Charged with Watson Murder? Why You Need an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney
Charged with Watson Murder? Why You Need an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney In California, prosecutors can file second-degree murder charges against drivers involved in fatal crashes — even if they never meant to hurt anyone. This type of case, known as a Watson murder, is based on the 1981 California Supreme Court decision in People v. Watson. Since that case, prosecutors have used the Watson rule to pursue murder charges…
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Things To Know When Facing A DUI Trial: Prior Enhancements
Things To Know When Facing A DUI Trial: Prior Enhancements When facing DUI charges in California, your past can significantly impact your future. Prior DUI convictions don't just disappear after a few years—prior DUI convictions will be used to enhance penalties for new offenses, leading to more severe consequences including longer jail sentences, higher fines, extended license suspensions and even result in charges for murder if someone is killed due…
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Can My Case Be Dismissed for Speedy Trial Violations?
Can My Case Be Dismissed for Speedy Trial Violations? In our criminal justice system, defendants have a constitutional right to a speedy trial. A recent California appellate court decision demonstrates how this protection works in practice and why having an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands these rights is essential. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys at Wallin & Klarich can guide you through the legal process. Call Wallin & Klarich…
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The Difference Between Misdemeanors and Felonies in California
The Difference Between Misdemeanors and Felonies in California If you've been charged with a crime in California, one of the first things you need to understand is whether you're facing a misdemeanor or a felony. This distinction isn't just legal jargon—it can dramatically affect the penalties you face, your future opportunities, and how your case proceeds through the criminal justice system. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys at Wallin & Klarich…
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What You Need to Know About Pitchess Motions in California
What You Need to Know About Pitchess Motions in California When you are facing criminal charges in California, your defense often comes down to credibility. Police officers are usually the main witnesses for the prosecution, and their testimony carries a lot of weight with judges and juries. But what happens if the officer who arrested you has a history of misconduct? How can you uncover that information to strengthen your…
Read MoreOrange County Man Faces Life Sentence for Threatening Judge: Understanding California’s Criminal Threat Laws
Orange County Man Faces Life Sentence for Threatening Judge: Understanding California's Criminal Threat Laws A recent case out of Orange County serves as a reminder of how seriously California treats criminal threats—even when no physical harm occurs. This case illustrates the severe consequences that can result from a moment of anger or frustration, particularly for those with prior convictions under California's Three Strikes law. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys at…
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Veterans in California May Qualify for Military Diversion Without Proving Their Service Directly Caused the Offense
Veterans in California May Qualify for Military Diversion Without Proving Their Service Directly Caused the Offense In a recent Orange County case, a Marine Corps veteran was charged with four misdemeanor DUI offenses after a traffic stop. He applied for military diversion under California Penal Code §1001.80, which allows current and former service members to receive treatment instead of facing criminal punishment. The veteran submitted strong evidence, including discharge papers,…
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The Court Cannot Take Legal Custody Away From Father Of Child Even If He Is In Prison If He Has Created A Proper Care Plan For His Children
The Court Cannot Take Legal Custody Away From Father Of Child Even If He Is In Prison If He Has Created A Proper Care Plan For His Children California law is clear: a parent’s incarceration alone does not justify removing their child from their custody if that parent has taken responsible steps to ensure the child is safe and cared for. A recent Court of Appeal decision highlights this important…
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When the Prosecutor Screws Up You Need to Hire an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer to Help You Get Your Loved One Out of Prison
When the Prosecutor Screws Up You Need to Hire an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer to Help You Get Your Loved One Out of Prison Imagine spending more than four decades behind bars for a crime you did not commit, only to discover that key evidence in your case had been hidden from the defense. That’s exactly what happened to Guy Scott, who was recently released from prison after 44 years…
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Can a Change in Evidence Rules Overturn My Sentence?
Can a Change in Evidence Rules Overturn My Sentence? A recent appellate court decision demonstrates how changes in evidence rules and legal standards can dramatically impact even the most serious cases, including those involving murder convictions and death sentences. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys at Wallin & Klarich can guide you through the legal process. Call Wallin & Klarich today toll-free at (877) 466-5245 for your free consultation with one…
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