Synopsis of the 18 USC 3553(a) Factors in a Federal Sentencing Hearing?
The 3553(a) factors are a set of guidelines outlined in the United States Sentencing Guidelines (USSG) that judges must consider when determining the appropriate sentence for a defendant convicted of a federal crime. These factors are listed in 18 U.S.C. § 3553(a) and are designed to promote consistency and fairness in sentencing. The 3553(a) factors […]
What is the Difference Between Felony and Misdemeanor PC 273.5(a)?
In the United States criminal justice system, a felony and a misdemeanor are two different types of criminal offenses. The primary difference between the two is the severity of the punishment that can be imposed upon conviction. A felony is considered the most serious type of crime and is punishable by imprisonment for more than […]
What is the Difference Between Felony and Misdemeanor Stalking? PC 646.9
Stalking is a criminal offense that involves repeatedly following, harassing, or threatening another person in a way that causes them to feel fearful or distressed. Under California Penal Code 646.9, stalking can be charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the specific circumstances of the case. The main difference between felony and […]
Explanation of Federal PPP Loan Fraud
The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) was a federal loan program established in 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The program was designed to help small businesses and non-profit organizations keep their employees on payroll during the economic downturn caused by the pandemic. The PPP loan program was a crucial lifeline for many businesses, but […]
Does the Mistake in Age Defense Apply to PC 288(a)?
Penal Code 288(a) prohibits lewd or lascivious acts with a child under the age of 14 in California. This means that if an individual engages in any type of sexual conduct with a child under the age of 14, they can be charged with this crime. One defense that is commonly raised in cases involving […]
Synopsis of the Menendez Brothers Criminal Trial in Los Angeles
The Menendez brothers’ trial was a high-profile criminal case in the United States that took place in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The defendants, Lyle and Erik Menendez were charged with the murder of their wealthy parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez, who was shot and killed in their Beverly Hills home on August 20, […]
What if You Violated a Restraining Order? PC 273.6
Violating a restraining order in California is a criminal offense and is covered under Penal Code 273.6. This code makes it illegal for a person to intentionally or recklessly violates the terms of a restraining order, also known as a “protective order.” If someone is found to have violated a restraining order, they can face […]
What is the Difference Between Petty Theft and Grand Theft Under California Law?
In California, petty theft and grand theft are defined and punished under Penal Codes 484 and 487(a) respectively. The main difference between the two is the value of the property stolen. Petty theft, defined under Penal Code 484, is the unlawful taking of property with a value of $950 or less. This can include things […]
