Defendants in a criminal prosecution frequently make mistakes that cost them dearly. One common mistake occurs before the individual is officially a defendant. People all too often think they do not need a lawyer if the police want to talk to them. The reality is, however, that you should always “Under Investigation in San Diego”
Supreme Court: Age of a Child is a Relevant Factor in Miranda Cases
Recently, the United States Supreme Court has held that the age of a child subjected to police questioning is a relevant factor to consider in determining where a minor must be given Miranda warnings before being questioned by law enforcement officers. Under Miranda, an individual must be advised of the “Supreme Court: Age of a Child is a Relevant Factor in Miranda Cases”
You May Be Allowed to Smoke Marijuana While on Felony Probation
Fifteen years after the passage Proposition 215, the San Diego County Probation Department is just now adopting a set of rules on how they will handle sentencing recommendations for medical marijuana patients who have felony probation matters. The Probation Department, of course, makes written recommendations to felony sentencing judges on “You May Be Allowed to Smoke Marijuana While on Felony Probation”
Miranda: The Prosecution Will Not Use What You Say to Help You
The United States Supreme Court requires that a criminal defendant be advised of the rights to remain silent and request an attorney before being questioned by the police while in custody. For over 40 years these rights have been enshrined in the famous Miranda warning, an important procedural safeguard to “Miranda: The Prosecution Will Not Use What You Say to Help You”
Meeting the Police without a Lawyer
I am often contacted by individuals seeking advice about whether they need legal advice before meeting with law enforcement. Often, these individuals do not feel that they have anything to hide from the police and that their lack of cooperation will be viewed with suspicion. Further, because employment obligations, management “Meeting the Police without a Lawyer”
Marijuana Legalization and Drug Laws
California laws continue to evolve favorably for non-violent offenders in possession of marijuana and other drugs for personal use. Californians will soon have the option of legalizing the use, possession and transportation of marijuana for personal use. Supporters of a ballot initiative expect to see a vote on the issue “Marijuana Legalization and Drug Laws”
Did Texas Execute an Innocent Man?
Governor Rick Perry does not want you to find out if Texas carried out the execution of a legally and factually innocent person. The Texas governor replaced the head of the Texas Forensic Science Commission just days before he and other experts were scheduled to testify at a hearing called to “Did Texas Execute an Innocent Man?”