Why Hiring an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Matters: A Cautionary Tale from the Racial Justice Act
Why Hiring an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Matters: A Cautionary Tale from the Racial Justice Act At Wallin & Klarich, we understand that your freedom, reputation, and future are on the line when you’re facing criminal charges. That’s why having a knowledgeable and experienced criminal defense attorney by your side isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. A recent California appellate decision involving Brandon Wagstaff shows just how much is at stake when…
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Can a DUI Lead to Losing Custody of Your Child?
Can a DUI Lead to Losing Custody of Your Child? When most people think about DUI penalties, they focus on the immediate consequences: jail time, fines, license suspension, and increased insurance rates. However, there's a devastating consequence that many parents don't consider until it's too late—the loss of custody of their children. A DUI conviction, especially one involving a child passenger, can trigger dependency proceedings that may result in losing…
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Want to Own a Gun? Avoid a Felony Conviction—Even a Nonviolent One
Want to Own a Gun? Avoid a Felony Conviction—Even a Nonviolent One If you value your right to own or possess a firearm, there's one thing you must understand: any felony conviction—violent or nonviolent—can permanently take that right away under federal law. A recent decision by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals made this clear. On May 10, 2025, the court upheld a federal statute that bans all felons…
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When Appeals Matter: How a Murder Conviction Can Be Reversed in California
When Appeals Matter: How a Murder Conviction Can Be Reversed in California Being convicted of a serious crime like murder can feel like the end of the road. Many defendants believe that once a jury returns a guilty verdict, their fate is sealed. However, California's appellate process provides an opportunity for freedom after a wrongful conviction and legal errors that may have occurred during trial. A recent California Court of…
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Can Prior Convictions Affect Federal Sentencing Enhancements?
Can Prior Convictions Affect Federal Sentencing Enhancements? In federal criminal cases, prior convictions can significantly impact sentencing outcomes, particularly in cases involving serious offenses. A recent federal court ruling highlights how the legal system approaches mandatory minimum sentencing enhancements when a defendant has prior convictions. This blog explains these enhancements and what they mean for those facing federal charges. Our skilled criminal defense attorneys at Wallin & Klarich can guide…
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Why Defense Counsel Should Be Engaged Before an Arrest
Why Defense Counsel Should Be Engaged Before an Arrest Most people wait until formal charges or an arrest before seeking legal representation. This common but potentially costly mistake can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Early intervention by experienced defense attorneys can make the difference between a case that's dismissed before charges and one that follows you for years. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys at Wallin & Klarich can…
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ICE Agents Wait Outside Courthouses to Detain Undocumented Immigrants and People Are Terrified
ICE Agents Wait Outside Courthouses to Detain Undocumented Immigrants and People Are Terrified Richard Urdaneta Pulido’s papers were scattered across the floor as his girlfriend collapsed, overwhelmed by emotion, yelling his name in desperation. The 25-year-old was surrounded and apprehended by five federal immigration agents immediately after leaving an immigration courtroom in downtown Los Angeles last week. His girlfriend, whose identity remains protected for safety reasons, watched in disbelief as…
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Understanding the California Felony Murder Rule: What Accused Individuals Need to Know
Understanding the California Felony Murder Rule: What Accused Individuals Need to Know The California Felony Murder Rule has long been a source of fear and confusion for those accused of serious crimes. Its implications are significant, often holding individuals accountable for murder even when they didn’t commit the actual act. If you or someone you know is facing charges under this rule, understanding its scope, and possible defenses is crucial.…
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Why You Need an Experienced Lawyer in Criminal Trials
Why You Need an Experienced Lawyer in Criminal Trials When it comes to criminal trials, even small mistakes can have long-lasting consequences. One such critical error often occurs during jury selection or in pivotal moments when objections are not raised. That single moment of inaction by a defense attorney can significantly influence the outcome of a case, even leading to the denial of an appeal. This post will unpack a…
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Newport Beach Attorney Sentenced in $8.7 Million Fraud Case: A Stark Reminder of the Stakes in White Collar Crime
Newport Beach Attorney Sentenced in $8.7 Million Fraud Case: A Stark Reminder of the Stakes in White Collar Crime A Newport Beach attorney who used her legal credentials and business connections to orchestrate a multimillion-dollar fraud scheme has been sentenced to federal prison. On May 20, 2024, Sara Jacqueline King, 41, received a 21-month sentence from U.S. District Judge David O. Carter after pleading guilty to wire fraud and money…
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