CALIFORNIA CRIMINAL DEFENSE BLOG
In California, a criminal act committed against another person that is motivated by prejudice against certain characteristics of that person is considered a hate crime. Under California Penal Code Section 422.55, those characteristics include the alleged victim’s: Race or ethnicity Nationality Sexual orientation Religion Gender Disability, or Association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics If you commit a hate crime, will…
Bryan Powell | December 12, 2018
Most people know that elder abuse is a crime in California. However, many people do not fully understand the crime…
Bryan Powell | December 10, 2018
Recently, a client came to Wallin & Klarich after he was falsely accused of domestic violence and had a request for a…
Paul Wallin | November 12, 2018
If you have a child dependency case and the court determines that your child is not safe to be under…
Paul Wallin | November 9, 2018
Recently, California Governor Jerry Brown passed a law that drastically changes the felony murder rule. One of the most important…
Paul Wallin | October 29, 2018
When you are arrested for a crime in California, you may have the opportunity to be released from custody while…
Paul Wallin | October 26, 2018
Being invovled in a car accident can be scary. The shock of being in a collision with another vehicle may…
Paul Wallin | October 24, 2018
Update: California Governor Jerry Brown approved AB 1793 into law. As noted below, the law will require the Department of…
Paul Wallin | October 19, 2018
Wallin & Klarich, A Law Corporation is excited to announce that skilled criminal defense attorney Jonathan M. Lynn has become…
Paul Wallin | October 17, 2018
If you are convicted of a felony offense, you will likely lose your Second Amendment right to keep and bear…
Paul Wallin | October 5, 2018
In California, it is legal to use force to defend another person. This means defense of another may be a…
Paul Wallin | October 1, 2018
Every person has a unique fingerprint. Most everyone knows this. But, did you know that every gun has something similar?…
Paul Wallin | September 28, 2018
If you have a robbery conviction on your criminal record, you are probably aware that your conviction could impact your…
Paul Wallin | September 26, 2018
One of the major platforms for the Trump Administration since taking office has been to crack down on illegal immigration.…
Paul Wallin | September 24, 2018
You are sitting at home and you hear a knock on your door. When you open the door, you see…
Paul Wallin | September 17, 2018
Under California Penal Code Section 484, it is illegal to engage in fraudulent activity involving credit or debit cards and/or…
Paul Wallin | September 14, 2018
In criminal law, an attempted crime is one in which a person tried to commit a crime, but was unable…
Paul Wallin | September 12, 2018
In California, you are allowed to use reasonable self defense in order to protect yourself or others from injury or…
Paul Wallin | September 10, 2018
Words like “knowingly” and “willfully” are often brought up in the criminal justice system when determining a defendant’s guilt. That…
Paul Wallin | September 7, 2018
When you hear the term “assault with a deadly weapon,” what probably comes to mind is someone using a gun…
Paul Wallin | September 5, 2018
Under California Penal Code Section 189, you could be convicted of murder for any killing that occurs while you are…
Paul Wallin | August 31, 2018
You’re walking through a parking lot on a typically hot southern California day and you spot a dog in a…
Paul Wallin | August 29, 2018
Under California Penal Code Section 215, carjacking is defined as the felonious taking of a motor vehicle from another person…
Paul Wallin | August 10, 2018
A petty theft conviction carries up to six months in county jail and a maximum fine of $1,000. However, if…
Paul Wallin | August 6, 2018
If you are accused of a felony offense, there will be a step in the criminal process called the preliminary…
Paul Wallin | August 3, 2018
Most people have heard of the crime of kidnapping under California Penal Code Section 207, but many people do not…
Paul Wallin | August 1, 2018
Under California Penal Code Section 466, it is illegal to possess a burglary tool when you do so with the…
Paul Wallin | July 30, 2018
Engaging in sexual intercourse with a minor is a serious criminal offense in California. The exact offense you will be…
Stephen Klarich | July 27, 2018
When you are arrested for a crime, you will probably be frightened and anxious. You may be too overwhelmed to…
Matthew Wallin | July 25, 2018
Little lies are often harmless. You might lie to your spouse about where you were when you were buying his…
Paul Wallin | July 23, 2018
Under California Penal Code Section 459, the prosecution must prove all of the following elements in order to convict you…
Paul Wallin | July 20, 2018
You can be lawfully arrested if a peace officer has: A warrant for your arrest, or Probable cause to believe…
Paul Wallin | July 18, 2018
Your boss comes to you and asks if you can deliver some cash to the bank for a deposit. Of…
Matthew Wallin | July 9, 2018
Most people know that crimes are charged as misdemeanors or felonies in California. However, what many people do not know…
Paul Wallin | July 6, 2018
The crime of burglary is defined under California Penal Code Section 459 as entering a building, home or other structure…
Paul Wallin | July 2, 2018
Summer in California is associated with beaches, vacations and fun. According to reports, the summer months also bring an increase…
Matthew Wallin | June 29, 2018
It’s spring and you’re making plans to take your family on a summer vacation. You can’t wait to relax by…
Paul Wallin | June 27, 2018
Do you go anywhere without your cellphone? These days, your cellphone is your life. Many people could not imagine leaving…
Paul Wallin | June 22, 2018
Many people who are facing a criminal charge are told by their lawyer that if they go to a jury…
Paul Wallin | May 21, 2018
A hit and run incident occurs once every 18 minutes in Los Angeles, according to a report by NBC 4…
Paul Wallin | May 18, 2018
When you are convicted of a crime, you probably think your case is over. However, one of the most important…
Paul Wallin | May 16, 2018
California Penal Code 653m makes it illegal to contact another person using any mode of electronic communication with the intent…
Paul Wallin | May 8, 2018
A new California law may allow you to seal your arrest record if you were not convicted of the crime…
Paul Wallin | April 27, 2018
Comedian Bill Cosby was found guilty on three counts of sexual assault in Montgomery County Courthouse in Pennsylvania on…
Paul Wallin | April 26, 2018
On YouTube, a new “prank” gained popularity recently. This “prank” involves a person slipping a “female Viagra” product to his…
Paul Wallin | April 25, 2018
The negative stigma of having an arrest record could impact you for the rest of your life. Having an arrest…
Paul Wallin | April 18, 2018
What Happens When a Witness Doesn’t Want to Testify in a Corporal Injury on a Spouse Case? (PC 243(e)(1) and PC 273.5)
Often, domestic violence cases have no witnesses other than the alleged victim and the defendant. There might be little or…
Paul Wallin | April 16, 2018
On January 1, 2018, The Consumer Arrest Record Equity Act (The CARE Act) took effect. This law made it easier…
Paul Wallin | April 13, 2018
On January 1, 2018, a new law enacted in California made it easier than ever to seal an arrest record.…
Paul Wallin | April 11, 2018
Inflicting corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant under California Penal Code Section 273.5 is a serious crime. If convicted…
Paul Wallin | April 6, 2018
An Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Can Raise All Applicable Defenses On A Charge Of Corporal Injury On A Spouse
Arguments and disagreements with a spouse are often the most contentious. In addition to the strain that caused to the relationship,…
Paul Wallin | April 5, 2018
Can some people be sentenced to the death penalty for a murder conviction while others are not? Does handing down…
Paul Wallin | April 4, 2018
While marijuana is now legal in California, it is still considered an illegal substance under federal law. The current White…
Paul Wallin | March 28, 2018
Every year, there are more than one million people arrested in California. Many of these cases do not result in…
Paul Wallin | March 20, 2018
Carjacking and grand theft auto both involve taking possession of a vehicle from its true owner. That’s why it’s easy…
Paul Wallin | March 5, 2018
The crimes of battery and corporal injury on a spouse involve very similar acts. Thus, it can be difficult to…
Paul Wallin | March 2, 2018
With the prevalence of violence in public schools today and the recent events involving student shootings nationwide, school administrators and…
Paul Wallin | February 26, 2018
To be convicted of criminal threats in California, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that your act satisfied…
Paul Wallin | February 21, 2018
If you threaten to cause another person great bodily injury or death, you could be charged with making a criminal…
Paul Wallin | February 16, 2018
You commit the crime of making criminal threats under California Penal Code Section 422 if you willfully communicate a threat…
Paul Wallin | February 14, 2018
California Governor Brown has issued more than 1,000 pardons since taking office in 2011. Each year, he has announced dozens…
Paul Wallin | February 5, 2018
Restraining orders are court-issued mandates 09designed to protect people from physical abuse, harassment and/or stalking. If a restraining order is…
Paul Wallin | February 2, 2018
If you have a criminal record, you probably have experienced first hand how your criminal conviction affects your life well…
Paul Wallin | January 31, 2018
If you have been convicted of a crime, your conviction is likely having a negative impact on your life. Having…
Paul Wallin | January 29, 2018
If a restraining order is issued against you by the court, it means that you are required to stay away…
Paul Wallin | January 26, 2018
Under California Penal Code Section 314, indecent exposure is defined as exposing your genitals for a sexual purpose in a…
Paul Wallin | January 24, 2018
Serving a sentence for a criminal conviction is frequently referred to as “repaying your debt to society.” However, repaying a…
Stephen Klarich | January 17, 2018
If you are convicted of a sex crime in California, you face extremely harsh penalties. Not only do you face…
Stephen Klarich | January 12, 2018
A criminal appeal may be an avenue for you to seek justice if you were convicted in criminal court. If…
Paul Wallin | January 10, 2018
Being convicted of a crime could be devastating. You could lose your job, your home, and worst of all, your…
Paul Wallin | January 8, 2018
If you believe you have been unjustly convicted of a crime or wrongfully imprisoned, you should not give up on…
Paul Wallin | January 5, 2018
If you are convicted of a crime, your case is not over. There may be grounds to appeal your conviction.…
Paul Wallin | January 3, 2018
If you are put on probation by the court, you will have to follow a set of terms and conditions…
Paul Wallin | January 1, 2018
Under California Penal Code Section 261.5, it is illegal to have sexual intercourse with a person who is under the…
Stephen Klarich | December 29, 2017
In the criminal justice system, every person is presumed innocent until proven guilty. To convict someone of a crime, the…
Paul Wallin | December 27, 2017
Probation gives you the opportunity to serve your sentence without spending time in custody. However, you need to understand that…
Paul Wallin | December 22, 2017
As unbelievable as it sounds, for a long time, California law did not recognize the fact that you could rape…
Stephen Klarich | December 20, 2017
Statutory rape is a serious crime in California, but many alleged victims do not realize the harshness of this crime…
Paul Wallin | December 18, 2017
Every weekend, law enforcement agencies throughout the state of California set up DUI checkpoints in an effort to prevent drunk…
Paul Wallin | December 15, 2017
In some cases, the crimes of statutory rape and lewd or lascivious acts involving a minor could seem interchangeable. Both…
Stephen Klarich | November 29, 2017
When someone accuses you of rape, it is likely that there is little evidence against you aside from your accuser’s…
Paul Wallin | November 27, 2017
Rape cases are often “he-said/she-said” circumstances where the only evidence against the defendant is the word of the alleged victim.…
Paul Wallin | November 22, 2017
Many people do not think they can be charged with a crime for raping their spouse. However, there is actually…
Stephen Klarich | November 17, 2017
Most people assume that if they are convicted of a felony, they will be sent to prison. In many…
Paul Wallin | November 15, 2017
Under California Penal Code 261.5, it is illegal to engage in sexual intercourse with a minor who is not your…
Stephen Klarich | November 14, 2017
On Black Friday, hordes of people flock to stores across America right after they clean their plates in hopes of…
Paul Wallin | November 13, 2017
Sexual molestation is considered a very serious crime in California. If you are charged with child molestation under California Penal…
Stephen Klarich | November 9, 2017
Your child is accused of an incident at school. The police come to the school and take your child to…
Paul Wallin | November 8, 2017
Sex offenders have not only been the top stories of most local news broadcasts, but due to recent crimes in…
Stephen Klarich | November 7, 2017
California Governor Jerry Brown recently signed a law that will make “sextortion” a crime in California. The law, which takes…
Paul Wallin | November 6, 2017
A criminal conviction can have a negative impact on you for the rest of your life. If you’ve been convicted…
Paul Wallin | November 3, 2017
If you were convicted of a sex-related offense, your punishment will likely not end with a sentence of jail or…
Stephen Klarich | November 2, 2017
Time is running out for California Governor Jerry Brown. He is about to enter his final year in office and…
Paul Wallin | November 1, 2017
Under California Penal Code Section 288, you could be convicted of the crime of lewd acts with a minor under…
Paul Wallin | October 30, 2017
In some criminal cases, it may be a valid defense that you made an honest mistake that led you to…
Paul Wallin | October 27, 2017
When prosecutors charge someone with a crime, they must be able to prove that the person’s actions meet all of…
Paul Wallin | October 25, 2017
Elder abuse is a growing issue in Orange County. The number of abuse reports increased 46 percent from 2002 to…
Paul Wallin | October 20, 2017
According to various reports, Los Angeles experiences more hit-and-run accidents than any other city in the country. An investigation by…
Matthew Wallin | October 19, 2017
California Penal Code 459 defines burglary as breaking and entering a structure with the intent to steal or commit a…
Matthew Wallin | October 17, 2017
If you’ve been convicted of a crime in Orange County, it doesn’t mean your case needs to end. You still…
Paul Wallin | October 12, 2017
If you are arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, it does not necessarily mean…
Matthew Wallin | October 9, 2017
When you are convicted of a felony, it does not mean that your case is over. The next step is…
Paul Wallin | October 6, 2017
If you are convicted of possession of child pornography under California Penal Code Section 311.11(a), you will have to register…
Paul Wallin | October 5, 2017
When you are charged with a child pornography crime in California, you face severe penalties. You could be sentenced to…
Paul Wallin | October 4, 2017
When an individual is accused of committing a sex crime against a child, media frenzy builds up quickly around…
Stephen Klarich | October 3, 2017
Today’s political climate has led to an increase in the amount of people who have been stopped by authorities questioning…
Paul Wallin | October 2, 2017
If you are convicted of a felony offense in California, you may be overcome with panic because you’re looking at…
Paul Wallin | September 29, 2017
When you are convicted of a felony, you may assume you will have to serve time in prison. However, thanks…
Paul Wallin | September 27, 2017
Peer-to-peer (P2P) sharing became popular in the late 1990s, when Napster allowed music files to be shared between users. Since…
Paul Wallin | September 25, 2017
One of the biggest keys in a child pornography case is the element that the defendant possessed, distributed, produced or…
Paul Wallin | September 22, 2017
Child pornography crimes carry harsh punishment in California. In many cases involving child pornography, you could face federal charges, which…
Paul Wallin | September 20, 2017
If you are charged with a child pornography crime, you face severe consequences that could impact you for the rest…
Paul Wallin | September 4, 2017
School expulsion is a scarlet letter on a student’s record. Students who are expelled not only have to attend a…
Paul Wallin | August 30, 2017
Regardless of what crime you are charged with, a felony is an extremely serious matter. If you are convicted of…
Paul Wallin | August 23, 2017
Criminal cases often deal with the mindset of the defendant. What was that person thinking at the time when…
Paul Wallin | August 16, 2017
In California, attempted murder is punished almost as severely as murder itself. Under Penal Code Section 664, you face up…
Paul Wallin | August 14, 2017
Is stalking a sex crime? You might think the answer is “no,” but in some cases, you could be required…
Paul Wallin | August 11, 2017
“Facebook stalking.” “Internet stalking.” People often throw around the word “stalking” when referencing someone who is “checking in” on another…
Paul Wallin | August 9, 2017
As your work is about to close for the night, your boss asks you to take money from the cash…
Paul Wallin | August 7, 2017
If you are sentenced to jail time, your entire life could change. Not only will you lose your freedom, you…
Paul Wallin | August 4, 2017
“Revenge porn” is the concept of publishing nude or explicit images of your ex-significant other as a form of revenge…
Paul Wallin | August 2, 2017
In California, if you commit a crime and a substantial factor in your motive for the criminal act was targeting…
Paul Wallin | July 31, 2017
If you are convicted of inflicting corporal injury on a spouse under California Penal Code Section 273.5, you face harsh…
Paul Wallin | July 28, 2017
When you hear the term “earning points,” you probably think it is a good thing, but there is one scenario…
Paul Wallin | July 27, 2017
With as much time as we spend on the road in Southern California, the likelihood of committing a driving offense…
Paul Wallin | July 24, 2017
In California, minors who are arrested for committing a crime are generally not treated the same as adults. Crimes committed…
Paul Wallin | July 20, 2017
During a game last year, Josh Manson of the Anaheim Ducks made a “throat slash” gesture at an opposing player.…
Paul Wallin | July 14, 2017
If you keep up with trending topics on social media, you are probably aware of the drama that unfolded between…
Paul Wallin | July 12, 2017
In a child dependency case, you could lose your parental rights to your child. There is a lot at stake,…
Paul Wallin | July 10, 2017
If you have an email account, you’ve most likely received a message that says for a small processing fee, a…
Paul Wallin | July 7, 2017
The Amazon Echo and Google Home are devices that use your voice to allow you to access your music, the…
Paul Wallin | July 5, 2017
The recreational use of marijuana is now legal in California. Naturally, this has led to questions about whether people can…
Paul Wallin | June 30, 2017
Summer is quickly approaching, and before long, many of us will soon turn our minds to how we are going…
Paul Wallin | June 23, 2017
Wallin & Klarich Criminal Defense Attorney Matthew Wallin Named as Super Lawyers Magazine “Rising Star” for 2017
At Wallin & Klarich, our team of criminal defense attorneys works hard every day in order to help our clients…
Paul Wallin | June 21, 2017
The worst case scenario in a child dependency case is that your parental rights are terminated and your child is…
Paul Wallin | June 19, 2017
If a court issues a restraining order against you, many of your rights will be restricted. One of those rights…
Paul Wallin | June 16, 2017
When you are involved in a child dependency case, you face the risk of losing custody of your child forever.…
Paul Wallin | June 14, 2017
California Penal Code Section 207 defines kidnapping as when you take, detain, hold, or arrest another person and bring that…
Paul Wallin | June 12, 2017
Social workers came to your home and told you that you are suspected of neglecting or abusing your child. Your…
Paul Wallin | June 9, 2017
If you or a loved one has had a court impose a restraining order upon you in California, you must…
Paul Wallin | June 7, 2017
Assault with a deadly weapon is one of the most serious crimes in California. Under California Penal Code Section 245(a)(1),…
Paul Wallin | June 5, 2017
When a student is recommended for expulsion from school, he or she is entitled to a school expulsion hearing. At…
Paul Wallin | May 31, 2017
California law requires that all parties consent to any recording of a conversation, and the state has some of the…
Paul Wallin | May 26, 2017
When it comes to the education of children, students have certain legal rights, and it is in your best interest…
Paul Wallin | May 24, 2017
Most parents are caught off guard when they receive a call from their child’s school instructing them to come to…
Paul Wallin | May 17, 2017
When a loved one has been arrested, you will likely be willing to do almost anything to get him or…
Paul Wallin | May 15, 2017
Many people have heard of a restraining order, but do not know what it really means to have one granted…
Paul Wallin | May 12, 2017
Anyone who has ever attended school knows that bullying takes place among students. When you think of a bully, you…
Paul Wallin | May 10, 2017
A complete stranger knocks on your door and tells you that she is a social worker for the California Department…
Paul Wallin | May 8, 2017
If you have been convicted of a crime, you may be willing to accept any form of alternative punishment in…
Paul Wallin | May 5, 2017
If you make criminal threats to someone in California, there is a good chance that you will face criminal charges.…
Paul Wallin | May 3, 2017
Most people do not realize that a DUI arrest actually leads to two separate cases. In addition to a criminal…
Paul Wallin | April 21, 2017
When you cause a vehicle collision, it can be very scary. For some people, the easiest way to deal with…
Paul Wallin | April 19, 2017
If you are a non-U.S. citizen living in the United States, you are probably aware that there has been a…
Paul Wallin | April 12, 2017
One of the most common questions our attorneys receive is “will my felony conviction show up on my public record?”…
Paul Wallin | April 10, 2017
If you have been convicted of a crime and sentenced to probation, you are being given a chance to stay…
Paul Wallin | April 7, 2017
In the United States, you have a right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures. However, both the state…
Paul Wallin | April 5, 2017
Whether it’s taking aerial photos or video, conducting research in remote areas or just for fun, remote-controlled drones have never…
Paul Wallin | April 3, 2017
If you are convicted of a crime, you will face whatever sentence that is handed down to you. The concept…
Paul Wallin | March 31, 2017
Child endangerment is a very serious crime in California. Under California Penal Code Section 273a, you could face up to…
Paul Wallin | March 29, 2017
With the federal government increasing its efforts to deport immigrants, especially those who have been convicted of crimes, California’s latest…
Paul Wallin | March 27, 2017
If you have been charged with domestic violence in California, you may be facing severe punishment. Corporal injury on a…
Paul Wallin | March 24, 2017
If you’re an immigrant in the United States and you’re accused of a crime, you may be worried about the…
Paul Wallin | March 22, 2017
Many people believe that when a child is arrested for a crime, the parents should be held responsible. In California,…
Paul Wallin | March 17, 2017
What’s the difference between spending 365 days in jail and 364 days in jail? Turns out, this makes a big…
Paul Wallin | March 15, 2017
What happens when a person decides to use a tax return to defraud the government? Recently, a California man was…
Paul Wallin | March 13, 2017
If you are arrested for a crime, your arrest record could impact you for the rest of your life. Even…
Paul Wallin | March 10, 2017
If you’ve been a licensed driver for a long period of time, you’ve probably encountered a DUI checkpoint at some…
Paul Wallin | February 24, 2017
If your child is expelled from school, it can have a lasting impact on his or her education and life.…
Paul Wallin | February 17, 2017
As defined under California Penal Code Section 245, an assault with a deadly weapon is an assault involving the use…
Paul Wallin | February 13, 2017
If a warrant is issued for you in California, it means that law enforcement has the ability to arrest you…
Paul Wallin | February 10, 2017
Under California Penal Code Section 245, an assault with a deadly weapon is an assault committed involving the use of…
Paul Wallin | February 8, 2017
Bench warrants are the most common types of warrant. They are typically issued when you failed to appear in court,…
Paul Wallin | February 6, 2017
“Give me your lunch money or I’ll beat you up.” That sentence, growled by an elementary school bully, is how…
Paul Wallin | January 18, 2017
Every weekend, law enforcement agencies throughout California set up DUI checkpoints on roads that are driven on constantly. If you…
Paul Wallin | January 13, 2017
Many people think that when they are accused of a crime, they will automatically be convicted, but this is far…
Paul Wallin | January 9, 2017
You’re driving home on a rainy day. Your route takes you past the local school, and you see your neighbor’s…
Paul Wallin | January 4, 2017
Southern California roads are filled with drivers, so it’s no surprise that car accidents happen every day. However, repairing car…
Paul Wallin | January 2, 2017
What do you do to celebrate New Year’s Eve? Do you ring in the new year by making resolutions to…
Paul Wallin | December 30, 2016
In Southern California, we see police car chases seemingly every day. Criminal suspects attempt to dodge the police, and they…
Paul Wallin | December 26, 2016
You’re walking through a parking lot on a hot day and you see a dog left alone in a locked…
Paul Wallin | December 23, 2016
The trial has ended and the jury has found you or your loved one guilty of one or more felonies.…
Stephen Klarich | December 19, 2016
Can You Be Charged with Child Endangerment if You Left Your Child with a Family Member Who Injured Your Child? (PC 273a)
Most people think of the crime of child endangerment as an act of physical harm done to a child. However,…
Paul Wallin | December 16, 2016
A Redwood City man told police that he punched a gas station employee because he “wanted to hit a Mexican.”…
Paul Wallin | December 14, 2016
After an argument in your home, your wife angrily dials 9-1-1 and accuses you of domestic violence. Police soon show…
Paul Wallin | December 12, 2016
You are on trial for a crime you didn’t commit. While the jury is deliberating your fate, new evidence is…
Stephen Klarich | December 9, 2016
Attempted murder is one of the most serious crimes you can be accused of in the state of California. This…
Paul Wallin | December 7, 2016
You’ve been convicted of a crime. What are your options now? Your legal battle does not have to be over.…
Paul Wallin | December 5, 2016
The act of taking something that isn’t yours is often referred to as “stealing,” but when it comes to legal…
Paul Wallin | November 11, 2016
From the moment you are arrested for domestic violence, every choice you make has the potential to influence the outcome…
Paul Wallin | November 9, 2016
Assault is a common crime, but one that is often misunderstood. An assault does not require that any person be…
Paul Wallin | November 7, 2016
Your right to remain silent is one of the most important protections that the U.S. Constitution gives you if you…
Paul Wallin | November 4, 2016
The upcoming presidential election has the country divided between two candidates. Some people may want their preferred candidate to win…
Paul Wallin | November 2, 2016
For many crimes under California law, the prosecutor has the choice to charge the defendant with either a misdemeanor or…
Paul Wallin | October 26, 2016
If you have lived with a significant other, you know that arguments can begin over the smallest little things. Last…
Paul Wallin | October 24, 2016
The tests law enforcement officers use to determine if someone has been driving under the influence of alcohol can often…
Matthew Wallin | October 21, 2016
A Certificate of Rehabilitation is a court order declaring that a person convicted of a felony or specific misdemeanors has…
Stephen Klarich | October 19, 2016
“You know I’m automatically attracted to beautiful — I just start kissing them. It’s like a magnet. Just kiss. I…
Paul Wallin | October 10, 2016
Getting points is usually a good thing. In basketball, the team with the most points wins. The more points you…
Paul Wallin | October 4, 2016
Most people will call the police when they see a crime committed or a crime has been committed against them.…
Paul Wallin | October 3, 2016
If you or a loved one is convicted of a crime and sentenced to prison, it is important that you…
Paul Wallin | September 30, 2016
If you are accused of a crime, you can expect that the police are not going to give you helpful…
Paul Wallin | September 28, 2016
When you enter a guilty plea, you may think that your case is pretty much over. You will be convicted…
Paul Wallin | September 21, 2016
Though the facts are different in every case, the path that every criminal case in California travels is designed to…
Paul Wallin | September 19, 2016
Did you plead guilty to a crime? You might have thought that was the best option for you at the…
Paul Wallin | September 16, 2016
You’ve probably heard the term “blackmail” before. It is commonly heard in movies, TV shows and on the news. However,…
Paul Wallin | September 14, 2016
“I don’t want to talk to you no more, man,” he told the police. Should the police have accepted his…
Paul Wallin | September 12, 2016
If you are charged with DUI in California, you may be offered a plea bargain. Reaching a plea agreement means…
Paul Wallin | September 9, 2016
What should you be worried about most if you are charged with DUI? Should you be scared of potential jail…
Paul Wallin | September 2, 2016
Wallin & Klarich, A Law Corporation is giving away a $50 Visa gift card! Are you interested in winning $50…
Paul Wallin | August 31, 2016
Being accused of a crime is far too serious to face alone. You need to find an attorney who can…
Paul Wallin | August 29, 2016
When a judge passes down a sentence, you may feel that this is the end of your case. However, it…
Paul Wallin | August 19, 2016
In order to convict you of a crime, the prosecution must prove that all of the elements of the crime…
Paul Wallin | August 17, 2016
Over the last 20 years, no technological advancement has changed our lives more than the internet. However, while having the…
Paul Wallin | August 12, 2016
If you are on probation, your daily life can be like walking a tightrope. Making a misstep while on probation…
Paul Wallin | August 10, 2016
The law frequently struggles to keep pace with technology. For that reason, it can be difficult to know your rights…
Paul Wallin | August 8, 2016
The internet has made it easier than ever to interact with people across the world. Social media channels allow friends…
Paul Wallin | August 3, 2016
The criminal justice system can be very imposing, but it can be especially frightening if you were arrested for a…
Paul Wallin | August 1, 2016
Violating any of the conditions of your probation can be a serious legal matter. Depending on the circumstances of your…
Paul Wallin | July 29, 2016
When you hear or read the phrase “elder abuse,” you likely think of a physical attack or neglect against a…
Paul Wallin | July 28, 2016
Hiring the right criminal defense attorney to handle your criminal case could make the difference between spending time in jail…
Paul Wallin | July 22, 2016
If you are charged with burglary, it does not mean that you will automatically be convicted of this crime. As…
Paul Wallin | July 20, 2016
By now everyone knows the basic facts of the recent phone conversation between Taylor Swift and Kanye West, which was later…
Paul Wallin | July 18, 2016
In Los Angeles, DUI is a “wobbler” offense, which means you could be charged with a felony or a misdemeanor…
Matthew Wallin | July 15, 2016
You got in a heated argument with your boyfriend or girlfriend at your apartment, and you told your significant other…
Paul Wallin | July 11, 2016
Most people assume that if you violate a condition of your probation, you will be taken directly to jail (or…
Paul Wallin | July 8, 2016
In domestic violence cases, prosecutors will often attempt to have criminal protective orders placed on the defendant in order to…
Paul Wallin | June 29, 2016
Many of us are conditioned to think every criminal case winds up being decided by a jury. The right to…
Paul Wallin | June 22, 2016
Being accused of a crime can be potentially devastating. The legal process can be complicated and difficult, especially if you…
Paul Wallin | June 20, 2016
It is easy to get confused about certain terms in the law. For example, many people find it difficult to…
Paul Wallin | June 17, 2016
One of the most stressful things that a parent can experience is having their child arrested. Your child’s future could…
Paul Wallin | June 8, 2016
Facing jail time can be truly frightening for anyone. A felony charge could lead to harsh consequences that may have…
Paul Wallin | June 6, 2016
Southern California is a picturesque area ideal for those looking for the perfect vacation destination. Visitors from across the country…
Matthew Wallin | June 3, 2016
Being arrested is one of the most stressful things you could ever experience. It is highly likely that you will…
Paul Wallin | June 1, 2016
When the iPhone first hit the market in 2007, Apple commonly used ads that state “There’s an app for that.”…
Matthew Wallin | May 20, 2016
A child being expelled from school is a serious matter. Not only is the time away from school detrimental to…
Matthew Wallin | May 16, 2016
You’re out at a bar and you’ve consumed too much alcohol. You thought you were going to have one beer…
Matthew Wallin | May 13, 2016
Many California natives flock to Nevada every weekend for the casinos, clubs and shows in Las Vegas. What most people…
Matthew Wallin | May 6, 2016
Cellphones have become so ingrained in everyday life that for most people their phone is almost an extension of themselves.…
Paul Wallin | May 4, 2016
In the wake of the December 2015 mass shooting in San Bernardino, President Obama and other lawmakers around the country…
Paul Wallin | May 2, 2016
A Preliminary Alcohol Screening (PAS) device is a small handheld breath testing machine. Police officers will often administer a PAS…
Matthew Wallin | April 29, 2016
Late at night, you are suddenly awakened by the sound of breaking glass. A burglar is entering your home. Fearing…
Paul Wallin | April 27, 2016
As we’ve seen recently, when a controversial figure or event comes to town, it can cause people to raise their…
Paul Wallin | April 25, 2016
DUI convictions carry serious consequences, and these consequences could follow you around for the rest of your life. That is…
Paul Wallin | April 22, 2016
There are few things more frustrating on the road than a DUI checkpoint. Nobody wants to wait in long lines…
Paul Wallin | April 15, 2016
If you are convicted of DUI in California, you face severe consequences. You could be required to spend time in…
Paul Wallin | April 8, 2016
If you are deported from the United States and then unlawfully re-enter the country, you could be charged with the…
Paul Wallin | April 4, 2016
If you are accused of stealing an item from a store, you may receive a letter claiming that you owe…
Paul Wallin | March 30, 2016
There is an old saying in criminal justice: “If you can’t do the time, don’t do the crime.” While it…
Paul Wallin | March 28, 2016
Spring break is a welcome break from lectures, midterms and assignments. Some students go home to see friends and family.…
Paul Wallin | March 25, 2016
A pre-filing investigation is the stage in which police are still investigating suspects of a crime and gathering enough evidence…
Paul Wallin | March 23, 2016
In 2012, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled it was unconstitutional for a law to impose a mandatory life sentence without…
Paul Wallin | March 21, 2016
If you are arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, you may be required to take a blood or…
Paul Wallin | March 18, 2016
If you have ever passed through a DUI checkpoint or been pulled over on suspicion of drunk driving, you have…
Paul Wallin | March 11, 2016
When you think of murder, you probably think of a physical act that intentionally kills someone. That is often how…
Paul Wallin | March 9, 2016
Laws that prohibit the making of criminal or “terroristic” threats have been on the books in California for some time.…
Paul Wallin | March 7, 2016
If you live in Riverside County, you face particularly harsh penalties if you are convicted of DUI. In 2012, more…
Paul Wallin | March 4, 2016
Being arrested for DUI is a serious event in any person’s life. It can mean facing hefty fines, jail time,…
Paul Wallin | February 26, 2016
There is no greater teacher than our own mistakes, and there are very few people who can honestly say that…
Paul Wallin | February 24, 2016
Prison overcrowding has long been a problem in California. Due to harsh punishments for crimes, California prisons house more inmates…
Paul Wallin | February 22, 2016
Imagine driving home after having a nice dinner at a restaurant. You had a glass of wine, but nothing that…
Paul Wallin | February 19, 2016
Should you be required to take a Breathalyzer test to start your car if you’ve been convicted of DUI? A…
Paul Wallin | February 15, 2016
If you were late for your court date or failed to appear, the court could issue a warrant for your…
Paul Wallin | February 10, 2016
Spend any time driving in Los Angeles, and you are bound to see it. Whether it is on a freeway…
Paul Wallin | February 8, 2016
California Penal Code Section 476 makes it a crime to make, pass or possess (or attempt to make or pass)…
Paul Wallin | January 25, 2016
When you think of assault with a deadly weapon, you may think that a “deadly weapon” could only mean a…
Paul Wallin | January 20, 2016
During a DUI stop, a police officer will likely ask you to take a portable breath test. The best thing…
Matthew Wallin | January 15, 2016
You have been arrested, charged, and tried for a crime. The jury found you guilty. Is your case over? Not…
Paul Wallin | January 13, 2016
Southern California has had a harsh time recently. At a time when we should have been celebrating the holidays, we…
Paul Wallin | January 11, 2016
Under California Penal Code Section 496(a), it is a crime to receive stolen property that you know to be stolen.…
Paul Wallin | January 4, 2016
Oh, to be young again. Who doesn’t wish they could roll back the clock to the days of blissful youth,…
Matthew Wallin | December 30, 2015
Having a criminal record could have devastating consequences that affect you for the rest of your life. Not only will…
Stephen Klarich | December 28, 2015
Domestic violence is one of the most commonly reported crimes in Los Angeles County. In 2012, there were 39,253 reports…
Paul Wallin | December 23, 2015
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious crime in California. If you are convicted of DUI,…
Matthew Wallin | December 21, 2015
For years, men have been paying more for their car insurance because of the assumed increased risk of drunk driving…
Paul Wallin | December 18, 2015
Many people do not realize that you could be charged with a crime if you receive stolen property in California. If…
Paul Wallin | December 16, 2015
If you were arrested for a crime, your first instinct is probably to pay bail so that you can be…
Paul Wallin | December 14, 2015
You decided to drive home after attending a concert at the Santa Ana Observatory. Despite consuming several drinks, you believed…
Matthew Wallin | December 9, 2015
Generally speaking, juveniles must be afforded the same basic constitutional rights that adults have in criminal cases. However, juveniles do…
Paul Wallin | December 7, 2015
When someone mentions domestic violence you probably imagine a scenario where a husband performs an act of violence against his…
Paul Wallin | December 4, 2015
It is Sunday, and for you, that means going to a bar to watch your football team play its weekly…
Paul Wallin | December 2, 2015
Many people know that domestic violence is a serious crime. But they aren't aware exactly what domestic violence is under…
Paul Wallin | November 30, 2015
If a warrant is issued against you, it means that you could placed under arrest at any time. Your name…
Matthew Wallin | November 25, 2015
Under Penal Code section 245(a), assault with a deadly weapon charges can have serious consequences. If you are accused of…
Matthew Wallin | November 23, 2015
If you are pulled over for DUI in California, you will likely be asked to take a blood or breath…
Matthew Wallin | November 20, 2015
A restraining order is a court order that forbids you from contacting any individual protected under the order and from…
Paul Wallin | November 18, 2015
For many Americans, Sundays are special days. Not only is it a day of worship for many different faiths, but…
Paul Wallin | November 16, 2015
Under California Penal Code section 192 (b), involuntary manslaughter is the unlawful killing of a human being that occurs either:…
Paul Wallin | November 11, 2015
Assault with a deadly weapon is a serious crime in California, and you can expect to face harsh consequences if…
Matthew Wallin | November 9, 2015
In California, it is a crime for any person to commit a lewd act on a child. Specifically, Penal Code…
Stephen Klarich | November 6, 2015
This week, a Wallin & Klarich attorney represented a client in court in West Covina who was charged with battery,…
Stephen Klarich | November 4, 2015
3 Defenses An Attorney Can Use If You Are Facing Vandalism Charges In Orange County – California Penal Code 594
What you think is a harmless prank could actually result in serious criminal charges against you. It's Halloween and you…
Paul Wallin | November 2, 2015
A DUI conviction in Riverside is a life-changing event. You suddenly find yourself facing a myriad of criminal penalties, fines,…
Paul Wallin | October 30, 2015
The term "wobbler" is one that is frequently used with regards to the penalties, punishment and sentencing associated with California…
Paul Wallin | October 28, 2015
One of the most common arguments our DUI attorneys hear from prospective clients is that they never agreed to take…
Matthew Wallin | October 23, 2015
We Californians spend much of our lives in cars. Not only is driving necessary for transportation to and from work…
Paul Wallin | October 21, 2015
The recent arrests of 15 people in Los Angeles on more than 130 felony charges show the severe consequences you…
Paul Wallin | October 19, 2015
Mark Twain once observed that while all animals kill, “man is the only one… that kills in malice.”1 While the…
Paul Wallin | October 16, 2015
“You have the right to remain silent.” We’ve all heard that phrase in movies and TV shows for years. This…
Paul Wallin | October 14, 2015
According to California Penal Code Section 646.9(a), any person who “follows or willfully and maliciously harasses another person and who…
Paul Wallin | October 12, 2015
Restraining and protective orders (PC 527.6 and 527.9) are court orders prohibiting you from having any contact (or having violent contact)…
Paul Wallin | October 9, 2015
If you have been convicted of a felony, you probably know the effect your felony conviction has on your life.…
Stephen Klarich | October 7, 2015
If you're like most people, you've probably been tempted to steal something before in your life -- not something as…
Paul Wallin | October 5, 2015
If you are convicted of DUI, you face serious consequences. However, many people fail to understand the severity of these…
Matthew Wallin | October 2, 2015
Most people know that domestic violence is a crime in California. However, many people do not understand the complex laws…
Paul Wallin | September 30, 2015
Under certain circumstances, you could be charged with multiple crimes for a single act. This commonly happens in DUI cases,…
Paul Wallin | September 28, 2015
If you are accused of assault with a deadly weapon in Los Angeles, you face severe consequences. In order to…
Matthew Wallin | September 25, 2015
Domestic violence claims are very common in today’s society. They can result from a minor verbal fight or from a non-verbal…
Paul Wallin | September 23, 2015
Assault and battery charges are forms of violent crimes. These are popular crimes in California, and they carry very serious punishment.…
Paul Wallin | September 21, 2015
If a domestic violence restraining order was issued against you, it could impact your ability to live a normal life.…
Paul Wallin | September 18, 2015
“Police misconduct” is a general phrase used to describe police officials who carry out unlawful actions, typically taking advantage of…
Paul Wallin | September 16, 2015
From Spock to Dr. Phil to the ‘Tiger Mom’, there are thousands of books on what the authors believe are…
Paul Wallin | September 9, 2015
One of our most treasured constitutional rights is the right to have a lawyer if you are accused of a…
Paul Wallin | September 8, 2015
It is common knowledge that when you are arrested, the arresting officer is required to read you your Miranda rights.…
Paul Wallin | September 2, 2015
Under California and United States law, if you are convicted of a deportable crime, you may be removed from the…
Paul Wallin | August 31, 2015
Unconsciousness can be considered a valid legal defense to crimes of both specific and general intent. In a criminal case,…
Paul Wallin | August 24, 2015
Threatening lyrics in music are nothing new. Images of violent criminal acts have been transmuted into catchy verse-and-choruses by song…
Paul Wallin | August 19, 2015
Can a Public Defender Properly Handle Your Criminal Case? Think Twice Before Asking for a Public Defender
Public defenders in California are unable to provide an adequate defense due to a shortage of lawyers and being assigned…
Paul Wallin | August 3, 2015
As California entered its second year of drought in 2013, the Calleguas Municipal Water District started noticing a series of…
Paul Wallin | July 29, 2015
You probably know that police officers can confiscate your property if it is used for or acquired through criminal activity…
Paul Wallin | July 24, 2015
Have you ever considered peeling the registration stickers from the plates on another car and putting them on yours? Maybe…
Paul Wallin | July 22, 2015
House arrest or home confinement is an order by the court that restricts your freedom and mobility, typically as a…
Paul Wallin | July 20, 2015
Receiving a traffic ticket is an expensive and annoying ordeal. That is why most people (approximately 9 out of 10)…
Paul Wallin | July 17, 2015
If you just received your driver’s license in California, chances are there are certain restrictions placed on your driving privilege.…
Paul Wallin | July 15, 2015
In California, if there is a warrant out for your arrest, you will not have the same freedoms as if…
Paul Wallin | July 13, 2015
What is a prosecutor? A prosecutor typically represents the government and presses criminal charges against an accused individual or corporation.…
Paul Wallin | July 10, 2015
In 1994, California’s voters decided that the state needed to get tougher on repeat offenders. They passed Proposition 184, which…
Paul Wallin | July 8, 2015
Under the Fourth Amendment, police officers must have probable cause before they can arrest you. This means that police officers…
Paul Wallin | July 6, 2015
Finding a job can be difficult. From searching for an opening to getting in the door for an interview, it…
Paul Wallin | July 1, 2015
A Pitchess Motion allows you to make a formal request in order to access a police officer’s employment and disciplinary…
Paul Wallin | June 29, 2015
California has strict laws regarding illegal drugs. Possessing up to an ounce of marijuana is an infraction that carries a…
Paul Wallin | June 26, 2015
Under California Penal Code sections 484 and 532, theft by false pretenses is the fraudulent or deceitful acquisition of both…
Paul Wallin | June 22, 2015
Is it a Crime for an 18-Year-Old to Hug and Kiss a 17-year-old? — California Penal Code section 647.6
Most people probably believe that in this scenario if there was no intercourse then no crime was committed. This is…
Stephen Klarich | June 17, 2015
If you are being investigated for a crime but you have yet to be charged, it is very important that…
Paul Wallin | June 12, 2015
The 4th Amendment protects citizens from unreasonable searches and seizures. In order for the 4th Amendment to apply though, you…
Paul Wallin | June 10, 2015
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) reports that more than 4.5 million dog bites occur across the country every year…
Paul Wallin | June 8, 2015
If your child is expelled from school, the consequences are not just having to move to a new school out…
Paul Wallin | June 1, 2015
Sometimes, because of a juvenile’s criminal history or the severity of a crime they are accused of, a minor may…
Paul Wallin | May 29, 2015
If you ask a prosecutor to list the most difficult cases in his or her career, the chances are pretty…
Paul Wallin | May 22, 2015
What exactly constitutes mayhem in California? Although mayhem is more commonly used in everyday language to describe a scene of…
Paul Wallin | May 20, 2015
A man in Carson who allegedly found a wallet left behind at a restaurant is facing felony grand larceny charges.…
Paul Wallin | May 11, 2015
We’ve all heard the story of the boy who cried wolf. Well as adults, it turns out that story is…
Paul Wallin | May 8, 2015
The High Occupancy Vehicle lane, better known as the carpool lane or HOV lane, was designed to “relieve traffic congestion…
Paul Wallin | May 6, 2015
Kidnapping and child abduction are two separate crimes, though both are felonies. Kidnapping is more serious than child abduction, but…
Paul Wallin | May 4, 2015
Most of us have done things when we were young that we are not proud to admit, and some of…
Paul Wallin | April 27, 2015
Carjacking. Murder. At 16 years old, these were Edel Gonzalez’s crimes. Sentenced to life without the possibility of parole in…
Paul Wallin | April 22, 2015
In California, commercial drivers like truck drivers, bus drivers, and limo drivers are held to higher legal licensing requirements and…
Paul Wallin | April 20, 2015
You may have heard the term “wobbler,” which is the nickname given to laws in California that can be charged…
Paul Wallin | April 17, 2015
The U.S. government is actively looking for immigrants with criminal pasts. Recently, the Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs…
Paul Wallin | April 15, 2015
If you commit certain crimes against elderly or disabled persons, you may face additional penalties in California. California law recognizes…
Paul Wallin | April 13, 2015
As a parent, you have or will have to decide whether to leave your child at home alone for a…
Paul Wallin | April 10, 2015
On Christmas 2014, California Governor Jerry Brown sent a holiday gift to 104 people. 1 The gift was unique in…
Paul Wallin | April 8, 2015
Orange County is the only county in California to maintain its own DNA bank. For those arrested of misdemeanor crimes,…
Paul Wallin | April 6, 2015
Imagine that you are facing felony charges for your first offense. You have never done anything wrong in your life…
Paul Wallin | April 3, 2015
On the surface, bank robbery seems like a straightforward crime. If you attempt to rob a bank, you could be…
Paul Wallin | April 1, 2015
In November 2014, California voters passed a new law that changed the state’s approach to sentencing. Proposition 47 (also known…
Paul Wallin | March 30, 2015
Many parents don’t realize that they can be charged with kidnapping their own child. In fact, in many kidnapping cases,…
Paul Wallin | March 27, 2015
For the most part, the criminal justice system in this country is based on the principle that punishment for crimes…
Paul Wallin | March 25, 2015
You have probably heard or read in the news about a witness or an alleged victim who recants a statement…
Paul Wallin | March 23, 2015
There are many reasons you would want to have your probation terminated early or your criminal record expunged, including employment,…
Paul Wallin | March 20, 2015
Passed in November 2014, Prop 47 reduces certain low-level and non-violent felonies and wobblers to misdemeanor offenses. If you have…
Paul Wallin | March 18, 2015
What most people do not understand is that a person, even if arrested by the police, is not formally charged…
Paul Wallin | March 16, 2015
Your loved one calls you from jail and says he or she has been arrested. You try to post bail…
Paul Wallin | March 9, 2015
California theft and larceny laws are found in California Penal Code Sections 484 and 487. Though some states consider theft…
Paul Wallin | March 6, 2015
If you have been involved in an auto accident in which someone was killed, you could be charged with vehicular…
Paul Wallin | March 4, 2015
Many people who are arrested for petty theft may not see the reason to hire a criminal defense attorney and…
Paul Wallin | March 2, 2015
Under PC 118, you can face a charge of perjury if you lie when you testify in court or if…
Paul Wallin | February 27, 2015
In most misdemeanors cases, Penal Code Section 977(a) allows your criminal defense attorney to appear for you in court so…
Paul Wallin | February 25, 2015
Sentencing for a felony depends on a number of factors that range from the court’s discretion to the level of…
Paul Wallin | February 23, 2015
Privacy is an inalienable right held to the highest regard by the State of California. In 1967, California enacted the…
Paul Wallin | February 20, 2015
Being ordered to serve time in a county jail is a common punishment for many crimes under California law. However,…
Paul Wallin | February 18, 2015
Recently, nine men were arrested in New York City for making threats against police officers. Some of the men phoned…
Paul Wallin | February 16, 2015
You might think the term “white collar crime” sounds less serious than crimes like murder, assault, and armed robbery, but…
Paul Wallin | February 13, 2015
If You Help a Loved One Die Peacefully, You Could Face the Chance of Going to Jail Under Penal Code 401 PC
So many families go through the trauma of watching as a loved one slowly dies from an excruciatingly painful disease.…
Paul Wallin | February 11, 2015
California Government Code 26605 provides for compassionate release or medical probation of prisoners who are in county jail and state…
Paul Wallin | February 9, 2015
Have you ever wanted to pretend to be a cop in the middle of traffic just so you can use…
Paul Wallin | February 6, 2015
Many people believe that you must actually take something in order to be convicted of burglary. It's a perfectly valid…
Paul Wallin | February 4, 2015
Every year, hundreds of children are seriously injured or killed after being left in hot cars. Recently, the issue dominated…
Paul Wallin | February 2, 2015
Convicted sex offenders Steven Gordon and Franc Cano were recently arrested in Orange County for the rape and murder of…
Paul Wallin | January 30, 2015
Legally, police officers must have probable cause to pull over drivers. Without probable cause, charges cannot be brought and any…
Paul Wallin | January 28, 2015
Have you ever been so sure that something happened, that no matter what anyone said or did to convince you…
Paul Wallin | January 26, 2015
If you are a hip-hop fan, you may have been surprised when Ackquille Pollard, aka “Bobby Shmurda,” was arrested in…
Paul Wallin | January 23, 2015
After the holiday season ends, you may be interested in returning gifts. However, if a gift was stolen, you could…
Matthew Wallin | January 21, 2015
If you spend enough time driving on California’s roads, it is bound to happen: another driver at some point is…
Paul Wallin | January 19, 2015
Law and Order. CSI. The Shield. The Departed. End of Watch. If these shows and movies taught you everything you…
Paul Wallin | January 16, 2015
By now, it is highly likely that anyone who has watched the news, read the paper, or made simple small…
Paul Wallin | January 15, 2015
Most criminal cases do not go to trial. If you are facing criminal charges, the District Attorney will likely offer…
Paul Wallin | January 14, 2015
When a criminal act is committed against a person and at least part of the motivation to commit the act…
Paul Wallin | January 12, 2015
Motorcyclists can be pulled over for everyday traffic violations such as speeding and running a red light. However, motorcyclists have…
Paul Wallin | January 9, 2015
After months of waiting, anxious California bar exam-takers finally received their results on the evening of Nov. 21. With a…
Paul Wallin | January 5, 2015
2014 was a busy year for legal reform in California. Now that the new year has finally come, here is…
Paul Wallin | January 2, 2015
On Christmas Eve, California Governor Jerry Brown issued 105 governor’s pardons. He retracted one pardon to a man who had…
Stephen Klarich | December 31, 2014
Halloween stores and other retail outlets sometimes sell over the counter contact lenses without a prescription, but many people do…
Paul Wallin | December 29, 2014
Who doesn't love a good practical joke? More often than not, the local police and district attorneys lack a sense…
Paul Wallin | December 26, 2014
If you have ever bought a lottery scratcher ticket, you know that there is a certain kind of thrill in…
Matthew Wallin | December 24, 2014
Counterfeiting is the production of fraudulent documents, or goods that are fake copies of a genuine, trademark or patent-protected product.…
Paul Wallin | December 22, 2014
The holiday season can be a stressful time. There’s an emphasis on consumerism and gift giving that some people can’t…
Paul Wallin | December 18, 2014
Child abuse can take many different forms, including neglect, physical abuse, family violence, emotional abuse, and sexual abuse. The effects…
Matthew Wallin | December 17, 2014
In California, a Good Samaritan under the law is someone who renders emergency or non-emergency care at the scene of…
Paul Wallin | December 15, 2014
In California, if you are a juvenile charged with an offense, you have the right to go to trial before…
Matthew Wallin | December 12, 2014
Recently, Gov. Jerry Brown signed Assembly Bill No. 2124 into California law. AB 2124 calls for Los Angeles County to…
Paul Wallin | December 10, 2014
In this world, you get what you pay for. Sometimes it’s OK to choose a generic product over a name…
Paul Wallin | December 5, 2014
Internet drug trafficking is becoming a growing industry, in part because it is difficult to identify and apprehend the people…
Paul Wallin | December 3, 2014
Consequences of Possessing Codeine without a Prescription (California Health and Safety Code Section 11350)
Codeine is an opiate derived from the opium poppy that is frequently prescribed for pain. It is a controlled substance…
Paul Wallin | December 1, 2014
Adderall is a prescription medication used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. It is the brand name of a drug which…
Paul Wallin | November 26, 2014
With the exception of the day after the Major League Baseball All-Star Game, there’s a major sporting event every day…
Paul Wallin | November 24, 2014
“A joke is a very serious thing” – Winston Churchill. If you have watched the news or read it on…
Paul Wallin | November 21, 2014
With the dust finally settled on the Nov. 4 election, results showed that 54.46% of Californians voted to reform criminal…
Stephen Klarich | November 19, 2014
Every once in a while, a criminal attorney will earn a victory by coming up with an inspired, passionate, and…
Paul Wallin | November 17, 2014
The movie “Wedding Crashers” is a popular comedy that follows two men as they crash wedding receptions as a mischievous…
Matthew Wallin | November 14, 2014
Typically, teen years bring the first dating experiences. It is very common for teenagers to date, and these days, it…
Stephen Klarich | November 10, 2014
Will I Go To Jail For Vehicular Manslaughter In Orange County? (California Penal Code Section 192(c))
If you are involved in a car accident and someone dies as a result, you could face charges of vehicular…
Paul Wallin | November 7, 2014
If you are arrested for violating a law, you probably assume you will have to appear at your local county…
Paul Wallin | November 5, 2014
What Punishment Will I Receive if Convicted of Assault with a Deadly Weapon? (California Penal Code 245)
In the criminal justice system, the goal of punishment is to provide a consequence for unwanted or illegal behavior. The…
Matthew Wallin | November 3, 2014
If you are ever contacted or arrested by federal agents on suspicion of a crime, the first thing you need…
Paul Wallin | October 31, 2014
If you’ve been arrested, you need an experienced attorney to help you get the best outcome in your case. Here…
Paul Wallin | October 27, 2014
We all do things that are a calculated risk, like jaywalking when there’s no traffic, but we know this act…
Paul Wallin | October 22, 2014
If you watch TV shows about the criminal justice system, you might think that every case ends up in a…
Paul Wallin | October 20, 2014
With streets and freeways jammed with cars 24 hours a day, seven days a week, Californians know that getting into…
Matthew Wallin | October 13, 2014
The word “drone” makes most people think of news stories about the U.S. military’s use of remote controlled drones to…
Matthew Wallin | October 10, 2014
One of the most popular television shows of the last five years was Breaking Bad. It tells the story of…
Paul Wallin | October 6, 2014
Every year, more than 3 million reports of alleged child abuse are made in the United States involving more than…
Paul Wallin | September 30, 2014
California has a severe problem with prison and jail overcrowding. This has caused many counties, including Orange County, to rethink…
Paul Wallin | September 26, 2014
Under the Constitution, criminal law is mostly handled by individual states. If you are accused of murder committed in California,…
Paul Wallin | September 25, 2014
Competition is part of the foundation of our economy, which is why Congress passed the Sherman Antitrust Act in 1890.…
Paul Wallin | September 24, 2014
Have you ever copied a picture from the Internet and used it as your own work? Perhaps you copied a…
Paul Wallin | September 22, 2014
Victims and witnesses of a crime often need protection from the court. So do people involved in a domestic dispute.…
Matthew Wallin | September 19, 2014
Have you ever heard the saying, “Dead men tell no tales?” While this may be true, it is also apparently…
Paul Wallin | September 18, 2014
Did you recently receive a traffic ticket? Have you been accused of a crime? You may be wondering what will…
Paul Wallin | September 17, 2014
At Wallin & Klarich, we believe that everyone facing a complex legal matter should have access to an experienced attorney.…
Paul Wallin | September 16, 2014
You know your neighbors are going to be gone on vacation. You also know that they have valuables worth stealing.…
Matthew Wallin | September 10, 2014
In a moment of anger, or just in a moment of temporary stupidity, you may have posted a photo on…
Matthew Wallin | September 9, 2014
If you are convicted of a crime, your conviction will affect critical aspects of your life and the negative stigma…
Stephen Klarich | September 8, 2014
California is the technology capital of the world. Northern California’s Silicon Valley houses technology giants such as Google, Apple and…
Paul Wallin | September 5, 2014
Consider this scenario: you buy your books from another student, or an ad posted on a school bulletin board—when you…
Matthew Wallin | September 4, 2014
With the NFL season just around the corner, fantasy football players are studying up for the draft. While most players…
Matthew Wallin | September 3, 2014
Christina Moon was having a hectic day when she went to return an item to her local J.C. Penney. With…
Paul Wallin | September 2, 2014
Hollywood celebrities seem to have a knack for making headlines for all the wrong reasons. The list of celebrities who…
Paul Wallin | August 29, 2014
Covered under California Penal Code Section 368, elder abuse is a crime in California. Elder abuse is considered a “wobbler”…
Paul Wallin | August 27, 2014
Can a Criminal Protective Order Be Issued on Behalf of Your Children if They Were Not Victims in Your Domestic Violence Case?
When a person who has been charged with domestic violence causing injury has been found guilty by a judge or…
Paul Wallin | August 25, 2014
You have probably heard police officers utter the same words in movies and television thousands of times: “You have the…
Paul Wallin | August 20, 2014
Former Utah Attorney General John Swallow faces 11 felony charges and two misdemeanors for soliciting bribes, accepting gifts, and tampering…
Paul Wallin | August 19, 2014
One way that hackers can steal personal data is through public WiFi networks. These networks—often found at cafes, fast food…
Paul Wallin | August 18, 2014
A night out in Ibiza, Spain recently took a frantic turn for Orlando Bloom. The “Pirates of the Caribbean” actor…
Matthew Wallin | August 15, 2014
If police feel that your money is involved with a criminal case, they can seize it. For example, police officers…
Paul Wallin | August 7, 2014
Under California Penal Code Section 187, murder is defined as the intentional and malicious killing of another person or unborn…
Paul Wallin | August 6, 2014
In the U.S., any immigrant who violates the law could face deportation as part of the punishment. This includes immigrants…
Paul Wallin | August 5, 2014
One of the most important aspects of a criminal trial is the testimony from witnesses. Witnesses can either shed light…
Paul Wallin | August 4, 2014
In many cases, you will be ordered to pay restitution if you plead guilty or are convicted of a crime.…
Matthew Wallin | July 30, 2014
According to California Penal Code Section 597t hoarding animals is a violation of California’s animal cruelty laws. This is a…
Paul Wallin | July 29, 2014
The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects a person’s right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures by…
Matthew Wallin | July 28, 2014
The 2004 film "The Girl Next Door,: is a teen comedy about a high school senior who falls in love…
Stephen Klarich | July 25, 2014
Whenever you’ve popped a movie into your DVD player, you probably remember seeing the stern warning and label from the…
Paul Wallin | July 24, 2014
Stealing from the United States government is a serious offense. Generally speaking, as the value of the property you unlawfully…
Paul Wallin | July 23, 2014
Being convicted of a crime can dramatically alter your life. It can affect your ability to obtain employment and will…
Stephen Klarich | July 22, 2014
A Caltrain operator was hospitalized after allegedly being attacked following San Francisco’s Pride festival. According to the San Jose Mercury…
Matthew Wallin | July 21, 2014
The film "Billy Madison" helped launch the career of one of the biggest movie stars of the last 20 years,…
Paul Wallin | July 18, 2014
We all know fighting, dealing drugs or bringing weapons on campus can result in expulsion from school. But what many…
Matthew Wallin | July 17, 2014
Reductions in California’s prison population have caused overcrowding in county jails across the state. To help relieve some of the…
Stephen Klarich | July 16, 2014
Have you been accused of assault with a deadly weapon? If so, you need to be aware that you face…
Matthew Wallin | July 15, 2014
No one wants to be charged with a crime and end up in jail. In most cases, people arrested for…
Paul Wallin | July 14, 2014
If you are being investigated for a federal crime, you may be driven to try to destroy evidence or influence…
Paul Wallin | July 11, 2014
Double jeopardy is the constitutional requirement that a defendant in a criminal proceeding may not be twice prosecuted for the…
Paul Wallin | July 10, 2014
In New York, a woman was sentenced to four years in state prison for purchasing weapons for a man who…
Paul Wallin | July 8, 2014
Can I Get My Third Strike Conviction Reversed Due to Three Strikes Reform (Prop 36)? (Penal Code section 1170.126)
In November 2012, California voters approved Proposition 36, an initiative measure which reformed California’s 1994 Three Strikes law. Under the…
Stephen Klarich | July 7, 2014
The First Amendment to the United States Constitution states that Congress shall not make a law establishing religion, restricting free…
Paul Wallin | July 3, 2014
If you have been issued a court order of any kind, it is always vital that you comply with its…
Paul Wallin | July 2, 2014
Students seeking admission to college know how expensive tuition can be and often apply for financial assistance using the Free…
Paul Wallin | July 1, 2014
A day in Hollywood at the premiere of Angelina Jolie’s new movie, “Maleficent,” took somewhat of a startling turn on…
Paul Wallin | June 30, 2014
The 1994 action film Speed was one of the movies that defined the 1990s, launching Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock…
Paul Wallin | June 27, 2014
Can you be prosecuted if you participate in interstate commerce involving mislabeled or misbranded consumer products? Absolutely. Recently, federal prosecutors…
Paul Wallin | June 26, 2014
Can Spitting on Someone’s Food Lead to Charges of Battery in California? (California Penal Code Section 242)
In an unusual case out of Albuquerque, N.M., a fast food worker was charged with battery after authorities said she…
Matthew Wallin | June 24, 2014
The United States Postal Service (USPS) moves billions of pieces of mail every year. While some pieces of mail may…
Paul Wallin | June 23, 2014
In California, juvenile offenders can be sentenced to time in juvenile hall or even be charged as adults for certain…
Matthew Wallin | June 20, 2014
When doing home improvement work, it may entail trimming or cutting down brush, bushes or trees. While you might not…
Paul Wallin | June 19, 2014
Governor Has Executive Authority on Whether to Grant or Deny Parole in California (California Constitution, Article V, Section 8)
California is one of only four states in the country where the governor has the absolute right to review and…
Paul Wallin | June 18, 2014
A Criminal Protective Order (CPO) may be issued at the request of law enforcement to protect a person deemed to…
Paul Wallin | June 17, 2014
Federal crimes carry significantly more severe punishments than state level crimes. Despite the seriousness of federal charges, people continue to…
Paul Wallin | June 16, 2014
Getting Tested for HIV Could Save Your Life, So Why Should it Make it Easier to Convict You of a Crime in California? (Health and Safety Code 12029)
Recently, we posted a blog regarding HIV disclosure laws in California. In that blog, we discussed a recent study indicating…
Paul Wallin | June 13, 2014
For the second time, Gerber Guzman’s wife has had to fight to have her innocent husband released from prison. Guzman…
Matthew Wallin | June 12, 2014
“Double Jeopardy” is a protected right guaranteed by the Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution and the California Constitution.…
Paul Wallin | June 11, 2014
In the state of California, arrest warrants and bench warrants are both orders from a court or a judge that…
Matthew Wallin | June 10, 2014
While you may think that Internet trolling or jokes directed at someone online is all fun and games, there are…
Stephen Klarich | June 9, 2014
Jail and prison overcrowding has become an epidemic in the state of California. To help ease overcrowding, inmates who exhibit…
Paul Wallin | June 6, 2014
One of the results of pleading guilty or no contest to a felony drug offense in California is losing your…
Paul Wallin | June 5, 2014
Using social media to “cyberbully” someone has become an all too common occurrence in our online-dependent world. People intent on…
Stephen Klarich | June 4, 2014
Alfred Nash Villalobos was an attorney serving the needs of his client Orit Anjel. Angel was fired from her job…
Paul Wallin | June 3, 2014
Cyber crimes, which involve hacking into personal computers, cell phones or other electronic devices, are on the rise in the…
Stephen Klarich | June 2, 2014
In a recent California appellate court case (G047462), three defendants lost an appeal of a court order to pay more…
Matthew Wallin | May 30, 2014
We all know that lying is bad and lies can come back to haunt you. But lying in court can…
Paul Wallin | May 29, 2014
The United States Congress enacted the Gun-Free School Zone Act (GFSZA) in 1990. Congress declared crime involving drugs, guns and…
Paul Wallin | May 28, 2014
If you are accused of aiding and abetting a crime, what happens if the defendant who is being prosecuted for…
Paul Wallin | May 27, 2014
Is it a federal crime to traffic in stolen gift cards? It can be. Federal law doesn’t differentiate between a…
Matthew Wallin | May 23, 2014
Healthcare fraud is a common type of fraud crime that can be charged at both the state and federal level.…
Paul Wallin | May 22, 2014
By now, Donald Sterling’s actions have been discussed, debated and analyzed by every major media outlet you can think of.…
Paul Wallin | May 21, 2014
If you witness a crime, are you obligated to report it to the police? What if you are aware that…
Paul Wallin | May 20, 2014
Being pulled over by the police, especially if you believe you were not violating any traffic laws, can be a…
Paul Wallin | May 19, 2014
Imagine yourself as the captain of a commercial cargo ship, transporting emergency food aid to starving Africans across international waters.…
Paul Wallin | May 16, 2014
Tax evasion is viewed by many as a white-collar crime usually committed by business people or government workers. Some people…
Matthew Wallin | May 15, 2014
If you were convicted of a crime and appealed the judgment to a California appellate court and the judgment was…
Stephen Klarich | May 14, 2014
Many people confuse “tax avoidance” with “tax evasion.” Tax avoidance means legitimately reducing your personal or business tax liability by…
Paul Wallin | May 13, 2014
The Second Amendment to the Constitution of the United States was adopted on December 15, 1791, as part of the…
Paul Wallin | May 12, 2014
Jordan Belfort, a former stockbroker and motivational speaker, is the real life subject of the memoir he authored entitled “The…
Paul Wallin | May 9, 2014
Healthcare fraud is one of the most common types of fraud crimes committed in California. Most people get their health…
Matthew Wallin | May 8, 2014
Most of us have gotten “spam” (unsolicited email) or received a telemarketer’s call we never asked for pitching us something…
Paul Wallin | May 7, 2014
Commercial Vehicular Manslaughter: Killing Someone While Driving on the Job (Penal Code Sections 192 (c) and 191.5)
Truck, bus and taxi operators work where most of us drive. The streets are their offices. Commercial vehicle operators are…
Paul Wallin | May 6, 2014
If your child is expelled from school, it can have a significant effect on their future and an immediate impact…
Matthew Wallin | May 5, 2014
Moviegoers in the summer of 2009 were taken aback when four friends went on a Las Vegas adventure that they…
Matthew Wallin | May 2, 2014
Last year, pop star Justin Bieber’s private plane from Canada was searched by federal authorities after landing in New Jersey on…
Paul Wallin | May 1, 2014
If you or a loved one has a family member under the age of 18 who is in trouble with…
Matthew Wallin | May 1, 2014
If you were arrested for a crime, you were most likely detained by a police officer and charged under California…
Paul Wallin | April 30, 2014
Under California Penal Code Section 1018, a defendant is allowed to withdraw his or her guilty plea or no contest…
Stephen Klarich | April 29, 2014
The Constitution of the State of California under Article V, Section 8 authorizes that anyone convicted of a California criminal…
Stephen Klarich | April 28, 2014
If you are accused of a crime, you may not take the accusations seriously because actual charges have not been…
Paul Wallin | April 24, 2014
When a person is charged with a crime, he/she will usually plead “guilty” or “not guilty.” A “guilty” plea is…
Stephen Klarich | April 23, 2014
A recent decision by the California Supreme Court centers on whether a minor facing the prospect of agreeing to a…
Matthew Wallin | April 22, 2014
In December 2013, President Barack Obama reduced the prison sentences of eight prisoners serving federal sentences for crack-cocaine related crimes.…
Stephen Klarich | April 21, 2014
Ben Affleck’s highly successful 2010 crime film “The Town” portrayed the life of four fictional lifelong friends entangled in a…
Paul Wallin | April 18, 2014
If a person is convicted of a crime and feels he or she is innocent or did not receive a…
Stephen Klarich | April 17, 2014
Criminal defendants under the age of 18 are sent to juvenile court. In juvenile court, you will not be tried…
Matthew Wallin | April 16, 2014
If your motion for a new trial was denied may seem as if you have run out of options. However,…
Stephen Klarich | April 15, 2014
A defendant facing criminal charges in California is entitled to a fair trial by a jury of his or her…
Stephen Klarich | April 11, 2014
To protect victims from physical abuse, stalking, intimidation and harassment, the court issues restraining orders or criminal protective orders. These…
Paul Wallin | April 10, 2014
Having a criminal conviction on your record can cause hardships in the workplace and in your home life. Even if…
Stephen Klarich | April 9, 2014
Students from grade school to high school and their parents need to understand that being expelled from school can lead…
Matthew Wallin | April 8, 2014
Many people associate going to the DMV with resolving routine vehicle and driver's license matters. For most of these simple…
Matthew Wallin | April 7, 2014
The highly successful 2008 action thriller Taken, starring Liam Neeson, earned great critical praise for its electrifying stunts and moving…
Paul Wallin | April 4, 2014
Are you facing a drug possession charge? If so, you need to be aware that California law authorizes alternatives to…
Paul Wallin | April 3, 2014
Two drug smugglers were recently arrested after police officers in Huntington Beach seized nearly $1.3 million worth of cocaine in…
Paul Wallin | April 2, 2014
U.S. Supreme Court Says You Can Go to Federal Prison for Having a Gun with Domestic Violence Conviction in the Past
If you have a prior conviction for felony domestic violence in California under California Penal Code 273.5, you cannot legally…
Paul Wallin | April 1, 2014
We've all done it. Lied online, that is. Perhaps you exaggerated a physical trait on a dating website or created…
Stephen Klarich | March 31, 2014
“Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” the top-grossing film in 1986, is a comedy classic that is still shown frequently on TV…
Paul Wallin | March 28, 2014
Attempted murder is an extremely serious charge. If you are convicted of this offense, you could face up to life…
Paul Wallin | March 27, 2014
Computer hacking, the practice of using unauthorized access to a computer system to steal information or money, is a relatively…
Stephen Klarich | March 26, 2014
The recent acquittal of George Zimmerman, who was accused of shooting and killing 17-year-old Trayvon Martin, has raised many questions…
Paul Wallin | March 25, 2014
The Not So Clever Consequences of Selling Marijuana to Minors (Health and Safety Code Sections 11359, 11361)
Recently, an admitted gang member was investigated for and charged with selling marijuana to minors in Orange County. Costa Mesa…
Paul Wallin | March 24, 2014
The 1995 comedy film “Friday” is considered a modern day classic. The film, about a day in the lives of…
Paul Wallin | March 21, 2014
If the judge in your case gave the jury wrong or incomplete instructions, you may be entitled to a new…
Stephen Klarich | March 20, 2014
California law prohibits sexual contact with a minor. Pursuant to Penal Code Section 288, whenever you willfully commit any sexual…
Stephen Klarich | March 19, 2014
California defendants charged with non-violent drug use or drug possession crimes may be eligible for alternatives to traditional forms of…
Paul Wallin | March 18, 2014
How to Properly Obtain a Carry Concealed Weapon License in California (Penal Code Sections 26150 and 26155)
California law under Penal Code Sections 26150 and 26155 authorizes a county sheriff or city police chief to issue a…
Paul Wallin | March 17, 2014
A recent majority decision by the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeal (Peralta v. Dillard, et al. Case No. 09-55907,…
Paul Wallin | March 13, 2014
Drug Trafficking in California – “Walter White” is Actually Convicted in Real Life (Health and Safety Code 11379, 21 U.S.C § 841)
Your name doesn’t have to be “Walter White” and you don’t have to be a character played by Emmy-winning actor…
Paul Wallin | March 12, 2014
If you are convicted of a crime in California, the judge has much discretion in deciding your sentence. Californi