If you’re arrested in Van Nuys, you may soon go through the bail and bond process. But understanding the difference between bail and bond can be confusing. Here’s a summary from the Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling. What Is Bail Under California Law? Bail is money paid to the court to release someone […]
Your first date in criminal court can feel stressful, especially if you have never been inside a courtroom before. Here are some practical tips for your first court appearance from the Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling. Knowing what to expect and how to respond can provide immense comfort on the day of your hearing. […]
Being pulled over by law enforcement in Van Nuys can be intimidating. In the United States, the Fourth Amendment provides essential protections against unreasonable searches and seizures. However, many people feel uncertain about how to respond in these situations or what their rights are during questioning or searches. Drivers should understand their traffic stop rights […]
Facing a murder charge in Los Angeles is as serious as it gets. Even small mistakes during the legal process can have major consequences on your future. Fighting a murder case often comes down to the evidence against you and whether you have a skilled criminal defense attorney on your side. What Are the […]
When people hear “murder,” they might assume every case carries the same legal weight. But under California homicide law, there are distinct degrees of murder, and the consequences for a conviction differ dramatically. Understanding first-degree murder vs. second-degree murder is crucial when you’re facing charges. Degrees of Murder Charges California recognizes two principal degrees […]
Convincing a prosecutor or judge to dismiss your Los Angeles criminal case is an optimal outcome that can give you a fresh start. However, not all dismissals are the same. Some cases get thrown out completely, while others are dismissed without prejudice. Understanding what it means to have a case dismissed without prejudice could have […]
Federal criminal law outlines activities constituting identity theft under 18 U.S.C. § 1028. Violating this statute exposes a person to severe criminal penalties, including potentially significant prison time. What Is 18 U.S.C § 1028? 18 U.S.C. § 1028 is a federal law that criminalizes identity document fraud. It covers the making, use, and […]
When deployed effectively, an alibi is one of the strongest strategies a criminal defendant can raise in their defense. Here’s what the alibi defense means, how it works, and — crucially — why your case is best handled by a Van Nuys criminal defense attorney. What Is an Alibi Defense? An alibi defense contends […]
Are you facing federal criminal charges in Los Angeles? You need to know that you’ve been accused of a serious crime. Federal cases involve significant penalties, experienced prosecutors, and complex legal procedures that differ considerably from state cases. With your future at stake, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands the unique challenges […]
When federal officials charge you with a crime, understanding your rights and what steps to take can put you in the best position to seek a favorable resolution to your case. At the Law Office of Justin E. Sterling, we believe knowledge is power. Here’s what to know if you’ve been arrested for a federal […]
