The police usually need a warrant to enter and search your home for evidence of a crime. Under the Fourth Amendment, an unreasonable search and seizure is unlawful. However, there are some exceptions when the police can enter and search your home without a warrant....
Newport Beach Criminal Defense Blog
What to do if you are under investigation for a white-collar crime
Prosecutors trying to make a case for an assault charge or a robbery might only require a little bit of forensic evidence or security camera footage to prove their case. A white-collar criminal offense like money laundering or wire fraud is far more difficult to...
Organized retail theft is nothing like shoplifting
Areas of Southern California with high-end stores have seen a significant increase in organized and brazen thefts carried out by groups of people in recent years. Whether it’s in Beverly Hills or the upscale shopping areas of Newport Beach or other cities, retailers...
When do the police need a search warrant?
Police officers need a search warrant when looking for evidence within a property to be presented in court. The California Legislative Information has provided in-depth grounds when a judge or magistrate can issue a search warrant. A search warrant can be used in...
What rights do you waive with a plea deal?
A plea bargain involves making some concessions with the prosecution in exchange for a lighter sentence or fewer charges. However, there is more to a plea bargain than just making a deal. Accepting a plea deal means giving up some rights, some of which are enshrined...
2 non-criminal consequences of accusations of professional fraud
Professional fraud isn't a specific criminal charge but rather an entire category of white-collar crimes. It might include a doctor diagnosing someone with a condition they know the patient doesn't have to charge for expensive treatments. It could also involve someone...
Why you should never speak to federal authorities on your own
Federal investigators showed up unexpectedly at your home, office or country club one day. They said they just wanted to ask you a few questions. Maybe they even appeared to be more interested in what you knew about someone else than in anything you might have done...
What happens during a pre-trial hearing?
Before a trial, there are pre-trial hearings. However, most people do not understand what goes on during these important events, which could potentially affect the outcome of their case. Understanding what goes on at every stage of your trial will help you look out...
What to do if the police are at your door
It’s beyond disconcerting to hear a loud knock on your door and find the police standing on the other side – and the average person doesn’t know how to handle the situation. If the police show up at your door, it is important to know what to do to protect your...
Penalties for violent crimes against elders and disabled adults
California is a big state. It has a massive population, with new people moving into the area daily. Unfortunately, this high population also leads to more crime than in other parts of the U.S. California ranks 14th in the country for most violent crimes. In...