When an individual assigns their power of attorney, they select someone to make important financial or medical decisions on their behalf should they become unable to make such decisions on their own. However, in limited circumstances, next of kin may be able to override power of attorney in California. Proving the power of attorney’s decisions …
Laura’s Law is a state law in California that deals with assisted outpatient treatment for specific individuals who are in need of mental health services. To qualify for assisted outpatient treatment, you must meet the strict legal criteria and be unable to voluntarily access mental health intervention programs due to severe mental illness. Laura’s Law …
A probable cause hearing, also known as a preliminary hearing, is a procedure in California courts for felony criminal prosecutions. Typically, it is a quick proceeding after charges were filed to determine that there was a valid reason for arrest and that the defendant more than likely committed the alleged crime. If the court rules …
Determining insanity in a legal context is typically a complex and nuanced process involving a range of professionals and stakeholders, such as mental health professionals, law enforcement officials, and witnesses who can provide insight into the defendant’s behavior and mental state. To further clarify this topic, below are several common questions and answers about the …
If you were ordered by the California justice system to be put on a 5250 hold, it is possible to have that ruling overturned, but there is a complicated legal process to do so. Under California Welfare and Institutions Code 5250, there is a 14-day hold, or custody lasting for 14 days, as well as …
A 5150 is an involuntary hold that lasts up to 72 hours. You can be placed on a 5150 if a healthcare professional determines you are a threat to yourself or others or are gravely disabled. During your hold, you will remain in a psychiatric hospital. Simmrin Law Group can help those dealing with 5150 …
When you have been charged with certain types of drunk driving-related offenses, you may have a chance to avoid the more severe consequences of a DUI conviction. You have this opportunity when you complete a Hospital and Morgue (HAM) program or Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Victim Impact Panel. However, the requirements you will need …
Being found “Not Guilty” vs. being acquitted of the charges seem similar, which means that it can be tricky to tell the two apart. Both deal with the defendant walking out of the courtroom with the charges dropped and facing no conviction. Both also deal with the defendant not necessarily being found innocent of the …
A misdemeanor pretrial hearing represents an opportunity for a defendant to have their charge dismissed. If the defendant can expose a weak case, a prosecutor may be unlikely to move forward with it. This can help the defendant move past their case as quickly as possible. At Simmrin Law Group, we understand what is required …
A no-contest plea is similar to a guilty plea, but they are not the same. With a no-contest plea, an individual accepts a conviction but does not admit guilt for a crime. Comparatively, a guilty plea means a person accepts responsibility for a crime. Simmrin Law Group can put you in touch with a criminal …
