Can a Victim Drop Sex Crime Charges in California? Introduction It’s a common misconception that a victim can “drop the charges” in a sex crime case. In reality, once a report is filed and the case is in the hands of law enforcement or prosecutors, the decision to pursue charges lies entirely with the state—not…
How Sex Crime Charges Affect Child Custody in California Introduction If you’re facing sex crime charges in California and are involved in a custody battle, the allegations can significantly impact your parental rights. Family courts place the highest priority on a child’s safety and well-being, and even unproven accusations can tip the scales against you…
Sex Crime Allegations and Professional Licenses in California Introduction If you’re a licensed professional in California—such as a nurse, teacher, real estate agent, attorney, or medical provider—a sex crime allegation can threaten more than just your freedom. It can also jeopardize your career, credential, and ability to earn a living. Licensing boards take these allegations…
Can a Sex Crime Conviction Affect Your Right to Own a Firearm in California? Introduction Many people are surprised to learn that a sex crime conviction in California can result in the permanent loss of their firearm rights. Whether the offense is classified as a felony or certain types of misdemeanors, a conviction can lead…
Expungement for Sex Crime Convictions in California: What’s Possible? Introduction Many people convicted of sex crimes in California wonder if they can ever clear their record. While expungement laws in California offer post-conviction relief for a wide range of offenses, not all sex crimes are eligible. The eligibility depends on the specific charge, sentence served,…
Petitioning for Removal from the California Sex Offender Registry Introduction Thanks to California’s tiered sex offender registration system, many individuals who were once required to register for life may now be eligible to petition for removal. This process allows qualifying registrants to ask the court to end their registration requirement once they have completed the…
The Impact of Drug Charges on Immigration Status Introduction If you are not a U.S. citizen, being charged with a drug offense in California can have devastating consequences on your immigration status. Even a seemingly minor conviction—like simple possession—can trigger deportation, denial of naturalization, or a permanent ban from reentering the United States. For immigrants,…
California Drug Courts: An Alternative to Jail Time Introduction For non-violent drug offenders in California, drug court can offer a second chance. Instead of traditional prosecution and sentencing, eligible defendants can enter a structured treatment program supervised by the court. Successful completion may result in reduced charges—or even dismissal—making drug court an excellent option for…
How to Challenge a Positive Drug Test in a Criminal Case Introduction In many drug-related criminal cases, a positive drug test is treated as powerful evidence by the prosecution. However, drug tests are not infallible. False positives, lab errors, and violations of testing procedures can all result in inaccurate or misleading results. If you’ve been…
How Diversion Programs Can Help in Drug Crime Cases Introduction If you’ve been charged with a non-violent drug offense in California, you may not have to face jail time or a criminal conviction. Diversion programs offer qualifying defendants the chance to complete treatment, education, or rehabilitation in exchange for the dismissal of charges. These programs…
