California Penal Code

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...

In California, various crimes can be considered misdemeanor child molestation. In short, you may face misdemeanor charges for doing anything to a child that has sexual intent. However, California penal codes outline more specific answers to what is considered a child molestation misdemeanor. Child molestation charges, however, are considered wobblers - they can either be misdemeanors or felonies. If you face criminal charges for child molestation, your case may incur...