subject to certain exceptions.

As a result, employers are not allowed to base hiring decisions on convictions that are more than seven years old when making hiring decisions.

Sources for Background Checks

A comprehensive criminal background check in California may draw upon a variety of sources, including both criminal justice and non-criminal justice agencies. Information gathered can include:

• Criminal and arrest records, along with court records
• Credit histories from consumer credit agencies
• Workers’ compensation claims
• Personal references
• Educational backgrounds
• History of check writing
• Rental history
• Records from the Department of Motor Vehicles
• Immigration status
• Insurance claim histories
• Registrations on sex offender lists
• Social Security details
• State-issued licensing records

Not every criminal background check will consult all these sources; they may selectively pull information from just a few, depending on the purpose of the check.

Moreover, California law may exempt certain types of information from being included in a criminal background check. For instance, as mentioned earlier, there are restrictions concerning which criminal records can be considered.

Regarding medical history, California has stringent laws in place to safeguard the privacy of your medical information. In most cases, employers can only request details relevant to your capability to fulfill specific job responsibilities.

Clearing Negative Information From Criminal Records

If negative information on your criminal background check is affecting your life, there are several legal avenues you might explore to address this issue. These methods include:

• Expungements
• Certificates of Rehabilitation
• Governor’s Pardons
• Sealing Juvenile Records
• Petitions for Factual Innocence

Expungements

An expungement can relieve you from the negative repercussions associated with a conviction, as outlined in Penal Code 1203.4 PC. Often referred to as “dismissals,” expungements allow individuals who have completed probation or served a jail sentence to have their conviction removed from their record. Even if probation was violated, a judge may still grant an expungement at their discretion.

Once a conviction is expunged, it doesn’t have to be disclosed to potential employers, even after a conditional job offer has been made. Expungements apply to both misdemeanors and felonies in California.

Certificates of Rehabilitation

A Certificate of Rehabilitation (COR) is a court declaration acknowledging your rehabilitation after a criminal conviction. To be eligible, you must meet certain criteria, such as having resided in California for a minimum of five years and having been rehabilitated for an additional two to five years post-release, probation, or parole. While a COR doesn’t erase a conviction, it serves as evidence of rehabilitation, which can be crucial if employment is denied based on past convictions.

Governor’s Pardons

A governor’s pardon is a recognition of rehabilitation and lifts many of the restrictions of a criminal conviction. Importantly, employers cannot access information about crimes that have been pardoned. Most individuals convicted of a crime in California are eligible for a pardon after a certain period, which varies based on the offense.

Sealing Juvenile Records

Under Welfare and Institutions Code 781, you can request the sealing of your juvenile records, effectively making them non-public and “non-existent.” This action means juvenile offenses won’t appear in background checks, allowing you to legally state you have no criminal record. Eligibility for sealing juvenile records includes being 18 or older (or five years post-juvenile court jurisdiction), not having committed an adult offense of moral turpitude, and not having been convicted of certain serious offenses as a juvenile.

Petitions for Factual Innocence

Penal Code 851.8 PC permits filing a petition for a certificate of factual innocence if you were arrested, but there was no reasonable cause to believe you committed the offense. If granted, the arresting agency must seal the records for three years, after which they are destroyed, removing them from background checks.

Automatic Record Seals

With new laws effective from July 1, 2023 – Senate Bill 731 and Assembly Bill 1076, also known as The Clean Slate Act, many arrest and conviction records will be automatically cleared or “sealed” through automatic relief. This includes sealing misdemeanor arrests after one year if no charges are filed and felony arrests after three years. Dismissed charges are cleared immediately, and convictions are cleared after probation ends or a set period post-conviction, excluding serious felonies.

Exploring these options with the guidance of a legal professional helps you navigate the process of clearing your record or mitigating the impact of past convictions on your future.

Navigating Employment with a Criminal Record

Finding employment with a criminal record is challenging, but it’s not insurmountable. Understanding how to navigate the job search process and effectively communicate your history and rehabilitation to potential employers can significantly improve your chances of securing a job. 

The following are strategies and insights to help individuals with criminal history approach their job search with confidence:

Understand Your Legal Rights as a Job Seeker

Educate yourself on laws and regulations that protect job seekers with criminal history in your area, such as the Fair Chance Act in California, which prohibits employers from asking about criminal history until after a conditional job offer has been made.

Prepare Your Explanation

Craft a concise and honest explanation of your criminal record that focuses on your growth and rehabilitation since the offense. Highlight what you’ve learned from the experience and how it has made you a better, more responsible person. Practice delivering this explanation so you can do so confidently if asked.

Focus on Rehabilitation and Skills

Emphasize any rehabilitation programs, education, or vocational training you’ve completed since your conviction. Show potential employers that you’ve taken proactive steps to improve yourself and your skills, demonstrating your commitment to positive change.

Seek Supportive Employment Resources

Look for organizations and programs that assist individuals with criminal history in finding employment. These resources can offer job training, resume assistance, and networking connections to employers who are open to hiring individuals with past convictions.

Consider Expungement

If eligible, pursue expungement or other legal avenues to clear your record. An expunged conviction typically doesn’t need to be disclosed to employers, which can significantly ease the job search process. Consult with a criminal defense lawyer at Aron Law to explore your options.

Target Open-Minded Employers

Research companies are known for giving second chances to individuals with criminal history. Some employers are more understanding and appreciative of the value of rehabilitation and may be more willing to overlook a criminal past if you demonstrate potential and a strong work ethic.

Highlight Your Qualifications

While it’s important to address your criminal record, if required, focus primarily on your qualifications for the job. Showcase your skills, experiences, and how you will contribute to the company. Make your potential value as an employee the centerpiece of your application and interviews.

Be Patient and Persistent

The job search process can be lengthy and filled with rejection, especially for individuals with a criminal record. Stay patient and persistent. Every application and interview is an opportunity to improve and learn, bringing you one step closer to finding the right job.

Practice Self-Care

Searching for employment can be stressful under any circumstances, and even more so with a criminal record. Take care of your mental well-being during this time. Engage in activities that reduce stress and seek support from friends, family, or professional counselors.

Navigating employment with a criminal record requires preparation, transparency, and a focus on the positive aspects of your personal and professional development. By employing these strategies, you may improve your job prospects and take steps toward a successful future.

How to Request Your Own Criminal Background Check

Requesting your own criminal background check is a proactive step that can provide clarity and preparation, especially if you’re entering the job market or considering housing applications. Knowing what information is on your record allows you to address any potential issues upfront. Here’s a guide on how to request your own criminal background check in California:

1. Identify the Type of Background Check You Need

Determine what information you’re seeking. Do you need a comprehensive check that includes your criminal record, employment history, and credit report? Or are you specifically interested in what appears on your criminal record? The type of background check you request will dictate which steps you need to follow.

2. Request Your Criminal Criminal Record Information

From the California Department of Justice (DOJ): To request your criminal record, you must submit a Live Scan fingerprinting form. You can find the form and instructions on the DOJ’s website. There’s a fee for processing and fingerprinting, which varies by location. After submitting your fingerprints, the DOJ will send you a copy of your criminal record as it appears in their database.

3. Obtain an Up-to-Date Credit Report

You may obtain one free credit report every 12 months from each of the three major credit reporting agencies – Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion – through the official website. Reviewing your credit report helps you determine any inaccuracies or areas for improvement, especially since some employers check credit reports for job candidates.

4. Check Your Driving Record

If relevant, especially for jobs that require driving, you may request your driving record from the California Department of Motor Vehicles. This record will show any traffic violations, accidents, or suspensions. There’s a fee to request this report, and you can do so by mail, in person, or sometimes online through the DMV’s website.

5. Review Your Education and Employment Records

While there’s no central database for education and employment records, you can request transcripts from educational institutions you’ve attended and contact previous employers to verify the information they have on file. This step is particularly useful if you’re concerned about inaccuracies or discrepancies that might arise during background checks.

6. Consider Other Relevant Records

Depending on your needs, you might also want to check other types of records, such as court records for any civil litigation or professional licensing boards if you hold any certifications or licenses in your field.

7. Understand Your Rights and Restrictions

Be aware of the laws governing access to and use of background check information in California, especially concerning employment. For instance, employers must obtain your consent before conducting a background check and must inform you if information on the check adversely affects their hiring decision.

By taking these steps to request your own background check, you gain valuable insights into the information that potential employers, landlords, and others may see. This knowledge enables you to address any concerns and present your best self when applying for jobs, housing, or other opportunities.

Contact a Skilled Criminal Defense Lawyer at Aron Law Firm

If you have additional questions about your California background check or want to discuss your case with one of our knowledgeable California criminal defense lawyers, get in touch with the Aron Law Firm today. With years of experience helping clients just like you, our best-in-class lawyers can help you determine whether their criminal or credit history illegally had a role in an employment decision and, if so, whether you can pursue a case against the employer.

If you’re interested in cleaning up your criminal history or fighting against the at-fault employer, call a Santa Barbara criminal defense attorney at the Aron Law Firm today to discuss your legal situation and determine what options are available to you. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping each of our clients and will remain by your side throughout the legal process. To talk to a criminal defense attorney, schedule a consultation by calling (805) 618-1768 or completing our contact form today.

Few arrests carry the weight and stigma of arrests for sex crimes. For individuals facing such charges in California, the journey through the court system is both emotionally taxing and legally complex. As the accused grapples with the weight of allegations, understanding what lies ahead in California courts becomes paramount for charting a path forward.

If you or someone you know is facing allegations of a sex crime in California, it is essential to seek legal guidance from an attorney who is experienced in defending these types of cases. At Aron Law Firm, we offer insight, guidance, and empowerment to those navigating California’s criminal justice system after a sex crime arrest. We aim to equip individuals with the knowledge and resources needed to confront the challenges ahead with resilience and determination.

What Is Considered a Sex Crime in California?

In California, sex crimes are defined and classified under various sections of the California Penal Code. They include, but are not limited to:

• Rape (Penal Code 261)
• Sexual Battery (Penal Code 243.4)
• Lewd Acts with a Minor (Penal Code 288)
• Child Molestation (Penal Code 647.6)
• Indecent Exposure (Penal Code 314)
• Child Pornography (Penal Code 311)
• Solicitation of Prostitution (Penal Code 647(b))

Each of the above offenses carries its own set of penalties, including imprisonment, fines, and registration as a sex offender. Consult with a knowledgeable attorney to understand the specific charges and potential consequences in your case.

How California’s Legal Process Works in Cases Involving Sex Crimes

From the initial shock of investigation to the daunting prospect of trial, every step in the legal process poses challenges and uncertainties. By providing insight into what to expect, you can navigate your sex crime allegations with resilience and determination. Here is what you should know:

Initial Investigation and Arrest

The legal process in sex crime cases typically begins with an initial investigation by law enforcement agencies in response to allegations of sexual misconduct. If deemed necessary, authorities may make an arrest based on probable cause or obtain a warrant to apprehend the suspect.

Booking and Bail

Upon arrest, the individual is typically booked into custody, where personal information is recorded, fingerprints are taken, and a mugshot is captured. Depending on the severity of the charges and individual circumstances, the court may set bail or determine eligibility for release on recognizance pending trial.

Arraignment and Charges

The arraignment marks the formal introduction of charges against the defendant in court. During this hearing, the defendant is informed of the charges they face, their constitutional rights, and the opportunity to enter a plea. It is essential to have legal representation at this stage to understand the charges and potential consequences.

Pretrial Proceedings

Pretrial proceedings encompass various stages, including discovery, where evidence is exchanged between the prosecution and defense, motions hearings to address legal issues, and plea negotiations. These proceedings lay the groundwork for trial preparation and may influence the trajectory of the case.

Trial

If the case proceeds to trial, both the prosecution and defense present evidence, call witnesses and make arguments before a judge or jury. The burden of proof lies with the prosecution, requiring them to establish the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The defense has the opportunity to challenge the evidence and present a counter-narrative in defense of the accused.

Verdict and Sentencing

Following deliberation, the judge or jury renders a verdict of guilty or not guilty. If convicted, the court proceeds to sentencing, where the judge considers various factors, including the nature of the offense, the defendant’s criminal history, and mitigating factors. Sentencing may include imprisonment, probation, fines, and registration as a sex offender.

Contact an Experienced Sex Crime Defense Attorney in California for a Case Review

At Aron Law Firm, we understand the complexities and sensitivities involved in sex crime cases. We provide personalized and strategic representation for our clients facing such allegations. Do not navigate the legal process alone – contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation. Call (805) 618-1768 or fill out our contact form for more information about how we can help.

Navigating the complexities of domestic violence charges can be an overwhelming and distressing experience for all parties involved. Whether you find yourself wrongfully accused or entangled in a misunderstanding, it’s essential to understand that the path ahead may hold various outcomes. Among these, the possibility of having charges dropped stands out as a beacon of hope for many.

From evidentiary issues to procedural missteps, we’ll uncover the key factors that can influence the direction and outcome of domestic violence cases. Our goal is to provide a well-rounded perspective that respects the gravity of domestic violence allegations while acknowledging the complexities of the legal process. Please contact Aron Law Firm for support from a qualified and experienced criminal defense lawyer with experience in domestic violence and abuse cases, and we may be able to help you get such charges dropped.

How Do You Get an Alleged Victim to Drop Domestic Violence Charges?

Alleged victims of domestic abuse cannot drop their submitted domestic violence charges once their accusation is made. In California, technically, only the district attorney may drop domestic violence charges after an accusation. Alleged victims cannot change their minds once they call the police to the scene – at this point, the decision is out of their hands. This means a domestic violence case may be initiated even if all parties suddenly decide they do not want to participate.

The good thing about the domestic violence charges being out of the alleged victim’s hands is that you do not need to prove to them that the charges need to be dropped. You need to prove that the domestic violence charges should be dropped by convincing the district attorney.

At Aron Law Firm, we have experience defending thousands of criminal charges and can help you build a robust defense to seek the best possible outcome. We can support you when you retain a criminal defense attorney to support you with your domestic violence case. 

4 Reasons Domestic Violence Charges May Be Dropped

Once an alleged victim contacts law enforcement about domestic violence, the accused person could face a criminal charge under California Penal Code 273.5 or code PC 243(e)(1). Once a criminal charge for violating PC 273.5 or PC 243(e)(1) has been put in motion, it will then become the district attorney’s decision whether or not to drop charges regardless of the alleged victim’s wishes. 

Generally, this means domestic violence charges will be established and all parties will be required to participate in the domestic violence case.

Prosecutors may choose to drop charges for violating California PC 273.5 and PC 243(e)(1) in the following instances:

1. Insufficient Evidence

One of the primary reasons the prosecution may drop domestic violence charges is the lack of evidence. The prosecution must show the court that the defendant is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

When a prosecutor cannot establish that the defendant committed all elements that make up a domestic violence charge, they may choose to drop the charges. To prove domestic violence, the prosecution must prove the following:

• The defendant willfully touched another person
• The touching was harmful or offensive
• The person whom the defendant touched is or was an intimate partner

When one or more of these elements are difficult or nearly impossible to prove, the prosecution cannot move forward with the domestic violence charges and will likely elect to drop them. They are especially likely to drop the charges if they believe they are unlikely to close the case with a domestic violence conviction against the alleged individual.

2. Inconsistent Statements

Prosecutors review the alleged victim and the defendant’s statements before proceeding with the charges. In some cases of domestic violence allegations, the victim may make two statements – one to the responding police officer and a written statement.

If the statements are inconsistent, the witness may be deemed unreliable. Other times, the alleged victim’s story does not match their injuries. Sometimes other witnesses, a family member or household member, or an alleged victim changes their story.

It is the victim’s role, primarily, to establish a clear idea of what supposedly happened, provide enough evidence to demonstrate what they claim is true, and provide probable cause for bringing about their charges.

All these instances create doubt in the case, and they must be able to prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt. If they are unable to provide consistent statements, you can likely have your domestic violence charges dropped.

3. No Visible Injuries

Not having visible injuries does not mean that domestic violence did not occur, nor is it a requirement for a defendant to face domestic violence charges. However, a prosecutor needs evidence of harmful or offensive touch to charge a person with domestic violence. The presence of serious bodily injury or physical harm will often serve as sufficient evidence to uphold the domestic assault charges.

While the evidence does not need to be physical injury, the lack of visible injury may make it more challenging to prove the offense occurred. This means the alleged victim may need to provide other evidence that demonstrates domestic battery or the court may decide to have the domestic violence charges dropped, as there may not be sufficient evidence to uphold the domestic violence allegations.

4. No Independent Witness

Many domestic violence acts are committed between people in a familial relationship and go unwitnessed. Having no witnesses does not mean the defendant cannot be arrested. A prosecutor may still charge a person with domestic violence, even without a witness, if the following applies:

• New and visible injuries
• Statements by the two parties involved
• Signs of fighting at the crime scene

However, if the statements are conflicting and there are no independent witnesses (witnesses outside of the defendant and victim), it may be more challenging to prove the crime occurred. 

This may result in domestic violence charges being dismissed, felony domestic violence charges being reduced to misdemeanor domestic violence charges, or other results that may favor the defendant.

Should You Work With a Skilled Attorney to Get Your Charges Dropped?

We encourage you to work with a qualified criminal defense attorney for support during this legal battle, as we can help you dismiss domestic violence charges, reduce the severity of penalties you might face, and much more. We’re dedicated to collecting evidence of self defense, police reports, and much more to fight for your severe penalties to be lowered.

At Aron Law Firm, we have handled domestic violence cases, criminal charges, cases involving extensive criminal history, and much more. We can support you in many ways throughout this difficult time, including but not limited to the following:

• Develop a robust defense strategy
• Review the prosecution’s case
• Work with law enforcement and police officers
• Evaluate your criminal record
• Provide legal counsel and additional guidance
• Collect as much evidence as possible
• Convince prosecutors you are not deserving of a severe conviction
• Reduce jail time, community service, and the severity of other penalties
• Negotiate with every party
• Prepare your case for court
• Consult with experts
• Assure that all documents are filed correctly and in a timely manner
• Communicate with the other parties on your behalf
• Organize and present the evidence
• Access research methods and tools only available to legal professionals and in the law office
• Quicker delivery of documents from law enforcement
• An understanding of the legal system and how to make it work for you
• Interview witnesses and family members
• Help formulate a plea
• Evaluate potential sentences
• Review search and seizure procedures

When you work with Aron Law Firm, you are far more likely to have your domestic violence charges dropped, decrease the severity of penalties, and many other positive results. We know legal matters can be difficult, so we encourage you to refrain from representing yourself if you want to drop domestic violence charges placed against you.

Contact Aron Law Firm to Face Domestic Violence Charges Together

The domestic violence attorneys at Aron Law Firm have extensive practice negotiating with prosecutors and the district attorney’s office to help our clients receive more favorable terms when facing criminal charges for PC 273.5 and PC 243(e)(1) violations. When you partner with our firm, you can trust our experienced legal team will craft a compelling case. The sooner you contact Aron Law Firm, the sooner you can gain a deeper understanding of your charges and take action to defend yourself.

Facing domestic violence charges may severely impact your career and reputation. At Aron Law Firm, we act fast to help protect your legal rights and best interests. Contact us today at (805) 618-1768 or complete our contact form.

Navigating political influence involves understanding the fine line that separates bribery from lobbying. In politics, these terms often intersect but carry distinct connotations and legal implications. California, renowned for its active political scene, demands a nuanced exploration of these practices to discern their impact on decision-making, transparency, and ethical standards.

If you find yourself facing legal challenges or inquiries related to lobbying regulations or potential bribery allegations, Aron Law Firm is here to provide skillful guidance and representation. With a dedicated focus on criminal defense and a deep understanding of California’s legal landscape, we offer personalized assistance tailored to your unique situation.

Lobbying vs Bribery: Understanding the Distinctions

In politics and governance, the terms “lobbying” and “bribery” often coexist, yet they inhabit distinctly different ethical and legal spheres. As California’s political landscape continues to evolve, understanding the distinctions between these two practices is essential for anyone navigating the corridors of influence.

What Is Lobbying?

Lobbying is the lawful act of attempting to influence government officials, policymakers, or legislators on specific issues, legislation, or policies. Lobbyists, often hired by organizations or interest groups, engage in activities such as providing information, conducting research, and presenting arguments to shape decision-making. The key element is transparency, as lobbying activities are typically disclosed and regulated to ensure accountability.

What Is Bribery?

Bribery, on the other hand, is an unlawful act involving the offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting of something of value with the intent to influence the actions of an official or another person. Unlike lobbying, bribery involves an exchange that is often secretive, coercive, and aimed at achieving personal gain or an unfair advantage. California law strictly prohibits bribery in various contexts, including public officials, private individuals, and commercial transactions under Penal Code 641.3 PC.

How Do Bribery and Lobbying Differ?

While both lobbying and bribery involve attempts to shape decisions and policies, the critical divergence lies in the transparency, legality, and intent behind each action.

Lobbyists are generally required to register, report their activities, and adhere to disclosure regulations. This transparency ensures that the public, government agencies, and lawmakers are aware of the efforts to influence decision-making. Bribery, on the contrary, thrives in secrecy and aims to manipulate decisions without public scrutiny.

Intent is also central to distinguishing between lobbying and bribery. Lobbying is driven by a legitimate desire to express viewpoints and advocate for specific interests, whereas bribery involves an illicit intent to secure an unfair advantage through improper means. The exchange in lobbying is typically information, whereas bribery involves a material benefit that is often hidden or undisclosed.

Lobbying, when conducted transparently and within legal boundaries, is an accepted and protected form of political participation. Conversely, bribery is a criminal offense with severe consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and damage to one’s reputation. California law rigorously prosecutes bribery cases, emphasizing the gravity of attempting to influence decisions through corrupt means.

Fight a Bribery Charge With a Skilled California Criminal Defense Attorney

If you or someone you care about is facing the serious legal implications of bribery charges in California, securing representation from a seasoned criminal defense attorney is paramount. At Aron Law Firm, we understand the complexities of bribery allegations and are committed to safeguarding your rights.

To schedule a confidential consultation to begin exploring your legal options, call our office today at (805) 618-1768 or fill out our convenient contact form for more information about how we can help.

Adhering to a court order in California is of utmost importance to prevent potential penalties or fines. Violating such an order can lead to severe consequences, including criminal charges and the possibility of incarceration. If you were accused of violating a court order in California, do not wait to reach out to a criminal defense lawyer for guidance.

At Aron Law Firm, we bring unparalleled dedication and knowledge to each case, confirming our clients receive meticulous attention and strategic advocacy. Our singular focus on criminal defense, coupled with our in-depth understanding of California’s legal landscape, positions us as a formidable ally in navigating the complexities of court order violation allegations.

Violation of a Court Order in California

Under California law, intentionally and purposefully violating a court order constitutes a criminal offense known as contempt of court, applicable in various situations. California Penal Code Section 166 PC broadly defines the act of violating a court order, encompassing a wide range of behaviors. To establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, the state must present evidence supporting specific elements of the crime:

• A lawful written court order was issued by a California court, instructing you to take specific actions or cease particular behaviors.
• You were aware of the court order and its directives.
• You were capability of complying with the court order.
• Willfully and knowingly, you violated the terms of the court order.

Without conclusive evidence for each element, the state may not charge you with violating the court order. Proving knowledge of the court order and its contents can be challenging for the prosecution in some cases. Additionally, in certain California jurisdictions, individuals are entitled to the opportunity to read and review a court order mandating specific actions.

Defending a Court Order Violation in California

Whether due to misunderstanding, unforeseen circumstances, or other factors, mounting a strong defense is crucial when accused of violating a court order in California. Depending on the circumstances surrounding your particular situation, your attorney may be able to use any of the following defense strategies for your case:

Lack of Knowledge or Intent

A fundamental defense in cases of violating a court order is asserting a lack of knowledge or intent. If the individual was unaware of the specific terms of the court order or did not intentionally violate its provisions, this lack of knowledge can form a foundational defense strategy.

Impossibility of Compliance

Another defense involves demonstrating that compliance with the court order was impossible due to circumstances beyond the individual’s control. Whether it be unexpected events, physical impossibility, or conflicting legal obligations, establishing the impossibility of compliance can be a valid defense.

Ambiguity or Vagueness in the Court Order

A court order should provide clear and unambiguous instructions. If the order’s language is vague or open to interpretation, the defense may argue that the alleged violation stems from confusion or uncertainty regarding the order’s requirements.

Modification of the Court Order

If circumstances have changed since the issuance of the court order, the defense may seek to modify its terms through legal channels. This proactive approach can mitigate the risk of future violations and demonstrate a commitment to compliance.

Emergency Situations

In certain situations, emergencies may arise that necessitate actions conflicting with a court order. Immediate threats to safety or unforeseen crises may be cited as justifications for deviating from the order’s terms.

Inadequate Proof of Violation

Challenging the evidence presented to support the allegation is a common defense strategy. If the prosecution fails to sufficiently prove that the individual violated the court order, it may weaken the case against them.

Contact an Experienced California Criminal Defense Attorney to Fight for Your Rights

At Aron Law Firm, we provide unparalleled legal representation, guiding our clients through their cases with dedication and skill. Our commitment to providing personalized and trusted representation underscores our reputation as a top-rated criminal defense law firm.

To schedule a consultation to explore potential defenses for your case, call (805) 618-1768 or contact us online.

Pre-filing representation in a criminal defense case refers to the legal assistance and advocacy provided by defense attorneys before formal charges are filed against an individual. This stage occurs during the initial stages of a criminal investigation when law enforcement agencies are gathering evidence and assessing whether there are grounds to proceed with charges. Pre-filing representation is a proactive approach to address potential legal issues, protect the rights of the individual under investigation, and influence the direction of the case before it reaches the formal charging stage.

If you find yourself under investigation or anticipate criminal charges, securing pre-filing representation is a crucial step in protecting your rights and shaping the narrative of your case. Aron Law Firm provides individualized, one-on-one legal assistance during these critical early stages. With a focus on strategic defense and a commitment to your unique situation, our team is here to guide you through the legal process.

What to Know About Pre-Filing Representation in California

Before formal charges are filed, defense attorneys assume a pivotal role in safeguarding the rights of the individual. Here is what you should know about pre-filing representation:

Case Assessment

First, defense attorneys assess the details of the case, potential evidence, and the strength of the prosecution’s argument. This early evaluation helps develop a clear understanding of the legal landscape and aids in formulating an effective defense strategy.

Communication with Law Enforcement

Attorneys may engage with law enforcement on behalf of the individual under investigation. This involves providing additional information, addressing misunderstandings, and negotiating with law enforcement to influence the outcome of the investigation.

Preventing Charges

In some cases, skilled pre-filing representation can lead to negotiations with prosecutors to prevent formal charges from being filed. Defense attorneys may present compelling evidence or legal arguments to dissuade the prosecution from pursuing charges.

Negotiating Favorable Resolutions

Attorneys may negotiate with the prosecution to secure favorable resolutions for the individual, such as diversion programs, reduced charges, or alternative sentencing options.

Rights Protection and Evidence Preservation

During the pre-filing stage, defense attorneys play a crucial role in protecting the rights of the individual and making sure any evidence favorable to the defense is preserved. This includes advising the individual on interactions with law enforcement and taking steps to safeguard crucial evidence.

Preparing for Potential Charges

Even if charges have not been filed, pre-filing representation involves diligent preparation for potential legal proceedings. This includes gathering evidence, identifying witnesses, and laying the groundwork for a strong defense in the event charges are brought.

Why You Need Legal Representation Before Charges Are Filed

Overall, pre-filing representation is a proactive and strategic legal approach designed to influence the course of a criminal case before formal charges are initiated. Seeking skilled legal representation during this critical phase can significantly impact the case outcome and enhance the individual’s ability to mount a strong defense.

In criminal cases, strategic actions taken in the pre-filing stage can significantly shape the trajectory of a case. As an individual becomes aware of an impending investigation or potential charges, seeking skilled legal representation becomes paramount. The period before formal charges are filed offers a unique window of opportunity to proactively address potential legal issues, present a defense, and potentially influence the direction of the case.

Secure Qualified Legal Representation Before Criminal Charges Are Filed in California

If you think you are about to be charged with a crime in California, seeking the guidance of a skilled criminal defense attorney during this crucial pre-filing stage is a proactive step toward protecting your rights and building a robust defense strategy. At Aron Law Firm, you will find dedicated legal representation tailored to your unique needs and circumstances.

Contact us today for a confidential consultation and take the first step in building a strong defense from the outset. Call (805) 618-1768 or fill out our contact form to get started today.

After a domestic violence arrest, emotions run high, and uncertainties about the future loom large. Legalities often intertwine with personal relationships, and the path forward may seem gloomy or unclear. Fortunately, an arrest is not a verdict, and every individual deserves a fair and thorough defense to fight the effect a domestic violence conviction could have on your record.

At Aron Law Firm, we understand the gravity of such serious allegations and how a domestic violence conviction could impact your record. Our goal is to craft a strategic defense to mitigate your charges or, in some cases, have them dropped entirely. We provide a guiding hand to those navigating the aftermath of a domestic violence arrest, aiming to provide clarity, insights, and a roadmap toward a more promising future.

The Effects of a Domestic Violence Conviction on Your Record in California

Few charges carry the weight and enduring consequences of domestic violence convictions. The effects of such allegations extend far beyond the courtroom, reaching into personal lives and casting shadows that can linger for years.

California Penal Code Section 273.5

Domestic violence charges in California are codified under Penal Code Section 273.5, addressing corporal injury on a spouse, cohabitant, or the parent of the accused person’s child. Convictions under this code can lead to severe penalties, including fines, mandatory counseling, and, in some cases, imprisonment.

Criminal Record Stigma

A domestic violence conviction results in a permanent mark on your criminal record. This can affect your personal and professional life, causing stigma and potential barriers to employment opportunities.

Firearms Restrictions

Convictions related to domestic violence trigger federal and state laws prohibiting the possession of firearms. Losing your right to bear arms can have lasting implications, especially if you work in a profession where firearm possession is necessary.

Restraining Orders

A domestic violence conviction often leads to the issuance of restraining orders. Violating these orders can result in further legal consequences, exacerbating an already challenging situation.

Professional License Impact

For individuals with professional licenses, a domestic violence conviction can jeopardize their livelihood. Many licensing boards conduct background checks, and a criminal record may lead to the suspension or revocation of professional licenses.

Child Custody and Visitation Issues

In family law matters, a domestic violence conviction can significantly impact child custody and visitation arrangements. California courts prioritize the safety and well-being of children, and convictions may influence decisions regarding parental rights.

Mitigate the Effects of a Domestic Violence Charge With a California Attorney

Remember, an arrest does not define your story, and with the right defense strategy, you can navigate the legal landscape toward a more favorable outcome. Your future is too important to leave to chance, and legal guidance is the first step toward reclaiming control.

When you partner with Aron Law Firm, you can count on us to meticulously assess the details of your situation, ensure you understand your rights, and formulate a strategic defense tailored to your unique circumstances. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first proactive step in building a strong defense. Call our office at (805) 618-1768 or fill out our contact form to get started.

Navigating the aftermath of a statutory rape arrest is an emotionally charged and legally complex journey. The mere accusation of engaging in sexual activity with a minor can cast a shadow over every aspect of your life. As you grapple with the weight of these charges, it is important to remember that an arrest is not a conviction, and you have the right to defend your case.

At Aron Law Firm, we understand the unique challenges and sensitivities surrounding allegations of statutory rape in California. We assist those facing these serious accusations, guiding them through the legal process and helping them explore potential defenses. Our goal is to defend your interests by building a strong and effective strategy to protect your future. 

What Is Statutory Rape in California?

Statutory rape laws in California are outlined in California Penal Code Section 261.5, which defines statutory rape as sexual intercourse between an adult (age 18 or older) and a minor (under the age of 18) who is not the spouse of the perpetrator. 

Unlike other forms of rape, statutory rape does not require proof of force, coercion, or lack of consent. Instead, the law is based on the premise that minors are legally unable to consent to sexual activity due to their age. As such, any sexual intercourse with a minor, even if consensual, is considered statutory rape under California law. 

How to Fight a Statutory Rape Charge in California

Few allegations carry as much gravity and stigma as statutory rape charges. For individuals accused of such offenses in California, the importance of strategic legal representation cannot be understated.

Depending on the circumstances surrounding your particular case, your criminal defense attorney may use any of the following potential defense strategies:

Lack of Knowledge of the Minor’s Age

One possible defense against statutory rape charges is demonstrating that the accused was unaware of the minor’s true age at the time of the alleged offense. If the defendant reasonably believed the minor was of legal age and had no reason to suspect otherwise, this lack of knowledge may be a viable defense.

Mistake of Fact

A mistake of fact defense involves demonstrating that the accused reasonably believed the minor was of legal age based on the circumstances presented. Factors such as the minor’s physical appearance, demeanor, and representations made by the minor may be considered in establishing a mistake of fact defense.

Age Gap Defense

In some situations, California law provides for an age gap defense, which reduces the severity of statutory rape charges if certain criteria are met. This defense may apply when the age difference between the defendant and the minor is within a specified range, and other conditions are satisfied.

Consent

While minors are deemed incapable of legally consenting to sexual activity, there may be instances where the minor willingly participated in the sexual encounter and falsely claimed to be of legal age. In such cases, the defense may be able to argue that the minor provided voluntary consent to the sexual activity. 

Seek Qualified Legal Counsel After an Arrest for Statutory Rape in California

If you or someone you know is facing statutory rape charges in California, swift and strategic legal action is paramount. Your future and reputation are at stake, and seeking professional legal guidance is not just an option – it is a necessity. An Aron Law Firm criminal defense attorney can help chart a course toward the most favorable outcome for your case. 

Contact us today for a confidential consultation, where we can discuss the specifics of your situation and explore potential defenses. Call (805) 618-1768 or contact us online to get started today.

Finding yourself on the wrong side of a white collar crime allegation is inherently stressful. The weight of such charges goes beyond the typical criminal narrative, involving financial intricacies and corporate misdeeds. Although these charges can come with harsh consequences, your criminal defense attorney can fight for sentencing alternatives.

If you or someone you know was arrested for a white collar crime, navigating the legal landscape ahead requires both strategic insight and a solid understanding of the potential consequences. At Aron Law Firm, our team will work to build a strong defense strategy for your particular situation and help you explore avenues beyond incarceration for your white collar criminal charges.

Alternatives to Incarceration in California for White Collar Crimes

While jail time may be a common outcome in cases involving white collar crimes, the sentencing alternatives in California offer a ray of hope for those facing these charges. California’s sentencing alternatives aim to address the complexities of these non-violent offenses while promoting rehabilitation and restitution.

Sentencing alternatives for white collar crimes in California include:

Probation

Probation is a common sentencing alternative for white collar crimes in California. It allows individuals to serve their sentences in the community under specific conditions, such as regular check-ins with a probation officer, restitution payments, and compliance with court-ordered requirements. Probation offers a chance for rehabilitation while allowing individuals to maintain employment and family connections.

Community Service

Courts may order individuals convicted of white collar crimes to perform community service as part of their sentence. This alternative provides an opportunity for offenders to give back to the community and make amends for their actions. Community service requirements are often tailored to the individual’s circumstances and may involve tasks such as volunteer work or restitution projects.

Restitution

Restitution is a key component of sentencing for white collar crimes, aiming to compensate victims for financial losses incurred as a result of the offense. Courts may order offenders to repay the victims directly or contribute to restitution funds. Restitution orders are enforceable by law and play a vital role in holding offenders accountable for their actions.

Fines and Monetary Penalties

In addition to restitution, courts may impose fines and monetary penalties as part of the sentencing for white collar crimes. These financial sanctions serve as a deterrent and help offset the costs of investigation and prosecution. The amount of fines imposed varies depending on the offense’s severity and the offender’s financial circumstances.

Alternative Sentencing Programs

California offers various alternative sentencing programs for nonviolent offenders, including those charged with white collar crimes. These programs focus on rehabilitation, education, and vocational training, aiming to address the underlying factors contributing to criminal behavior. Participation in alternative sentencing programs may result in reduced sentences or dismissal of charges upon successful completion.

Partner with an Experienced White Collar Criminal Defense Attorney in California Today

Navigating the sentencing phase of a white collar crime case requires a comprehensive understanding of the alternatives available and their implications. By exploring probation, community service, restitution, fines, and alternative sentencing programs, individuals facing white collar crime charges in California can work towards the most favorable outcomes for their futures.

At Aron Law Firm, we concentrate on criminal defense and offer adept guidance to individuals navigating the complexities of white collar crime cases. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore your options for a strategic defense tailored to your unique circumstances. Call (805) 618-1768 or contact us online for more information about how we can help.

Probation serves as an alternative to incarceration, offering individuals an opportunity to reintegrate into society under certain conditions. However, probation violations are common and can stem from a variety of factors, often rooted in the challenges individuals face when adapting to the conditions imposed by the court.

If you are facing charges for violating the terms of your probation in California, Aron Law Firm can provide you with adept legal guidance and strategic representation to safeguard your rights and future. Whether you are addressing a failure to report, positive drug tests, incomplete court-ordered programs, or other probation-related challenges, we are committed to advocating for the best possible outcome in your unique situation.

What Is Probation in California?

Probation in California is a legal status that allows individuals convicted of certain crimes to serve their sentences within the community under the supervision of a probation officer instead of serving time in jail or prison. Probation is granted as a substitute for incarceration and is often imposed by the court as part of the sentencing process. The specific terms and conditions of probation can vary based on the nature of the offense, the individual’s criminal history, and other factors.

Individuals on probation are required to report to a probation officer on a regular basis. The probation officer monitors their compliance with the conditions set by the court. The court imposes specific conditions that the individual must follow during the probation period, such as abstaining from drugs and alcohol, attending counseling or rehabilitation programs, and fulfilling community service requirements.

Probation officers conduct regular reviews to assess the probationer’s compliance with the conditions. Non-compliance may result in consequences, including probation violations. Probation does not erase the criminal conviction from an individual’s record, but successfully completing probation may result in a more favorable outcome, such as reduced charges or a shorter sentence.

Violations of Probation Under California Penal Code Section 1203.2

The ongoing struggle to reintegrate into society can expose individuals to environments where temptations and the risk of involvement in new criminal activities are prevalent. Other factors, such as substance abuse issues or miscommunication regarding reporting obligations, travel restrictions, or program completion can also lead to probation violations under California Penal Code Section 1203.2.

Failure to adhere to probation conditions can lead to violations and additional legal consequences. Here is what you should know about the types of probation violations in California:

Failure to Report

One common probation violation involves the failure to report to the probation officer as required. Regular check-ins are a fundamental aspect of probation, and missing appointments can lead to serious consequences.

Positive Drug Tests

Probation often includes conditions such as abstaining from drugs or alcohol. A positive drug test constitutes a violation and can result in increased supervision, modified conditions, or, in severe cases, revocation of probation.

Failure to Complete Court-Ordered Programs

Probation terms frequently include requirements such as attending counseling, completing community service, or participating in rehabilitation programs. Failing to fulfill these court-ordered obligations can lead to probation violations.

Traveling Without Permission

Probation typically restricts travel, and leaving the designated area without permission is considered a violation. It is essential to obtain approval from the probation officer before making any travel plans.

Commission of New Crimes

Perhaps the most serious violation involves the commission of new criminal offenses while on probation. Any involvement in illegal activities, no matter how minor, can lead to severe consequences, including probation revocation and potential incarceration.

Failure to Pay Fines or Restitution

Probation conditions may include financial obligations such as fines or restitution to victims. Failure to meet these financial responsibilities can be considered a violation.

Contact a Seasoned California Criminal Defense Attorney to Fight a Probation Violation

If you were accused of violating the terms of your probation in California, now is the time to partner with a seasoned criminal defense attorney. Navigating the legal landscape requires knowledge and skill, and Aron Law Firm is here to help you every step of the way.

Set up a meeting to discuss your legal options today by calling (805) 618-1768 or reaching out to us online.

Peer pressure and the desire to fit in with social circles can drive some minors to experiment with alcohol, seeking acceptance and connection. In certain instances, minors may obtain alcohol unintentionally, perhaps at a gathering where the presence of alcohol is not adequately controlled or supervised. In California, anyone under 21 in possession of alcohol could face severe penalties.

If you or your child is facing charges related to possession of alcohol as a minor, Aron Law Firm can help. We provide skillful legal guidance to minors facing charges for underage drinking, confirming their rights are protected by crafting a strong defense strategy tailored to their unique circumstances.

Were You Arrested for the Possession of Alcohol as a Minor in California?

Under California’s Business and Professions Code Section 25662, it is unlawful for any individual under the age of 21 to have an alcoholic beverage in their possession in any public place, on any street, highway, or in any place open to the public.

The consequences of possession of alcohol charges can have far-reaching impacts on a young person’s life. Violation of this law is considered an infraction, and penalties may include fines and mandatory participation in community service or alcohol education programs. Consult with a qualified legal professional to understand the specific details and potential consequences based on the circumstances of your individual case.

How to Fight Charges for Possession of Alcohol as a Minor in California

An experienced California criminal defense attorney can construct a solid defense strategy to work towards mitigating the potential repercussions of charges for possession of alcohol as a minor. A few approaches that may be used to fight such charges include: 

Challenging the Search and Seizure

One of the primary defenses against charges of alcohol possession involves scrutinizing the legality of the search and seizure that led to the discovery of the alcohol. If law enforcement violated the minor’s Fourth Amendment rights during the search, it may be possible to have the evidence deemed inadmissible in court.

Questioning the Accuracy of Tests

If the prosecution’s case relies on the results of alcohol tests, it is crucial to examine the accuracy of these tests. Breathalyzer tests, for instance, can be influenced by various factors, and challenging their reliability can be a viable defense strategy. An experienced attorney can help evaluate the testing procedures and question their validity. 

Asserting a Lack of Knowledge or Control

Minors charged with alcohol possession may claim a lack of knowledge or control over the presence of alcohol. If they were unaware of the alcohol’s presence or lacked control over the situation, it could be a valid defense.

Exploring Diversion Programs

Some jurisdictions offer diversion programs for first-time offenders, especially minors. These programs may include educational courses, community service, or counseling instead of traditional legal consequences. Exploring these alternatives with the help of an attorney can provide a path for rehabilitation without a formal criminal record. 

Partner With an Accomplished California Criminal Defense Attorney Today

Being charged with possession of alcohol as a minor is undoubtedly scary, but having an accomplished California criminal defense attorney on your side can make all the difference. At Aron Law Firm, we have a proven track record in criminal defense, and we are prepared to be your ally in navigating the legal process for your minor in possession of alcohol case.

Schedule a consultation today to discuss your case and legal options. We are available 24/7 by phone at (805) 618-1768, or you can complete our convenient contact form.

From the flick of a light switch to the comforting hum of appliances, we often take the seamless flow of electricity, water, and gas in our modern lives for granted. Unfortunately, although we have such convenient access to these utilities, they are undoubtedly expensive. Siphoning off some from a neighbor or making some adjustments to a meter may be tempting, but it could land you in hot water.

Anyone accused of stealing a utility in California will face severe penalties under California state law. If you are facing charges for utility theft, an Aron Law Firm criminal defense attorney can work to mitigate the charges or, in some cases, have them dropped entirely. Our team is adept at building solid defense strategies to protect the rights of our clients, and when you partner with us, you can rest assured we will work tirelessly to advocate for your interests.

What to Know About Utility Theft in California (Penal Code Section 498)

California takes a firm stance against all types of theft, including the theft of utilities. Utility providers invest significant resources in ensuring the integrity of their services, and any attempt to circumvent these systems can lead to criminal charges. Under the California Penal Code, stealing these services falls under specific provisions.

California Penal Code Section 498 outlines crimes related to theft of utilities, making it unlawful to steal services such as electricity, water, or gas. The section classifies it as a criminal offense and covers a broad range of actions, including:

• Tampering with utility meters
• Using unauthorized devices to obtain services
• Any other deceptive practices aimed at acquiring utility services without proper authorization

The consequences of being charged under Section 498 can be severe, potentially resulting in fines, restitution, and even imprisonment, depending on the circumstances of the case.

How to Fight Criminal Charges for Utility Theft in California

Fighting a criminal charge for utility theft requires a strategic and thorough approach. Here are steps you can consider taking:

• Consult an attorney: An experienced criminal defense attorney, familiar with the local laws in your jurisdiction, can provide valuable insights into your case, assess its strengths and weaknesses, and guide you through the legal process.
• Gather evidence: Work with your attorney to collect evidence that can support your defense. This may include any documents, records, or witnesses that can challenge the prosecution’s case or demonstrate that you did not engage in the alleged utility theft.
• Examine the utility provider’s records: Review the utility provider’s records in detail. Discrepancies or errors in their documentation could be crucial to your defense. Your attorney may also investigate whether any technical issues or malfunctions could have led to a misreading of meters.
• Challenge the evidence: Your attorney can challenge the prosecution’s evidence, confirming it was obtained legally and that any searches or seizures followed proper procedures. If there are issues with how the evidence was collected, it may be possible to have it excluded from the case.
• Negotiate a plea bargain: In some cases, negotiating a plea bargain may be a viable option. Your attorney can work with the prosecution to secure a more favorable outcome, such as reduced charges or a lighter sentence, in exchange for a guilty plea.
• Explore defenses: Your defense strategy may involve demonstrating you had legal access to the utilities in question, there was no intent to steal, or there are other mitigating circumstances.
• Attend court proceedings: Attend all court appearances as required. Your presence demonstrates your commitment to addressing the charges and can positively impact the court’s perception of your case.

Remember, the legal process is complex, and having a skilled attorney by your side is crucial. Consult with a qualified legal professional to make sure you are taking the most effective steps to fight the criminal charge for utility theft.

Were You Accused of Stealing Utilities in California? Contact Our Law Firm Today

Aron Law Firm focuses on criminal defense and can provide professional guidance for those facing charges related to utility theft. Our team understands the intricacies of California law and can develop effective defense strategies tailored to the specific circumstances of your case.

Call (805) 618-1768 or fill out our contact form today to schedule a meeting with an Aron Law Firm criminal defense attorney to discuss your case.

Life has a way of surprising us with unexpected challenges, and one of those challenges could be getting pulled over by the police when you have a suspended driver’s license. Although this can be a stressful situation, understanding your rights and the steps to take when facing this scenario can help safeguard your rights.

If you were pulled over while your license was suspended, you could face severe legal consequences. At Aron Law Firm, we have extensive experience handling traffic violations and driver’s license issues in California and can provide you with professional advice and support. After a traffic violation, our team will work diligently to protect your rights and help you find the best way forward.

Understanding Why Your California Driver’s License Was Suspended

Before we delve into the next steps, it is essential to understand why your license might be suspended in the first place. Common reasons for license suspension include:

• Accumulation of points: Excessive traffic violations can accumulate points on your driving record, eventually resulting in a suspension. 
• DUI/DWI conviction: Driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) convictions often lead to license suspension.
• Unpaid tickets or fines: Outstanding traffic tickets, fines, or failure to appear in court can result in a suspended license.
• Failure to maintain insurance: Failing to carry auto insurance as required by law can lead to license suspension.

Driving with a suspended license can result in serious consequences under California Vehicle Code 14601.1, including fines, extended suspension periods, and even jail time. Additionally, it can further damage your driving record, making it challenging to reinstate your license in the future.

What to Do After a Traffic Stop When Your Driver’s License Is Suspended

If you find yourself pulled over with a suspended license, here is what to do:

• Remain calm: Stay composed and polite throughout the interaction. Comply with the officer’s instructions, even if you believe the stop is unwarranted. Resisting arrest or becoming confrontational can worsen your situation.
• Avoid self-incrimination: You have the right to remain silent. Avoid volunteering information that could incriminate you. If you are arrested or detained, do not forget that you have the right to request an attorney.
• Be informed: Politely ask the officer for the reason behind the stop. Knowing the specific violation or suspicion can be valuable information.
• Seek legal advice: Consult an attorney experienced in traffic violations and driver’s license issues. They can help you understand the implications and potential consequences of your situation.
• Address the suspension: Take steps to address the root cause of your license suspension. This may involve paying fines, attending traffic school, or fulfilling any court-ordered requirements to reinstate your driving privileges.

If you have been pulled over with a suspended license, it is highly advisable to seek legal counsel. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the legal complexities, protect your rights, and work toward resolving the issue effectively. They can also advise you on the best course of action to reinstate your driving privileges.

Fight Suspended License Charges With a Qualified California Criminal Defense Attorney

Getting pulled over with a suspended license in California is a serious matter that requires careful navigation of the legal system. With the right support, you can work towards reinstating your driving privileges and avoiding further legal complications.

If you have been pulled over with a suspended license in California, seek the guidance and support of an experienced attorney with Aron Law Firm, who can advise on traffic violations and driver’s license issues. Your rights and your ability to resolve this situation are our priorities. Call (805) 618-1768 or complete our contact form to get started today.

Far removed from the imagery of bank heists and high-speed chases, white-collar crimes are conducted in the boardroom, the accountant’s ledger, and the executive’s office—an underbelly of illicit activities where the weapons of choice are pens, not guns, and the battlefield is the world of finance. In California, white-collar offenses are taken seriously and can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment and hefty fines.

If you or someone you know is facing charges related to white-collar crimes, an Aron Law Firm criminal defense attorney can guide you through the complexities of the legal system and provide skillful representation. We have a proven track record of defending individuals against white-collar crime charges, and we are dedicated to protecting your rights.

Types of White-Collar Crimes in California

White-collar crimes are typically financially motivated offenses that do not involve violence or physical harm to others. Instead, they often revolve around deceptive practices, embezzlement, theft, and fraudulent activities in business and financial sectors. These crimes are referred to as “white collar” because they are typically committed by professionals and office workers who wear white shirts and collars.

California has its fair share of white-collar crime cases, and the following are among the most prevalent:

Embezzlement

Embezzlement occurs when someone misappropriates funds or property that have been entrusted to them. This crime often involves employees, officers, or officials who steal from their employers or organizations.

Identity Theft

Identity theft is a growing concern, involving the theft of personal information to commit fraud, such as opening unauthorized accounts or making unauthorized purchases. California has strict laws to combat this form of white-collar crime.

Fraud

Fraud is a broad category encompassing various deceptive practices, such as insurance fraud, healthcare fraud, securities fraud, and mortgage fraud. The state takes fraud seriously, and convictions can lead to severe consequences.

Insider Trading

Insider trading is an offense that involves trading stocks or securities based on non-public, confidential information. This crime is often associated with corporate executives and employees who have access to sensitive financial data.

Bribery and Corruption

Bribery and corruption involve offering, giving, or receiving something of value with the intent to influence the actions of a public official or business associate. California has stringent laws against these activities.

Money Laundering

Money laundering is the process of concealing the origins of illegally obtained money, typically by transferring it through a complex sequence of banking transfers or commercial transactions. This crime is closely tied to organized criminal activities.

Defending White-Collar Crimes in California

White-collar crimes are a serious matter in California, and the consequences can be life-altering. Under California Penal Code Section 186.11, the penalties for white-collar crimes can be severe and include lengthy prison sentences, significant fines, and restitution to victims. Damage to one’s reputation, difficulty securing employment, and other consequences may also follow.

It is essential to consult an experienced criminal defense attorney to protect your rights and build a robust defense strategy. Aron Law Firm has a proven track record of successfully defending individuals accused of white-collar crimes. We understand the complexities of these cases and can help you navigate the legal process with confidence.

Partner With an Experienced White Collar Crime Defense Attorney in California

At Aron Law Firm, our commitment to our clients is unwavering, and we will work tirelessly to protect your rights and interests. We will thoroughly investigate the charges, explore all possible defenses, and strive for the best possible outcome for your case.

If you face charges for a white-collar crime in California, having a skilled legal advocate by your side can be invaluable. Contact Aron Law Firm today to set up a confidential consultation to discuss your legal options. Call (805) 618-1768 or contact us online to get started.

Self-defense is a fundamental and universally recognized right. In California, self-defense laws are in place to protect individuals who find themselves in situations where using force is necessary to protect themselves, others, or their property. Understanding these laws is crucial for every Californian, as they can mean the difference between a legally justified act and criminal charges.

If you or someone you know is facing legal consequences for defending themselves in California, you are not alone. It is a challenging situation, but there is hope. At Aron Law Firm, our experienced legal team is here to support you and fight for your rights. We understand your actions were born out of necessity, and we are here to stand by your side.

What You Should Know About Your Right to Defend Yourself in California

California’s self-defense laws offer a protective legal shield, permitting proportional force when responding to imminent threats. With the “stand your ground” doctrine and the Castle Doctrine in play, you are empowered to stand firm against danger and defend your home. We want to help you to make informed decisions regarding protecting yourself and your loved ones.

What Is Self-Defense?

Self-defense, in legal terms, refers to the use of reasonable force to protect oneself or others from imminent harm or a threat of harm. Be aware self-defense is not a blanket justification for any level of force; the use of force must be proportionate and reasonable to the threat faced.

Castle Doctrine

California has a version of the Castle Doctrine (Penal Code 198.5), which is an extension of self-defense rights within your own home. Under this doctrine, individuals are generally not required to retreat from their homes before using force to protect themselves or their families. However, the use of force must still be reasonable and proportionate to the threat.

Use of Deadly Force

The use of deadly force, such as firearms, is subject to stricter regulations. California law generally allows deadly force only when an individual reasonably believes it is necessary to prevent great bodily harm or death to themselves or others. The “reasonable belief” element is critical, as it depends on the perception of a reasonable person in the same circumstances.

Retreat and Non-Deadly Force

In situations where deadly force is not warranted, individuals are generally required to retreat if it is safe to do so. The use of non-deadly force should only be employed as a last resort. Non-deadly force, like physical restraint or less-lethal weapons, must be proportionate to the threat and used reasonably.

Defense of Property

California law allows the use of force to protect your property, but it must be reasonable and proportionate to the threat. Deadly force is generally not justified solely to protect property. For example, shooting someone to prevent a theft may lead to criminal charges.

Legal Implications and Consultation

Self-defense laws in California are complex, and their interpretation can vary depending on the specific circumstances. If you find yourself in a situation where you believe defending yourself is necessary, consult an experienced attorney who can assess your case, help you navigate the legal complexities, and protect your rights.

Seek Qualified Legal Counsel After Defending Yourself in California

Are you facing a criminal charge for defending yourself? Seek legal counsel from a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney with Aron Law Firm today. We can provide you with the guidance and support you need to confirm your rights are protected. Call (805) 618-1768 or fill out our contact form to set up a confidential consultation.

A single stroke of a pen, the artful manipulation of a document, or even a seemingly innocuous signature can cast a shadow over an individual’s life, changing its course forever. Forgery, as defined in California Penal Code Section 470, is a crime that revolves around deception, fraud, and the manipulation of documents. Those accused of this crime often have an uphill legal battle ahead of them.

To safeguard your rights or those of a loved one facing forgery allegations, it is crucial to have an experienced legal advocate by your side. As a dedicated criminal defense law firm, the Aron Law Firm understands the complexities of forgery charges in California. We know what it takes to build a strong defense strategy tailored to the unique circumstances of your forgery case.

What Is Considered Forgery in California?

Forgery, under California law, is the act of intentionally altering, creating, or using a false document or writing with the intent to defraud, deceive, or injure another person. This crime is a serious offense in California, and those accused of it can face severe legal consequences.

Crimes of forgery and counterfeiting can involve any of the following items:

• Checks
• Bonds
• Bank bills
• Cashier’s checks
• Traveler’s checks
• Money orders
• Receipts for money or goods
• Contracts
• Lottery tickets
• Certificates of ownership
• Stocks
• Goods

The above list is not exhaustive. Knowingly passing (or attempting to pass) any altered or counterfeit document or item off as true or genuine in California could land in serious hot water.

Elements of Forgery in California

To secure a conviction for forgery, the prosecution must prove certain elements beyond a reasonable doubt. These elements include:

• Intent: The defendant must have acted with the specific intent to defraud, deceive, or injure someone. Proving intent can be a complex matter, and it often forms the foundation of a defense strategy.
• False document or writing: The accused must have altered, created, or used a false document or writing. This means that the document must contain false information or be entirely fabricated.
• Knowledge of falsity: The defendant must have been aware of the falsity of the document or had reason to believe that it was false. Proving knowledge is another critical aspect of the prosecution’s case.
• Use or presenting: The act of using or presenting the forged document to someone else, such as a bank or another individual, with the intent to deceive or defraud.
• Injury or potential harm: The prosecution must demonstrate that the forgery had the potential to cause harm, loss, or injury to another person or entity.

If you are facing forgery charges in California, do not wait to secure legal counsel from an attorney experienced with these types of crimes.

Penalties for Forgery in California

The penalties for forgery in California can vary depending on factors such as the specific circumstances of the crime and the defendant’s criminal history. Generally, forgery can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony.

Misdemeanor forgery convictions can come with up to one year in county jail and fines of up to $1,000. For felony forgery convictions, expect up to 3 years in state prison and fines of up to $10,000.

Forgery charges in California can be compounded when they involve certain enhancements or if the defendant has prior forgery convictions.

Potential Defenses Against Forgery Charges

Your California criminal defense attorney has several strategies they may use to defend your forgery charges. Some potential defenses include:

• Lack of intent: Demonstrating that you did not have the specific intent to defraud or deceive can be a powerful defense strategy.
• Mistaken identity: If there is doubt about the true identity of the person who committed the forgery, it may be argued that you were wrongly accused.
• Lack of knowledge: Proving that you did not know that the document was fabricated can be a successful defense strategy.
• Insufficient evidence: Challenging the evidence presented by the prosecution is a fundamental aspect of building a strong defense.

Forgery is a complex crime in California, and defending against forgery charges requires a deep understanding of the legal elements involved.

Contact a California Criminal Defense Lawyer Experienced with Forgery Crimes

Are you or someone you know facing forgery charges in California? Do not navigate this complex legal terrain alone. Reach out to the trusted California criminal defense team at Aron Law Firm for proficient guidance and a robust defense.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards securing your future. Call (805) 618-1768 or contact us online.

You have worked tirelessly to build your career, investing countless hours, sweat, and determination into achieving your professional goals. Yet, it only takes one unfortunate decision or one momentary lapse in judgment, such as getting behind the wheel after one too many drinks, to shatter everything you have worked so hard to attain.

Beyond the legal penalties, a driving under the influence (DUI) conviction can send shockwaves through your professional life, potentially costing you your job, your reputation, and your dreams. If you are facing a DUI charge in California, an Aron Law Firm DUI defense attorney is here to help protect your rights and assist you in navigating the legal process.

How a California DUI Could Impact Your Professional Life

Just one DUI conviction can affect your professional life in various ways, potentially leading to job loss, damaged reputation, and financial setbacks. Here are five ways a DUI can affect your career and why it is crucial to seek legal representation from a California criminal defense lawyer right away if you are accused of violating California Vehicle Code 23152:

Employment at Risk

One of the most immediate concerns for individuals facing a DUI charge is the risk of immediate job loss. Many employers have strict policies against employees with DUI convictions, especially if the job involves driving, operating heavy machinery, or requires a high level of responsibility. Depending on your profession, your employer may choose to terminate your employment or place you on probation, potentially affecting your earning potential and career progression.

Professional Licenses in Jeopardy

Certain professions in California require licenses and certifications, such as healthcare professionals, lawyers, and commercial drivers. A DUI conviction can put your professional license at risk, potentially leading to suspension or revocation. Losing your professional license can be a devastating blow to your career, as it may be challenging to regain your standing in your field once it is lost.

Damage to Reputation

A DUI conviction can quickly become public knowledge, especially in the age of social media and online databases. News of your arrest and conviction can spread quickly among colleagues, clients, and potential employers. This damage to your reputation can hinder your professional opportunities and relationships, making it challenging to secure new clients, partnerships, or job offers.

Increased Insurance Costs

For individuals who drive as part of their job responsibilities, a DUI conviction can lead to significantly higher auto insurance premiums. The increased cost of insurance can place a financial burden on you and your employer, potentially affecting your employment status or causing financial stress. Employers may reconsider retaining or hiring employees who pose a higher risk of accidents and insurance claims.

Limited Job Opportunities

If you lose your job due to a DUI conviction, finding new employment can be challenging. Many employers conduct background checks on prospective employees, and a DUI conviction can make you a less desirable candidate. Some industries, such as transportation and government jobs, may have strict policies against hiring individuals with DUI convictions, further limiting your job opportunities.

Protect Your Career With a Skilled California DUI Defense Attorney

A DUI conviction in California can have far-reaching consequences for your career. It can jeopardize your current employment, professional licenses, and future job prospects. To protect your career and mitigate these potential consequences, seek legal representation from a qualified California criminal defense lawyer with Aron Law Firm.

An Aron Law Firm DUI defense attorney can help you navigate the legal process, explore potential defenses, and work toward minimizing the impact of a DUI conviction on your career. Call (805) 618-1768 or fill out our contact form for more information.

In this digital age where information is currency, identity theft has emerged as a pervasive and insidious crime that can wreak havoc on individuals’ lives. The state of California, like many others, has recognized the pressing need to combat this ever-evolving threat and has enacted stringent laws to safeguard its residents from the clutches of identity thieves.

If you or someone you care about is grappling with an identity theft accusation in California, we can help. At Aron Law Firm, we provide our clients who have been charged with identity theft with adept legal advice. We conduct independent, thorough investigations into each case to build a strong defense for your unique situation and guide each client step by step through the legal process.

Understanding Identity Theft Crimes in California

Identity theft occurs when someone unlawfully obtains and uses another person’s personal information without consent. This information is typically utilized for fraudulent purposes and can include, but is not limited to, a person’s:

• Name
• Address
• Date of birth
• Social Security number
• Driver’s license number
• Bank account information
• Credit card numbers
• Passport number

In California, identity theft is primarily governed by California Penal Code Section 530.5 and can encompass a wide range of activities, from opening fraudulent bank accounts to making unauthorized purchases in someone else’s name.

Penalties for Identity Theft in California

Identity theft in California is typically charged as a felony, with penalties that can be severe. The specific penalties can vary depending on the circumstances of the offense and the defendant’s criminal history. Penalties may include:

• Imprisonment: Conviction for identity theft can result in imprisonment for up to three years for each count, and if multiple counts are involved, the sentences can be consecutive.
• Fines: In addition to imprisonment, fines of up to $10,000 or more may be imposed, depending on the severity of the offense.
• Restitution: Convicted individuals may be required to pay restitution to the victim to cover their financial losses resulting from the identity theft.
• Probation: In some cases, the court may offer probation as an alternative to imprisonment, along with mandatory identity theft education programs.

Navigating identity theft charges in California can be complex, and the consequences of a conviction can be life-altering. Therefore, it is essential to consult an experienced California criminal defense lawyer who understands identity theft cases.

Potential Defenses Against Identity Theft Charges in California

If you are facing identity theft charges in California, there are a few defense strategies that may be available to you. Some common defenses include:

• Lack of intent: If you did not have the intent to commit fraud when using the personal information, you may have a valid defense.
• Consent: If you had the victim’s consent to use their personal information, it may be a valid defense.
• Mistaken identity: In some cases, the prosecution may have mistaken your identity as the perpetrator.
• Insufficient evidence: Challenging the prosecution’s evidence or proving they lack sufficient evidence to support the charges can be a viable defense strategy.

At Aron Law Firm, our team can assess your specific situation, provide qualified legal advice, and work tirelessly to build a strong defense on your behalf.

Hire an Experienced California Identity Theft Crimes Defense Attorney

Identity theft is a serious criminal offense in California, carrying significant penalties for those convicted. If you or someone you know is dealing with identity theft charges, reach out to a qualified criminal defense attorney with Aron Law Firm, who can provide guidance and advocate for your best interests throughout the legal process.

Call (805) 618-1768 or submit our contact form to schedule a meeting with an Aron Law Firm identity theft defense lawyer today.

On January 1, 2021, a significant change occurred in California’s sex offender registry system. Senate Bill 384 eliminated the lifelong registration requirement for certain convicted sex offenders, replacing it with a more nuanced three-tiered system. This legislative shift creates significant implications for individuals whose crime does not always warrant a lifetime of being registered as a sex offender. For many, these changes bring a glimmer of hope and a chance at reintegration and redemption after years of enduring the weight of a lifelong label that follows them wherever they go. 

Facing criminal charges of any kind is incredibly challenging, but facing a lifetime of being branded as a sex offender is enough to make anyone feel helpless. Fortunately, Aron Law Firm is here for you. At Aron Law Firm, our team can help you navigate the complexities of sex crime charges. We believe that everyone deserves a second chance and the opportunity for reintegration. Our team will work tirelessly to help you understand your rights and advocate for your best interests.

The Old System: Mandatory Lifetime Registration in California

Before Senate Bill 384 was enacted, California operated under a one-size-fits-all approach to sex offender registration. Anyone convicted of a sex crime, regardless of the crime, was subject to mandatory lifetime sex offender registration. This means that individuals had to report to local law enforcement annually and provide them with detailed information about their physical description, residence, employment, and more. Any changes the individual made, such as moving to a new place, were to be reported promptly. Under Senate Bill 384, the system is now more nuanced. 

Breaking Down The Three-Tiered System

Now that Senate Bill 384 has been implemented, not all sex offenders will be required to register for life. The severity of the offense now determines the tier and the duration of mandatory sex offender registration. 

The three tiers under California’s Senate Bill 384 are the following:

Tier One

Tier one encompasses lower-level sex crimes and mandates sex offenders’ registration for a minimum of 10 years. Offenses that fall under tier one include:

• Sexual battery
• Indecent exposure
• Meeting a minor for lewd purposes
• Child pornography
• Annoying or molesting a child misdemeanor (Penal Code 647.6)

Those convicted of a tier one crime can seek removal from the sex offender registry after 10 years.

Tier Two

Mid-level sex offenders fall under tier two, which requires convicted individuals to register as sex offenders for a mandatory of 20 years. This category includes the following crimes:

• Incest
• Lewd acts with a minor under 14 years old
• Sodomy
• Sex penetration by an object
• Annoying and molesting a child as a second or subsequent offense (Penal Code 647.6)

Convicted individuals can petition for removal from the registry after 20 years.

Tier Three

The third and highest tier involves the most severe sex crimes, which will still necessitate lifetime registration. Offenses in this category include:

• Murder committed during a rape
• Felony sexual battery
• Sex trafficking of children
• Rape
• Pimping and pandering 
• Lewd acts with a minor
• Sex acts with a child under 10
• Meeting with a minor for lewd purposes as a felony
• Continuous sexual assaults of a child

Individuals convicted of tier-three crimes are ineligible for removal from the sex offender registry.

It is important to note that the tiered system applies to adults. Minors convicted of sexual offenses may be required to register for 5 to 10 years before becoming eligible to petition for removal from the registry. 

Contact an Experienced Sex Offender Defense Attorney Today

Implementing Senate Bill 384 creates a more compassionate and nuanced approach to California’s sex offender registry. The tier system acknowledges the importance of striking a balance between public safety and potential rehabilitation. However, navigating these complex new changes and the potential removal of the sexual offender registry can be daunting. At Aron Law Firm, we are committed to helping individuals understand the intricacies of being charged with a sex crime. 

Do not gripe with the intricacies of sex crime charges alone. Contact Aron Law Firm today to work with an attorney committed to protecting your rights and best interests. Call us at (805) 618-1768 or complete our contact form to schedule a consultation.

When Prop 64 was implemented, most people knew it had legalized recreational marijuana. However, a less-known change brought about by this law is that it has made it possible for some people to have their past convictions cleared or reduced. Prop 64 can help rewrite the past for countless individuals seeking redemption and a chance for a brighter future.

At Aron Law Firm, we specialize in providing expert legal guidance and representation to individuals seeking relief from past convictions. We know that understanding the nuances of Prop 64 can be challenging, and we are here to guide you through the process. Our firm believes that everyone deserves a second chance. Contact us today to start the process of putting your past behind you. 

Understanding How Prop 64 Can Help Clear Marijuana Charges

Proposition 64, or the Adult Use of Marijuana Act, was approved by voters in November 2016. This legislation made California the fifth state in the nation to legalize recreational marijuana. Yet, one crucial aspect of this law that is often overlooked is its retroactive nature. Not only does it legalize recreational marijuana, but it also offers relief to those with prior marijuana convictions. 

Under Prop 64, many marijuana convictions can be either entirely expunged from your record or potentially reduced to misdemeanors. The burden of proof lies not with you but with the prosecutors. Clearing your record requires establishing a prima facie case by alleging in a petition filed with the court that you are entitled to relief. The prosecutor must prove with clear evidence that you do not qualify for a conviction reduction or expungement. 

A judge may deny expungement if a person had more than 1 ounce of marijuana or more than six plants, in which case it may be possible to have the conviction reduced from a felony to a misdemeanor. In some cases, relief may be denied if it is deemed that an individual poses an “unreasonable risk of danger” to others. 

The Impact of Clearing Your Record

Clearing a marijuana conviction from your record can have far-reaching benefits, including: 

• Employment: A clean record can significantly help you secure employment, pass background checks, and even qualify for certain jobs and licenses that may have otherwise been off-limits with a conviction.
• Housing: Landlords often conduct background checks on potential residents, and a clean record can increase your chances of renting a place.
• Financial aid: A drug conviction may affect your eligibility for federal student loans. Clearing your record can help you access better educational opportunities.
• Benefits: Eligibility for state and federal benefits may be influenced by a drug conviction. Clearing your record protects your access to these benefits.
• Travel: Certain countries may deny entry or a visa application based on drug convictions, so clearing your record can help facilitate international travel.
• Civil rights: A felony conviction strips people of their right to vote and to possess firearms. By clearing your record, you can restore these rights.
• Family matters: A marijuana conviction may impact child custody or adoption proceedings. A clear record prevents these proceedings from being affected.

With the implementation of Prop 64, you do not need to let a prior marijuana conviction continue to affect your life or future opportunities. If the marijuana offense you were convicted of is now legal or has been reduced under Prop 64, you may be eligible to have your conviction reduced or expunged. Seeking legal assistance can help you better understand the process and can ensure you have a strong advocate fighting to protect your rights and best interests. 

Contact an Experienced Marijuana Charges Defense Lawyer

With its retroactive provisions, Prop 64 opens the door for many individuals to clear their records and reclaim their future. By seeking the guidance of legal experts, like those at Aron Law Firm, you may be able to break free from past mistakes and live a life where they no longer follow you.  

Aron Law Firm is well-versed in the nuances of Prop 64 and is ready to assist you in clearing your marijuana conviction. Do not let a past mistake hold you back any longer. Reach out to Aron Law Firm today to schedule a consultation by calling (805) 618-1768 or completing our contact form.

Auto insurance fraud charges can be an overwhelming and distressing experience. Whether you have been wrongly accused or made an unfortunate mistake, the potential consequences can leave anyone feeling anxious and uncertain about the future. Fortunately, Aron Law Firm is here to help. 

At Aron Law Firm, we specialize in criminal defense and have a successful track record of representing clients in insurance fraud cases. We understand the nuances of these cases and will work tirelessly to protect your rights and interests. Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and let us help you build a strong defense against the allegations you face.

Understanding Auto Insurance Fraud

Auto insurance fraud is an act of deceiving an auto insurance company for financial gain. California’s penal code 550 is used to prosecute anyone who knowingly submits fraudulent claims for insurance reimbursement. The crime can take various forms, including:

• Staged accidents: deliberately causing an accident to make a fraudulent claim
• Exaggerated injuries: faking or overstating injuries to insurance compensation
• False claims: submitting a claim for an accident that never happened
• Rate evasion: providing false information to get lower premiums 
• Phantom vehicle claims: claiming damages from an accident involving a non-existent vehicle 
• Identity theft: using someone else’s information to make a claim or purchase insurance 

Whether intentional or not, auto insurance fraud carries serious legal consequences, including:

• Criminal charges: perpetrators may face criminal charges that can result in fines, probation, or imprisonment
• Civil lawsuits: insurance companies could pursue civil actions to recover fraudulently obtained funds, resulting in financial penalties
• Cancellation policies: insurance policies obtained through fraudulent means can be canceled, leaving individuals without coverage 
• Loss of driver’s license: after an auto insurance fraud conviction, people may have their suspended or revoked driver’s license

When facing auto insurance fraud charges, it is important to consult a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney who can guide you through the legal process and help create a strong defense strategy. 

Common Defenses in Auto Insurance Fraud Cases

The best defense strategies are optimized depending on the case and the person being charged. It is important to work with a dedicated and experienced firm like Aron Law Firm, with the experience, personalized care, and attention necessary to provide you with the best legal strategy. Attorneys can employ various defenses, including:

• Lack of intent: A primary element that must be proven in many criminal cases, including auto insurance fraud, is the legal concept of intent. If the accused actions were not intentionally deceptive or fraudulent, it is a possible defense strategy an attorney can employ.
• Insufficient evidence: The prosecution must prove the accused is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, which means that an attorney can challenge the charges if the prosecution has insufficient evidence to support their case.
• Mistaken identity: If an accused is wrongly identified as the perpetrator, their defense attorney can present evidence to establish their innocence. 
• Coerced confession: A confession made under duress or without a clear understanding of legal rights can be challenged in a court. An attorney can challenge its admissibility. 
• Violation of rights: Law enforcement can sometimes violate an individual’s constitutional rights during an investigation or arrest, and an attorney can file a motion to suppress evidence obtained illegally, preventing it from being used against the accused.
• Alternative explanations: An attorney can present an alternative explanation for the accused actions that do not include fraudulent intent. 

Aron Law Firm specializes in defending clients against insurance fraud charges and can provide you with the legal expertise you need to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case. 

Contact an Experienced Auto Insurance Fraud Defense Attorney

When facing serious legal consequences, it is important to navigate the process with precision and care. This is where Aron Law Firm comes in. Regardless of the auto insurance fraud charges you face, you do not need to face them alone.

Aron Law Firm understands the stress and uncertainty of facing criminal charges. We are ready to stand by your side, offering not only legal expertise but also unwavering support throughout the process. Do not let these allegations define your future. Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and let us work tirelessly to protect your rights and provide you with the robust defense you deserve. Complete our contact form or call us at (805) 618-1768.

An arrest can be a daunting and confusing experience, causing many to inadvertently compromise their legal rights. Although challenging, maintaining composure and thoughtfully assessing the situation can greatly enhance the likelihood of a favorable case resolution.

When faced with potentially aggressive law enforcement officers, racing thoughts, and an uncertain future, it can be challenging to avoid mistakes. An experienced lawyer can help you understand the ins and outs of your legal situation and the frequent missteps of others in like situations. By doing so, you can considerably lower the likelihood of encountering harsh outcomes in your California criminal case. 

5 Mistakes to Avoid After Being Arrested in California

At Aron Law Firm, we understand the challenges of an arrest and will develop a solid defense regardless of potential subconscious mistakes made during your arrest. However, to try and limit your hardships and roadblocks, we have compiled a list of universal slip-ups to avoid during an arrest. 

Fleeing From the Police

The heat of the moment and fear of an arrest may cause you to flee the scene of a crime. Unfortunately, this mistake may result in harsher punishments than you would have initially faced. Our Aron Law Firm team has experience navigating these situations in court and will support and illustrate your emotions and reasons for fleeing to potentially lessen the consequences. 

Talking About Your Case

The right to remain silent is an essential federal- and state-level sanction you should adhere to when arrested. While local law enforcement may try to convince you to speak about your situation, it is best to wait until you have representation from a lawyer before discussing your case.

Posting on Social Media

After an arrest, you may want to communicate with your family and friends to let them know about your situation. While social media is a valuable tool for staying connected with your community, posting after an arrest can be detrimental to your case. Even if the content does not concern your arrest, the prosecution may use anything you say or post against you in court. Before posting or even “liking” anything on social media, speak with Aron Law Firm about your best course of action. 

Missing Your Court Date

Once you have been arrested and charged with a crime, you may need to appear before a judge several times before your actual trial. Missing court dates and times will not only slight your character in the eyes of the judge but also pose a threat to your case and result in harsher or additional punishments. In California, missing your court date can be punishable under CA Penal Code 1320 & 1320.5. In such a case, the judge will issue a bench warrant, and police will show up at your house to arrest you and bring you to court. 

Waiting to Speak With an Attorney

Regardless of whether the arrest is your first or third offense, speaking with an attorney will prevent you from making harmful mistakes. Our team at Aron Law Firm has years of experience navigating the complex processes of the California court system. We understand the mistakes individuals make and how to defend against prosecutors using them against those charged. By waiting to speak with an attorney, you may be risking your rights and case outcome.

The Aron Law Firm has guided and supported numerous clients through stressful and dangerous criminal charges, providing them with the best possible outcome for their situation. We use our vast experience and community connections to build a solid defense strategy tailored to your needs.

Partner With the Aron Law Firm for Professional Legal Defense in California

From professional license violations to assault charges, Aron Law Firm has decades of experience handling criminal defense cases. When you seek defense with our firm, you gain assertive and determined professionals willing to do whatever it takes to secure the best possible outcome for your case. 

Complete our contact form or call (805) 618-1768 to speak with one of our team members and retain highly qualified legal defense.

An expert witness is defined as someone with specific qualifications and knowledge who presents facts and opinions regarding a precise matter within a court case. By adhering to the standards established by federal and state legislation, an expert witness in a sex crimes case may offer vital information and alter the outcome of a case. However, understanding how to utilize an expert witness to your advantage in a criminal case is challenging without a lawyer. 

At Aron Law Firm, we have vast connections with California experts and will provide invaluable guidance during your sex crimes case.

How to Use an Expert Witness in a California Sex Crimes Case

Every case is unique and may require various types of expert witnesses depending on the type of crime and other factors. The State of California defines sex crimes in Penal Code § 261 PC as:

“…forcible sexual intercourse with an unwilling participant that occurs by way of force, threats or violence or in the absence of consent.”

Many sex offense cases involve medical professionals such as gynecologists, clinical social workers, psychologists, or Sexual Assault Forensic Examiners (SAFE). Other specific experts Aron Law Firm could utilize for your case include law enforcement officials, researchers, or even college professors with experience in the dynamics of sexual assault crimes. 

Without a lawyer, you may not be aware of the full extent of the benefits an expert witness can provide. There are many ways these witnesses can offer assistance and crucial information within a sex crime case, including the following:

• Evaluating the case and developing a trial strategy
• Crafting voir dire questions
• Assisting with jury selection
• Conducting a clinical assessment of the victim
• Writing an expert report to outline issues and arguments
• Helping to prepare the defendant for trial
• Preparing for examination of the victim, defendant, and other expert witnesses
• Polling jurors after the case is decided
• Supporting the defendant throughout the court process

Generally, some of the best expert witnesses to employ are those who have testified on both sides of an issue in prior court cases. Through their multifaceted experience, they can offer vital advice and considerations for your case. Our Aron Law Firm team has a vast network of professionals ready to provide their advice and testimony on your behalf.

Why Partner With the Aron Law Firm?

Not every law firm and lawyer will have the experience and resources necessary to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome of your case. Our Aron Law Firm team has developed solid defense strategies for numerous clients across California and understands what it takes to navigate the complexities of California’s criminal justice system. 

Our main goal is to increase your chances of getting your charges reduced or dropped. Below are a few of the many ways our law firm will support you through the complex process:

• Answering all of your case-related questions
• Conducting a thorough investigation of your situation
• Gathering evidence on your behalf
• Negotiating offers and deals
• Interviewing and preparing witnesses
• Formulating a plea
• Analyzing the prosecutor’s case
• Casting doubt on the accusation against you
• Utilizing resources to build a stronger case

Representing yourself is stressful, time-consuming, and extremely risky, placing your rights and future in danger. Do not wait until it is too late, and speak to an attorney about your case today.

Contact the Aron Law Firm for Experienced Legal Representation

The Aron Law Firm has secured numerous favorable outcomes for our clients, including dropped charges for highly stressful and dangerous conditions. We offer each client tailored legal advice specific to their situation and needs. 

Speak with our team today by calling (805) 618-1768 or filling out our contact form to arrange a consultation.

Not all charges and accusations are the same; the law often differentiates based on the age of the accused. From maturity to experience, juveniles and adults contrast in many ways, and the state of California consequently has certain exceptions for minors entering the criminal justice system. Understanding how California courts distinguish juveniles and adults is critical. Without a thorough understanding of the system and processes, you may unknowingly make detrimental decisions, leading to harsher consequences and repercussions. 

In simple terms, the adult crime system aims to reprimand, whereas the juvenile crime system focuses on rehabilitation. At Aron Law Firm, we will provide you with legal resources, help you understand the complexities of your case, and provide additional information about how the differences between adult and juvenile crime apply to your situation.

Understanding the Differences of California’s Adult and Juvenile Justice System

To provide the proper form of punishment and rehabilitation in your case, the California juvenile and adult court systems have different regulations and various elements to consider before a judge can make a final verdict. While each case is unique and requires a thorough understanding of the law to provide the best possible legal representation, below are a few differentiators between the two court systems: 

Age Restrictions

Minors between 12 and 17 can be tried in juvenile courts in California. While those under 12 can still face criminal charges, they typically will not face juvenile court proceedings unless they commit a primary offense, such as rape or murder. Conversely, those 18 years old or older will face charges in the adult system. These age restrictions are some of the more apparent differences within the courts, but are still very important to understand. In some cases, a minor may face adult charges if the criminal offense is severe enough. 

Distinctions Between Rights

For the most part, juveniles and adults have the same rights in criminal cases. However, there are a few instances where their rights differ. While both minors and adults have the right to remain silent, minors do not have the right to a jury trial and will only be heard by a judge. These also depend on the severity of the crime and whether the juvenile will be tried as an adult. Our team at Aron Law Firm can analyze your circumstances and provide you with clear information about your rights. 

Punishment vs. Rehabilitation

California’s judiciary and laws acknowledge the external factors influencing a child’s behavior, including peer pressure, their home life, and lack of experience. The juvenile justice system aims to discourage future unlawful actions and shield the young individual from irreparable consequences. Conversely, the adult criminal justice system operates on the premise that adults possess the awareness and understanding to recognize their actions as unlawful and inappropriate.

Different Potential Outcomes

The potential consequences for an adult facing criminal charges are much more severe than for minors in juvenile court. A minor may face probation, house arrest, fines, and educational programs, whereas an adult may face jail time and life-long repercussions. Regardless of your age or crime, speaking with the Aron Law Firm is vital to protecting your rights and future.

Contact the Aron Law Firm for an Experienced California Defense Lawyer

Even a first-offense criminal act can lead to long-lasting consequences for minors and adults. When you face criminal charges in California, our team at Aron Law Firm will provide you with the best possible guidance and representation for your case. We have years of experience navigating California’s adult and juvenile justice system and will utilize our knowledge and connections to build you a solid defense tailored to your needs. 

Don’t hesitate to speak with one of our highly qualified, professional attorneys at the Aron Law Firm. Call (805) 618-1768 or complete our contact form today.

In one moment, you are having a heated argument with a loved one, and the next, you are handed domestic violence charges. Whether a concerned neighbor misunderstands the situation or a loved one accuses you, a domestic abuse charge is not a trivial matter. These charges can have severe repercussions, potentially affecting your career, financial future, and various other aspects.

If you are facing domestic abuse charges, it is imperative to speak with an experienced criminal defense lawyer to learn about your legal options. Our professional domestic violence defense lawyers from the Aron Law Firm understand the many layers of a domestic violence case and will fiercely advocate on your behalf and build a solid, comprehensive defense strategy.

4 Common Defenses Used in California Domestic Abuse Cases

A considerable amount of domestic abuse charges result from misunderstandings. However, the repercussions of these conflicts can significantly impact your life and must be taken seriously regardless of whether the dispute arose from a misinterpretation. According to California Penal Code 243(e)(1) and 273.5, “domestic violence” is: 

“…abuse committed against an adult or a minor who is a spouse, former spouse, cohabitant, former cohabitant, or person with whom the suspect has had a child or is having or has had a dating or engagement relationship.”

When facing harsh consequences in a domestic abuse case, our team will  build a strong defense strategy to receive the best possible outcome. While the type of defense strategy depends on several factors, consider the following common defenses against domestic abuse:

• Accident: When facing cases involving fights or disputes, you might claim the incident was an isolated incident or a regrettable mistake, and you are committed to taking the necessary steps to ensure it never recurs.
• Self-defense: If the person was trying to harm you or you felt threatened by their behavior, you may have exercised self-defense, leading to these charges. You may showcase evidence proving they were the one to attack you.
• Reasonable doubt: For a plaintiff to secure a conviction for domestic violence, there must be sufficient evidence demonstrating your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If the prosecutor fails to present enough evidence to meet this standard, you cannot be charged with these allegations.
• Factual dispute: If the accused individual provides inaccurate and false information, our team will provide evidence demonstrating their unreliability.

Our Aron Law Firm team understands how every domestic violence case is unique and requires a thorough evaluation and investigation into every aspect of your case. We work with you to determine the best path forward and fight for your rights to achieve a successful outcome.

How Might a Domestic Violence Defense Attorney Help With Your Case?

When confronted with domestic violence charges in California, the emotional impact can be overwhelming, leaving you uncertain about your next steps. To navigate this challenging situation, contacting our professional domestic violence defense lawyers at Aron Law Firm is crucial. 

Our primary goal is to improve your chances of having your charges reduced or, ideally, dropped. Throughout the entire legal process, we provide the following services to support you:

• Answering all of your case-related questions
• Conducting a thorough investigation of your situation
• Gathering evidence on your behalf
• Negotiating offers and deals
• Interviewing and preparing witnesses
• Formulating a plea
• Analyzing the prosecutor’s case
• Casting doubt on the accusation against you
• Utilize resources to build a stronger case

We highly advise against representing yourself, as it is risky and stressful. The domestic violence defense lawyers of Aron Law Firm manage every aspect of the legal process, alleviate your concerns, and speak on your behalf. 

Speak With a Professional California Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer at Aron Law Firm

Our Aron Law Firm team understands that navigating domestic abuse charges is filled with stress and anxiety. However, our team works to get your charges reduced or dropped and alleviate the burden of handling charges on your own. Our California domestic violence defense attorneys possess the resources and knowledge necessary to thoroughly review your case and devise an innovative solution that safeguards your rights and works towards reducing your charges. 

If you are interested in learning more about our firm and speaking with a team member, schedule a consultation by completing our contact form or calling (805) 618-1768 today.

When tension and conflict arise, even adults may struggle to express and navigate their anger. However, children have much less experience managing conflict and their emotions. If a child fights with another child at school, they may face charges of assault and/or battery. 

The legal consequences they face for a single mistake and loss of control may follow them for years after the event. You will want to speak with a lawyer about their situation and receive legal representation to protect your child’s rights and ensure they are not wrongfully punished.

Understanding California’s Assault Charges for Minors

Under California Penal Code Section 240 PC, assault is: 

“…an unlawful attempt, coupled with a present ability, to commit a violent injury on the person of another.” 

For minors, assault and battery charges can be considered misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the situation, who was involved, if there are prior offenses, and whether a weapon was used.

In some situations, a child may even be charged as an adult. Speak with a lawyer and inform them about the specifics of your child’s charges and situation as soon as possible. Taking action fast can save your child from life-altering consequences, including potential jail time.

How to Defend Against Charges of Assault as a Minor

When you partner with a highly qualified defense attorney, they will thoroughly analyze your child’s case and build a solid defense strategy tailored to their circumstances and charges. Some examples of methods they may use in assault cases involving a minor include the following:

Self-Defense

At the time of the incident, if you felt your actions were necessary to avoid suffering harm, you may use self-defense as a defense. Your California defense attorney will need to showcase the following for you to utilize self-defense:

• Your child had a reasonable belief they were in danger
• Your child had a reasonable belief they were going to be unlawfully touched or hurt
• Your child exerted only the necessary amount of force to defend themself against the present danger
• Your child had a reasonable belief that immediate physical force was necessary to avoid a potential injury

Self-defense offers major protections against assault charges and asserts your child acted in response to a perceived threat of imminent harm. With a self-defense strategy, a judge must see that your child’s actions were necessary to protect themself. 

Defense of Another

If your child was defending another individual from severe physical or verbal bullying, the person your child defended may be used as a witness to the event and can testify on their behalf. Even if your child “threw the first punch,” a lawyer may be able to showcase their thought process and selflessness in defending the other party—which may limit their potential consequences.

Mistaken Identity

A teacher accuses your child of fighting with another child, but they only witnessed the encounter far away from the scene and have no other evidence of your child being involved in the accident. In these cases, our Aron Law Firm team may use mistaken identity if your child is wrongfully accused and the teacher mistakes them for someone else.

Consent

Children may have varying understandings of consensual actions and behaviors, which may lead to misinterpretation and misunderstandings. For example, if your child and another child are playing a game and another person perceives the altercation as a fight, your child may face harsh consequences. 

To provide the best possible defense for your child, you will want to communicate as much accurate detail about the situation as possible. The Aron Law Firm will use the information provided and any evidence they gather to build the best defense strategy for your child’s case.

Contact Aron Law Firm for Experienced California Juvenile Defense

From academic stress to bullying, there are many facets to why children start fights in school. Taking initiative and speaking with a juvenile defense lawyer may save your child’s future. Our Aron Law Firm juvenile defense lawyers have years of experience offering genuine advocacy and client-tailored legal representation for our clients. By staying up-to-date with California legislation and utilizing our community connections, we have prevented various individuals from life-altering consequences. 

Trust our firm to protect your child’s rights by calling (805) 618-1768 or completing our contact form today.

An extremely common crime in California involves stealing small, easily concealable items. Under California Penal Code 484, theft is defined as taking another person’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of their property. However, two types are noted in the law: petty and grand theft. While petty theft is considered taking property valued at less than $950, grand theft is anything above $950. 

Even though grand theft charges may be more severe, a petty theft conviction can still result in harsh penalties, fines, potential incarceration, and future societal issues. When facing petty theft charges in California, do not wait until it is too late and speak with an experienced attorney about your potential legal options. Without legal representation and guidance, you may face harsher penalties and consequences than you deserve. 

What Are Potential Penalties for Petty Theft in California?

The severity of petty theft charges will depend on your number of previous offenses and the stolen property value. For example, if this is your first time facing a petty theft conviction and the property you steal is valued at less than $50, you may only face an infraction charge with a fine of up to $250. However, even a low-value, first petty theft offense could be charged as a misdemeanor depending on the situation and if the individual does not have legal representation.

If the theft is over $50 but under $950, individuals may face misdemeanor charges with up to six months in prison and mandatory fines of up to $1,000—even for a first-time offense. A judge will consider several factors before making their final decision, which allows an experienced legal professional the ability to argue on your behalf and limit the consequences you face. With the representation of a highly-qualified attorney, you may avoid repercussions altogether and save yourself from major challenges down the road.

When to Speak With a Petty Theft Defense Attorney

While you may consider petty theft as a minor offense, you may face major consequences and incarceration, depending on your situation. It is essential to speak with an attorney as soon as possible so that your legal representation has the time and ability to protect your rights and life. There are many ways our Aron Law Firm criminal defense lawyers may provide invaluable legal services, including the following: 

• Answer questions regarding their charges and the legal process
• Advise clients on the consequences of a conviction, plea, or criminal record
• Asses the prosecutor’s case and potential sentences—and the likelihood of a particular judge awarding that sentence
• Represent the defendant at arraignments, hearings, and court trials
• Research and analyze the facts of the case
• Investigate the case against clients and gather relevant evidence
• Negotiate a plea bargain with prosecutors, including reduced sentences, charges, or bail
• Question witnesses and present their findings to a judge or jury

With years of experience protecting the rights of accused individuals in California, the Aron Law Firm team understands the inner workings of California legislation and will offer highly-qualified representation and advice. When you partner with our team, you gain the resources and tools necessary to receive the best possible outcome for your case.

Speak With an Experienced California Petty Theft Defense Attorney at Aron Law Firm

Built on providing relief and advice during extremely stressful times, the Aron Law Firm team is prepared to do whatever it takes to receive the best possible outcome for your case. Our countless positive testimonials and past results showcase our commitment to clients and their legal challenges.

By offering client-tailored, professional legal services, our clients can feel confident in our ability to offer a smooth legal process. Do not wait until it is too late. The sooner you speak with one of our attorneys, the more time we have to protect your rights. Call (805) 618-1768 or complete our contact form to speak with one of our team members today.

White collar crimes encompass a wide variety of nonviolent offenses, often including the use of deceit or concealment to achieve financial gain or prevent the loss of assets or business advantages. Under California Penal Code Section 186.11, common examples of white collar crimes include bribery, forgery, identity theft, embezzlement, and extortion.

When a person faces white-collar crime charges, their personal property, business assets, and livelihood are at risk. To protect your possessions, future, social relationships, and lifestyle, speak with a white collar crime lawyer at the Aron Law Firm to learn how you may be able to protect your rights. 

4 Ways to Protect Your Rights When Facing a White Collar Crime

Most criminal cases require a thorough investigation, and white collar crimes are no exception. They typically demand an extensive analysis of various documents and defense strategies to receive a favorable outcome. If you are facing a white collar crime charge, the following steps may increase your chances of a successful legal case. 

Contact an Experienced Defense Attorney

Hiring a highly-qualified white collar criminal defense lawyer is essential for your case. A lot of time, energy, resources, and communication goes into building a solid defense, and without a lawyer, your rights, assets, and future may be on the line. At the Aron Law Firm, we will be able to act on your behalf and thoroughly investigate and gather the information necessary to prevent you from suffering severe consequences.

Understand Your Charges

White-collar crimes are multifaceted charges. We will be able to help you fully understand the nature of your charges and provide answers to any questions you may have about your case. Without a thorough grasp of your situation, you may miss essential information and evidence. 

Collect Relevant Documents and Transactions

By gathering documents and copies of transactions, you will have a clear picture of the situation and evidence rebutting the charges against you. At the Aron Law Firm, we have the tools and knowledge to understand and collect any required documents for your case. We may also analyze the information for any potential legal issues or incriminating evidence. 

Build a Comprehensive Defense Strategy

You do not want to enter the courtroom like a bull in a china shop. Developing a thorough, meticulous, and comprehensive defense strategy is vital for you to receive the best possible outcome. Some examples of beneficial defense strategies include the following:

• Lack of intent: If the prosecution cannot prove you aimed to commit the criminal offense, you may be able to show your actions were unintentional or involuntary. 
• Duress: A defense for white collar crimes may be duress or the existence of pressure and threat. If someone forced or coerced you into committing the crime, you may be able to claim duress.
• Entrapment: Entrapment refers to when a government official tempts you to commit a criminal offense you would not perform on your own. 

Your defense strategy will depend on your case’s specific circumstances. The Aron Law Firm has extensive experience handling various types of white collar criminal trials. We understand what it takes to build a successful and proactive defense. Before you speak with anyone else, contact our team for professional legal representation.

Speak With the Aron Law Firm About Your White Collar Case Today

By partnering with the Aron Law Firm, you gain a highly-qualified and professional legal representation tailored specifically to your situation. We have secured numerous positive outcomes for our clients and built a solid reputation and foundation for fierce advocacy. We offer honest guidance you can trust and will navigate you through the challenging legal process. Speak with the Aron Law Firm by calling (805) 618-1768 or filling out our contact form today.

California legislators understand children make mistakes and are susceptible to outside factors such as peer pressure. As a result, when minors commit criminal offenses, they go through the juvenile justice system rather than California’s adult criminal justice system. One of the main differences is that the juvenile system does not always operate under strict procedures and predictable outcomes. 

The law provides judges with broad discretion when presiding over juvenile proceedings, so they may consider outside and underlying factors within the case. However, even if the juvenile justice system may appear less rigid, a conviction’s negative consequences may follow your child far beyond adolescence. To protect their rights and future, consider our guide to understanding California’s juvenile justice system.

Understanding California’s Juvenile Justice System Process

When a law enforcement officer arrests a juvenile, they have the option to either release them to their parents or take them to juvenile hall. It is important to note that parents may still be able to take their child from the juvenile hall, depending on the circumstances and crime. While this may be the end for some parties, others may face charges as a law enforcement officer may file a petition alleging your child committed a criminal offense.

To protect your child and limit the consequences they face, you will want to speak with the Aron Law Firm as soon as possible. 

The next step is a detention hearing, where your child will either admit or deny the criminal allegations. An experienced juvenile criminal defense lawyer will have the knowledge and resources to prepare your child and offer counsel on the best possible course of action. 

If they deny the allegations, a jurisdiction hearing will be held to determine the case’s outcome. A jurisdiction hearing is equivalent to a trial in an adult court; however, minors do not have the right to a trial by jury like an adult. Within these proceedings, the prosecuting attorney will present evidence to prove the allegations beyond a reasonable doubt. Without an attorney on your child’s side, they may face severe consequences which could affect their academic, social, and career development.

What Can a Judge Order in Juvenile Court?

The main goal of the juvenile justice system is not to punish but to intervene and provide minors with rehabilitation to prevent further criminal actions. A juvenile court judge has various options when handling the potential outcomes and charges of a minor, including the following:

• School services
• Placement in foster care
• Informal probation
• Formal probation
• County social services
• Placement in a county ranch or camp
• Commitment to the Division of Juvenile Justice (DJJ)
• Referral to community-based organizations
• Removal from the home

Under California’s Penal Code Section 26(1), the law requires clear proof that the child under 14 years of age knew the “wrongfulness of the act” to hold them criminally responsible for their actions. However, every person and circumstance is unique and requires highly-qualified legal representation tailored to the case’s specific needs. The Aron Law Firm understands the potential harm a criminal conviction may cause your child and is prepared to fight fiercely on their behalf.

Contact a Highly-Qualified California Juvenile Defense Lawyer at Aron Law Firm

There are many facets as to why children commit criminal offenses, including major life changes, peer pressure, academic stress, etc. When your child’s future is at stake, you want to ensure they have the best possible legal representation for their case. The Aron Law Firm has years of experience advocating for our clients and guiding them through California’s complicated juvenile criminal justice system.

With our client-centered approach, we devote ourselves to providing knowledgeable and responsive legal counsel. Trust our firm to protect your child’s rights. Call (805) 618-1768 or fill out our contact form today.

Assault in California carries serious consequences, regardless of whether it results in physical harm. California Penal Code Section 240 PC defines assault as “an unlawful attempt, coupled with a present ability, to commit a violent injury on the person of another.” For a judge to convict you with assault charges, a prosecutor must prove you deliberately acted with the intent to inflict harm onto another person.

Establishing the intent of physical violence requires comprehensive and clear proof. When facing severe repercussions for assault, working with the Aron Law Firm to build a solid defense strategy is vital to limit the potential penalties you face. 

How to Defend Against Charges of Assault

For the prosecution to place assault charges on you, they must consider various elements and provide ample evidence of the assault. When you partner with Aron Law Firm, the firm will thoroughly analyze your case and advise you of your best options. Some examples of effective strategies in assault cases include the following:

Self-Defense

At the time of the incident, if you felt your actions were necessary to avoid suffering harm, you may use self-defense as an explanation for your actions. When using this defense strategy, the following will need to be showcased:

• You reasonably believed you were in danger
• You reasonably believed you were going to be unlawfully touched or hurt
• You reasonably believed immediate physical force was necessary to avoid a potential injury
• You exerted only the amount of force necessary to defend yourself against the present danger

If we are able to present evidence demonstrating the elements above, self-defense offers robust protection against the charges you face. Self-defense asserts you acted in response to a perceived threat of imminent harm and your actions were necessary to protect yourself.

Defense of Another

Apart from protecting yourself, the law also allows you to intervene in the defense of another person. The person you protect from harm could be anyone, including friends, family members, or even strangers facing a dangerous situation. 

In these circumstances, regardless of the other party, you must establish the same requirements of self-defense. However, unlike with self-defense, you may have another person acting as a witness to the event to testify on your behalf.

Mistaken Identity

You may also face assault charges in situations wherein prosecutors have mistaken your identity. If you believe the court has accused the wrong person, whether you were incorrectly identified by an unreliable witness or through discriminatory profiling, the Aron Law Firm will work towards establishing a defense based on mistaken identity.

We will gather evidence and demonstrate to the court that you were not the person involved in the alleged assault. This evidence may include alibi witnesses, surveillance footage, documentation, or any other relevant information supporting your claim of being elsewhere during the incident.

Consent

When you and another person engage in consensual behavior, and either another person misinterprets the actions as a threat or the person you engaged with is accusing you of harm, you may work with the Aron Law Firm to prove your actions were consensual. While proving consent can be challenging, we have the resources and experience necessary to gather solid evidence on your behalf.

Communicating your needs and circumstances will help us better understand your case and the most strategic course of action. We understand the challenges that come from assault charges and will do everything in our power to protect you from repercussions.

Speak With the Aron Law Firm for Experienced Defense

With years of experience protecting the rights of California residents, the Aron Law Firm has the tools and resources to fiercely defend you throughout the legal process. We understand how frightening and frustrating assault charges are and will fight for the best possible outcome. We have countless positive testimonials and references from previous clients so that you may feel confident in our representation. Call us at (805) 618-1768 or fill out our contact form today.

Child endangerment cases are among the most sensitive and complex matters in the legal system, involving allegations that a child’s safety, well-being, or moral upbringing have been compromised. Criminal charges for child endangerment also mean facing harsh legal consequences, so your next steps are critical to protecting your rights, well-being, and family.

If you are facing child endangerment charges in California, now is the time to partner with an experienced criminal defense attorney. At Aron Law Firm, we will thoroughly evaluate the details of your case, build a strong defense strategy, and fight the charges tirelessly on your behalf. As dedicated legal advocates, we understand the gravity of a child endangerment accusation and the impact it may have on both the accused person and the child involved.

Steps to Take After Being Arrested for Child Endangerment in California

Child endangerment convictions often come with severe penalties in California. Even a misdemeanor conviction may lead to imprisonment, fines, probation, mandatory counseling or parenting classes, and potentially the loss of child custody or visitation rights. For the best chance at combating these harsh consequences, follow these steps after being arrested for child endangerment:

Seek Legal Representation

When facing child endangerment charges, it is crucial to seek professional legal representation as soon as possible. A skilled criminal defense attorney experienced in handling California child endangerment cases may guide you through the complex legal process, protect your rights, and work to mitigate your penalties or, in some cases, have the charges dropped completely. They will thoroughly assess the details of your case, build a strong defense strategy, and provide invaluable support during this challenging time.

Gather Evidence and Documentation

Your attorney will need all the relevant information to build a robust defense. Collaborate with your attorney to gather any evidence or documentation that may support your case. This may include witness statements, character references, photographs, medical records, or any other evidence that may help challenge the allegations or establish mitigating circumstances. The more information you are able to provide, the better equipped your attorney will be to construct a compelling defense on your behalf.

Explore Possible Defense Strategies

Your defense attorney will explore various defense strategies tailored to your specific case. Some potential defenses may include demonstrating that you did not act willfully, establishing a lack of evidence, questioning the credibility of witnesses, or presenting evidence of a lawful justification for your actions. Each case is unique, so your attorney will develop a strategy that aligns with the facts and circumstances of your situation.

Consider Rehabilitation Programs

In some instances, demonstrating your commitment to addressing any underlying issues and ensuring the safety and well-being of your child may be beneficial. Your attorney may advise you to consider enrolling in rehabilitation programs, such as parenting classes or therapy, to demonstrate your willingness to change and grow as a parent. Engaging in such programs may potentially positively impact the results of your case.

Navigating the Legal Process

Your attorney will guide you through each step of the legal process. This may involve pretrial motions, negotiations with the prosecution, and potentially taking your case to trial if a favorable resolution cannot be reached. Your attorney will confirm your rights are protected, represent you in court, and provide expert guidance throughout the proceedings.

Understanding California Penal Code 273a : Child Endangerment

Penal Code Section 273a addresses child endangerment in California, emphasizing the state’s commitment to protecting the welfare and safety of children. It outlines the offense of willfully exposing a child to unjustifiable risk of harm, injury, or suffering physical or mental pain or placing a child in a dangerous situation.

To secure a conviction under Penal Code Section 273a  the prosecution must prove the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

• Willful conduct: The accused must have intentionally engaged in conduct that placed a child in a situation that could reasonably result in harm or endangerment.
• Unjustifiable risk or harm: The child must have been exposed to a significant risk of harm or actual harm, either physical or mental, due to the accused’s actions.
• Awareness of potential consequences: The accused must have been aware of the potential risks and consequences of their actions but chose to disregard them.

Under Section 273a, child endangerment may be classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the specific circumstances of the case. Misdemeanor charges typically apply when the acts committed do not result in significant harm or injury to the child, while felony charges are reserved for cases involving serious bodily harm to the child or when the accused has a prior criminal history.

Contact a California Criminal Defense Attorney to Fight a Child Endangerment Charge

Are you facing child endangerment charges in California? Do not wait; take immediate action to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case. When you partner with Aron Law Firm, we will provide you with the guidance, support, and representation you need during this challenging time.

Your future and the future of your family are too important to leave to chance. Let us help you navigate the legal process effectively. Call (805) 618-1768 or reach out to us online to schedule a confidential consultation.

Counterfeiting crimes represent a dark underbelly of society that affects economies, businesses, and consumers worldwide. From counterfeit currency to fake luxury goods, these illicit activities have far-reaching consequences.

If you or someone you know is facing charges related to counterfeiting or forgery in California, it is imperative to seek legal counsel from an experienced criminal defense attorney. At Aron Law Firm, we are well-versed in California counterfeiting laws and the penalties that come with them. You can count on us to carefully assess the details of your case, develop a strong defense strategy, and protect your rights throughout the legal process from beginning to end.

Four of the Most Common Forms of Counterfeiting in California

Counterfeiting is a serious criminal offense that undermines the integrity of our economy, deceives consumers, and harms legitimate businesses. In California, counterfeit crimes are taken extremely seriously, and those found guilty of engaging in such activities may face severe legal penalties.

Four of the most common types of counterfeiting in California include:

Counterfeit Currency

Counterfeit currency is one of the most well-known and prevalent forms of counterfeiting. It involves the production and distribution of fake money, typically in the form of bills or coins, with the intention of deceiving others and unlawfully profiting from it.

Counterfeit currency can disrupt the economy, erode public trust, and significantly impact legitimate businesses. California law enforcement agencies and federal authorities are actively involved in combating counterfeit currency, making it crucial for defense attorneys to stay updated on the evolving strategies used in these investigations.

Counterfeit Goods

Counterfeit goods encompass a wide range of products, including luxury brands, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and designer clothing. This form of counterfeiting involves the unauthorized replication, distribution, or sale of products that imitate the trademarks, logos, and designs of legitimate brands.

Counterfeit goods are often found in flea markets, street vendors, and online platforms, presenting a challenge for law enforcement agencies and prosecutors. As a defense attorney, it is essential to understand the nuances of intellectual property law and the legal framework surrounding counterfeit goods to represent clients accused of involvement in these activities effectively.

Counterfeit Identification Documents

Counterfeit identification documents, such as driver’s licenses, passports, and Social Security cards, pose a significant threat to national security and public safety. Individuals involved in this form of counterfeiting often seek to gain illegal access to restricted areas, commit identity theft, or engage in other criminal activities.

The creation, distribution, or use of counterfeit identification documents is a serious offense under California law, carrying severe penalties upon conviction.

Counterfeit Pharmaceuticals

Counterfeit pharmaceuticals endanger public health and may have devastating consequences for unsuspecting consumers. These counterfeit medications often contain incorrect ingredients, incorrect dosages, or even harmful substances. Criminals engage in the production and distribution of counterfeit pharmaceuticals to exploit the high demand for certain medications, especially those used to treat chronic illnesses.

California Penal Code 475: Counterfeiting and Forgery Crimes

California Penal Code 475 addresses the act of counterfeiting or forging financial instruments such as checks, bonds, banknotes, money orders, traveler’s checks, or any other instrument commonly used in financial transactions. The code broadly defines forgery as the act of altering, counterfeiting, or falsely making these financial instruments with the intent to defraud others. It encompasses actions such as creating counterfeit checks or modifying genuine financial instruments to deceive others and gain an unlawful advantage.

Counterfeiting offenses in California may be charged as either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on factors such as the amount of financial loss incurred and the defendant’s prior criminal record.

The penalties for counterfeiting in California vary depending on the type and severity of the offense. Convictions may result in substantial fines, imprisonment, probation, restitution, and even asset forfeiture.

Schedule a Consultation With a California Counterfeiting Defense Attorney

When you partner with Aron Law Firm to fight a criminal charge for counterfeiting, we will develop a strong defense strategy tailored to the specific circumstances of your case. This may include challenging the authenticity of the evidence, scrutinizing law enforcement procedures, and advocating for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options.

Aron Law Firm is committed to fighting for your rights, exploring all possible defenses, and working towards the best possible outcome in your case. Remember, the earlier you seek legal assistance, the better equipped we are to build a solid defense strategy. Call (805) 618-1768 or complete our contact form to schedule your consultation today.

While escorting and prostitution are often lumped together, they have distinct differences under California state law. Understanding these differences is crucial to determine the legal implications of offering such services across different jurisdictions.

If you have been arrested for prostitution in California, an experienced criminal defense lawyer may evaluate the facts and develop a suitable defense strategy. At Aron Law Firm, we work diligently to exploit weaknesses in the cases against our clients to mitigate penalties associated with prostitution. In some cases, we are able to have the charges against our client dropped entirely.

How Escorting Differs From Prostitution in California

The key distinction between escorting and prostitution lies in the nature of the services provided. Escorting primarily focuses on companionship and social interaction, whereas prostitution centers around engaging in sexual activities for compensation.

What Is Escorting in California?

Escorting refers to a service where an individual, typically referred to as an escort, accompanies another person to various events or social engagements. The escort’s role is generally to provide companionship, conversation, and sometimes entertainment.

Escorting services are legal in California as long as they do not involve engaging in sexual activities or solicitation for sexual services. However, escorts must obtain a license to operate legally in the state.

Regarding engaging in sexual acts with an escort during their personal time, it may not be illegal if it occurs outside of their work hours. Although if there is evidence suggesting that the sexual act was arranged and compensated for separately, it becomes illegal. In such cases, both the escort and the client may face legal consequences.

What Is Prostitution in California?

Prostitution, on the other hand, is considered a sex crime and is illegal in California under Penal Code 647(b). Prostitution involves the exchange of sexual services for money or goods. It typically includes activities such as sexual intercourse, oral sex, or other sexual acts in exchange for payment. Engaging in sexual acts, soliciting others for sex, or arranging sexual encounters may lead to charges of prostitution.

To secure a prostitution conviction, the state must prove both the occurrence of sexual acts and the exchange of compensation.

Possible defense strategies against prostitution charges include claiming entrapment by law enforcement, asserting no exchange of compensation, presenting mistaken identity, challenging the existence of an agreement for sexual acts, or demonstrating insufficient evidence. An adept sex crime lawyer may pinpoint any flaws in the case against you to help avoid the penalties associated with a prostitution conviction.

Possible Penalties for a Prostitution Conviction in California

Prostitution and solicitation are classified as misdemeanors in California. A conviction carries fines of up to $1,000 and a prison term of up to six months. If the crime involved a minor under 18, fines may reach up to $10,000, and jail time may range from a minimum of 2 days to one year in jail.

Prostitution convictions also result in a criminal record, potentially impacting various aspects of life, including social, familial, and professional spheres. Additionally, registration as a sex offender may be required.

Unfortunately, some escorts may be wrongly charged for prostitution when no sexual acts were involved in exchange for compensation. When this occurs, having the support of a reputable law firm may be invaluable and could significantly impact the outcome of your case.

Contact a Skilled Prostitution Defense Lawyer in California

At Aron Law Firm, we understand the nuances of California state law and have a proven track record of successfully defending clients in various types of criminal cases. Whether you are facing accusations of escorting without a license or have been charged with prostitution, Aron Law Firm is prepared to defend your rights.

Schedule a consultation by calling our office at (805) 618-1768 or filling out our convenient contact form.

As a commercial driver in California, getting a DUI charge may be devastating to both your personal and professional life. The consequences of a DUI conviction may include the loss of your commercial driver’s license (CDL), hefty fines, and even jail time. However, with the right strategy and the help of an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Santa Barbara, CA, you may fight a DUI charge and protect your livelihood.

If you work as a commercial driver in California and you are facing a DUI charge, it is crucial to take immediate action to protect your CDL and your livelihood. An Aron Law Firm criminal defense attorney may provide you with the legal representation you need. Do not let a DUI charge jeopardize your future as a commercial driver—with our help, we may challenge the evidence against you, negotiate a plea bargain, or fight your case in court.

What Commercial Drivers in California Should Know About Vehicle Code Section 23152

Under California law, commercial drivers are held to a higher standard regarding DUIs. The criminal code section that addresses DUIs for commercial drivers in California is Vehicle Code Section 23152.

This section states that it is illegal for a person who holds a commercial driver’s license (CDL) or who is operating a commercial vehicle to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.04% or higher. This is a lower BAC limit than the 0.08% limit that applies to non-commercial drivers.

In addition to fines, probation, and possible jail time, a commercial driver convicted of a DUI in California may lose their CDL and the ability to work as a commercial driver. If you are a commercial driver facing a DUI charge, it is essential to seek legal representation from an experienced criminal defense attorney who may help fight the charge and protect your livelihood.

How Lawyers Help Commercial Drivers Fight DUI Charges in California

The first and most important step in fighting a DUI charge is to consult a criminal defense attorney with experience with DUI cases involving commercial drivers. An experienced attorney may help you by:

• Reviewing the evidence against you: such as the results of the field sobriety test, breathalyzer, and blood test.
• Identifying any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case: For example, if the breathalyzer or blood test was not administered properly or if the equipment used was not calibrated correctly, the results may be inaccurate.
• Advising you on your legal options: In some cases, seeking a plea bargain may be in your best interest. A plea bargain is an agreement between the defendant and the prosecution to plead guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a reduced sentence. This may be a viable option if the evidence against you is strong and a conviction is likely.
• Challenging the evidence against you: If the arresting officer did not follow the proper procedures during the field sobriety test or did not have probable cause to stop you, the evidence collected may be inadmissible in court.
• Getting you into a DUI program: If you are convicted of a DUI as a commercial driver, you may be required to attend a DUI program as part of your sentence. However, attending a DUI program voluntarily before your trial may show the court that you are taking responsibility for your actions and may result in a reduced sentence or dismissal of your case.
• Representing you in court: If your case goes to trial, a lawyer may represent you in court, presenting your defense and arguing your case to a judge or jury.
• Helping with DMV hearings: In addition to criminal proceedings, commercial drivers facing a DUI charge in California may also face administrative hearings with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). A lawyer may represent you at these hearings to potentially help you keep your CDL.

While you may technically represent yourself, you risk losing what could be a successful defense due to a lack of knowledge while facing an experienced prosecutor. Retain a proven Santa Barbara DUI lawyer for the best chance of success. 

California Attorney Defending Commercial Drivers Arrested for Drinking and Driving

After getting arrested for drinking and driving, do not hesitate to take action. With the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney and a strategic defense, it is possible to protect your livelihood and future.

If you were accused of drinking and driving as a commercial driver, contact an Aron Law Firm criminal defense attorney today to learn more about your legal options and how to fight your DUI charge. Call (805) 618-1768 or contact us online.

Forgery is a serious offense in California and may lead to severe penalties for those who are convicted. Forgery is considered a type of white-collar crime, a non-violent crime typically involving financial gain through deception, fraud, or other means of dishonesty.

If you are facing charges related to forgery, it is essential to seek the advice of a criminal defense attorney to ensure that your rights are protected. At Aron Law Firm, we are ready to help you understand your options and build a strong defense to mitigate your penalties.

What Is the Crime of Forgery in California?

Forgery is the act of creating, altering, or using a document or item with the intent to deceive or defraud another person. In California, forgery is legally defined under Penal Code Section 470, which states:

“Every person who, with the intent to defraud, knowing that he or she has no authority to do so, signs the name of another person or of a fictitious person to any of the items listed in subdivision is guilty of forgery.”

Forgery involves any document that has legal or financial value. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Bank bills
• Certificates of ownership
• Checks
• Contracts
• Deeds
• Lottery tickets
• Money orders
• Stock share certificates
• Wills
• Any other legal document

Forgery may also involve the creation of fake identification documents, such as driver’s licenses, passports, or social security cards.

When Is Forgery Considered a White-Collar Crime in California?

Forgery is considered a white-collar crime in California because it typically involves individuals in the business, government, or financial sectors who are seeking monetary gain through illegal means.

In California, forgery is a “wobbler” crime. This means crimes of forgery may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the severity of the offense. The penalties for forgery range from probation to several years in prison, depending on the circumstances of the crime.

Misdemeanor forgery charges are typically reserved for less serious offenses, such as the forgery of a minor document or an attempt to defraud someone of less than $950. Misdemeanor forgery charges result in up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to $1,000.

Felony forgery charges are more severe and are typically reserved for more serious offenses, such as the forgery of a major document or an attempt to defraud someone of more than $950. Felony forgery charges result in up to three years in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Consult a California White-Collar Crime Defense Lawyer at Aron Law Firm

If you are facing forgery charges in California, there are several defenses that an Aron Law Firm criminal defense attorney may use to help you fight the charges. Some common defenses against forgery charges include lack of intent, mistaken identity, and duress or coercion.

If you or a loved one have been accused of forgery or any other white-collar crime in California, do not wait to seek legal help. Contact us today by calling (805) 618-1768 or filling out our convenient contact form to schedule a consultation and protect your rights. We are here to help you navigate the legal system and fight for your freedom.

Aggravated assault is a serious criminal charge in California, and the penalties for a conviction are severe, including hefty fines, probation, and even imprisonment. However, with the help of a skilled criminal defense attorney, there are numerous possible defenses that may be used to fight an aggravated assault charge in California.

If you are facing criminal charges in California, Aron Law Firm has extensive experience defending clients in cases involving crimes such as aggravated assault. We are dedicated to protecting our clients’ rights and providing them with the right defense strategy suited for their situations.

How to Fight an Aggravated Assault Charge in California

California Penal Code 245 defines the crime of aggravated assault as an assault that involves the use of a deadly weapon or results in a serious injury. If you have been charged with aggravated assault in California, partner with a skilled criminal defense attorney who will prepare a strong defense against the charges. Several possible defenses may be used to challenge the prosecution’s case and potentially avoid a conviction, such as:

Self-Defense

One of the most common defenses against aggravated assault charges is self-defense. If you reasonably believed that you were in immediate danger of being harmed or killed, and you used force that was necessary to protect yourself, you may be able to argue that you acted in self-defense. This strategy is particularly effective when witnesses or other evidence supports your claim.

Defense of Others

Similar to self-defense, your lawyer may also be able to argue that you were acting in defense of others. If you reasonably believed that someone else was in immediate danger of being harmed or killed and you used force that was necessary to protect them, your lawyer may be able to argue that you were acting in defense of others.

Lack of Intent

Another possible defense against an aggravated assault charge is to argue that you did not intend to commit the crime. If you did not mean to harm the alleged victim or did not even know that your actions could result in harm, your attorney may be able to show that you lacked the necessary intent to commit aggravated assault.

Mistaken Identity

In some cases, it may be possible to argue that you were not the person who committed the aggravated assault. If there is no direct evidence linking you to the crime, and there is evidence that someone else could have committed the crime, your lawyer could dispute whether you were the actual perpetrator.

Consent

If the alleged victim consented to the use of force, your criminal defense attorney might be able to argue that you did not commit aggravated assault. However, this defense may be difficult to prove and only available in limited circumstances.

Contest an Aggravated Assault Charge With a California Criminal Defense Attorney

If you have been accused of committing aggravated assault in California and need competent legal representation, do not hesitate to contact an Aron Law Firm criminal defense attorney. Our team is here to help you navigate the complexities of the California legal system. With our personalized approach and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for your case, you can trust us to fight for your rights and interests.

Contact Aron Law Firm today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a brighter future. Do not wait; your future is at stake. Call (805) 618-1768 or complete our contact form for more information.

Contrary to popular belief, in California, the prosecutors, not the victims, decide whether to file or drop a domestic violence charge. Many California prosecutors uphold a “no drop” policy—meaning even if the victim does not want to press charges, they will not drop the case.

If you have been accused of domestic abuse in California, your case is unlikely to be dropped by the prosecutor. When you partner with an Aron Law Firm Santa Barbara criminal defense lawyer, they help ensure you are ready for court by preparing a solid defense strategy for your case and acting as a pillar of support throughout the legal process.

What Is a No Drop Policy and Why Do California Prosecutors Follow It?

Ever since the O.J. Simpson murder trials, California has taken a hard stance on domestic violence cases. For some prosecutors, the No Drop Policy protects victims who are too scared of facing abuse or lost financial support after testifying. For others, it is a matter of deterring victims from falsifying reports of domestic abuse.

Although the effectiveness of No Drop Policies in California has been debated for decades, they still hold firm. A primary reason for this is many prosecuting agencies think it is better to let a domestic violence case go to trial because a jury may be more objective and offer an unbiased opinion.

A criminal defense lawyer may be able to help you fight your California domestic violence charges by using particular defense strategies, such as arguing a lack of criminal intent or that your actions were justified based on certain circumstances.

Potential Consequences for a Domestic Violence Conviction in California

Any willful and unlawful touching of a current or former spouse, romantic partner, cohabitant, child, or parent of your child may result in a charge for domestic violence under California Penal Code Section 243(e) or California Penal Code Section 273.5. Domestic abuse is a “wobbler” crime in California. Essentially, any domestic violence accusation may result in either a misdemeanor or felony charge.

A domestic violence conviction in California may come with consequences, including but not limited to:

• Incarceration
• Community service
• Completion of a 52-week domestic abuse counseling program
• Paying restitution to the victim
• Deportation (if the defendant is not a US citizen)

In many domestic violence cases, California judges will also issue protective orders to prevent future contact with the alleged victim.

California domestic violence laws also say that if you are convicted of domestic abuse, you cannot own guns or ammunition for up to 10 years after your conviction (this also applies if you were convicted in another state).

Even an otherwise spotless criminal history can be forever stained by a single domestic violence charge. Often, just one conviction will cause disputes with state professional licensing boards or affect housing and employment prospects.

Contact a Skilled Domestic Violence Lawyer to Defend Your Case in California

If you have been charged with domestic violence, contact a criminal defense lawyer right away. Your attorney will help you build a solid case against the charges while working to safeguard your rights and interests.

Defending a domestic violence charge in California is often a challenge, but it is not one that we are afraid to take on. At Aron Law Firm, we have refined our trial skills over numerous types of criminal cases, and we are prepared to fight for you. To schedule a meeting with an Aron Law Firm criminal defense attorney today, call (805) 618-1768 or fill out and submit our contact form.

When kids start reaching their teenage years, they often grow curious and rebellious, and many begin testing their limits with substances like alcohol. Unfortunately, for some kids, this may mean getting behind the wheel of a car.

One of the last things any parent wants to see is their child behind bars, but unfortunately, this is a harsh reality for many parents in California. If your teenage child has been arrested for drinking and driving in California, now is the time to seek help from a criminal defense lawyer. At Aron Law Firm, our attorneys want to evaluate your child’s situation and construct a defense strategy to protect their interests and future.  

Possible Penalties Your Teen Child Could Face for Drinking and Driving in California

Whether your child has been arrested for the first time or is a repeat offender, the consequences for an underage DUI arrest extend far beyond a night in jail and the subsequent court appearance. There are specific consequences for minors charged with a DUI under California’s Zero Tolerance Law.

Underage DUI offenders in California could face penalties such as:

• Incarceration
• Probation
• Points on their driver’s license
• Elimination of good driver status
• Mandatory installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
• Completion of a DUI impact course
• Possible felony charges
• Community service
• Raised automobile insurance rates or policy cancellation
• Tarnished reputation

Being convicted of California Vehicle Code (CVC) §23136 may also hinder your teen child’s opportunities to:

• Obtain scholarships
• Hold certain professional licenses
• Possess a firearm
• Join the military
• Gain acceptance into some colleges or universities

If your child has been arrested for DUI, the sooner you get an attorney involved, the better chance they will have at mitigating the possible effects of their arrest.

How to Help Your Teen Child After They Have Been Arrested for a DUI

It is important to remember that your child is innocent until proven guilty. Your teen’s best chance of getting their charges reduced or dismissed is with the help of a qualified criminal defense attorney who will prepare a solid defense strategy.

A lawyer may help you and your child:

• Prepare a solid defense strategy
• Gather any evidence and witness statements
• Understand what to expect during the legal process
• Explore the options and their consequences
• Make sure all paperwork and documentation is both accurate and submitted on time
• Go over the possible outcomes from a guilty or not guilty verdict

An excellent criminal defense attorney will also know how to negotiate with prosecutors, who often want to settle cases quickly rather than take them through trial. 

Protect Your Teen Child’s Rights After a DUI Arrest in California

Teenagers have infinite possibilities for their paths in life, but a single night of drinking may severely hinder many of their future opportunities. When you partner with Aron Law Firm, you and your teen child will benefit from having an experienced underage DUI defense lawyer on your side. Our team will be with you and your teenager throughout the legal process, from beginning to end.

Schedule a consultation today to discuss your child’s California DUI with an Aron Law Firm lawyer. Call our office at (805) 618-1768 or submit a contact form today.

When a person exposes their naked body or genitals to anyone who may be annoyed or offended by it in California, they can be charged with indecent exposure. While many people think indecent exposure can only happen publicly, California Penal Code (CPC) §314(1) states that this crime can occur in almost any environment.

Because indecent exposure is considered a sex crime, an arrest can come with social stigma and particularly harsh sentences. If you have been accused of indecent exposure in California, it is imperative that you partner with a qualified sex crime defense lawyer. At Aron Law Firm, we have what it takes to craft a solid defense strategy to protect your rights and interests throughout your case.

How Does California Define the Crime of Indecent Exposure?

California Penal Code §314(1) states that any person who willfully and lewdly commits either of the following acts is guilty of indecent exposure:

“Exposes his person, or the private parts thereof, in any public place, or in any place where there are present other persons to be offended or annoyed thereby; or,

Procures, counsels, or assists any person so to expose himself or take part in any model artist exhibition, or to make any other exhibition of himself to public view, or the view of any number of persons, such as is offensive to decency, or is adapted to excite to vicious or lewd thoughts or acts…”

In other words, any scenario in which a person intentionally exposes themselves to someone who might be offended or to draw attention to themselves or sexually gratifying themselves could land them an arrest for indecent exposure.

What You Should Know About Indecent Exposure Criminal Cases in California

For a defendant to be convicted of indecent exposure in California, the prosecutor must be able to prove the following aspects beyond a reasonable doubt:

• Willfully: The defendant willfully intended to expose themselves
• Expose yourself: The defendant exposed their naked body or genitals
• In the presence of someone who might be offended or annoyed: The defendant exposed themselves near a person who might be offended or annoyed by it
• Intending to direct attention: The defendant exposed their naked body or genitals believing they would be seen (even if nobody else saw it)
• Lewd intent: The defendant exposed their naked body or genitals for sexual gratification or to sexually offend someone else

First-time convictions often result in a misdemeanor sentence of six months in county jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Second offenses are treated as felonies and could result in incarceration in state prison and register as a sex offender for at least ten years.

Depending on the circumstances surrounding your particular situation, your criminal defense lawyer may argue that:

• You did not intentionally expose yourself
• You did not expose your genitals or naked body
• The crime did not occur near a person who might be offended or annoyed
• You did not believe you would be seen
• You had no intention of sexually gratifying yourself or offending someone else

The State of California penalizes all sex crimes seriously. If you are charged with indecent exposure, retain the help of a skilled Santa Barbara criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Your freedom, reputation, and livelihood are at stake.

Hire an Experienced Attorney to Defend an Indecent Exposure Charge in California

When you choose Aron Law Firm as your legal representation, you can rest assured that we will fight to negotiate a lesser charge, reduce your sentence, or, in some cases, get your charges dismissed entirely. Our team comprehensively understands California courts and the State’s criminal justice system.

Allow an Aron Law Firm attorney to plan a defense strategy to help you obtain a favorable outcome. Contact us through our contact form or call (805) 618-1768 to schedule your confidential consultation today.

Submitting fraudulent insurance claims may seem like an easy way to make money, but it may be a costly mistake. If caught, you could face penalties ranging from fines and jail time to losing your license or even being charged with a felony. In California, fraud crimes are serious business, so you must understand what constitutes insurance fraud and the consequences if you are caught committing it.

At Aron Law Firm, our team has substantial experience in all aspects of criminal law, including criminal charges involving insurance fraud. When you partner with us, rest assured that we will craft an effective defense strategy to advocate for your rights and help you navigate this difficult process.

What Is Considered Insurance Fraud in California?

Insurance fraud is the act of intentionally misrepresenting or concealing facts or information regarding an insurance claim for financial gain. According to California law (California Code, Insurance Code – INS § 1871), any person who knowingly presents false or misleading information on an insurance application, or files a claim containing false or misleading information with an insurer, is guilty of insurance fraud. This includes:

• Making false statements on an application for coverage
• Concealing facts that would lead an insurer not to issue a policy
• Failing to disclose material facts at the time of application when those facts could affect whether coverage would be provided

One of the most common forms of insurance fraud is falsifying a claim, which involves making an entirely false claim or misrepresenting facts involved with a claim. A false claim could mean stating that your car was stolen when it was not or filing a claim for damage that you said was caused by an accident when it was not.

Sometimes, fraudulent insurance claims involve staging an accident. This type of fraud involves setting up a situation where it appears as though someone else caused damage to yourself or your property to get the other party to pay out money under their policy.

What Are the Penalties for Submitting Fraudulent Insurance Claims in California

California has some of the strictest laws regarding fraud. Submitting a fraudulent insurance claim in California is a felony under California Penal Code 550 PC. Violators of this offense will face consequences such as jail time and significant fines.

The penalties for committing insurance fraud in California may include up to:

• Five years incarceration
• A fine of up to $50,000, or two times the value of the fraud

Previous criminal records and other factors (such as the value of your claim) will likely influence sentencing decisions made by judges. You should also be aware that insurance companies have the right to sue defendants who commit this crime for the full amount of any claims paid out, plus interest and attorney fees if they so choose.

If you are facing charges for submitting a false insurance claim, contact a qualified California defense attorney as soon as possible. An experienced attorney will help you understand the charges and your options. They will navigate the criminal justice system on your behalf and support your interests in court.

Hire a California Attorney to Defend a Criminal Charge of Insurance Fraud

If you are suspected of submitting a fraudulent insurance claim in California, do not wait to reach out to a criminal defense attorney. The sooner you get in touch with a lawyer with experience fighting these cases, the more time they will have to build a stronger defense to protect your rights.

Schedule a meeting with an Aron Law Firm criminal defense lawyer to discuss your situation today by calling (805) 618-1768 or by filling out and submitting our contact form.

If you have been charged with a crime and must appear in court, one of the most important issues to discuss with your lawyer is what kind of plea you plan to enter at your arraignment. Your plea is a formal response to your charges. While most people are familiar with “guilty” and “not guilty” as possible responses, there is a lesser-known type of plea, known as “nolo contendere” or “no contest.”

Facing a criminal charge in California is a serious issue that may come with severe, potentially lifelong consequences. Therefore, it is crucial to partner with an attorney you can trust to prioritize your interests and defend your case. When you work with Aron Law Firm, an experienced criminal defense lawyer will help you evaluate your legal options and choose the best plea bargain for your specific circumstances.

What You Should Know About Pleas in California

According to California Penal Code 1016, there are three ways a defendant may plea: guilty, not guilty, and no contest.

Guilty

A guilty plea means that the individual acknowledges their wrongdoing and is willing to accept whatever penalty the court imposes. Defendants seldom plead guilty without first reaching an agreement with the prosecution or getting some kind of assurance from the government.

In some cases, the defendant may give up going to trial in favor of a conviction of a lesser offense. You should speak to an attorney before deciding whether or not to plead guilty.

Not Guilty

A not-guilty plea means that the defendant does not admit to having committed an offense. Although it is not necessarily a denial of guilt, a claim of innocence requires the prosecution to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.

If you have questions about the ramifications of a not-guilty plea under California law or would like to discuss your particular case with one of our California criminal defense attorneys in Santa Barbara, CA, please do not hesitate to contact our firm.

No Contest (Nolo Contendere)

Nolo contendere is a phrase that comes from the Latin term “I do not wish to contend.” It means that you are neither admitting nor denying guilt in the case. In other words, you do not admit that you did anything wrong but also do not dispute that the facts laid out by the prosecution are true. This may be used as an alternative to pleading guilty or not guilty in court.

Pleading no contest means that a defendant does not admit guilt for the crime, but the court may determine sentencing. For many defendants, the main benefit of a no-contest plea is that it typically cannot be used as an admission of fault in related civil cases.

Before pleading no contest in California, a judge must accept your plea, ensure that you understand that the court thereby finds you guilty, and ensure that you are voluntarily entering your plea as opposed to being coerced or misled into doing so. Your constitutional rights are generally waived in a written form called a Tahl waiver. Once these requirements have been fulfilled, you may proceed to a sentencing hearing where the judge imposes your sentence.

Seek Qualified Legal Counsel Before Admitting Guilt or Pleading No Contest in California

Aron Law Firm criminal defense lawyers are devoted to guarding the rights of Californians accused of various crimes. You can count on our qualified team to investigate your case in detail, build a robust defense that protects your interests, and advise you on the most favorable course of action for your particular situation. We take a client-centered approach to make the legal process as painless as possible.

Schedule a consultation today to speak with one of our attorneys about no-contest or other pleas. Call (805) 618-1768 or complete our convenient contact form to learn more.

Innocent people are accused of crimes they did not commit more often than you might think. If you have been accused of causing an accident and fleeing the scene in California, you could face serious consequences such as jail time and fines.

Hitting a vehicle and not sticking around to trade information with the other driver is a serious crime in California. A conviction for a hit-and-run may result in jail time, fines, and other repercussions, so it is important that you consult with an Aron Law Firm criminal defense attorney as soon as possible after being charged with a hit-and-run offense.

Were You Falsely Accused of Violating VC 20002 or VC 20001 in California?

Being accused of a crime you did not commit is incredibly scary. Even if the accusation is completely untrue, if you are not careful, you could end up with some very real life-changing consequences.

There are two types of hit-and-run charges in the state of California:

• California Vehicle Code 20002 is a misdemeanor offense that covers hit-and-run crashes involving only property damage. It states:

“The driver of any vehicle involved in an accident resulting only in damage to any property, including vehicles, shall immediately stop the vehicle at the nearest location that will not impede traffic or otherwise jeopardize the safety of other motorists.”

• California Vehicle Code 20001 is a felony offense that covers hit-and-run crashes involving bodily injury. It states:

“The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to a person, other than himself or herself, or in the death of a person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident…”

California Vehicle Code states that a driver is guilty of a hit-and-run offense if they leave the scene of an accident without first identifying themselves, giving their name and address, and providing other information as requested by any other party involved in the accident.

Steps to Take After a False Hit-And-Run Accusation in California

If you have been accused of a hit-and-run crash in California, here is what you should do:

Be Wary When Talking to Police Officers

Be polite, but at the same time, be careful not to answer any questions without your attorney present. Avoid admitting guilt or signing anything without speaking with an attorney first.

Do Not Talk to Anyone About the Case

You should not discuss the case with anyone, including your colleagues, friends, and even family members, because anything you say could be used against you in court.

Discuss Your Situation With a Criminal Defense Attorney

Unlike your family, friends, coworkers, and the police, your criminal defense lawyer is a professional legal advocate hired with the sole objective of defending your rights and interests. Your lawyer will advise you on how to handle your hit-and-run case so that you can move past it with as little effect on your life as possible.

Partner With a California Criminal Defense Attorney to Fight a False Hit-And-Run Accusation

Some people may think that since they are innocent that the court will automatically side with them, but unfortunately, things do not always work out this way. Protect yourself after being falsely accused of a hit-and-run by partnering with a criminal defense attorney who will back up your claims and effectively prove your innocence in court. If you have been accused of a crime you did not commit, do not wait to seek professional legal counsel. An Aron Law Firm criminal defense lawyer will build a solid defense for your California hit-and-run case.

Schedule a meeting with a California criminal defense attorney by calling (805) 618-1768 or submitting a completed contact form to discuss your legal options with our team today.

Harassment comes in many different forms, from stalking and threats to abuse and assault. In California, harassment in any form is prohibited under state law, and violators may face severe, possibly lifelong penalties.

If you have been arrested or accused of harassment in California, do not face the harsh consequences alone. At Aron Law Firm, we conduct full, independent investigations into our clients’ cases to identify the most effective way to defend their interests. Our goal is to have your harassment charges reduced or, in some cases, dropped entirely.

What Are the Different Types of Harassment Laws in California?

Harassment is a crime that involves repeated acts that annoy, alarm, or torment another person. In California, harassment crimes may be charged as either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the circumstances of your particular case.

Harassment might include:

• Saying things that instill fear in the victim
• Physically following another individual
• Sending someone unwanted text messages or emails
• Making threats
• Repeatedly calling the victim on the phone
• Unwanted touching
• Engaging in conduct with the intent to annoy or alarm another person

The State of California prohibits harassment in Penal Code Sections 653.2 and 646.9. Here is what you should know about each of these laws:

California Penal Code Section 646.9

California Penal Code Section 646.9 outlaws the act of stalking as harassment in California. It reads as follows:

“Any person who willfully, maliciously, and repeatedly follows or willfully and maliciously harasses another person and who makes a credible threat with the intent to place that person in reasonable fear for his or her safety, or the safety of his or her immediate family is guilty of the crime of stalking…”

This crime is punishable by California county jail incarceration up to one year and a fine of up to $1,000 or by both the fine and imprisonment.

You may be charged with stalking under Penal Code 646.9 if you repeatedly communicate with someone, even if you do not make direct threats or harm them physically. The law defines “harassing” as engaging in conduct aimed at a particular person that causes substantial emotional distress or reasonable fear for their safety,  involving one of the following:

• Frequently following another person (or having others follow them)
• Repeatedly contacting another person by phone, mail, or other forms of communication

A Santa Barbara criminal defense lawyer will explain how this applies to your case. 

California Penal Code Section 653.2

California Penal Code Section 653.2 prohibits electronic cyber harassment in California. It states that any person who:

“[…] with intent to place another person in reasonable fear for his or her safety […] by means of an electronic communication device […] and for the purpose of imminently causing that other person unwanted physical contact, injury, or harassment, […] is guilty of a misdemeanor[…]”

In other words, stalking or harassing a person online or through another electronic device could face up to one year in county jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both that fine and imprisonment.

Fight a Charge of Harassment With an Assertive California Criminal Defense Attorney

If you have been charged with harassment, it is essential to understand the legal definition of this crime and its consequences. An Aron Law Firm criminal defense attorney will help you navigate the California criminal justice system and fight back against any allegations of harassment made against you.

Contact us today by calling (805) 618-1768 or filling out our contact form to schedule a confidential case evaluation with one of our experienced California criminal defense attorneys.

Prostitution is said to be the world’s oldest profession, and it still exists to this day. Despite its illegality, it occurs daily on California streets, through phone services for call girls and escorts, and takes place in public places such as massage parlors.

Conviction of this crime carries severe punishment, including jail or prison time, fines, and lifetime sex offender registration. If you have been charged with prostitution in California, it is imperative that you hire an experienced California criminal attorney in Santa Barbara, CA to defend your case. At Aron Law Firm, we have the skills needed to craft an effective defense strategy to safeguard your rights.

What to Know About Prostitution and California Penal Code 647(b)

California Penal Code 647(b) defines the act of prostitution as engaging in sexual activity with the intent to receive money or some other benefit.

Prostitution is an intentional crime, meaning intent must be established in order for there to be a conviction. The prosecution will need to prove that the prostitution was either planned or agreed upon before any sort of activity took place. Since there will need to be irrefutable evidence that you purposely and knowingly committed the crime, your lawyer may be able to defend your case by demonstrating that your case lacked intent.

Under California law, if the incident involved no mention of sexual activity and if money was not involved, your attorney may be able to use the defense that the crime of prostitution did not actually occur.

Who Could Be Arrested for Prostitution in California?

In many cases, there are more than two parties involved in a prostitution crime. The parties may include:

• The prostitute: the person who provides sexual favors in exchange for compensation
• The customer: the person who is seeking to pay for sexual services
• The procurer: the person who helps manage prostitutes. They may even recruit new prostitutes or recommend certain prostitutes for customers

There are a number of circumstances in which the act of prostitution may have never actually taken place, and yet all parties involved were still arrested and charged with a crime under California Penal Code 647(b) PC or other relevant penal code sections.

As with any sex crime, prostitution carries a greater punishment than simply jail time. Besides paying fines and fees, those convicted of prostitution may also suffer social stigma, and individuals may lose their job if they are found guilty of Penal Code 647(b) PC.

Contact a California Criminal Defense Attorney if You Have Been Accused of Prostitution

At Aron Law Firm, we have extensive experience defending those accused of various crimes in California, including those related to prostitution. We know the law inside and out, and will fight tirelessly to ensure that your rights are not infringed upon.

If you are ever accused of committing a crime related to prostitution in California, you may count on Aron Law Firm to fight for you. We focus our efforts on our clients’ needs and tailor our approach to each client’s unique situation. We treat each client with respect and understanding while providing personalized attention and the highest quality legal representation.

Reach out to us anytime, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, by calling (805) 618-1768 or completing our contact form.

Whether you are a doctor, lawyer, nurse, or another professional that requires licensure in California, a criminal accusation could endanger your ability to make a living. The state has the power to take away your license under CA Bus & Prof Code § 480, if you commit a crime and may even modify it if there are issues with your record.

At Aron Law Firm, we understand how stressful it is when your professional license is called into question and how critical it is to protect it from revocation, as your livelihood depends on it. That is why we will pull out all of the stops necessary to effectively defend your professional license.

Defending a Professional License in California

Regardless of the type of license you hold, the state of California may take away your professional license for almost any reason. Fortunately, you will have the right to defend yourself at an administrative hearing before the decision is made on whether to revoke or modify your professional license in California. During this time, a criminal defense lawyer may help protect your ability to continue working in your field.

How an Attorney Helps

The hearing may be a very intimidating process, but your attorney will be with you every step of the way. A California attorney may help defend against any accusation related to the nature of your work by:

• Evaluating every aspect of your case
• Looking at the facts of your case and evaluating the merits of it
• Helping draft petitions in support of protecting your license from being revoked or modified
• Preparing witness lists and other documents needed for presentation
• Presenting evidence, as well as rebutting the evidence against you
• Bringing forward additional documents or witnesses that could help your case if possible
• Cross-examining witnesses called by the board and making arguments in support of your defense
• Fighting for you in an appeal if necessary

At Aron Law Firm, we know the laws and practices of the licensing board that is reviewing your case and may advise you on how to defend yourself against allegations of misconduct. We will also fight for all available options. That way, if there are alternatives available instead of complete loss of license, such as suspension or probation, those options may be pursued by counsel before any definitive action is taken by the board or licensing agency.

Request a Formal Hearing

Should the licensing board decide to revoke or modify your professional license, you may request a formal hearing. This hearing is not a criminal trial, nor is it a civil trial with a jury. Rather, it is an administrative process akin to what you might experience in traffic court. The board will present its side of the story, and then you will have an opportunity to respond before the board makes its final decision.

A California attorney may also help you fight to get your professional license back if it has already been suspended or revoked by the state board.

Protect Your Professional License With the Help of a California Lawyer

In today’s changing world, a professional license is more important than ever. A license is a measure of your skill and expertise, but it is also an indicator of your character and integrity. When you have an Aron Law Firm attorney on your side defending your professional license, you may rest assured that they will do everything in their power to protect these vital assets.

To meet with an Aron Law Firm lawyer and begin discussing strategies to defend your professional license, contact our firm today by calling (805) 618-1768 or submitting a completed contact form.

California state law prohibits anyone from driving a motor vehicle when they have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or higher. However, if the person is under the age of 21, they may face even harsher penalties under California’s Zero Tolerance law. Underage drivers who are caught with a BAC of just .01% in California could be charged with driving under the influence (DUI). If convicted, they may receive jail time and substantial fines.

If you or your underage child has been arrested for drinking and driving in California, now is the time to seek legal representation from a Santa Barbara criminal defense attorney who has experience handling DUI cases involving underage drivers. At Aron Law Firm, we have protected the rights of Californians accused of DUIs for many years. We know how to get charges reduced or dismissed and will fight to protect the interests of you or your child during every step of the process.

Types of Penalties You Could Face for an Underage DUI in California

The state of California’s Zero Tolerance law restricts anyone under the age of 21 from operating a motor vehicle with any amount of alcohol in their system. Punishments for underage DUI convictions are also incredibly harsh in the Golden State and may affect your child’s legal record.

Drunk driving cases involving teenagers under the age of 18 typically go through the juvenile court system in California. At this young age, DUIs are considered acts of delinquency and are not technically crimes, but offenders may still expect to be severely penalized. California DUI offenders under 21 years of age could face penalties such as:

• Time in jail
• Probation
• Points on their license
• Removal of good driver status
• Required installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
• Completion of a DUI impact course
• Potential felony charges
• Community service
• Increased automobile insurance rates or policy cancellation
• Tarnished reputation

Being convicted of DUI while under the age of 21 may also hinder your opportunities to:

• Attain scholarships
• Hold certain professional licenses
• Possess a firearm
• Join the military
• Get accepted into some colleges or universities

Convictions for violating Vehicle Code 23152 are not eligible for sealing or expungement in California because they go on your driving record rather than your criminal record. As a result, underage DUIs will remain on your record for the next ten years. Consider enlisting the help of a skilled California criminal defense attorney to avoid risking this long-lasting mark on your record.

Mitigate Penalties for Underage DUI with a California Criminal Defense Attorney

Young people in California have a world of opportunities ahead of them in life, but a single night of drinking may cause the life laid ahead of them to be tossed by the wayside. An Aron Law Firm criminal defense lawyer may help you or your child mitigate the penalties of an underage DUI or, in some cases, have them dropped completely.

The sooner you partner with a California underage DUI lawyer, the sooner they may begin building the strongest case for your defense. Our lawyers will be with you and your child every step of the way during the legal process. We work hard to fight for all of our clients’ rights in obtaining justice or working to reduce charges. Schedule your meeting with an Aron Law Firm attorney to discuss your case by contacting our office today. Call (805) 618-1768 or you may reach out to us online via our contact form. We look forward to hearing from you and your family.

The juvenile court system in California is different from the adult court and has its own unique set of rules. Posting bail is not an option in juvenile court, even though California’s juvenile system is supposed to be designed to prioritize rehabilitation over incarceration. Minors are also not entitled to a jury trial, and depending on the severity of the crime, the minor may be placed in juvenile custody or have their case transferred to adult court.

If your child is suspected of committing a crime in California, it might be time to consider hiring a juvenile defense lawyer. At Aron Law Firm, our experienced juvenile defense attorneys work extensively to keep the legal rights of our clients protected, no matter their age. We work closely with juveniles accused of crimes and their family members to help them understand and repair the underlying problems, not just deal with current criminal charges.

Why You Might Want to Hire a California Juvenile Defense Attorney

When you find yourself as the parent of a child facing a criminal charge, it is normal to feel confused and anxious about what to do next. While many people seek legal advice immediately after they learn their child has been arrested or charged with a crime, others are more hesitant to hire an attorney.

If you are on the fence about whether you think it is worth it to secure a legal representative for your child, here are three signs you might want the help of a lawyer:

You Do Not Have Sufficient Legal Knowledge

Criminal charges, whether they involve an adult or a child, are serious matters that should not be taken lightly. Although there may be some helpful resources online, they may never match up with the advice of an attorney who takes your specific case into consideration. Information found online also does not reflect the experience and qualifications of a professional lawyer.

It Is Your Child’s First Offense

The last thing anyone wants is for their son or daughter to be involved in criminal activity. If you find yourself as a parent in such a position, it may feel intimidating when considering the possible scenarios for your child’s future. Their criminal record could follow them for years to come and could jeopardize their choice of career or acceptance to university. Prosecutors are also notoriously harsh on beginners.

Your Child Is Innocent

Knowing that your child did not commit the crime they have been accused of is one of the most compelling reasons to assertively defend their name in court. You would not want to endanger their reputation and future, especially if you know they did not break any laws. Innocent or not, the opposing side will build a compelling case against your child. A juvenile defense attorney may help prepare a strong defense strategy to establish your child’s innocence.

At Aron Law Firm, our skillful juvenile defense lawyers are knowledgeable about the alternatives to prosecution. We evaluate the circumstances of each individual case, keeping your child’s freedom at the top of our priorities.

Partner With a Knowledgeable Juvenile Defense Lawyer in California

The most important thing you may do to protect your child and their future is to seek the help of an experienced California juvenile defense attorney. If you decide to work with the Aron Law Firm, you may be sure that we will do everything in our power to protect your child’s rights and mitigate the penalties or, if possible, get their charges dropped entirely.

California’s juvenile system may be harmful to a developing child, so Aron Law Firm attorneys do everything they may to keep them out of it. When you need help fighting criminal charges against your young child, contact an attorney with the skills to develop an effective defense strategy. Call our office today at (805) 618-1768 or send us a completed contact form to learn more about your child’s legal options.

Any individual who puts the well-being or safety of a child in jeopardy in California could be criminally charged for a violation of Penal Code 273a(a) for child endangerment. Often, these types of cases are related to instances of domestic violence or abuse, and the consequences may be severe.

If you have been arrested for child endangerment in California, the custody of your child, visitation rights, as well as your freedom could be at stake. Protect your rights and interests with the help of an Aron Law Firm California Santa Barbara criminal defense lawyer who knows what it takes to mitigate your child endangerment charges or in some cases, have them dropped entirely. We may help you through every step of the legal process and answer any questions you may have. 

What You Should Know About Child Endangerment Laws in California

Whether you or someone you know has been accused of endangering the life of a child, you may be wondering how California determines what constitutes child endangerment.

Under California Penal Code 273a(a), a person endangers a child if:

“…under circumstances or conditions likely to produce great bodily harm or death, willfully causes or permits any child to suffer, or inflicts thereon unjustifiable physical pain or mental suffering, or having the care or custody of any child, willfully causes or permits the person or health of that child to be injured, or willfully causes or permits that child to be placed in a situation where his or her person or health is endangered…”

It is important to note that contrary to popular belief, a child endangerment offense does not have to involve direct physical harm. Rather, the child would only need to be put into a position where they could have been harmed.

For instance, a child may be legally considered endangered in California if they have been left without adult supervision for an extended period of time. Or, if the child is put into a situation where drugs or other dangerous substances are within reasonable reach of the child, that could also be considered child endangerment in the eyes of the law.

What Are the Possible Penalties for Child Endangerment?

A child endangerment conviction in California is a “wobbler” offense, meaning it may be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony crime. Your particular situation and whether the child was at great risk of suffering bodily harm will be considered by the judge when determining whether you are facing a misdemeanor or felony charge.

Convictions for violating Penal Code 273a(a) could lead to imprisonment in a county jail for up to one year for a misdemeanor or in a California state prison for two, four, or even six years for a felony. It is important to meet with a lawyer as soon as possible after you have been charged so they may get to work on your case. 

Reach Out to A Skilled California Child Endangerment Attorney to Defend Your Case

The moment you learn that you are under investigation for endangering a child, it is crucial to retain an experienced attorney. Your Aron Law Firm criminal defense attorney may be able to defend your case by showing the court that you did not violate Penal Code 273a(a). Defenses could include that the accusations are false, the child was not actually in danger, or that you were within your legal rights to discipline the child.

To begin discussing your legal options with an Aron Law Firm lawyer, call our office at (805) 618-1768, or you may reach out to us online via our contact form.

A white collar crime is a non-violent abuse of power, typically based on some sort of fraudulent behavior involving money, usually committed by a professional and/or business entity in a bid for more power. The purported crimes are often very complex, and many of these transgresses may be considered federal crimes rather than state problems.

Fighting a white collar charge takes strong support from a knowledgeable legal team with an assertive approach and proven results. But how do you know who to hire? Who can give you the greatest chances at the best results possible? The knowledgeable team at the Aron Law Firm are standing by to help you.

White Collar Crime in California

White collar crime, by its very nature, is always changing and evolving. Likewise,

white collar crimes are considered non-violent, but that does not mean they are investigated in a less serious manner. White collar crime consists of, but is not limited to, the following:

• Cyber crime
• Embezzlement
• Extortion
• Forgery
• Insider trading
• Wire fraud
• Bribery
• Perjury

White collar crimes may be considered serious because of the number of people who may travel across state lines, commit crimes online from all over the U.S./world, or, in some form, directly or indirectly, end up hurting someone.

For example, if you are accused of laundering money for a large crime syndicate, one that made its money in sex trafficking, you could be tied to the organization in such a way that you could also be charged with sex trafficking. You must choose a white collar crime lawyer experienced in both state and federal courts to best protect yourself and your future.

California Penal Code

California Penal Code 186.11, which defines white-collar crime sentencing enhancements in California and describes the state’s freeze and seize law, expresses that an additional consecutive prison term—of one to five years—may be put in place for the following:

“…(1) Any person who commits two or more related felonies, a material element of which is fraud or embezzlement, which involve a pattern of related felony conduct, and the pattern of related felony conduct involves the taking of, or results in the loss by another person or entity of, more than one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000), shall be punished, upon conviction of two or more felonies in a single criminal proceeding, in addition and consecutive to the punishment prescribed for the felony offenses of which he or she has been convicted…”

For guidance and to discuss your case with an experienced California criminal defense attorney in Santa Barbara, CA, contact the Aron Law Firm today.

3 Reasons to Hire a California White Collar Crime Lawyer

How do you know which lawyer will do their best work for you? Consider the following reasons:

1. They Are Knowledgeable in the Field of White Collar Crimes

White collar criminal attorneys are dedicated to their specific area of expertise. A criminal attorney who focuses on DUIs, for example, may not have the extensive knowledge they need to defend you to the very best of their abilities. When your future and your family’s future are at stake, you really need someone who knows all about white collar law.

2. They Will Work to Protect Your Reputation and Your Career

If you are charged with a crime, you may lose your job. Finding another job could take years, and it may not be in the same sector as before.

Being charged with a crime, even white collar crimes, could impact your reputation with friends and family as well. When all is said and done, you still have a life to lead. A white collar criminal attorney could help you move forward and may be able to decrease your consequences.

3. They Will Know Exactly How to Evaluate Discovery

Discovery is what they call the evidence of your case that is gathered by the authorities. It contains everything they believe has anything to do with the crime, even if it does not. A white collar attorney can look through your discovery and make discoveries of their own.

Hire a California White Collar Crime Lawyer

While no one can guarantee perfect results, your decisions will determine how favorable the outcome will be. A good criminal defense attorney will make only a couple of promises. One, that they will work for you in your best interest throughout the entire case and beyond. Two, they should promise confidentiality and easy/timely communication about the state of the case.

Aron Law Firm will work hard for you and will communicate directly with you throughout your case. Contact our team for thoughtful and intelligent representation dedicated to upholding your rights from beginning to end. Remember, it does not matter why you need our help, it only matters that you have found us and are ready to work on your defense. Working together can really make all the difference. Reach out to us by calling (805) 618-1768 or filling out our contact form.