October 8, 2026 | Criminal Law

What Is a Civil Harassment Restraining Order in California?

A civil harassment restraining order is a court order designed to protect someone from stalking, threats, violence, or repeated unwanted conduct that meets California’s legal definition of harassment.  These orders generally apply to disputes involving people who are not close family members or intimate partners, unlike domestic violence restraining orders. Who Do Civil Harassment Restraining […]

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October 1, 2026 | Sex Crimes

Who Investigates Sex Crimes in Oakland, and When Do You Need a Defense Attorney?

Sex crime allegations in Oakland are generally investigated by the Oakland Police Department (OPD), including its Special Victims Unit, while the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office handles criminal prosecution. OPD states that its Special Victims Unit investigates sexual assault and child abuse cases. If police or DA investigators contact you about a sex crime allegation, […]

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September 17, 2026 | Criminal Defense

How Long Can You Be Held in Jail in California Before a Conviction?

There’s no single fixed maximum that applies to every California criminal case once someone is arrested. Someone who remains in custody before trial can potentially spend weeks or months in jail without ever being convicted of anything. In some situations, a person could even spend more than a year in custody. That surprises and frustrates […]

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September 14, 2026 | Domestic Violence

What Makes a Strong Domestic Violence Defense in Oakland?

A strong domestic violence defense in Oakland addresses more than whether prosecutors can prove the criminal charge. The defense should also account for protective orders, possible family and custody proceedings, witness issues, and the specific procedures used in Alameda County courts. That broader approach matters because a domestic violence arrest can affect where you live, […]

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September 2, 2026 | Domestic Violence

What Constitutes Domestic Violence in California? Our Experienced Oakland Domestic Violence Attorney Answers

If you’ve been arrested for domestic violence in California, it’s important to understand what this means. California Penal Code § 13700 defines domestic violence as abuse committed against someone with whom the accused has or had a qualifying intimate or family relationship.  “Abuse” includes intentionally or recklessly causing bodily injury, attempting to cause bodily injury, […]

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August 27, 2026 | Sex Crimes

Do You Have To Register as a Sex Offender in California?

You have to register as a sex offender in California if you are convicted of an offense that requires registration under the California Sex Offender Registration Act or if a court orders registration under applicable law.  Not every sex offense automatically requires registration. California uses a tiered system that generally requires adult registrants to register […]

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August 26, 2026 | Sex Crimes

What Are Major Signs That a Person May Be a Sexual Predator?

A “sexual predator” is someone who seeks sexual contact through abuse, force, manipulation, or exploitation. There is no single personality type or appearance that identifies a sexual predator. A person may seem friendly, respected, or trustworthy while still engaging in harmful behavior. It is also important not to assume someone is guilty based only on […]

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August 25, 2026 | Criminal Defense

What Criminal Offenses Are Deportable in California?

If you are not a United States citizen, a criminal conviction in California can put far more than your freedom at risk. Depending on the charge in question, it could also threaten your ability to remain in this country, regardless of whether you hold a green card or any other form of lawful immigration status.  […]

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August 24, 2026 | Criminal Law

What Happens at a Preliminary Hearing in Alameda County?

If you are facing felony charges in Alameda County, CA, your case may include a preliminary hearing before it moves toward trial. This hearing gives the prosecution a chance to show a judge that there is enough evidence to continue the case. It also gives the defense an opportunity to question witnesses and challenge the […]

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