California Penal Code

Yes, in the state of California, it is illegal to tell someone to commit suicide. This is in part due to the high suicide rates that the state faces. According to the California Department of Public Health, the suicide rate for the entire state was 10.5% during the latest year of reporting. Shasta County had the highest rate in all of California, with 24.9%. California’s End of Life Option Act...

The short answer to this question is yes, it is illegal to leave your dog unattended in a vehicle in California. However, the law is a bit more complex than a simple yes or no answer. Being charged with this law can lead to misdemeanor charges, and in some cases, light jail time.  Let's face it, almost everyone owns a pet, and in many cases, bringing your animal along in...

If you are preparing for a preliminary hearing in California, it is important to know the next steps. And if this is your first time facing the accusation process, our first suggestion is to find legal representation if you don't have it.  While a preliminary hearing can sound intimidating, there are fewer things to worry about at this stage. First, you must remember this is not a trial, and you...

If you are ever arrested for committing a crime in the state of California, you should enlist the services of a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer. While you can expect your attorney to fill you in on relevant state and federal laws, you may still familiarize yourself with the legal process. One especially important aspect you should know about is attorney-client privilege. The California statute Evidence Code 954 is what ensures...

Shaken baby syndrome is a serious condition that sadly affects over 1,000 babies in the United States alone every year. In approximately 25% of these cases, the baby dies. In the majority of cases where the shaken baby survives, they end up with lifelong disabilities in one form or another. Under California law, shaken baby syndrome is most often prosecuted as a form of child abuse. The penalties for this...

Juveniles can be placed in solitary confinement in California, but only for a brief period of time. Correctional facilities for children operate in a much different fashion than adult correctional facilities. Much of California law is concerned with the protection of children. These protections are deemed crucial even within detention centers. Juvenile detainees have far more rights than their adult counterparts. Unfortunately, with adult inmates, the focus of the prison...

Since telephones were invented, people have been using them to make prank calls. Typically, young people engage in this behavior, though less today since the advent of caller I.D. Unfortunately, not every state has specific laws to prosecute prank callers. However, in California, when innocent pranks become threatening, are recorded illegally, or interfere with emergency services, the perpetrator can be held criminally liable. According to state law, it is illegal...