If you are not already aware, then be forewarned; if a repair tech working on your personal computer comes across illegal material, it will likely be reported. So, let's say you have a problem with your hard drive and you need to have some data recovered. When you...
Your rights under the Sixth Amendment
If you have been arrested for allegedly committing a crime, you have good reason to be worried about your future. But one thing that can help allay your fears is having an understanding of your rights as they are allotted to you by the U.S. Constitution. And if...
What are my options for handling a shoplifting charge?
Shoplifting is a crime and being accused of pilfering something from a store can be one of the most embarrassing things that could ever happen to you. Because stores are often filled with other patrons, you could become the subject of some very unwanted attention if...
Under what circumstances can I claim entrapment?
Government agencies are very keen on getting individuals who they believe are committing serious crimes or who pose a threat to national security, off the streets and into a prison cell. But in their zealousness to pursue their view of justice, they can sometimes...
Computer Fraud and Abuse Act aims to punish hackers
As you are likely aware, the hacking of computer systems has been at the core of many news stories of late. These stories relate to hackers acquiring information that ultimately was made public and became a part of our recent presidential election. But there are a...
Can I be implicated if my roommate is arrested for selling drugs?
In a perfect world, we would all have our own apartment or even house and not have to depend on others to help us pay the rent. Unfortunately, with housing costs being what they are, many people have to share living quarters with others. When a roommate is dependable...
Selling counterfeit goods can yield serious penalties
For those with an entrepreneurial spirit, the Internet is an extremely useful tool that provides myriad ways to build a business and earn a good living. And one of the most common ways that people use the Internet to make money is through the sale of consumer goods....
Suspects facing multiple charges for Yorba Linda burglary
Being charged with burglary in California is a serious problem in and of itself. But the way the law works, it is quite likely if you are ever arrested in connection with a burglary, you will also be charged with other crimes as well. So, in addition to the possible...
Hacker who obtained personal photos of celebrities sentenced
A large part of California's mystique derives from the fact that it is home to Hollywood. And it seems the public has an insatiable appetite for information about the celebrities who live in and around the area. So much so that there is big money available for...
Differentiating between tax evasion and negligence
According to some estimates, individual taxpayers commit more tax fraud than corporations. The IRS estimates show non-conformance of the tax code by taxpayers. Not all violations can be associated with tax fraud. To understand this, one needs to understand the...