Criminal Defense

What Laws Are Involved in Smuggling Drugs Across the Border?

By San Diego Attorney on July 31, 2017

In the United States, smuggling is the act of transporting illegal goods over a U.S. border. People do this with many different items, for two main reasons. Sometimes they do not want to pay the exchange that would be required. But in the case of drugs, they want to escape the notice and punishment from authorities. Smuggling is a very complicated crime in the United States, involving many different agencies and holding different consequences. No matter what is being smuggled, or how, it is considered a federal crime.

What Is the Punishment for Speeding in California?

By San Diego Attorney on July 20, 2017

Like every other state, if you are caught speeding in California, you will be fined. But what is different in the Golden State is just how expensive speeding tickets can be. So why the high cost? What makes speeding in California so much expensive than in any other state?

What Is the Difference Between Grand Theft and Petty Theft?

By San Diego Attorney on July 12, 2017

Throughout the State of California, theft is considered either grand or petty. Both of these are crimes against another individual’s property, and the category that your theft will fall under depends on the amount of property stolen, and how the property was stolen. So what is the difference between grand theft and petty theft?

Can the Police Search Your Car?

By San Diego Attorney on July 1, 2017

There is great debate about whether or not police are legally allowed to search your car, and if they are, exactly what circumstances warrant it. There are many different answers to the question because it really depends on the individual circumstance, what the officer has seen or smelled, what has transpired before the search, and the information the officer has on an individual or the vehicle at the time. In short, the question cannot be answered with a simple “yes” or “no.”

Field Sobriety Tests: Nystagmus Test

By San Diego Attorney on December 5, 2016

One of the most common Standardized Field Sobriety Tests used by police to determine if probable cause exists for a drunk driving arrest is the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) test. This test works by measuring a driver’s eye reflexes when asked to look at a moving stationary object at a close distance, allowing officers to look for certain key signs of intoxication.

What to Do at a California DUI Checkpoint

By San Diego Attorney on November 30, 2016

There are few things more unsettling for a driver than to be stopped at a sobriety checkpoint. Regardless of whether or not you have been drinking, the process of being briefly detained and questioned can be frightening, especially if the police should suspect you of driving under the influence (DUI). Fortunately, there are several things you can do to protect your rights and minimize your chances of finding yourself in the back of a squad car.

Arrested for DUI While Stationed at Camp Pendleton?

By San Diego Attorney on September 1, 2016

Generally speaking, military service members are subject to much greater scrutiny from society and have a much higher expectation to obey the law. In reality, members of the military are humans like everyone else and sometimes make mistakes. When the mistake is driving under the influence (DUI), however, the consequences can be severe. If you have been charged with a DUI-related crime while stationed at Marine Base Camp Pendleton in San Diego, it is urgent you retain the services of a hard-hitting military DUI attorney as soon as possible to protect your future and reputation.

Is DUI A Felony in CA? – Three Ways It Can Be

By San Diego Attorney on August 31, 2016

In the state of California, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle with a blood-alcohol concentration of .08% or greater. If you violate this law, you could be charged with the crime of driving under the influence (DUI). While most DUI offenses will be charged as a misdemeanor,there are three different circumstances under which this crime could be elevated to a felony. These include:

Does Breastfeeding in Public Qualify as Indecent Exposure?

By San Diego Attorney on February 2, 2016

While society continues to debate over the social acceptability of public breastfeeding, California law has held a firm stance on the matter for nearly two decades. California Civil Code, Section 43.3 was established in 1997 and grants mothers the right to breastfeed her child in any private or public place in which she and the child are authorized to be. The National Conference on State Legislatures reports that forty-five states, the District of Columbia and the Virgin Islands have laws that specifically allow women to breastfeed in any public or private location.

What Qualifies James N. Dicks for Your Case?

By San Diego Attorney on January 22, 2016

When you are charged with a crime, a lot of questions likely rush through your head. What should your next step be? How do you find a lawyer that is qualified to handle your case? What questions should you ask potential defense attorneys before you hire one?

Facing criminal charges is no small matter—regardless of how serious or minor you may think your charges are. Finding the right defense attorney in San Diego to handle your case can seem overwhelming. James N. Dicks is here to make simple for you.