The prevalence of mental illness in the U.S. has become a hot topic, but so has the topic of mental illness and how it affects violent crime. Sometimes, those accused of violent crimes may struggle with a mental illness that affects their behavior. About 22% of all...
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When does strict parenting become domestic violence?
As a parent, you have the right to raise your children under any philosophy you see fit. While gentle parenting is the current trend, you may feel the need to implement different kinds of reprimands to modify your child’s destructive behaviors. The state of California...
The importance of obeying a restraining order
If you are in possession of a restraining order, you may be wondering what you need to do. The order will list a variety of restrictions that you must follow for a specified period of time, and not doing so results in serious consequences. There are different types of...
How must officers handle breath testing devices?
Few things can destroy an otherwise fun night on the town faster than a drunk driving stop. After all, if your blood alcohol concentration ends up being over the legal limit, you may face some harsh penalties for driving under the influence. Officers have an interest...
What’s the difference between assault and battery?
You often hear of a violent crime referred to as assault and battery. While both crimes are often combined in popular culture, the truth is that there is a significant difference between them. Understanding these differences is crucial if you or someone you love...
Domestic violence charges and restraining orders
If you are currently facing charges as a result of domestic violence allegations, you need to understand the myriad of ways in which the outcome of this case could affect your future. Sometimes, people accused of domestic violence also have to deal with a restraining...
The financial cost of a DUI conviction
If convicted of or they plead guilty to driving under the influence, people will likely face varying penalties. Although often overlooked, the financial consequences of drunk driving arrests may have a substantial and lasting impact. Understanding the potential cost...
What is the difference between first- and second-degree murder?
If you face murder charges in California, there are options the prosecutor has when chagrining you. You may face first- or second-degree murder. They are distinguished under the law. California Legislative Information explains the penalties can be similar but to prove...
Are breath test devices always accurate?
When a California law enforcement official stops you in your car and administers a breath test to see if you are under the influence, quite a bit hangs in the balance. The results of that breath test play a major role in whether you wind up facing a charge of driving...
Measuring the accuracy of breath test devices
Many law enforcement officers in California use roadside breath test devices to determine whether motorists are driving while drunk. These small hand-held devices enable officers to measure a driver's blood-alcohol level on the roadside rather than process an actual...