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Understanding DUI Enhancements in California
The state of California has complex laws regarding DUIs that most defendants are not aware of how serious their charges can be. Even for first-time offenders, prosecutors in San Diego County can level significant charges if they have evidence of additional crimes or you meet certain criteria. These are often referred to as “enhancements” and can take a single misdemeanor charge and turn it into a felony.
The Costs of a Spinal Cord Injury
There is almost nothing more devastating than a spinal cord injury. In minor accidents, these injuries may come with a large amount of discomfort and pain while you recover and get back on your feet. But the more catastrophic accidents can leave a victim with the inability to walk, move their hands, control their bladder, and feel below the waist or neck. Paralysis is a common side effect of spinal cord injuries, and it can come with a massive price tag.
Expired Licenses and Pursuing a Claim
Renewing a license is a common, if annoying, affair that California drivers have to deal with every few years. Sometimes it is as simple as submitting an application online and paying a fee, while other times you have to make an appointment with the DMV, submit new paperwork, and take a test. Whatever the case, getting into an accident when your license is expired can be a stressful and confusing situation. You may assume you are unable to file a claim or that you could face criminal charges by the police. However, you may still have options if you were in an accident when your license was expired.
Personal Injury Trials: What You Need to Know
When you begin filing a personal injury claim, most attorneys will try to assure you that only one in ten cases result in a lawsuit and jury trial. Insurance companies do not want to spend money on court fees and jury verdicts and are often more willing to settle out of court. However, while this is true, it is important to understand the entire process, as your case may be in that 10% that do go to trial.
California’s Open Container Laws and Takeout Orders
One of the many unexpected aspects of the COVID-19 outbreak is the unique changes to California’s laws. Several agencies have modified restrictions regarding marijuana deliveries to allow for social distancing, adjusted deadlines for filing for license renewals, and even changed regulations for alcohol use. In the latter case, the California Department of Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) has allowed restaurants and bars to serve “takeout” alcoholic drink orders to any customer ordering a delivery or to-go order with a meal. This modification applies to both closed containers like prepackaged beer bottles or cans, as well as custom-made cocktails and delivery orders.
Ramifications of SB-710 on Parole, Wobblers, and DNA
As California is now a mail-in state for the November 2020 ballot, there are two major initiatives that can affect the criminal justice system. The first is SB10, which we have covered previously, but another major item is SB-710, which could change misdemeanor charges in felonies, modify parole eligibility, and change procedures for DNA evidence.
Rules for Marijuana Delivery Drivers During COVID-19
As San Diego County is still operating under the Stay at Home Order in order to limit the spread of COVID-19, many businesses have had to shift to curbside, takeout, or delivery options to maintain their operations. This has included the cannabis industry, as dispensaries are currently allowed to employ marijuana delivery drivers to fulfill customer orders. However, there are still certain restrictions and regulations that drivers must abide by in order to avoid breaking the law.
How Liable Are San Diego Beaches for Trip and Falls?
San Diego has faced a series of lawsuits over the past few years based around public safety, such as poor road maintenance, and that same liability may also extend to public beaches. The city is known for its extremely popular and beautiful beaches, as well as several hidden gems that make it such a beloved destination. However, improper maintenance of these beaches has led to multiple sidewalk tripping hazards that can cause serious injuries. Thus, it stands to reason that the city can be subject to several claims for damages from injured residents and visitors.
Pursuing a Continuance in a California Court
Judges have the discretion to grant or deny a request for continuance (rescheduling) of a court hearing to give either party additional time to prepare. As a general rule, judges in California frown on delaying the resolution of a case by requesting a continuance without a valid reason. Judges must balance the public interest in timely justice with fairness to the parties involved. However, there is still the possibility for a defendant to receive a continuance if their argument is presented properly and with strong legal counsel.
San Diego Streets May Be Traffic Free, But You Should Still Be Careful
Ever since mid-March, traffic has been in flux across California, and San Diego streets have definitely shown that. The California Stay at Home Order resulted in a massive drop in collisions across the city for the first few weeks as drivers were not packing the roads to get to work or about their daily lives. However, that does not mean the streets are completely free of negligent drivers.
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