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How to Choose the Best Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney?

When facing criminal charges, people confront the task of choosing the best Los Angeles criminal defense attorney. Choosing a skilled criminal defense lawyer to ensure the most favorable outcome in your case may seem like a daunting task.

When you type “a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer near me” in Google and press enter, you will see hundreds of law firms and attorneys promising you everything under the sun.

However, not all criminal defense attorneys are created equal, which is why it is essential to understand how to choose the best criminal defense lawyer for your specific situation.

At The Law Offices of David S. Chesley, our top-rated and award-winning attorneys have over 50 years of courtroom experience. Our criminal defense lawyers are dedicated to providing every client with a robust defense against their charges. You can schedule a free consultation to discuss your case by calling 800-755-5174.

Tips on How to Choose the Best Criminal Defense Lawyer in Los Angeles

Defending yourself against criminal charges is a complicated and unpredictable process, which is why the choice of a criminal defense attorney will be a deciding factor in your case.

Finding the right attorney for your unique situation can be quite time-consuming and anxiety-inducing. That’s why we have prepared a list of tips on how to choose the best Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer to help you understand what to look for in an attorney.

    1. Your criminal defense attorney should be responsive
      Communication between an attorney and client is key to success in criminal defense cases. For this reason, you need to find a criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles who responds quickly.You can check how responsive your prospective attorney is by seeing how quickly they return your phone call and whether they are ready to arrange a meeting within 24 hours of your call.
    2. Your attorney should practice criminal law and have experience in handling cases similar to yours
      This may seem obvious, but it’s still worth mentioning. When looking for a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney, you need to make sure that the lawyer:

      1. Practices criminal law in California;
      2. Serves your area; and
      3. Has extensive experience in handling cases similar to yours.

      At The Law Offices of David S. Chesley, our offices are conveniently located all across California, including in Los Angeles. Our best criminal defense attorneys in Los Angeles handle all types of criminal offenses, including:

      • Violent crimes
      • DUI/DWI
      • Sex crimes
      • Theft
      • Drug crimes
      • Murder
    3. Your attorney should have experience in your local courts
      Criminal defense attorneys establish connections and relationships with local judges, prosecutors, and law enforcement. Those connections can have a major impact on the outcome of a client’s case.
      The best criminal defense attorney knows local judges and prosecutors and understands how they think to help clients create a winning strategy. Our Los Angeles criminal defense lawyers at The Law Offices of David S. Chesley are respected by local law enforcement, judges, and prosecutors and have a solid reputation for our ability to provide clients with effective legal representation.

 

    1. Your attorney should have a transparent fee structure
      Respectable and reliable law firms have a transparent fee structure and will never overcharge you for their legal services. When you hire the best Los Angeles criminal defense attorney, you will not have to worry about unreasonable attorney fees or hidden costs. A knowledgeable attorney will be able to estimate the total cost of your legal representation after learning the details about your case.

 

  1. You should be comfortable with your Los Angeles criminal defense attorney
    Last but not least, you should be personally comfortable with your attorney to achieve a favorable outcome in your case. An effective attorney-client relationship is always based on mutual trust and honesty. A skilled criminal defense lawyer will always strive to maintain continuous communication with his clients to ensure the best legal representation for the clients.
    Ask yourself these questions to find out how comfortable you are with your attorney:

    • Can I openly discuss all the details of my case with my attorney?
    • Do I trust my freedom to my attorney?
    • Is my attorney willing to do whatever it takes to defend me?
    • Is my attorney compassionate and a good listener?

What Questions Should I Ask My Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer?

If you have narrowed down the list of potential criminal defense attorneys, the next step is interviewing your prospective lawyer. It is essential to conduct an interview to learn more about the lawyer’s background, experience, fee structure and ensure that you are hiring the right attorney for your specific case.

Ask your Los Angeles criminal defense attorney the following questions:

  1. Do you practice criminal law in Los Angeles and California?
  2. How long have you practiced criminal law in Los Angeles?
  3. Have you ever represented clients who faced the charges I’m facing?
  4. How many similar cases have you won?
  5. How many years of courtroom experience do you have?
  6. Do you have any established connections and relationships with local judges and prosecutors?
  7. How often do you take criminal cases to trial?
  8. How would you handle my case if I hired you?
  9. Should I take my case to trial?
  10. Does it make sense to plead guilty in my case?
  11. What are the potential defense strategies in my case?
  12. Can you identify weaknesses in the prosecutor’s case?
  13. Who will work on my case, you or other attorneys in your law firm?
  14. How often will we communicate?
  15. How long do you need to return my calls or respond to my emails?
  16. What is your fee structure? Do you charge per hour or have a fixed rate?
  17. Do I need to pay anything upfront?
  18. Can you estimate how much you would charge me if I hired you?

Call Us Today to Speak with a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Los Angeles

Our Los Angeles criminal defense lawyers at The Law Offices of David S. Chesley are prepared to answer all of your questions during a free consultation to help you decide how to proceed with your case.

Schedule a free case review by calling 800-755-5174 or visiting our contact us page.

California Criminal Law Update: 2021 Edition

Criminal justice reforms are long overdue in California. While 2021 brought several major criminal justice reforms in California, those changes do not solve all the issues with the state’s criminal justice system.

It is critical to consult with a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer to understand how the most recent reforms to California’s criminal justice system could affect you and your family members.

The experienced and dedicated criminal defense attorneys at The Law Offices of David S. Chesley have effectively represented thousands of clients in Los Angeles and throughout California.

Our founding attorney, David S. Chesley, is widely regarded and respected in California for his professionalism and pursuit of justice for all clients. If you or your loved one is facing criminal charges, do not hesitate to speak with our criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles. Note: We offer a free consultation (call 800-755-5174 today).

    Major Changes to California Criminal Law in 2021

    Key reforms to California’s criminal justice system that took effect on January 1, 2021, include:

  • California’s new sex offender registration system. Senate Bill 384 implemented a new registration system for sex offenders. California transitioned from a lifetime-based registration system to a three-tier system. Under the new system, three tiers of registration are established for 10 years, 20 years, and 30 years. The measure is said to reduce the number of individuals required to register as sex offenders for life by up to 90%.
  • California Racial Justice Act. Assembly Bill 2524 allows people convicted of a criminal offense to challenge racial bias in their case in order to pursue re-sentencing or a new trial. However, proving that you have been a victim of racial bias in your criminal case can be tricky, which is why it is advised to get legal help from a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney.
  • A judge’s discretion to grant misdemeanor diversion. Assembly Bill 3234 authorizes superior court judges in California to offer misdemeanor diversion to defendants. A diverted case can be continued for no longer than 24 months. If the defendant complies with all of the terms and conditions, the arrest upon which the diversion was imposed can be erased from the defendant’s criminal record. Offenses that are not eligible for dismissal include domestic violence, registerable sex crimes, and stalking.
  • Limited maximum terms for probation. Assembly Bill 1950 reduced the maximum probation term for misdemeanors from three to one year. The new criminal law also reduced maximum probation for most felony offenses to two years.

If you are not sure how the new criminal laws could affect you or your loved ones, schedule a free consultation with our Los Angeles criminal defense lawyers at The Law Offices of David S. Chesley.

Why Should You Hire a Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney?

If you or your family member has been charged with a crime in Los Angeles or elsewhere in California, it is in your best interests to speak with a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer to fight for your rights and freedom.

Many people underestimate the importance of having a knowledgeable attorney on their side when defending themselves against criminal charges. That’s why we have compiled a list of reasons why you should hire a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles:

  1. They know how the criminal justice system works
    An experienced lawyer knows the criminal justice system like the back of his hand. Criminal defense attorneys understand what defense strategies can be used to help you avoid a conviction or get the charges dismissed or reduced.
  2. They understand all legal procedures
    Defending yourself against a criminal charge is not just about standing in front of a judge and trying to prove that you are innocent. Fighting back against any criminal charge also involves a lot of paperwork and preparation, not to mention that you must stick to strict deadlines. Your Los Angeles criminal defense attorney is well-versed with all legal procedures and will take care of filling out court documents, gathering paperwork, and collecting evidence on your behalf.
  3. They can identify weaknesses and contradictory statements
    An experienced criminal defense attorney can point out weaknesses in the prosecutor’s case and identify contradictory statements in police records and witness testimonies to suppress evidence against you or get the charges dropped or dismissed.
  4. They have access to expert witnesses and professionals
    Often, defendants require the assistance of expert witnesses and other professionals to prove their case. Here at The Law Offices of David S. Chesley, our authoritative criminal defense lawyers have established access to a vast network of experts and professionals throughout California.
  5. They can get the best settlement or plea deal for you
    In some cases, accepting a settlement or plea bargain is your best choice to reduce the penalties. However, it is vital to speak with a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney to understand your options and ensure that you are getting a fair settlement or plea deal.
  6. They can help you reduce the criminal penalties
    The consequences of a criminal conviction can be quite harsh, which is why it is essential to hire a skilled lawyer to fight for the reduction of fines, jail or prison sentences, and other penalties. Your attorney will do whatever it takes to persuade the prosecutor to dismiss criminal charges. If that is not possible in your case, your attorney can help you get a lowered or alternative sentence.

If you or your loved one is facing criminal charges, the best thing you can do to protect your interests and freedom is to contact a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles. Our compassionate and results-driven criminal defense attorneys at The Law Offices of David S. Chesley offer a free consultation to advise you on your options.

The sooner you reach out to a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney, the better chance you have at successfully defending yourself against the charges and avoiding a conviction. Schedule a consultation to discuss your particular case and determine the best defense strategy in your specific situation. Contact us online or call 800-755-5174 for a free case evaluation.

4 Benefits of Expungement in California

If you have been charged with a crime in the State of California, you will still have a criminal record which can be viewed by members of the general public. This is true even if you were never convicted. Fortunately, however, California law allows for some criminal charges to be removed for a person’s criminal record, offering them a clean slate. Expungement means that a guilty plea or conviction on a person’s criminal record is withdrawn. It is then replaced with a not-guilty plea, after which the court dismisses the criminal case.

While California criminal courts routinely grant expungements, not every criminal conviction is eligible for expungement. If you have been charged or convicted of a crime, the experienced California criminal defense lawyers at The Law Offices of David S. Chesley will be able to determine if you are eligible to have your record expunged. To schedule a free consultation with a criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles, call us today at 1-800-755-5174 or contact us online.

Qualifying for a Criminal Records Expungement in California

In order to apply for a criminal records expungement in California, you must first meet certain criteria. Those criteria include the following:

  • You must not be serving a term of probation when you are petitioning the court for expungement.
  • You must not have been charged with any other crime.
  • The crime which you want to be expunged must have been a misdemeanor or a felony which could have been prosecuted as a misdemeanor.

If the charge you want to be expunged was a felony charge that resulted in a period of incarceration, you do not qualify for a records expungement. The same is likely true if the underlying crime involved a sexual offense perpetrated against a minor or a motor vehicle violation which caused two or more points to be added to your driving record.

Moreover, in order for your criminal record to qualify for expungement, you must have paid all court-ordered fines and restitution for the underlying offense.

Expunging a Felony Conviction

The only felonies eligible for expungement in California are “wobbler” charges. In a nutshell, these are felony charges which could have been prosecuted as misdemeanors under the law. In order to expunge a “wobbler” charge from your criminal record, you must ask the court to reduce the charge at issue from a felony to a misdemeanor. In most cases, if the offender can prove to the sentencing judge that he or she has taken responsibility for all criminal actions and has successfully rehabilitated, the judge will likely grant the charge reduction petition and reduce the charge to a misdemeanor. In that case, the charge will be eligible for expungement and dismissal.

In the case of other felony convictions, the expungement process depends upon whether the defendant was sentenced to jail time and probation versus a state prison sentence. In the latter case, the defendant can only obtain a dismissal if he or she has lived in the same county for a period of five years. The defendant must also file a petition and prove to the judge that he or she is trying to change for the better.

Cost of a Records Expungement

Expunging a criminal record in California can cost anywhere from $100 up to about $400. The exact amount of the fee depends upon the courthouse where the defendant files his or her expungement petition. If you hire an attorney to help you expunge your record, the fee will likely be higher. At The Law Offices of David S. Chesley, our California criminal defense lawyers will work with you to provide a plan for expungement services that is affordable and meets your needs.

Benefits of a Criminal Records Expungement

There are significant benefits associated with expunging a criminal record. Those benefits include the following:

  • Helping you find a good job – Criminal background checks on prospective employees are becoming more and more common among employers. A criminal background check on a prospective employee will reveal all of the job applicant’s prior convictions, as well as prior arrests. The background check will also show whether or not the job applicant has ever been placed on a period of criminal probation. Also, during job interviews, most employers will ask a prospective employee if he or she has ever been convicted of a crime in the past. A records expungement allows a prospective employee to answer “no” to that question truthfully. Moreover, employers may not consider an expunged conviction revealed as part of a background check when making a hiring decision.
  • Helping you obtain a state license – Many professions, including the legal profession and the medical profession, require a state license in order to practice. The same is true for contractors and real estate professionals. Even if your record is successfully expunged, you must still disclose your prior conviction in response to any question asking for this information – including an application to hold public office. However, many state licensing agencies will overlook a prior conviction if it was successfully expunged from an applicant’s criminal record.
  • Helping you become a member of a professional organization – Similar to employers, many professional organizations perform criminal background checks on prospective members. However, a criminal records expungement helps to lessen the impact of any prior conviction and makes it more likely that the applicant will be offered the position or seat in a professional organization.
  • Helping you in court – In civil trials, if you are on the witness stand, the opposing attorney cannot use a prior expunged conviction to bring your credibility as a witness into question. In a civil case, such as a personal injury case, this expungement benefit may help you, since your personal testimony can be extremely important o the outcome of your case. In a criminal case, however, opposing counsel may be able to bring up a prior expunged conviction at trial in order to call your credibility (i.e. your propensity for truthfulness or untruthfulness) into question.

Interested in Expungement? Call a Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

If you are trying to obtain a records expungement in a California criminal case, having an experienced lawyer on your side can make all the difference. An experienced lawyer can first review all of the circumstances which are pertinent to your charge or conviction and determine whether or not you are eligible for a criminal records expungement. A lawyer can also help you complete all of the necessary paperwork to help you petition the court for a charge reduction (i.e. reducing a felony down to a misdemeanor), if necessary, as well as obtain a records expungement. Finally, a lawyer can represent you throughout your expungement proceedings and can attend any courtroom proceedings with you.

A records expungement can provide you with a sense of relief and will allow you to move on with your life. If you are interested in learning more about a criminal records expungement in California, you should contact the skilled legal team at The Law Offices of David S. Chesley. Our team has successfully pursued hundreds of records expungement cases and is ready to review your case today.

To schedule a free consultation and case evaluation with a California criminal defense lawyer, please call us today at 1-800-755-5174, or contact us online.

How A DUI Conviction Can Affect Your Professional License

The most recent report available from the California DMV indicates that over 160,000 people were arrested for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in 2013. Drinking and driving is a serious issue, and many otherwise law-abiding and productive members of society get behind the wheel after they’ve had a few glasses of wine with dinner or some after-work beers with colleagues. If you’ve been arrested for DUI, it’s imperative that you contact a defense attorney in Los Angeles as soon as you can. Continue reading “How A DUI Conviction Can Affect Your Professional License”

Did the Police Find Drugs in Your Car During a Routine Traffic Stop? The Police May Have Violated Your Rights

It’s an all too common scenario: the police make a routine traffic stop for some small infraction such as failing to use your turn signal. The next thing you know, the police are searching your car – looking under the seats, in the trunk, in the glove box, and rifling through your possessions. Then they find drugs and you’re charged with, at a minimum, possession of a controlled substance. The next thing you know, you’re being told that you could be facing jail time and a drug conviction on your permanent criminal record. Continue reading “Did the Police Find Drugs in Your Car During a Routine Traffic Stop? The Police May Have Violated Your Rights”

Potential Defenses in a California Domestic Violence Case

In general, when it comes to California domestic violence cases, a common perception is that the criminal justice system tends to favor the accusers. False domestic violence charges in California, however, are unfortunately all too common, and domestic violence conviction can lead to a myriad of serious consequences. Those consequences may include criminal fines, jail time, and protective orders being issued against you – as well as irreparable harm to your reputation. Continue reading “Potential Defenses in a California Domestic Violence Case”

How a Sex Crime Conviction can affect the Rest of Your Life

Generally speaking, a sex crime is any crime of a sexual nature. Although the specific penalties upon conviction may vary depending upon the nature of the charge, a sex crime conviction can affect you for many years to come. As a result, if you’re facing allegations of a sex crime, you should speak to a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer as soon as you can. Continue reading “How a Sex Crime Conviction can affect the Rest of Your Life”

Do You Need a Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer for a First-Time DUI?

Many Californians – even after consuming a significant amount of alcohol – rationalize that they will be “okay” driving home from the bar or party. This is especially common when it is late at night, the person is tired, and he or she is anxious to get home. The driver may even figure that given the late hour, police officers will not be out patrolling. This can be a serious mistake and error in judgment and can result in a first-time California DUI charge or conviction. Continue reading “Do You Need a Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer for a First-Time DUI?”

DMV HEARING

If you’ve been arrested for a DUI, you only have 10 days to request a hearing with the DMV, or you risk having your license suspended. At The Law Offices of David S. Chesley, our attorneys specialize in DUI cases and will treat your DMV hearing exactly like a criminal case. Continue reading “DMV HEARING”

Eric Garner and Excessive Force

Eric Garner and his wife.

By now most people are familiar with the story of Eric Garner’s death. An unarmed black man dies after an encounter with the police where an officer (Daniel Pantaleo) puts Garner on a chokehold. The Garner story has brought up a lot of tension between the police department responsible for Garner’s death and the community. Continue reading “Eric Garner and Excessive Force”

Former Deputy Sheriff James Sexton Convicted of Conspiracy and Obstruction of Justice

A Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Deputy, James Sexton was convicted of conspiracy and obstruction of justice yesterday, August, 16th. Sexton, 29 was found guilty during a federal retrial. In Sexton’s first trial the jury could not agree, with their votes tied 6-6, the prosecutors decided to retry Sexton.

In a separate trial, Sexton’s six co-defendants were convicted and are awaiting sentencing. Continue reading “Former Deputy Sheriff James Sexton Convicted of Conspiracy and Obstruction of Justice”

Forme L.A. Sheriff’s Deputy Arrested Under Suspicion of Child Pornography Distribution

Lorne Reed, 32, an ex Los Angeles county sheriff’s deputy was arrested on Wednesday under the suspicion of distributing child pornography. Police came to his home in Santa Fe Springs, where Reed was arrested without any incident.

Law enforcement from multiple agencies arrived at his home in the morning with a search warrant, Reed at home Continue reading “Forme L.A. Sheriff’s Deputy Arrested Under Suspicion of Child Pornography Distribution”

Universal CityWalk: One Dead and Three Injured During Officer Involve Shooting

Yesterday Morning, James White Jr. was killed during an officer-involved shooting. White was shot when police officers opened fire in Universal City Walk after hearing gunfire and seeing an individual with a gun. The shooting took place near the Infusion lounge.

The L.A. County Fire Department pronounced the suspected gunman dead at the scene of Continue reading “Universal CityWalk: One Dead and Three Injured During Officer Involve Shooting”

Eighteen Sheriff’s Deputies Charged With Engaging In Corruption and Civil Right Abuses.

Eighteen current and former Los Angeles County deputies are currently facing charges for engaging in corruption and civil right abuses. The charges include beating inmates and visitors, as well as falsifying reports and trying to block an FBI investigation.

The charges were announced yesterday after 16 of the 18 deputies were arrested. The two deputies Continue reading “Eighteen Sheriff’s Deputies Charged With Engaging In Corruption and Civil Right Abuses.”

Reward Offered for Information on the Hit and Run that Killed a Probation Officer

On Wednesday, a 50 thousand dollar reward was offered for any information that may lead to the arrest and conviction of the person who committed the fatal hit and run that killed Kenneth Hamilton, an employee with the Los Angeles County Probation Department.

On October 28, Kenneth Hamilton was struck and killed, while riding his Continue reading “Reward Offered for Information on the Hit and Run that Killed a Probation Officer”

California Punishes Sex Offenders Who Tamper With Their GPS Devices

California Governor Jerry Brown

California Governor Jerry Brown

On Saturday Governor Jerry Brown signed legislation requiring sex offenders who disarm or disable their GPS trackers while on parole to return to jail.

A recent investigation showed that because of jail crowding many sex offenders who were detained for tampering with their GPS devices were released immediately after they were Continue reading “California Punishes Sex Offenders Who Tamper With Their GPS Devices”

Undocumented Immigrants in California Will be Eligible to Receive a Driver’s License

Luis Alejo (left) being congratulated by fellow lawmakers on AB60

Joining nine other states and the District of Columbia, California is giving driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants. An issues that has come up many times in recent years, California was among the first states to give driver’s licenses for undocumented immigrants consideration.

Senator Gil Cedillo Continue reading “Undocumented Immigrants in California Will be Eligible to Receive a Driver’s License”

Deputy of the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department Charge With Lewd Acts with a Minor

Deputy John Rose (left) along with a colleague.

John Augustus Rose, A deputy of the Los Angeles county sheriff’s department was arrested after allegations of him having sexual relation with an underage girl arose.

When the sheriff’s department became aware of the allegations against deputy Rose, they immediately commenced an investigation to look into the matter. Continue reading “Deputy of the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department Charge With Lewd Acts with a Minor”

How the War on Drugs is Changing

Currently, the United States imprisons more people than any other country, a large portion of U.S. prisoners are there because of drug sentencing policies that are not helping people in need, instead they are throwing nonviolent drug offenders into state prisons along with violent criminals.

Because of the policies and mandatory minimums that are tied Continue reading “How the War on Drugs is Changing”

Costs of a first time DUI

In the United States, DUIs are the most frequently committed crimes. It is estimated that DUIs account for 32% of all fatal car accidents.

Because of the dangers of drunk driving, strict penalties have been put in place for DUI offenders. For a first time DUI you could face jail time, loose your driver’s license Continue reading “Costs of a first time DUI”

Felony DUI

Under California law driving under the influence is usually a misdemeanor offense. Unlike in other states, in California blood alcohol level has no impact on how the offense is charged. There are only three factors that can make a DUI a felony instead of a misdemeanor.

4 or more subsequent DUIs within a period Continue reading “Felony DUI”

Applying for Deferred Action (DACA)

On June 15, 2012, the Secretary of Homeland Security announced that certain young people who were brought to this country illegally through no fault of their own, will be allowed to apply for deferred action for a period of two years.

The requirement for applying are as follows:

  • You must have been 15 years of age or younger at the time of your arrival to the U.S.
  • You must have lived in the U.S. a minimum of 5 consecutive years prior to the release of the memorandum that made deferred action possible
  • You must be a current student or must have graduated from school in the U.S. or have an honorable discharge from the armed services.
  • You must be under the age of 30.
  • You should not have a felony on your record, or certain misdemeanors.

Even though deferred action will make your status in this country legal, it does not equal citizenship or permanent residency. Deferred action is a 2 year deferral from any type of removal action. If deferred action is granted, you may also be given employment authorization.

Even if you are currently facing removal proceedings, you can still apply for deferred action if you meet all the requirements stated above.

In order to apply for deferred action, the USCIS will require you to fill out three forms.

  • Form I-821D
  • Form I-765
  • Form I-765WS https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/forms/i-765ws.pdf

Before submitting these forms to the USCIS, they must be filled out completely and accompanied by the required fees and all documentation required. Please read each form’s instructions carefully and verify all the information is correct before submitting them.

If your application does not include the required fees, the USCIS will not consider your application. The fees for the form listed above total $465 dollars, this includes the fee for each form and a biometric services fee.

DOCUMENTATION

In order to prove that you meet the guidelines for deferred action, you must provide the documentation required by form I-812D. Below we will explain the documentation required and provide an example for each one.

Proof of Identity:

This must be a document bearing your name and a photo of you, such as a passport, birth certificate, school or military ID or any U.S. government document that has the required information.

Proof that you were in the U.S. before turning 16:

This may be any document that states your date of entry, such as a passport with an admission stamp or school records proving you attended school in the U.S. before the age of 16. You may also provide any travel records or medical records that prove you were in the country before your 16th birthday.

Proof of Immigration status:

In order to apply you must provide documentation that shows your current immigration status, such as an expired visa. If you entered without inspection (EWI) you don’t need to provide proof of your immigration status.

Proof of Presence in the U.S.

You must prove that you were here on June 15, 2012 or that you continuously resided in the U.S. since June 15 2007. What you provide for this will vary depending on your current situation, it may be rent receipts, military records, school records, passport entries, birth certificates of children born in the U.S. dated bank transactions, insurance policies, or tax receipts.

The documents stated above are only a few examples of the documentation you may provide in order to proof your presence in the U.S.

Proof of Student Status or Honorable Military Discharge:

School records from your current school, or your high school diploma or GED will be required along with your application. If you are submitting proof of an honorable military discharge, you must provide a certificate of release, discharge from active duty, military personnel records, military health records or your record of service.

Once you have gathered the required documentation, filled out all the required forms, gathered all the fees and submitted everything to the USCIS lockbox, you will have to wait for the USCIC to contact you. Once they receive your packet, they will review it for completeness, if everything is in order they will send you a receipt, followed by a notice for the biometrics services appointment. Missing you biometrics appointment can delay the process of your application, and can even lead to your application being denied.

If the USCIS requires any more information or documentation, they will contact you and may require you to appear the USCIS office. The USCIS will notify every individual who applied for deferred action of its determination by mail.

Blood Alcohol Content

In the United States it is illegal to drive with a BAC (blood alcohol content) level of 0.08% or higher. For a minor the legal limit is lower at 0.01%. BAC level will be used as evidence to prove that a person was driving while intoxicated.

If you are pulled over for a DUI Continue reading “Blood Alcohol Content”

High School Teacher Facing One Year in Jail After Pleading Guilty to Six Counts of Sex Crimes

Elizabeth Whitehurst at her trial in San Bernardino County

A former High school teacher is facing a year in jail after she plead guilty to sex crimes she committed with three of her students. Laura Elizabeth Whitehurst, 28, faced 41 felony counts of sex crimes, on Wednesday she plead guilty to two counts for oral copulation and Continue reading “High School Teacher Facing One Year in Jail After Pleading Guilty to Six Counts of Sex Crimes”

DUI penalties

In the United States there is a DUI-related fatality every hour, because of this most states have made their laws and penalties regarding DUIs more severe, especially when dealing with repeat offenders.

Here we have an overview of the most common penalties you will face when charged with a DUI

Fines:

Fines for DUI cases Continue reading “DUI penalties”

Hollywood’s Roaming Robbers

Band of robbers in Hollywood Boulevard

Tuesday night a band of robbers tore through Hollywood Boulevard. Police believe these are the same juveniles who broke off from the Zimmerman protest in the Crenshaw district and attacked people earlier this week.

Los Angeles Police Department’s Sergeant Johnson said “I think this specific group came up to Continue reading “Hollywood’s Roaming Robbers”

Largest Prison Hunger Strike in California History

Supporters of the inmates protesting outside twin towers correction facility

Monday morning nearly 30,000 inmates stopped eating in order to protest prison conditions and rules. The protest has spread over two-thirds of California prisons, and many inmates are also refusing to attend their work assignments.

The strike is centered on the state’s solitary confinement practices Continue reading “Largest Prison Hunger Strike in California History”

Criminal Law

Criminal law is the area of our justice system that relates to behavior that is dangerous to the public, or damaging to society. This behavior labeled as “crime” is punishable by monetary fines, prison or jail sentences, or other means of punishment. What exactly is labeled a crime, and what its corresponding punishment is varies Continue reading “Criminal Law”