Even in the Most Serious Sex Crime Cases, the Law Still Controls
Even in the Most Serious Sex Crime Cases, the Law Still Controls When someone is convicted of a serious sex crime — especially one involving a child — it’s natural to assume the courts will impose the harshest penalties available. But even in these emotionally charged cases, California law sets clear limits, and courts must follow those limits. This principle was put to the test in the case of Mark…
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Can a DUI Lead to Losing Custody of Your Child?
Can a DUI Lead to Losing Custody of Your Child? When most people think about DUI penalties, they focus on the immediate consequences: jail time, fines, license suspension, and increased insurance rates. However, there's a devastating consequence that many parents don't consider until it's too late—the loss of custody of their children. A DUI conviction, especially one involving a child passenger, can trigger dependency proceedings that may result in losing…
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Want to Own a Gun? Avoid a Felony Conviction—Even a Nonviolent One
Want to Own a Gun? Avoid a Felony Conviction—Even a Nonviolent One If you value your right to own or possess a firearm, there's one thing you must understand: any felony conviction—violent or nonviolent—can permanently take that right away under federal law. A recent decision by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals made this clear. On May 10, 2025, the court upheld a federal statute that bans all felons…
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Can Prior Convictions Affect Federal Sentencing Enhancements?
Can Prior Convictions Affect Federal Sentencing Enhancements? In federal criminal cases, prior convictions can significantly impact sentencing outcomes, particularly in cases involving serious offenses. A recent federal court ruling highlights how the legal system approaches mandatory minimum sentencing enhancements when a defendant has prior convictions. This blog explains these enhancements and what they mean for those facing federal charges. Our skilled criminal defense attorneys at Wallin & Klarich can guide…
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ICE Agents Wait Outside Courthouses to Detain Undocumented Immigrants and People Are Terrified
ICE Agents Wait Outside Courthouses to Detain Undocumented Immigrants and People Are Terrified Richard Urdaneta Pulido’s papers were scattered across the floor as his girlfriend collapsed, overwhelmed by emotion, yelling his name in desperation. The 25-year-old was surrounded and apprehended by five federal immigration agents immediately after leaving an immigration courtroom in downtown Los Angeles last week. His girlfriend, whose identity remains protected for safety reasons, watched in disbelief as…
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Why You Need an Experienced Lawyer in Criminal Trials
Why You Need an Experienced Lawyer in Criminal Trials When it comes to criminal trials, even small mistakes can have long-lasting consequences. One such critical error often occurs during jury selection or in pivotal moments when objections are not raised. That single moment of inaction by a defense attorney can significantly influence the outcome of a case, even leading to the denial of an appeal. This post will unpack a…
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Newport Beach Attorney Sentenced in $8.7 Million Fraud Case: A Stark Reminder of the Stakes in White Collar Crime
Newport Beach Attorney Sentenced in $8.7 Million Fraud Case: A Stark Reminder of the Stakes in White Collar Crime A Newport Beach attorney who used her legal credentials and business connections to orchestrate a multimillion-dollar fraud scheme has been sentenced to federal prison. On May 20, 2024, Sara Jacqueline King, 41, received a 21-month sentence from U.S. District Judge David O. Carter after pleading guilty to wire fraud and money…
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Menendez Brothers Resentencing: How Resentencing Can Get You Out Of Jail Now
Menendez Brothers Resentencing: How Resentencing Can Get You Out Of Jail Now The recent resentencing of Erik and Lyle Menendez this week marks a significant turning point in one of America's most notorious murder cases. After more than three decades behind bars, the brothers have been resentenced to 50 years to life in prison, making them immediately eligible for parole—a dramatic shift from their original sentence of life without the…
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California’s 2022 Law Change and Its Impact on Accused Individuals
California’s 2022 Law Change and Its Impact on Accused Individuals The legal landscape in California underwent a significant transformation in January 2022, reshaping how certain information about accused individuals is handled. A pivotal change in the law now mandates the online publication of names and faces for those accused of specific crimes, sparking widespread concern. For accused individuals, this shift can feel like navigating uncharted waters. Whether you’re directly affected…
Read MoreMental Health Diversion is Working
Mental Health Diversion is Working For individuals caught up in the criminal justice system due to their mental health struggles, California’s mental health diversion programs represent a compassionate alternative to traditional prosecution and sentencing. These programs aim to address the root causes of criminal behavior by offering treatment instead of punishment. If you're facing legal trouble and struggling with mental health, understanding these programs could open a pathway to recovery…
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