San Diego Criminal Defense Blog

October 27, 2023 | Domestic Violence | Peter Blair

Is Domestic Violence a Felony in California?

Understanding the scope of domestic violence charges is essential for defendants in California, especially given the severity of penalties that it carries. In some situations, domestic violence charges can be felonies, and in others, they will be charged as misdemeanors. The categorization depends heavily on specific circumstances surrounding individual crimes, such as the degree of […]

September 30, 2023 | DUI | Peter Blair

What You Need to Know About DUI Classes

A DUI (driving under the influence) conviction can have a lasting impact, both on your life and driving record. However, you can reduce those impacts, learn from your mistakes, and move forward with a DUI class. These DUI classes are offered as part of a restorative justice approach. Restorative justice is a broader philosophy that […]

August 31, 2023 | Criminal Law | Peter Blair

How Does a Felony Conviction Impact Your Life?

If you are currently facing felony charges, it has probably consumed your life. Talking with your lawyer, attending court dates, and following rules from the judge can take up all of your time and mental energy. You may be worried that if convicted, you will go to jail or face other types of punishment. These […]

August 2, 2023 | Criminal Defense | Peter Blair

Aggravating Factors in California

Understanding aggravating factors in a criminal case is crucial because they can influence the outcome significantly. Aggravating factors in criminal cases are elements or circumstances that increase the severity or culpability of a criminal act. They’re considered by courts while deciding penalties, potentially leading toward harsher sentencing. Common Examples of Aggravating Factors in California Criminal […]

July 25, 2023 | Criminal Defense | Peter Blair

How Do I Clear My Record? What You Need To Know About Record Expungement

Expungement is a legal procedure that clears or removes certain convictions from your criminal record. If you’ve been granted an expungement, under most circumstances, it’s as if the conviction never happened. In California, this is known as “cleaning your record.” The guilty verdict or guilty plea is changed to not guilty, and the case is […]

July 18, 2023 | Domestic Violence | Peter Blair

Are Domestic Violence Charges a Felony in California?

A criminal charge for domestic violence is a serious offense that may result in severe legal consequences. A person who is charged with domestic violence may also face collateral consequences if convicted that can affect their legal rights to custody, employment, state and federal benefits, and liberties, such as the right to possess a firearm, […]

July 18, 2023 | Domestic Violence | Peter Blair

What Can Be Used as Evidence in Domestic Violence Cases?

Legal proceedings surrounding domestic violence cases can be incredibly complicated and emotionally charged. Contrary to common stereotypes, anyone can be affected by such harmful situations—male or female, wealthy or impoverished. If allegations of domestic violence have been brought against you, understanding what the charges are and developing potential strategies of defense are essential steps. What […]

May 27, 2023 | Battery | Peter Blair

Aggravated Battery on a Pregnant Woman

The crime of aggravated battery is a serious offense in California that can result in severe legal penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, fines, and more. If the alleged victim is a pregnant woman, even more serious consequences could result in some cases. If you are facing these charges, it is crucial to understand the elements […]

May 25, 2023 | Domestic Violence | Peter Blair

How Much Does a Domestic Violence Attorney Cost?

If you’re facing a charge of domestic assault and battery, hiring a criminal defense attorney to represent you is essential. But one question on most people’s minds is how much does a domestic violence attorney cost? The answer is that it depends on several factors, including: Read on to learn more about the cost of […]

April 19, 2023 | Criminal Defense | Peter Blair

Everything You Need To Know About House Arrest

House arrest is a type of alternative sentence that may be offered to certain offenders as part of their plea bargain or sentencing. It mandates them to stay at home for a specified amount of time and to follow additional regulations, such as curfews and mandatory drug testing. In addition, the defendant must wear an […]