Sex offenders face some of the longest sentences of any convicted criminals because their mandated inclusion on the Megan’s Law registry means they continue to be punished long after their incarceration, parole, and probation are over. While California’s tiered registration system means not all offenders remain on the list for life, many still must register […]
Is Proplifting a Crime in California?
Skilled gardeners know the best way to avoid spending a fortune on plants is to simply propagate new plants from seeds, roots, cuttings, and discarded or damaged plant matter. While there’s typically nothing wrong with propagating your own plants or accepting propagation materials from friends, family members, and neighbors, taking plant parts without permission, sometimes […]
When is a Crime an Infraction, Misdemeanor, or Felony?
California law defines three categories of crimes to distinguish which type of offenses are the most serious. While criminal charges may be filed as an infraction, a misdemeanor, or a felony, few people know which is worse. In terms of both the severity of the charges and the potential penalties, a felony is more serious […]
The Difference Between Assault and Battery In California
There are many reasons that people mistakenly believe the terms assault and battery can be used interchangeably. For one thing, police procedurals often lump the two together when detectives speak with one another. But more realistically, it’s because some states lump the two acts together. In California, however, the two crimes are very distinct. When […]
Can I Legally Drive Barefoot?
For some reason, it seems everyone has heard that it is illegal to drive barefoot. Sometimes, the person spreading these rumors claims it’s an infraction. Other times, they may even say it’s a misdemeanor under the state’s reckless driving laws. But if you’re hoping you can go shoeless behind the wheel, go ahead and slip off your […]
CSI in Real Life Vs TV: 8 Common Myths
Crime shows like CSI, NCIS, Dexter, Law & Order, and Criminal Minds have allowed the public to explore the work of forensic science labs. The only problem? What makes for good television doesn’t reflect the realities of crime scene investigation units. Many investigation techniques seen on screen are exaggerated or outright fabricated. Unfortunately, many jurors […]
What’s the Difference Between Different Types of Attorneys?
Have a hard time differentiating between prosecutors, defense lawyers, public defenders and judges? Here’s what you should know before you head into court.
Escorts Vs Prostitutes: What’s the Difference?
Prostitution is illegal in California, leaving many people to question why pornography and escort services are legal when selling sex acts is not. While we’ve already covered the fine line between prostitution and pornography, that doesn’t explain why escort businesses are legal in San Diego and the rest of California. Though escorts and prostitutes are […]
Do the Police Actually Hire Consultants Like They Do on TV?
Shows like Lucifer, Psych, Castle and Monk feature contractors hired by the police to help solve crimes, but is what you see on screen realistic? As it turns out, while police consultants are real, criminal attorneys would get most of the evidence the TV consultants uncover thrown out of court. Here’s a breakdown of how […]
Debunking the 10 Most Commonly Believed Legal Myths
Many shows, books, and movies depict the legal system, but because writers need to be concerned with conciseness and ratings, they often fall back on common misconceptions. Unfortunately, when myths spread enough, the public starts to accept them as accurate, but no matter how much people believe these ideas, it doesn’t change how the criminal […]
