Criminal Defense

A Guide to Drug Penalties in California

By San Diego Attorney on June 22, 2018

It seems that drug laws in California are changing all the time these days.

With recent laws, such as Proposition 47 passed in November 2014, the penalties for many drug crimes have been reduced or altered. Of course, any drug crime will have different penalties for different individuals depending on how many prior offenses they have, and the circumstances of the crime.

The Deal with Prison Alternatives

By San Diego Attorney on June 12, 2018

When people are convicted of crimes, they may think that serving jail time is their only option. But in many cases, Southern California judges opt for alternative sentences. An alternative sentence is one that does not include jail time but some other form of punishment to deter the individual from committing another crime in the future.

How Drug Smuggling Affects Immigration

By San Diego Attorney on May 18, 2018

Immigration is one of the most hotly debated issues in the United States.

According to the federal government, in 2008 there were about 12 million undocumented immigrants living in the United States. About 75% came from Mexico. By the end of that year, California had about 3 million undocumented residents living in the state.

Graduation and Prom: Avoiding Underage DUI

By San Diego Attorney on May 8, 2018

As graduation and prom approach, California teens may be planning to do more than attend ceremonies and dances. This time of year also has many teens tasting their first alcoholic beverage. Unfortunately, many teen drinkers then get behind the wheel.

Criminal Background Checks: What Can Employers Ask You?

By San Diego Attorney on April 26, 2018

Everyone deserves a second chance at life. They deserve employment, and the opportunity to be able to pay their own bills. That was the thinking behind some of our newest legislation in California. It allows people with a criminal record to at least get their foot in the door without having to disclose the “black mark” on their record. And that, the Legislature is hoping, will give them the second chance they rightly deserve.

The Risk of Driving on 4/20

By San Diego Attorney on April 16, 2018

April 20th, also known as the day that pot smokers celebrate their love for the weed, is fast approaching. And while there is reason to celebrate both medicinal and recreational marijuana being legal in California, studies show that incidences of drugged driving are much higher on 4/20 than on other comparable days.

If you plan to partake of pot this 4/20 in San Diego, be wise, and do not drive while under the influence. Remember, the SD police will be out looking for just that. If you are arrested, give us a call and we at jD LAW will get started on a defense for you.

San Francisco Wiping Out Old Weed Convictions

By San Diego Attorney on March 28, 2018

California voters changed the landscape of the state when they voted in Proposition 64 in November 2016. That move made marijuana legal both medicinally and recreationally under the Adult Use of Marijuana Act in January 2017. Now, San Francisco is taking another radical step with regard to marijuana convictions.

Watch Out for St. Patrick’s Day DUIs

By San Diego Attorney on March 13, 2018

With St. Patrick’s Day right around the corner, those of us who plan to go celebrate should also make plans for getting home safely. Even if you do not plan on drinking heavily and feel you could still drive, be advised ­– local police will be out in force. Getting yourself a cab, Uber, Lyft, or designated driver for the evening can keep a night of partying from turning into something that can haunt you for years to come – a DUI charge.

Marijuana on College Campuses

By San Diego Attorney on March 7, 2018

Recreational marijuana in California became legal on January 1, 2018, but the new laws came with some restrictions. And while many college and university students in San Diego were quick to light up and enjoy the new legislation, they may want to think twice about doing so on campus.

Gaslamp Quarter DUI Danger

By San Diego Attorney on February 28, 2018

The Gaslamp Quarter is known for many things, but particularly for its pub crawls. With exclusive drink specials, no cover charges, and VIP entry into four different bars, it is no wonder young people flock to this district every weekend looking for a good time. But for some, it does not take long for those good times to turn sour.