Surveillance by law enforcement has had extensive growth in recent years, advancing capabilities to an often-worrisome level. Inarguably, it has made it easier to capture criminals. But it has led to some sober ethical questions, as well. License Plate Readers What could possibly be troublesome about automated license plate readers…
Articles Posted in Criminal Defense
Fire Forensics and Arson Investigations
Have you been charged with arson? If so, an emotionally charged trial could be in your future. That’s because when fire destroys property and life itself, it is difficult to ignore the catastrophic impacts. It is up to prosecutors to prove that a fire was intentionally set, and that is…
Hate Crimes in California
A crime that is motivated by certain characteristics outlined in state and/or federal law can be charged as a hate crime. Penalties may be increased beyond typical guidelines for the original crime. In other words, a sentence that might normally be for ten years could be extended by months or…
California Concealed Carry Laws
If you imagined that it was no big deal to carry a concealed firearm in California even though you did not have a permit to do so, you could not be more mistaken. It is a misdemeanor crime and could land you behind bars for a full year, on top…
Bail Hearings and More
After an arrest, anyone could be worried about the possibility of a lengthy jail stay while awaiting trial. It is important for you to make immediate contact with the aggressive and experienced legal team at Boertje & Associates. Our attorneys will fight for pretrial release. Having an attorney who can…
Understanding Grand Jury Indictments
If you have been indicted for a federal crime, or with any capital crime or felony at the state level– you likely have questions about the grand jury process. It is a procedure that is cloaked in secrecy, making it something of a mystery to the public. While we hear…
Charges of Violating a Protective Order
If you have been accused of violating a protective order, you are not alone. Studies indicate that half of all survivors of domestic violence who have obtained protective orders in the country report their abusers violate those orders, with a result of escalating violence. When those orders are violated, survivors…
Questions to Ask When You Need a Criminal Defense Attorney
If you have had a run-in with the law, make no mistake: hiring the wrong criminal defense attorney is a regret you will carry long into the future. You want someone whose communication style fits your own, and who can help you to understand exactly what the strategy is, what…
Law Enforcement Accountability
Are police accountable when misconduct occurs? Police have difficult jobs, there is no question about it. They deal with dangerous criminals and have to make weighty decisions in the blink of an eye. Monday-morning quarterbacking their decisions has become a national pastime for some, and they know they can expect…
Defending Against Charges of Date Rape
When someone is accused of acquaintance rape, or date rape, the charge is exactly the same as for any other rape. The fact that the parties knew one another is beside the point. A guilty verdict could result in prison time and having to register as a sex offender. The…