Manslaughter is when someone kills another person without planning or intending to do so. In California, there are two types of manslaughter: voluntary and involuntary. Both are serious crimes, but the punishments can be different depending on the situation. Voluntary...
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Violent Crimes
What should you know about assault charges?
Assault charges in California can carry serious penalties and long-term consequences. Many people think assault only means physically injuring someone, but the law defines it more broadly. Understanding more about assault helps explain how the state approaches these...
Know your rights about carrying knives
When in California, it can be rather easy to wind up in trouble over the state’s strict knife laws. Known for being intentionally ambiguous as a deterrent to carrying knives, the laws can be difficult to interpret. These knives are banned Without exception, all of the...
What is California’s felony murder law?
Here in California, there is a felony murder law that some defendants run afoul of when committing another crime that is not murder. It can be confusing as to which other crimes trigger the felony murder statute. Learn more below. What you should know California Penal...
Is a “citizen’s arrest” legal in California?
Many people think of a “citizen’s arrest” as something from previous centuries. In fact, they are still legal throughout the U.S. – including here in California. Our readers may have even seen or read about incidents during the January wildfires where Los Angeles area...
What defines voluntary manslaughter?
Not every killing leads to a murder charge. In California, voluntary manslaughter is a separate offense that involves serious consequences but hinges on different facts. If emotions run high and someone dies during the heat of the moment, the law may treat that...
What are the gun laws in California that everyone should know?
California has some of the strictest gun laws in the United States, so residents and visitors must understand exactly what’s allowed so they don’t run afoul of the law. In general, all firearm purchases require going through a licensed dealer. California prohibits...
When can police officers search your home?
Hearing a loud knock on your door that’s followed by an announcement that the visitors are police officers can be a stressful situation. It’s critical for you to know your rights and exactly what’s allowable in these situations. One of the most important things for...
Do road rage incidents count as violent crime?
Road rage incidents can lead to serious legal consequences in California. While road rage isn't a specific charge, actions from it can result in violent crime charges. Aggressive driving behaviors, even without physical contact, can still escalate into charges with...
What qualifies as a violent crime in California?
In California, violent crimes are offenses where a person uses force or the threat of force against another individual. These crimes carry serious consequences and can result in lengthy prison sentences and significant fines. Understanding what constitutes a violent...
