California ‘Three Strikes’ Law: How Does CA’s 3 Strikes Law Work?

Nov 15, 2023

In California, the Three Strikes Law has been a subject of debate, controversy, and concern for over two decades. Designed with the intent to deter repeat offenders and keep dangerous criminals behind bars, this law has far-reaching implications for individuals facing criminal charges in the state. 

If you or a loved one is facing a potential three-strikes scenario, do not hesitate to contact us at Manshoory Law Group for personalized legal assistance and strategic defense strategies. Call us at (877) 590-7054. 

What is the California Three Strikes Law? 

The California Three Strikes Law is a sentencing policy enacted in 1994 with the aim of imposing harsher penalties on individuals convicted of multiple serious or violent felonies. You may receive a strike on your record if you get convicted of a violent or serious felony. 

Suppose you get convicted of any felony, and you already have one strike on your record. In that case, you will get double the sentence for the new offense. 

A defendant with two prior strikes who is convicted of a third violent or serious felony faces a mandatory sentence of 25 years to life in prison. The third strike triggers the most severe consequences, often referred to as a “third strike and you’re out” law.

Note that not all felonies qualify as strikes under the law. The list of qualifying offenses includes a range of serious and violent crimes, such as the following: 

• Voluntary manslaughter or murder
• Rape
• Extortion
• Oral copulation or sodomy by force
• Carjacking
• Arson 
• Kidnapping
• Robbery
• First-degree burglary 
• Sale of PCP, methamphetamine, heroin, or cocaine to a child 
• Grand theft involving a firearm

Generally, any offense involving a firearm can qualify as a strike. Moreover, certain juvenile offenses can be counted as strikes, provided the minor was 16 years or older when they committed the offense. 

Additionally, out-of-state convictions for serious or violent felonies can count as strikes in California courts. You can also get two or more strikes at once in a single court proceeding, depending on the facts and circumstances of your case. 

Can a Court Remove Prior Strikes? 

Luckily, a court can remove a prior strike in the interests of justice. This can happen in two ways: 

• At the prosecutor’s sole discretion — In some cases, the prosecutor may choose to “strike” a strike. This is especially true if they believe that the defendant should not be treated as a striker or if the strike is too difficult for them to prove. 
• The defense filing a motion to dismiss the strike — In some cases, the defense may file a motion to remove a strike. This is commonly referred to as a “Romero” motion. Named after the legal case People v. Romero, a Romero motion allows a judge to dismiss one or more prior strikes in the interest of justice. Here, the defense’s central argument will be that enforcing the three strikes law in its entirety would result in an unjust and overly harsh sentence. 

Removing a strike is not guaranteed, and each case is considered on its own merits. Factors such as the nature of prior convictions, the current offense, and the defendant’s overall criminal history are considered. 

The Eligibility of Second and Third Strikes Defendants for Parole 

Some two and three strikers may be eligible for parole, thanks to California’s Proposition 57. Proposition 57 states that any individual convicted of a non-violent felony qualifies for parole, provided they have completed their primary sentence. 

Here, the primary sentence means the sentence imposed for the particular offense the defendant committed. It does not include the sentencing enhancements imposed due to strikes. This means that as long as a second or third striker was convicted of a non-violent felony and has completed their primary sentence, they can apply for parole. 

What is the California One Strike Law?

The California One Strike Law extends the prison sentences for individuals convicted of certain sex offenses. This law is commonly referred to as “the one-strike law” because it imposes an extended sentence from the first conviction. 

Some examples of sex offenses that can be counted as strikes under this law include the following: 

• Rape 
• Lascivious or lewd acts
• Oral copulation 
• Sodomy 
• Continuous sexual abuse of a minor 

Note that the strike is not automatically imposed for convictions of these offenses. You can only get a strike if there are certain aggravating factors in your case, such as the following: 

• You have been previously convicted of any of these sexual offenses 
• You gave the victim a controlled substance before committing the offense 
• You injured the victim 
• You kidnapped the victim 
• You bound or tied the victim 
• You used a dangerous weapon to commit the offense 

A one-strike can result in an extended sentence of 15-25 years. In some cases, the judge may impose a life sentence. 

How to Defend Yourself in a Three-Strikes Case

Defending yourself in a three-strikes case can be complex and challenging, given the severe consequences associated with multiple convictions. If you or someone you know is facing a three-strikes lawsuit in California, here are some general strategies that may be considered: 

• Challenging prior strikes — Investigate the validity of previous strikes. If there are errors in the record or the prior convictions can be successfully challenged or overturned, it may impact the application of the three strikes law.
• Negotiating a plea deal — Depending on the circumstances of the case, it may be possible to negotiate a plea deal with the prosecution. This could involve seeking reduced charges or alternative sentencing options.
• Challenging the current charges — Scrutinize the details of the current charges. A skilled attorney may be able to challenge the evidence against you, question the legality of searches or arrests, or identify other weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
• Romero motion — Consider filing a Romero motion. As we have earlier stated, this motion requests the court to dismiss one or more prior strikes in the interests of justice. The success of a Romero motion depends on various factors, including the nature of the prior convictions and the current offense.

Defending against three strikes charges requires a comprehensive understanding of criminal law and the specific circumstances surrounding your case. Consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney is highly recommended to develop a defense strategy tailored to your situation.

How Do I Appeal a Three-Strike Sentence?

You can appeal a three-strike sentence with the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney. 

Proposition 36, also known as the Three Strikes Reform Act of 2012, brought significant changes to California’s Three Strikes Law. Initially, you could be made a third striker even if the third conviction was for a non-violent or non-serious felony. Californians could be jailed for 25 years or even for life after a simple theft or drug crime conviction. 

One of the key provisions of Proposition 36 is the opportunity for resentencing for certain three-strikes convicts, specifically those whose third-strike convictions were for non-violent and non-serious offenses.

This means that if you meet the eligibility criteria, you can file a petition for resentencing. Then, the court will review the petition and assess whether resentencing is appropriate. 

If the court grants the petition, the inmate will be resentenced. The new sentence will typically reflect the second-strike penalty for the current offense rather than the 25-year or life sentence mandated by the California Three Strikes Law. In most cases, such appeals result in the inmate being released early – or immediately. 

You can also appeal a three-strike sentence on the basis that it is unusual or cruel punishment and, therefore, unconstitutional. This is especially true if the 25-year to life sentence imposed is disproportionate to the actual crime committed. 

Need a Criminal Defense Attorney? Contact Us Right Away for Professional Legal Help 

Navigating a three-strikes case demands a nuanced understanding of both the legal framework and the specific details of individual cases. If you or a loved one is grappling with the complexities of a three-strikes conviction or exploring the possibilities of Proposition 36 resentencing, our experienced team is here to offer guidance and support.

Do not face the challenges of a three-strikes case alone. Contact us at Manshoory Law Group for a free, confidential consultation. Together, we will discuss the details of your situation and explore the potential avenues for relief available to you. Call us at (877) 590-7054. 

The Most Common Crimes on Black Friday

Nov 6, 2023

Black Friday should be a day for enjoying some shopping and getting cheap deals, but Black Friday crime is actually very common, and it can have a negative impact on the event. In some cases, you might even experience Black Friday violence as the excitement of the day bubbles over and becomes an issue. Disagreements can easily turn into crazy Black Friday fights and this means that people need to take some precautions and avoid things turning into a nightmare.

If you have been the victim of Black Friday violence then you might get hurt, and that might mean a legal proceeding to follow. Even if you find the best criminal lawyers in Los Angeles, the process is something you would probably rather avoid.

Common Types of Black Friday Crimes

There are some incredible statistics about Black Friday crimes, including how many people died on Black Friday as things get out of hand in some places. What sort of crimes do we commonly see?

Negligence

When you go to the store, it is their responsibility to give you a safe space to shop within. Black Friday crime comes in a lot of different forms and one of them is negligence on the part of stores. If they have not stacked things properly and something falls on you, or if they have left a slippery or hazardous surface and you fall there is every chance that you might have a legal case against them.

Black Friday Violence

You might have seen some crazy Black Friday fights on social media as people reach for the last of the discounted items or jump the line for a store. If people are aggressive, loud, and angry then there could be a cause for disturbing the peace, but if things get physical then you will need a violent crimes lawyer to fight your case. There is no reason why you should get hurt when Black Friday shopping.

This is a common cause of Black Friday arrests, so be sure to be careful when you go to the store.

Traffic and Driving Violations

If there is a parking lot on Black Friday, things can get crazy, and accidents are not uncommon as people scramble to get to the store or ride home with their goods.

What Should You Do When Witnessing a Crime?

If you are not involved, but you witness a crime on Black Friday, there are a few things you can do to try and help:

• Call the police or get security. Don’t try and get involved yourself, this will not end well, and there is no reason for you to be involved. Instead, get a professional to come and deal with the confrontation. It’s especially urgent if medical attention is needed.
• Don’t panic. This is hard advice to follow for some people, but it is utterly essential. Keep your cool and try not to make matters worse by panicking, as you are more likely to make bad decisions if you are not in the right frame of mind.
• Try to remember faces and keep a clear account of what happened. You might be asked to provide a statement so having a recollection of what happened is pretty essential.
• Keep yourself safe. If someone has been hurt, don’t risk the same happening to you. If there is a big confrontation then there is no reason why you need to be involved and if you are with your family, ensure that you get them out of the way of any potential harm.

How Many People Died on Black Friday

It is a shocking statistic. There are 12 recorded deaths from Black Friday crimes and related incidents in the US since the shopping event became mainstream, and there are also over 100 injuries recorded. If you are injured, a lawyer is essential to ensure that you get what you are entitled to and that you don’t have to pay for your own treatments unfairly.

For most of us, it is hard to imagine Black Friday causing people to get violent enough to actually put someone at any sort of harm, but it happens. People can get enraged, and it doesn’t take too much for a “mob mentality” to kick in.

What is the Difference Between Rape and Statutory Rape?

Oct 17, 2023

Understanding the distinctions between various offenses is paramount, particularly when it comes to crimes as serious as rape and statutory rape. While both involve non-consensual sexual acts, they differ significantly in their legal definitions, consequences, and the underlying circumstances that lead to criminal charges.

The primary focus of this article is to highlight the difference between statutory rape and rape. Get in touch with us at Manshoory Law Group if you have been charged with any of these offenses. We will help you build a solid defense strategy. Call us at (877) 977-7750 for a free consultation. 

What is Statutory Rape?

In California, statutory rape refers to consensual sexual activity between an adult and a minor who cannot legally consent to sexual intercourse. The age of consent in the state is 18 years. Therefore, engaging in sexual intercourse with someone under 18, even if the minor willingly participates, is considered statutory rape.

California Penal Code Section 261.5 outlines the specifics of statutory rape. According to this statute, unlawful sexual intercourse occurs when an adult (age 18 or older) engages in consensual sexual activity with a minor (under 18). The law acknowledges that the child may willingly participate, but the rationale is that the minor lacks the legal capacity to provide valid consent.

Note that there are no “Romeo and Juliet” laws in California. Sexual activity with a minor is always illegal, even if you are close in age. 

The Penalties for Statutory Rape

Statutory rape can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. You will most likely be charged with statutory rape as a misdemeanor if the age difference between you and the victim is not more than three years. As a misdemeanor, statutory rape attracts a jail sentence of up to one year. 

On the other hand, if the age difference between the adult and the minor is greater than three years or if the minor is under 16, statutory rape is typically charged as a felony. Felony statutory rape convictions can lead to more severe penalties, including a state prison sentence of up to four years. 

What is Rape?

California Penal Code 261 defines rape as the act of engaging in sexual intercourse with another person under any of the following circumstances:

• Lack of consent — The sexual intercourse was committed against the other person’s will or under conditions in which the perpetrator knew or reasonably should have known that the other person was incapable of giving legal consent.
• Force or fear — The act was accomplished by means of force, violence, duress, menace, or fear of immediate and unlawful bodily injury on the person or another.
• Incapacitation — The victim was prevented from resisting due to intoxication, unconsciousness, or any other condition rendering them incapable of giving legal consent.

Consent is a crucial element in California’s legal definition of rape. If a person does not willingly and voluntarily agree to engage in sexual intercourse, it may be considered rape under the law. Moreover, using force, fear, or taking advantage of the victim’s incapacitation is treated seriously and may lead to rape charges.

The Penalties for Rape

In California, rape is categorized as a felony. The punishment for rape typically includes a state prison sentence of three, six, or eight years and mandatory registration as a sex offender for life. 

However, if the victim was a minor under 14, you may receive a state prison sentence of up to 13 years. Moreover, the judge will lengthen your imprisonment term to up to 11 years if the victim was between 14-17 years old. You may also receive an additional three- or five-year prison term if the victim suffered great bodily injury due to your actions. 

A rape conviction is also considered a strike under California’s Three Strikes Law. If you get convicted of another serious felony later, your penalty will be automatically doubled. Then, if you pick up a third conviction of another serious felony, you may get up to life in prison. 

Difference Between Rape and Statutory rape

Statutory rape and rape, both encompassing non-consensual sexual activity, differ significantly in their legal definitions, the role of consent, the age of involved individuals, and the corresponding penalties. Below, we discuss the difference between rape and statutory rape: 

Legal Definition

Statutory rape pertains to engaging in sexual intercourse with a minor below the legal age of consent, regardless of the minor’s willingness. The focus here is on the age of the individuals rather than the use of force or coercion. 

Conversely, rape involves engaging in sexual intercourse without the other person’s explicit consent. This is normally achieved through force, violence, or coercion.

Consent

Consent holds no legal standing in statutory rape cases. Even if the minor willingly participates, the law deems it non-consensual due to the minor’s inability to provide valid consent. In contrast, the presence or absence of consent is central in distinguishing consensual acts from rape.

Age of the Individuals

Statutory rape centers around the age difference between the parties, focusing on whether one person is below the legal age of consent. In contrast, the age of the individuals is not determinative in rape cases, where the primary consideration is the issue of consent and the potential use of force or coercion.

Penalties

Statutory rape is categorized as a wobbler, meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. The severity of the penalties varies based on the circumstances of the case. 

In contrast, rape is classified as a felony with more severe consequences. Penalties for rape may include imprisonment in state prison for up to eight years, mandatory sex offender registration for life, and other potential legal ramifications.

Legal Defense Strategies for Statutory Rape and Rape Charges 

Defending against statutory rape and rape charges requires a comprehensive legal strategy, as these are serious and complex criminal offenses. The specific approach will depend on the unique circumstances of the case, but here are some common defense strategies:

• Consent — In rape cases, consent is a central issue. If you can establish that the sexual activity was consensual and that the other party willingly participated, it can be a crucial defense. Gather evidence that supports the presence of genuine consent, such as communication records or witness statements. However, consent is not a valid defense in statutory rape cases. 
• Age of consent — In statutory rape cases, proving the alleged victim was 18 years or above can be a strong defense.
• Alibi — If you prove that you were not present at the location or time the alleged offense occurred, this can be a strong alibi defense.
• Insufficient evidence — Your attorney can challenge the prosecution’s evidence by highlighting inconsistencies, unreliable witnesses, or lack of physical evidence.
• Illegal search and seizure — Evidence obtained through an unlawful search or seizure may be inadmissible in court. Challenging the legality of the evidence can be a viable defense strategy.

Sometimes, negotiating a plea bargain may be in your best interest, such as a lesser offense or less severe penalties. This can be a strategic way to minimize the potential consequences.

The best way to build a solid defense is to consult a qualified criminal defense attorney specializing in sexual assault cases. An experienced attorney will assess the specific facts of your case, craft a strong defense, and represent your interests in court.

Need an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney? Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation 

At Manshoory Law Group, we specialize in criminal defense. We can provide expert guidance for individuals facing California statutory rape and rape charges. Our experienced attorneys are committed to safeguarding your rights, constructing a compelling defense, and pursuing the best possible outcome for your case. 

Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation, and let us stand by your side as you navigate the legal complexities ahead. Call us at (877) 977-7750.

Larceny vs Theft: What’s the Difference?

Sep 19, 2023

A lot of people aren’t sure about the specific meanings of certain legal or criminal terms, especially those that sometimes seem to be used interchangeably, like larceny vs theft. However, when it comes to theft vs larceny, there is a clear distinction. So, if you’re wondering about what is larceny and theft, this guide will cover all you need to know.

What is Larceny?

Let’s start off our larceny vs theft guide with a closer look at larceny. Larceny is the term given when someone takes the property of another person or entity unlawfully. In general, larceny is simply a type of theft, with specific elements that must be met for it to qualify as “Larceny”. Here are the main elements to watch out for:

• Taking and carrying away – In terms of larceny vs theft, larceny usually involves someone physically taking an item or piece of property from another person or group.
• Personal property of another – The term “Larceny” is usually used in situations where a physical piece of property is taken, rather than something digital or immaterial.
• Without consent – For a crime to count as larceny, the property needs to have been stolen without the consent or permission of the owner.
• With the intent to permanently deprive the owner – The ultimate aim of larceny is to take something away from an owner on a permanent basis.

Common examples of larceny may include someone shoplifting food from a store, pickpocketing a wallet from a person in the street, or stealing a bicycle that was left outside a home.

What Is Theft?

To understand what is larceny or theft, we also need to know how theft is defined. Theft is a very broad and general term for all sorts of stealing, which can include the stealing of physical items, as well as identity theft, grand theft auto, theft of a business’s intellectual property, and so on.

Just like larceny, theft has several key elements:

• Unlawful taking – Theft must involve the unlawful stealing or taking of something from another person or entity, like a group or business.
• Personal property, services, etc. – While larceny is primarily concerned with physical items, theft can also include stealing services, identities, and so on.
• Without the owner’s consent – Like larceny, theft only concerns situations where something was taken without consent from the owner.
• With the intent to permanently deprive the owner – Again, like larceny, theft must always be with the ultimate intent of taking something from the owner permanently.

Some common examples of theft may include the burglary of a home, a robbery of a business, or embezzlement of funds.

Larceny vs. Theft: What is the Difference

When we look at the overall definitions and elements of theft vs larceny, there are lots of similarities. However, every criminal defense attorney understands the difference, and it’s important to know what separates larceny from other forms of theft:

• In general, larceny is legally defined in most locations as a form of theft. Theft is a broader term that encompasses different types of stealing, while larceny is concerned with the stealing of physical property from its owner.
• There are also jurisdictional differences between larceny and theft. Some jurisdictions may treat larceny and theft the same way, but others may have slightly different definitions and interpretations, which could lead to different punishments.
• Following on from the previous point, larceny may have different punishments compared to various other forms of theft. In general, given that theft is a broader term, it can lead to a much wider range of punishments and sentences.
• Given the similarities between theft and larceny, it’s common for confusion to occur when dealing with these kinds of cases. For example, an accused individual may want to understand their employee rights when accused of theft and how those rights differ in cases of larceny. This is why it’s vital for defendants to have access to legal aid.

How Does California Define Larceny and Theft?

In general, the state of California uses the terms theft and larceny interchangeably. Crimes that involve stealing property from others can be categorized as either theft or larceny, and this can cause confusion. A Los Angeles Theft Crimes Lawyer can help defendants understand the details of their case when facing larceny charges regarding stolen items or the theft of property.

As we can see, understanding the intricacies between a theft charge or larceny criminal charges isn’t always easy. There’s a lot of confusion, especially as states can have different definitions and approaches to larceny and theft. If you’ve been charged with either crime, a criminal defense attorney can help. Contact us for a free consultation.

What is Bribery of a Witness in California?

Sep 15, 2023

Few charges hold as much weight as those involving bribery of a witness. For individuals facing such allegations, the complexities of the legal system can seem overwhelming, placing their freedom and reputation on the line. 

As a trusted criminal defense law firm dedicated to safeguarding our clients’ rights, we at Manshoory Law Group understand the anxiety and uncertainty that come with these charges. We firmly believe everyone deserves a fair chance to present their side of the story and receive diligent legal representation. Call us today at (877) 977-7750 for a free consultation if you have been charged with bribery of a witness. 

The California Legal Definition of Bribery of a Witness 

In California, bribery of a witness is a serious criminal offense that is defined under Section 137(a) of the Penal Code. This statute outlines the specific actions that constitute bribery of a witness and the potential penalties that can be imposed upon conviction.

According to the California Penal Code Section 137(a), bribery of a witness occurs when a person directly or indirectly offers, gives, or promises to give anything of value to a witness or a person about to be called as a witness, with the intent to:

• Influence testimony — Corruptly influence the testimony of the witness in an official proceeding, whether that proceeding has already commenced or is anticipated in the future.
• Induce absence — Induce the witness to be absent from any official proceeding where their testimony may be material.

Note that bribery of a witness charges are not limited to situations where a witness has been successfully influenced or where an official proceeding has been disrupted. The mere act of offering, giving, or promising something of value with the intent to achieve any of the outcomes mentioned above constitutes a criminal offense.

What the Prosecution Must Prove 

In a prosecution for bribery of a witness in California, the prosecutor must prove several key elements. These elements must be proved to the standard of beyond a reasonable doubt to secure a conviction. 

This is because they are crucial components of the case and establish the foundation for the charges against the defendant. The elements that the prosecutor must prove include the following:

• Offer, giving, or promising something of value — The prosecutor must establish that the defendant offered, gave, or promised something of value to a witness or a person about to be called as a witness. This could include money, gifts, favors, services, or any other form of consideration.
• Intent — The prosecutor must demonstrate that the defendant acted with the intent to corruptly influence the witness’s testimony or induce their absence from the legal proceedings. 
• Official proceeding — The prosecutor must establish that the witness was involved in an official proceeding. This includes any legally recognized court or administrative proceedings, such as trials, hearings, depositions, and other formal processes.
• Knowledge of witness’s role — The prosecutor must show that the defendant knew that the individual to whom they offered, gave, or promised something of value was a witness or a person about to be called as a witness.

Remember, the burden of proof lies with the prosecution. You may be acquitted if the prosecution fails to prove any of these essential elements to the required standard of beyond a reasonable doubt. 

What are the Penalties for Bribery of a Witness? 

Being convicted for bribery of a witness can lead to significant legal consequences. In California, bribery of a witness is classified as a felony. 

Generally, the penalty for bribery of a witness is an imprisonment term of up to four years. Sometimes, the judge may place the defendant on felony probation instead of or in addition to imprisonment. Typically, the probation term will last for up to two years. 

If you are a non-citizen, you may face negative immigration consequences upon conviction. For instance, you may get deported or become marked as “inadmissible.”

Possible Legal Defenses to Bribery of a Witness 

When facing charges of bribery of a witness, it is crucial to mount a strong legal defense to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case. While the specific defenses that can be employed vary depending on the unique circumstances of each case, here are some possible legal defenses that a skilled criminal defense lawyer might explore:

• Lack of intent — One of the key elements the prosecutor must prove is the intent to corruptly influence the witness’s testimony or induce their absence. If your actions were misunderstood, taken out of context, or lacked the necessary corrupt intent, your defense attorney can argue that you did not have the requisite mental state for the crime.
• Duress or coercion — If you were compelled to offer a bribe due to threats, force, or coercion from another party, you might be able to argue that you acted under duress and did not willingly engage in the bribery.
• Entrapment — If law enforcement officers induced or coerced you into committing the offense when you would not have otherwise done so, you might have a valid entrapment defense.
• Lack of knowledge — If you were unaware that the individual you offered something of value to was a witness or was about to be called as a witness, your attorney might argue that you lacked the necessary knowledge for the charge.
• Insufficient evidence — Your attorney can challenge the evidence presented by the prosecution and highlight any inconsistencies, contradictions, or lack of conclusive proof of your guilt.
• Misidentification — If there is a possibility of mistaken identity or misidentification, your attorney can present evidence to support this defense.
• Constitutional violations — If your rights were violated during the investigation or arrest process, such as illegal search and seizure or improper questioning without Miranda warnings, your attorney can argue that the evidence obtained in violation of your rights should be excluded.
• Testimonial privilege — In some cases, individuals have certain privileges that protect them from disclosing certain communications or information. If your actions were based on protected communications, your attorney can argue that the testimony should be privileged.
• Character witnesses — Your attorney may present character witnesses or evidence of your good reputation to counteract the negative portrayal presented by the prosecution.

Remember, every case is unique, and the effectiveness of these defenses will depend on the specific details of your situation. It is crucial to work closely with a skilled criminal defense lawyer who can analyze the facts, gather evidence, and craft a defense strategy tailored to your case’s strengths and weaknesses.

What Other Criminal Offenses are Related to Bribery of a Witness? 

There are three criminal offenses closely related to bribery of a witness. These criminal offenses include the following: 

• Bribery of an executive officer — Penal Code 67 states that it is unlawful to bribe an executive officer. Here, an executive officer means individuals such as the District Attorney and police officers. The general penalty for this criminal offense is an imprisonment term of a maximum of four years. 
• Bribery of a legislator — Penal Code 85 makes it illegal to bribe a legislator or use corrupt means to influence their voting decisions. Here, a “legislator” includes state legislators and those of a city or county board. The punishment for this offense is an imprisonment term of a maximum of four years. 
• Bribery of a judicial officer — Penal Code 92 makes it a felony to offer or give a bribe to a judicial officer, such as a judge, arbitrator, or juror. The penalty for this offense is a state prison sentence of up to four years. 

Noting the grievous penalties associated with these offenses, you will need to build a solid defense strategy if you have been charged with any of them. Hiring a skilled criminal defense lawyer can greatly bolster your chances of winning the case. 

Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer? Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation!

If you find yourself charged with bribery of a witness, take the proactive step of securing experienced legal representation. Our team at Manshoory Law Group is here to listen, understand, and advocate for you. 

Your future is worth protecting, and we are ready to guide you through this complex legal journey. Do not navigate these charges alone. Call us today at (877) 977-7750 for a free consultation, and let us start building your defense.