Former Councilwoman Pleads Not Guilty to Charges of Battery and VandalismPosted on: August 21, 2012 at 11:10 p.m.In what is turning out to be an incredibly complicated case, a former San Fernando city councilwoman has pleaded not guilty to charges of battery and vandalism while the alleged victim in the crime appeared in the courtroom and called for charges to be completely dropped. Maribel De La Torre was having an affair with married former councilman Mario Hernandez when the two had an argument on June 28th that allegedly turned violent. De La Torre is accused of attacking Hernandez, including punching, slapping, choking and pushing him, as well as smashing both his laptop computer and a glass frame. De La Torre maintains that she was acting in self defense and is innocent of the charges against her. When asked about the current state of her relationship with Hernandez, she replied that there was “no relationship,” though Hernandez has been at both of her court appearances and has declared that he will not testify against her. Outside the courthouse, Hernandez reiterated that he did not intend to testify and instead called attention to what he believed was improper handling of the case by the San Fernando Police Department. He would not elaborate on what he meant by the statement. The apparent truce aside, Hernandez asked for, and was granted, a temporary restraining order against De La Torre on July 3rd of last year. Two days later, on July 5th, De La Torre also filed for a temporary restraining order against Hernandez, indicating that she believed Hernandez was the aggressor, not her. Later in July both Hernandez and De La Torre agreed to drop their respective restraining orders and settle the matter privately. Hernandez’s assertion that he will not testify against De La Torre, as well as his call to have the charges against her dropped, are falling on deaf ears. Under state laws, if evidence of domestic abuse is found by law enforcement agents, charges against the alleged perpetrator can still move forward. Anyone familiar with domestic violence laws can tell you that alleged victims of domestic abuse can and frequently do either recant their stories or decide not to press charges against their abusers. These laws were put in place in part to prevent people from staying in potentially abusive and even dangerous relationships and endangering their safety. Since Hernandez, who has resigned from his post as council man, is still considered a witness to a crime, prosecutors maintain that he can still be ordered to take the stand and testify. It remains to be seen, however, what would happen if he simply refused to answer questions while on the stand. Tagged as: battery, domestic violence pc 273_5, los angeles battery defense, Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney, los angeles criminal defense attorney, los angeles domestic violence defense attorney, san fernando violent crime defense lawyer, vandalism pc 594 Former Councilwoman Pleads Not Guilty to Charges of Battery and VandalismPosted on: August 21, 2012 at 11:10 p.m.In what is turning out to be an incredibly complicated case, a former San Fernando city councilwoman has pleaded not guilty to charges of battery and vandalism while the alleged victim in the crime appeared in the courtroom and called for charges to be completely dropped. Maribel De La Torre was having an affair with married former councilman Mario Hernandez when the two had an argument on June 28th that allegedly turned violent. De La Torre is accused of attacking Hernandez, including punching, slapping, choking and pushing him, as well as smashing both his laptop computer and a glass frame. De La Torre maintains that she was acting in self defense and is innocent of the charges against her. When asked about the current state of her relationship with Hernandez, she replied that there was “no relationship,” though Hernandez has been at both of her court appearances and has declared that he will not testify against her. Outside the courthouse, Hernandez reiterated that he did not intend to testify and instead called attention to what he believed was improper handling of the case by the San Fernando Police Department. He would not elaborate on what he meant by the statement. The apparent truce aside, Hernandez asked for, and was granted, a temporary restraining order against De La Torre on July 3rd of last year. Two days later, on July 5th, De La Torre also filed for a temporary restraining order against Hernandez, indicating that she believed Hernandez was the aggressor, not her. Later in July both Hernandez and De La Torre agreed to drop their respective restraining orders and settle the matter privately. Hernandez’s assertion that he will not testify against De La Torre, as well as his call to have the charges against her dropped, are falling on deaf ears. Under state laws, if evidence of domestic abuse is found by law enforcement agents, charges against the alleged perpetrator can still move forward. Anyone familiar with domestic violence laws can tell you that alleged victims of domestic abuse can and frequently do either recant their stories or decide not to press charges against their abusers. These laws were put in place in part to prevent people from staying in potentially abusive and even dangerous relationships and endangering their safety. Since Hernandez, who has resigned from his post as council man, is still considered a witness to a crime, prosecutors maintain that he can still be ordered to take the stand and testify. It remains to be seen, however, what would happen if he simply refused to answer questions while on the stand. Tagged as: battery, domestic violence pc 273_5, los angeles battery defense, Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney, los angeles criminal defense attorney, los angeles domestic violence defense attorney, san fernando violent crime defense lawyer, vandalism pc 594 Former Detective Charged With Wife's MurderPosted on: May 16, 2012 at 6:20 p.m.A retired detective for the Los Angeles Police Department was arrested Monday night at his home in Hawaii after recent evidence suggested he may have been responsible for his wife’s death in 2006. Dan DeJarnette, who is now 59 years old, worked for the LAPD‘s Van Nuys station before retiring in 2003 and moving to Hawaii. His wife, Yu DeJarnette, was reportedly found by her husband dead and lying on a bed of lava near their home in November of 2006. While her death was initially ruled an accident, Dan DeJarnette was arrested two days later when autopsy findings indicated that his wife had actually died of head trauma. DeJarnette was released because of a lack of evidence. Investigators revisited the case in January and, after examining the DNA evidence more closely, were able to secure a warrant for DeJarnette’s arrest. The former detective was indicted on charges of second-degree murder on Tuesday and remains in police custody in Hawaii with bail set at $200,000. As an experienced Los Angeles Criminal Attorney will tell you, anyone can be accused of serious crimes, even if they work for law enforcement agencies. If you are a law enforcement officer and have been arrested for a criminal act, you may already know that before you say anything to investigators, you need to ask to speak to a attorney immediately. At Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin, LLP, we have been rated in the top 5% of criminal defense attorneys nationwide by a recognized attorney review service for several consecutive years. Our attorneys also include a California state bar certified criminal law specialist, a former criminal prosecutor, a former Senior District Attorney and even a professor of law at both Pepperdine University and the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA). Your attorney knows how to expertly defend you against criminal charges because their extensive knowledge and experience helps them anticipate moves by prosecutors in your case. If you are facing criminal charges, knowing people within various law enforcement agencies may not protect you, but the right lawyer can make all the difference in the world. Tagged as: Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney Rapper's Son Arrested in Las Vegas for RobberyPosted on: March 12, 2012 at 3:22 a.m.Grtis Ivey, the son of rapper Coolio, was arrested in Las Vegas last November after he reportedly robbed an apartment with a prostitute. The 22-year-old Grtis is the oldest son of the rapper and appeared on the reality television show “Coolio’s Rules” along with his famous father. According to reports, Grtis, who was called Artis on the television show, broke into a Las Vegas apartment in late October of last year and, at gunpoint, forced the occupant into the apartment’s restroom while he and prostitute Shantrice Wilkerson swept the apartment for valuables before leaving. The story goes that Wilkerson met a man named Joseph Hall at a nightclub in the Luxor hotel in Las Vegas on October 26th. Wilkerson reportedly told Hall that it was her dream to have sex on a pile of cash. Hall, who didn’t know that Wilkerson was a prostitute, took her back to his apartment to pull out $5,000 in cash from a safe. The couple then went to Wilkerson’s apartment where she reportedly asked to be paid up front. At that point, Hall is said to have left. Wilkerson, however, brought Ivey back to Hall’s apartment three days later to rob it. Hall was reportedly not at home when Ivey and Wilkerson arrived, but his roommate was. Ivey and Wilkerson are said to have taken a safe, two iPads, two laptop computers, passports and several other items before leaving. Both Wilkerson and Ivey were arrested on November 14th and were identified by the roommate. Both are being charged with robbery with a deadly weapon, kidnapping and larceny, though they deny having entered the apartment with a gun. Ivey was being held without bail until his court appearance on March 12th. If you are in need of an experienced Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney, call the offices of Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin, LLP today. Our attorneys have over five decades of collective experience in defending people like you against criminal charges of all types, including serious criminal offenses such as robbery and kidnapping. Criminal cases are rarely as black and white as they seem. Our attorneys work with our very own private investigator in order to gather any evidence in your favor. We will also closely examine all the details of your case to make sure law enforcement agents did their jobs correctly in arresting you as well as gathering evidence against you. Criminal charges such as robbery and kidnapping are serious, but you do have options. Call us at 1-877-781-1570 to speak to a find out what yours are. Tagged as: Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney 16-Year-Old Arrested for Murder In DowntownPosted on: November 13, 2011 at 6:36 a.m.A 16-year-old high school student was arrested for murder after gunning down a classmate near the 3rd Street Tunnel in downtown Los Angeles. The young man, whose name has not been released because he is a minor, had reportedly had a dispute with another 16-year-old classmate during the day at Central High School, a continuation school both boys were attending. The two boys were reportedly members of rival gangs and met after school was done for the day in mid-October at the 3rd Street Tunnel to resolve their dispute. The victim was shot multiple times in the torso and taken to nearby Los Angeles County U.S.C. medical center where he died of his wounds. The shooter was arrested while still armed at the scene of the crime by a local policeman who happened to be passing by and saw the incident. The defendant was taken to Eastlake Juvenile Hall and is still awaiting trial. As any experienced Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney can attest, murder is a very serious crime, even for someone who is still a minor. The same Attorney can also tell you that crimes committed by minors are often treated very differently from crimes committed by adults. Children even have a completely different court system to deal with their criminal behavior and the appropriate punishments. An experienced lawyer knows that the criminal justice system that deal with children typically approaches them more with an eye to rehabilitate rather than simply punish. In recent times, however, many politicians gain favor with constituents by enacting "tough on crime" laws that still affect minors profoundly. For example, the experienced Attorney knows that the state of California's tough "Three Strikes" laws have been applied to minors. Under Three Strikes laws, a person who commits three eligible felony criminal offenses can be sent to a state prison for life. These sentences can be applied to crimes as serious as murder or assault, as well as seemingly smaller crimes such as theft, vandalism or drug possession crimes. If your child has been arrested for a criminal offense, call the offices of Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin, LLP today at 1-877-781-1570 to speak to a Defense Attorney about your son or daughter's case. Our attorneys have decades of experience in defending children and teenagers against criminal charges of all types and we know how to provide you and your child with the aggressive, experienced legal counsel you need at an important juncture in your lives. Tagged as: juvenile crime, juvenile law, Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney Actor Suspected of Murdering Cell MatePosted on: October 21, 2011 at 2:01 a.m.Former actor Joe Son is the prime suspect in the murder of an inmate in a California prison after prison officials found a body in his cell last week. Son is suspected of murdering a 50-year-old inmate who was serving a 2-year prison sentence for failing to register as a sex offender. Son, who was sharing a cell with the unidentified victim at the Wasco State Prison in Central California, was serving a life sentence after being convicted on charges of conspiracy to commit torture and murder. Son, who is best known as an actor for his role as Random Task in "Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery," was found guilty in September of this year of torture and murder stemming from a brutal Christmas Eve, 1990 rape and torture of a young woman in Orange County, California. Son and an accomplice were accused of kidnapping a young woman who was out looking around at Christmas decorations, then repeatedly raped and tortured her before releasing her with her underwear tied around her eyes. The case went unsolved for nearly 20 years until 2008 when Son was convicted of felony vandalism and was required to provide a DNA sample, which matched samples taken from the 1990 crime. No word has been given on actual charges or when the 40-year-old Son may have to appear in court again. If you are facing a violent criminal charge such as murder, the first thing you need to do is find yourself an experienced and skilled lawyer right away. The right Attorney may be able to help get your charges reduced or even dismissed altogether. An experienced Attorney knows that DNA evidence is not always as accurate as it should be. DNA samples are often prone to contamination and breakdown, especially over long periods of time. A skilled Attorney also knows that DNA samples are only as clean and as accurate as the laboratory that handles and stores them. If you are facing serious criminal charges such as murder or rape, call the attorneys at Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin, LLP today at 1-877-781-1570 to speak to an experienced Defense Attorney about your case. At Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin, LLP we have over fifty years of combined experience in defending clients against criminal charges of all types and we know how to fight for you. Our attorneys aggressively pursue every legal avenue available to defend you and even employ our own private investigator to make sure your side of the story is represented accurately in court proceedings. Call today to begin preparing your defense. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney 87-Year-Old Man Sentenced to 26 Years To Life In PrisonPosted on: October 14, 2011 at 4:33 p.m.An 87-year-old San Gabriel Valley man was sentenced to 26 years to life in prison for the murder of his wife and the attempted murder of his stepson last week. James Che Ming Lu was convicted of first-degree murder in July after attacking his 55-year-old wife with a hatchet in 2009, as well as attempting to murder his stepson, who managed to fend off Lu's attack and escape before being injured. Lu was 85 at the time. According to reports, Lu was apparently upset that he spent too much money on his wife and that she spent too much time away from home while working. Lu's July trial was his second after a jury failed to reach a unanimous verdict during a previous trial last year. If you are facing a serious criminal charge such as murder, you need to find an experienced and skilled Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney right away. The right Attorney can expertly guide you through a criminal trial that can literally change your life. An experienced Attorney can tell you that a first-degree murder is the willful, deliberate and premeditated. Being convicted of first-degree murder carries a minimum sentence of at least 25 years in prison, though, depending on the case, could include life in prison. An experienced Defense Attorney can also tell you that in cases of domestic violence that are not as serious as murder, the victim of the crime does not have to decide to press charges in order for you to be charged with a domestic violence crime. In cases involving domestic violence, even as seemingly simple as minor physical violence, if local law enforcement agents investigating see evidence of domestic violence, they can actually arrest you on suspicion of domestic violence and proceed with criminal charges. If you have been charged with domestic abuse or a violent crime such as murder, call the offices of Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin, LLP today at 1-877-781-1570 to speak to a capable Attorney. Our attorneys have over 50 years of combined experience in successfully defending clients against all manner of criminal charges and we know how to construct an effective defense for you. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Celebrity Drug and Violent Crimes and Los Angeles Criminal Defense AttorneysPosted on: June 15, 2011 at 11:56 p.m.The last few weeks have seem some serious crimes involving celebrities, most of which have required a skilled Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney. These crimes have involved violence, drugs and more, which carry jail time and heavy fines, even for misdemeanors. Recently, Ex-CSI star Gary Dourdan was arrested for possession of ecstasy after cops claimed the actor had a few pills on him. The actor had crashed his car into two parked cars and during the investigation the police found the pills and arrested the actor on a drug possession charge. he was sent to a nearby station, was booked and had bail set at $10,000. He has been arrested for drug offenses before, having pled guilty to possession of cocaine and ecstasy after an incident in Palm Springs. Hiring a Attorney who has both drug offense experience and experience with repeat offenses will be vital. Another celebrity was arrested for domestic violence, interfering with the release of a major movie. Faizon Love, who voices Bruce the Bear in the upcoming Zookeeper film starring Kevin James as the title character. He was arrested for domestic violence, however it was fourth degree domestic assault, the lowest domestic violence charge there is. He is currently on probation for assault, and was denied bail for quite some time. Hiring a Attorney who is skilled at dealing with probation and probation violations could help keep Love out of prison. Even celebrities have their lives fall apart when dealing with such serious issues as domestic violence and drug abuse. These crimes involve jail time, heavy fines, years of probation and more. For Mr. Love, his film career could be in serious jeopardy, as could the career of anyone involved in a domestic violence dispute. For people working in an office, or even for a small company, employers will not hire people with certain types of records, which includes domestic violence. This crime is shameful, even though each case is rarely as cut and dried as the general public would like to believe. If you need a skilled, experienced lawyer, contact Kestenbaum Eisner & Gorin, LLP today for an initial consultation. Our lawyers have over 50 years of combined experience and an extensive track record. Call us today at 877-781-1570. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorneys and Pro SportsPosted on: June 15, 2011 at 5:45 p.m.When a Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney represents someone charged with public intoxication or assault, there is a great deal of research, investigation and legal work which must be done. However, when that individual is a famous sports or sports entertainment star, the case becomes even more complicated as it involves the media and public interest. This can be complicated, in part, because any public figure will have a tainted jury pool, a prosecution team that will be motivated to get a conviction and other such challenges. Recently, two sports personalities were involved in legal issues which required a skilled Criminal Defense Attorney. DeShawn Stevenson, one of the heroes of the recent NBA finals, was arrested for public intoxication after celebrating the historic victory of the Miami Heat and Lebron James. Police received a call about a drunk person wandering around an apartment complex in Irving, TX and when cops showed up, they found Stevenson who claimed to be lost. Law enforcement alleged that he was "a danger to himself and others" and arrested him after he flunked a field sobriety test. Another celebrity sports star, WWE wrestler Kevin Nash, was arrested for battery for allegedly beating up a drunk person for hitting on his wife. Nash was able to get out of the legal situation by hiring a knowledgeable Attorney to successfully defend him in Florida. Allegedly, while Nash and his wife were eating at a restaurant, a man approached the woman and began hitting on her. The man got aggressive and Nash then dropped him. He was arrested on suspicion of batter, but the charge was dropped due to lack of evidence. If you or someone you know needs a skilled, successful Attorney, contact Kestenbaum Eisner & Gorin, LLP at 877-781-1570. Our lawyers are top-ranked by the leading attorney ranking system Martindale Hubbell, and are well respected throughout the legal community. With years of combined experience, our attorneys possess the skills, knowledge and track record to provide you with the top notch legal defense. Call us today! Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney California Jails and the United States Supreme CourtPosted on: May 25, 2011 at 5:31 p.m.You may not be aware of this, but the justices of the Supreme Court of the United States may have a say in whether or not your friends or family have their jail sentences cut short. The highest court in the country ordered the release of ovr 30,000 prisoners due to overcrowding and terrible prison conditions. This has many Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorneys looking for opportunities to get their clients out of jail. Of those likely to be released early, low level and non-violent offenders are probably at the top of the list, including people arrested for possession of marijuana and medical marijuana. The Drug Policy Forum of California stated that California maintains almost 25,000 prisoners for inherently non-violent drug offenses according to recent information from the Department of Corrections. For any Defense Attorney who is currently representing someone charged with a low level drug offense, or who previously represented someone who got an unfair deal, this news could lead to their clients' freedom! The drug policy organization blames the inhumane overcrowding that led to the Supreme Court order on drug laws that "did not exist prior to the 20th century." A third of the 25,000 prisoners are being held, allegedly, for simply possession while the rest had more serious convictions. Drug convicts in prison have gone down from 28 percent in 1999 to 15 percent today thanks to Prop 36 which requires treatment instead of prison for minor drug offenses. Skilled Attorneys have been able to use that law to help their clients avoid jail time and ruining their lives. Another bill put forth by San Francisco state Assemblyman Tom Ammiano would make cultivation of marijuana a misdemeanor instead of a felony. If you have a family member who was sentenced to prison for seemingly low level crimes, you should contact a skilled lawyer who could help take advantage of this Supreme Court decision. If you or someone you know has been arrested, contact Kestenbaum Eisner & Gorin, LLP by calling 877-781-1570. With over 50 years of combined experience, our team can provide a top notch criminal defense for any legal challenge. Call us today! Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Celebrity Crimes and Los Angeles Criminal Defense AttorneysPosted on: May 12, 2011 at 11:26 p.m.The month of May has been a busy one for Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorneys who represent celebrities and professional athletes. Arrests for DUI, drug crimes and more have overwhelmed celebrities this month. Sebastian Bach, former lead singer of the 80's metal band Skid Row was arrested for drug possession, specifically for possessing marijuana. Bach was arrested in New Jersey while driving. He was pulled over for "failing to keep right" and when the officer who pulled him over conducted a search, he discovered the marijuana. This is not Bach's first run in with drugs and alcohol, and he has regularly needed a Defense Attorney to help him stay out of prison. Tome Sizemore, whose addictions have been famously highlighted for years, was questioned by police over the disappearance of his girlfriend over a month ago. Megan Wren disappeared a month ago and was previously living with Sizemore for the six previous months. Police questioned him and said he was "very cooperative" throughout the process. Hopefully Sizemore was smart enough to utilize the skills of a lawyer during the police questioning. Shane Helms, known as "The Hurricane" to WWE fans, was involved in a drunk driving investigation after a terrible motorcycle crash on that left him and his girlfriend seriously injured. Helms was driving on his motorcycle with his girlfriend when he allegedly blew a stop sign and drove straight through a metal chain link fence after losing control. One of the witnesses told officers that he was sure Helms had been drinking before the accident. Helms will need a lawyer who understands how to defend against drunk driving charges. Yet another star of the MTV show "16 and Pregnant" was arrested, the fourth in the last 12 months. The charges range from coke possession to assault on a female. Most recently, Jamie McKay was popped for simple assault in January. These individuals are back in court for sentencing. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Hate Crime and Los Angeles Criminal Defense AttorneysPosted on: May 1, 2011 at 7:27 a.m.Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorneys represent people charged with all manner of misdemeanors and felonies, but when it involves students, things tend to get ugly fast. With students, parents are involved, juvenile penalties and lots of emotion. This all usually adds up to a complicated situation where people are hurt and answers rarely get sorted out. In Calabasas, anti-semitic and racist insults were tagged all over school property at Calabasas High School. Police detectives are going to seek hate crime enhancements to felony vandalism charges against the three students who allegedly defaced the school. The teens were booked on allegations of felony vandalism after they allegedly admitted to tagging school property with drawings of Hitler, swastikas and phrases that could only be considered racist. The phrases were "whites only" and "gas chamber" which any Attorney will tell you can only be seen as racist. A hate crime distinction can add to the penalties in any felony case. Whether jail time or fines, hate crimes will make an already complex legal situation close to impossible. Hiring a qualified and experienced lawyer can help deal with those complexities. Initially, the police did not accuse the boys of a hate crime, claiming that they had aimed the specific insults at students and teachers who they felt had mistreated them. They claimed this was the case and not a race or religion motivation. For any teen facing a felony charge, life can become incredibly complicated. Jail time, a criminal record, problems with job opportunities and more await anyone convicted of a felony. A hate crime to further complicate education opportunities and even where you live. However, with a skilled lawyer working for you, you have a better chance at avoiding these consequences. Call Kestenbaum Eisner & Gorin, LLP today for qualified lawyers who will stand by your side - 877-781-1570. Our attorneys have over 50 years of combined experience, and can help provide the kind of legal representation you need. Contact us today and let us help you with your legal situation. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Lebron James, His Mom and Los Angeles Criminal Defense AttorneysPosted on: April 7, 2011 at 5:56 p.m.When most people consider the idea of having to bail out a family member from jail, they think about a child, possibly a sibling or maybe even a spouse. However, NBA superstar Lebron James had to bail his mother out of a legal jam when she allegedly committed a battery crime involving a valet. Any such case requires a skilled Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney especially because Lebron James' mother did not cooperate with police and actually struck the valet with her hand. Lebron James' mother allegedly slapped a Miami Beach valet so hard in the face she lost her balance and fell to the ground. She was then approached by a police officer and told him "I don't trust your kind." Gloria James, 43 years old, allegedly struck the valet after retrieving James' car and putting in on the valet ramp in front of the hotel while Gloria and a female driver stood around talking to people for 30 minutes. The woman approached the valet after he turned off the car and shouted obscenities at him. She then struck the valet and fell down herself. She was transported to a nearby police station and when police attempted to question her, she responded by saying she didn't "trust" their "kind" and was allegedly drunk throughout the incident. Having to pick up a loved one in jail is a major challenge, especially if the crime involved a violent altercation. When a lawyer works to represent someone charged with any sort of violent crime, he must assess the entire situation. In this case, the woman was allegedly drunk and there were quite a few witnesses on hand to see the incident, making the crime more difficult to defend. For a Defense Attorney, certain experts would have to be hired to interview the various people who were potential witnesses. If you or anyone you know has been accused of a crime, contact the lawyers at Kestenbaum Eisner & Gorin, LLP by calling 877-781-1570. With out 50 years of combined experience, we can craft a unique defense tailored to your specific needs. You should also never feel guilty for need a Attorney. If the mother of the NBA's biggest star needs one, there may come a time in your life where you will need one as well. Call us today. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Lindsay Lohan and Los Angeles Criminal Defense AttorneysPosted on: February 23, 2011 at 10:15 p.m.Lindsay Lohan, Hollywood's most recent tragic child star, is facing months in prison for the theft crime she allegedly committed earlier this year. Her Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney is working hard to get her the best deal possible, but her previous record and her court room demeanor may have made it difficult to keep her out of jail. According to some sources, the Deputy District Attorney for Los Angeles, Danette Meyers, told Ms. Lohan's Attorney that she was offering her six months in jail as part of a plea bargain. While Ms. Lohan rejected the offer, it must be alarming to her lawyer that even a plea deal involved six months of jail time. Odds are, she will face prison time to matter the outcome is. The judge in the case ruled that her preliminary hearing and her probation violation will be heard at the same time. If the judge feels Lindsay Lohan stole the necklace, she will be thrown in jail immediately while awaiting trial on the grand theft case. Even if she is found not guilty at trial, she will be in jail for the probation violation. When it comes to plea bargains and sentencing, having a skilled lawyer on your side is absolutely necessary, especially when serious jail time is on the table. In this case, Lohan's lawyer will most likely plead guilty or no contest on behalf of her client in the hopes that the judge in the case will give her less than a six month sentence. Only an experienced lawyers will know how to handle complex plea deals, because there are some many factors involved that only a skilled professional will be able to keep track of them all. At Kestenbaum Eisner & Gorin, LLP, our background working in various Los Angeles District Attorneys' Offices gives us a unique insight into how prosecutors work, and how to create the best defense possible for your criminal case. While no lawyer can say they are the best lawyer, our firm is ranked in the top 5% of attorneys according to one of the most prestigious attorney ranking organizations - Martindale-Hubbell. With this background and perspective, we have built a track record of successfully defending our clients before, during and after trials. If you have been accused of a crime, call us today at 877-781-1570. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Sex Abuse and Incest in the Entertainment IndustryPosted on: February 17, 2011 at 10:48 p.m.Los Angeles sex crime criminal lawyers almost all have a horrible story to tell of a sexually abusive parent who goes too far with his children. While everyone deserves a strong criminal defense and while everyone in America is innocent until proven guilty, the details of a sex abuse case involving a child and its parent is disturbing. A recent case involving a musical family is no different, and has the general public in extreme disgust. It is cases like these where an experienced lawyer can truly earn his pay check. Providing a man accused of sexually abusing his own children a great defense is not just difficult, it is next to impossible. However, qualified lawyers are prepared to face even the most biased juries, the most difficult judges and prosecutors who are incredibly motivated to put their client behind bars. A recent sex crime case involves five siblings known as "The 5 Browns." They are a classical piano group that has played throughout the world and each one was trained at Julliard's school of music. The allegations involved sexual abuse of his three daughters between 1990 and 1998 when they were minors. The father, Keith Scott Brown was charged with one count of first degree felony sodomy upon a child and two counts of second degree felony sexual abuse of a child. He was charged on February 10, 2011 and was involved in an accident, crashing his car and falling down a 300 foot cliff with his wife on Valentine's Day. While in critical condition, he pleaded guilty and could be facing 10 years to life in prison. While he may strike a deal for the sentences to run concurrently, it is possible that he could be in jail for the rest of his life. A skilled Defense Attorney understands that charges such as these involve horrible family secrets. Yet, a lawyer must be on the side of his client no matter how severe the allegations are. In many cases, family members and others are not telling the full truth, or are lying about the events because it gets them attention. While that does not appear to be teh case in this instance, it has been the case in many other sex crime cases. A skilled lawyer can sift through the false allegations and provide their client with the necessary legal representation to keep them out of prison and free from fines. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Cockfights and Criminal Defense AttorneysPosted on: February 9, 2011 at 1:14 a.m.A recent death in California has law enforcement, and the general public baffled at the circumstances. A man in Delano, CA (near Bakersfield) was attending an illegal cockfight and died after being stabbed in the leg by a bird that had a knife attached to its own limb. The man, Jose Luis Ochoa of Lamont, CA was declared dead at a hospital about two hours after he was injured in neighboring Tulare County. He died of an accidental "sharp force injury" according to the Kern County coroner. The Sheriff in Bakersfield said "I have never seen this type of incident." Ochoa and other spectators fled when authorities arrived at the scene of the fight, leading to the two hour delay in getting medical treatment. No arrests were made at the cockfight. Cockfighting is illegal in the United States. Cockfighting involves specially bred roosters that are put into a ring and encouraged to fight until one is incapacitated or killed. In nature, a group of hens can only have one rooster, so when another rooster is present, they fight to the death over dominion. Ochoa actually paid $370 in fines last year after pleading no contest to one count of owning or training an animal for fighting. Unfortunately, a Defense lawyer knows this might not be the end of the line. If a particular individual was hosting this particular cockfight, if others attending contributed to this man's death, or if there was any sort of cover up, then some people could be charged with felonies. Cockfighting is a misdemeanor, but any sort of murder, manslaughter or criminal negligence charge is a potential felony and could lead to years in prison. The individuals involved in this incident may have to hire a lawyer in order to protect themselves should a criminal case arise. At Kestenbaum Eisner & Gorin, LLP, we are highly rated by Martindale Hubbell, a leading attorney ranking service. If you or someone you love has been charged with a crime, contact our lawyers at today. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Yet Another Former Trojan Needs a Los Angeles Criminal Defense AttorneyPosted on: February 2, 2011 at 11:11 p.m.Everson Griffen, former Trojan and current Minnesota Viking, is facing severe legal problems after an arrest and accusations of assaulting a police officer. Griffen was arrested for allegedly being drunk in public in south Los Angeles. This arrest happened on a Friday. He was released the following day, only to get arrested again on Monday! He was pulled over and foudn to have an invalid driver's license on that Monday and Griffen told the officers who arrested him that he did not want to go back to jail. He then allegedly sprinted away from the police officers who caught up with him a short distance later. When the officer attempted to subdue Griffen, he allegedly grabbed that officer in the groin area and both officers had to use a Taser to subdue the defensive lineman. Griffen is fortunate because the officers declined to file felony charged against Griffen based on the absence of injury and the defendant's absence of criminal history. Regardless, the need for a lawyer should be Mr. Griffen's highest priority, because that makes two different criminal charges in less than four days! If he stands before a judge, even with a misdemeanor charge, he could face serious fines and even prison time. While Everson Griffen may have had a unique time in his life, many people face the exact same challenges. A few wrong decisions, or just being in the wrong place at the wrong time could lead to a series of arrests that are completely uncharacteristic. However, trying to convince a judge, jury and/or prosecuting attorney that you are not a criminal may be difficult if you are not playing in the NFL. If you look a certain way, dress a certain way or hang with a particular type of crowd, the attorneys in the case may be looking to lock you up anyway. At Kestenbaum Eisner & Gorin, LLP, our Los Angeles defense lawyers can provide the kind of legal service you need. Call our law firm if you or someone you love has been arrested for any sort of criminal violation. We handle felonies, misdemeanors, driving under the influence (dui) and much more. We are top rated by attorney rating systems and can provide the experience you need. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Former Porn Star in Need of a Los Angeles Criminal Defense AttorneyPosted on: January 31, 2011 at 7:15 p.m.No one is more aware of the need for a good LA criminal attorney than former porn star Janine Lindemulder. At one point, "Janine" was quite famous, gracing the cover of a 311 album, and considered one of the hottest porn stars in the late 90's and early 2000's. However, her life has fallen apart a bit recently, stemming from a former marriage to Jesse James. Yes, that Jesse James, the one who cheated on Sandra Bullock. Janine was arrested in Austin, TX on a warrant for harassing Mr. James in a series of allegedly abusive phone messages. Janine, who has had quite a bit of legal trouble stemming from her relationship with James and their children, had three warrants issued for her arrest after Jesse James turned over allegedly threatening voicemail messages he says Janine left for him. According to the legal documents, Janine places harassing telephone calls to him at all hours of the day and night. In fact, James claims to have received 300 calls since he moved to Texas. The calls apparently became so harassing and abusive that he felt the need to turn them over to the police. Janine's long history with the law is impacting her ability to see her children, as well as her overall freedoms. She has called upon the assistance of a lawyer many times, after arrests for harassment, assault, drug use and much more. In this most recent case, she was charged with three counts of misdemeanor harassment and bail was set at $6,000. Further complications of this sort could lead to her missing time with her daughter, mandatory prison time and further loss of freedoms. For example, if Jesse James takes out a restraining order that involves phone calls, she could face severe punishment for harassing phone calls. The divorce from James complicates matters quite a bit. If you or someone you love has been arrested, you need a qualified defense attorney. Contact the lawyers at Kestenbaum Eisner & Gorin, LLP today to learn how we can help you. We understand the law, the courts, prosecuting attorneys and more. While this woman might lose her ability to see her children, a lawyer can help her get her life in order and get the best legal services possible. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Southern California Law Enforcement Needs LA Criminal Defense AttorneyPosted on: January 25, 2011 at 7:30 p.m.It has been a difficult journey for former Orange County Sheriff Michael S. Carona, and now he is headed to a federal prison for crimes he committed while on the job. He will turn himself in this week to begin serving a five and a half year sentence for witness tampering. Carona will be serving the federal prison sentence in Littleton, CO, home of the minimum security Englewood federal prison. He presided over California's second largest sheriff's department for nine years, but was indicted on felony corruption charges in 2007. Carona stood trial for two months in 2009 as prosecutors alleged that he accepted secret cash payments, had numerous illicit sexual affairs, and provided campaign contributors with badges and concealed weapons licenses. After the trial, he was acquitted on five of the six charges, among those conspiracy. However, the jury did find him guilty of urging the assistant sheriff at the time, Don Haidl, to lie to a grand jury investigating his administration. Carona then appealed the conviction and was free on bail pending the outcome. His Attorney worked tirelessly, but a three judge panel of a federal appeals court upheld the conviction. Carona will be housed in a four to six man bunk in an area of the prison that has no fences. Quite a fall for a man who once put criminals away himself. He will spend over seven hours a day doing landscaping, plumping, painting or food service work. He can take college courses, will have access to outdoor recreation and can work out in the gym. While former Sheriff Carona will be serving a prison sentence in a minimum security, Club Med type prison, most convicts don't fair so lucky. Any lawyer will tell you that a federal prison sentence is hard, dangerous and life changing. If you have been arrested for or charged with a federal crime, contact Kestenbaum Eisner & Gorin today. We can provide the defense you need. This sheriff did not think he could spend time in jail, and in the end, his own friends had to lock him up. Give yourself a fighting chance by hiring a skilled, experienced Los Angeles federal criminal attorney at our law firm. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Former Dodger in Need of a Los Angeles Criminal Defense AttorneyPosted on: January 20, 2011 at 12:28 a.m.Milton Bradley, former Dodger outfielder and long time headache for Major League Baseball, is in trouble with the law again, this time after an outburst in Van Nuys, CA. Bradley has previously needed the assistance of a Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer for his actions, and this time he could be facing some serious consequences. He was taken into custody in Van Nuys and booked for suspicion of making criminal threats after allegedly making threats against a woman. His bail was set at $50,000 and was released from prison the same day. No names of any alleged victims were included in the report, but a court schedule was set for February 8. This is just another in a long list of legal problems for Bradley, who was ordered to serve a three day jail sentence in 2004 after being charged for leaving the scene of a traffic stop. He was also charged with failure to comply after police said he drove away without signing his speeding ticket. In addition to legal challenges, Bradley has had off the field and on the field problems that have labeled him a major trouble maker. In 2004, Bradely called a reporter an "Uncle Tom". Also in 2004, he was ordered to undergo anger management counseling while with the Dodgers being suspended for charging a fan in the stands who threw a bottle near him. In 2009, he exploded in the dugout while with the Cubs and was sent home by manager Lou Piniella. Again in 2009 he was suspended after arguing with an umpire when he was called out on strikes with teh bases loaded. He's called himself the Kanye West of baseball. He has needed a Defense Attorney on many occasions, making ongoing legal troubles that much more difficult. Any judge, jury or prosecuting attorney will be jaded when a defendant has a prior criminal record. In 2005, the Los Angeles Dodgers got so fed up with Bradley that they traded him for now all-star Andre Ethier. He's played on 11 teams, leaving just about every team after some anger fueled tirade or confrontation with either management or a member of the media. Trying to defend him would be a difficult job even for the most experienced Attorney. Being charged with the crimes Bradley is charged with could lead to serious jail time, large fines, probation and more. With a prior criminal record, it could turn a misdemeanor into a felony. There are very few details as to exactly what Bradley said or did to the woman, but if he made violent threats, it could lead to some serious prison time and a dangerous trial. His lawyer will have to analyze the entire situation and may fight hard for a plea bargain. If you have been arrested for a crime, contact the lawyers at Kestenbaum Eisner & Gorin, LLP at 877-781-1570. We will make sure to utilize the best experts in your situation. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Tremendous News in Southern California CrimesPosted on: December 20, 2010 at 8:11 p.m.Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyers witnessed two amazing pieces of news this month, one involving a major criminal trial, another involving the death of a man who was pursued by police. In Fullerton, a city just south of Los Angeles, saw a man get sentenced to 110 years to life in state prison for murdering his neighbor when he found her in bed with his adult son. Guillermo Rodriguez was found guilty by a jury of one felony count of murder, of criminal threats and of dissuading a witness from testifying. Previously, the man had four convictions, including two for robbery and two for assault with a deadly weapon. On the night in question, he had a dinner party at his apartment. Around one in the morning, Rodriguez went out to purchase more alcohol and when he returned, he walked into the bedroom to find his 18 year old son in bed with a 42 year old neighbor. After sending his son and his girlfriend out of the room, Rodriguez allegedly strangled the 42 year old woman, wrapped her in a blanket and buried her in Victorville with his son. The body was later found by hunters who contacted police. The man's son pleaded guilty to being an accessory after the fact and was sentenced to one year in jail and three years' probation. In Long Beach, a man was shot and killed Sunday by Long Beach police. The man was suspected of sexually assaulting a family member. Officers allege that their car was flagged down early in the morning by a woman who claimed the sexual assault of a female minor had just happened. After taking to the alleged victim, officers went to the suspect's residence. Police then say the man produced a handgun at which point the officers fired on him. He was pronounced dead on the scene. These are the two worst case scenarios for anyone charged with a crime. This man may have been innocent and quite possibly had no clue why police were approaching his home. Many individuals distrust police, especially if they have a prior criminal record. However, firing on police is quite possibly the stupidest and most dangerous thing a defendant can do. Beyond the fact that you could kill an officer of the law, the officer's will fire back and the best case scenario is that you'll have another charge to deal with. The worst case scenario is that you will be killed. If you are facing any serious criminal charges, contact the Kestenbaum Eisner & Gorin, LLP today by calling 877-781-1570. Our team can help you defend yourself, stay free from prison and from fines. Call us today. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Celebrities and Jail, the December Numbers Are Going UpPosted on: December 13, 2010 at 8:39 p.m.The months of November and December have seen quite a few celebrities in need of a Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer, or at least a new one. Rappers, actors and singers are facing increased scrutiny from the courts and jail time is being handed out like gift bags at the Oscars. Here is a list of celebrities who are in desperate need of a Defense Attorney. Ja Rule, both a popular rapper and a movie star, pled guilty to a felony weapons charge in New York this month. The judge in the case guaranteed that he will be sentenced to two years in jail. The charges Ja Rule faced included attempted criminal possession of a weapon which stems from a traffic stop in July 2007. Police found a semiautomic gun in his sports car. A sentencing date has not been set, and no comments have been given by his Attorney. Wesley Snipes, an actor with almost 30 years of top billing was sent to jail recently and denied the opportunity to get out at Christmas. He is facing a three year prison sentence for tax evasion. he surrendered himself to the minimum security Federal Prison Camp in Bradford, Pennsylvania. He had been fighting the sentence for years, even suing the financial advisors who gave him the advice he said led to his arrest. His Defense Attorney has also been working hard to get the authorities to ease up on the sentence, but to no avail. Celebrity Chef Juan-Carlos Cruz was sent to jail for nine years for allegedly trying to hire two homeless men to kill his wife. This story was reported previously on this blog. It was first thought that because Jennifer Campbell, Cruz's wife, was suicidal over not being able to have a baby, he hired the men so that she wouldn't go to hell according to their religion. However, there have been no further comments on this particular charge. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Charlie Sheen and the Porn StarPosted on: November 23, 2010 at 12:29 a.m.Charlie Sheen, star of countless movies and the hit sitcom Two and a Half Men will shortly be in need of a Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer due to his ongoing saga with porn actress Capri Anderson. Sheen allegedly had a drug induced rage in a hotel room in New York City while vacationing with his ex-wife, children and other friends. Various entertainment news outlets, especially TMZ, reported both the initial reports and the follow up reports that the event involved porn actress Capri Anderson who is now bringing criminal charges against Sheen. Allegedly, Sheen got high and/or drunk, lost his temper, ransacked a hotel room, jeopordized the health of Capri Anderson who was essentially acting as a call girl that evening for Sheen. When police arrived, Anderson was allegedly naked, but also fine even going so far as to post a Twitter message that she was not harmed in the incident. Ms. Anderson accused Sheen of chocking her and was involved in drug use and abuse. She went on Good Morning America to make the accusation, stating that she would bring civil and criminal legal action on the matter. Charlie Sheen is a highly volatile individual, having faced various legal troubles which involved drugs for the most part. He has made heavy use of his Attorney, having to fight serious legal challenges, rehab programs and more. He has done a good job of staying out of jail, in large parte because his Defense Lawyer has worked overtime. For people throughout Los Angeles, dealing with criminal charges is an unfortunate part of life. Simply living in the wrong part of town or being affiliated with the "wrong" person can lead to ongoing criminal charges, arrests and so forth. Even working in a specific industry or working in a specific area can lead to police harassment, ongoing arrests and more. Having a skilled, knowledgeable Attorney working on your side could be the difference between years in prison and seeing your family at home every night. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Girls Gone Wild and Hit and Run in Los AngelesPosted on: November 18, 2010 at 6:58 p.m.The "Girls Gone Wild" franchise has hit numerous legal challenges, mostly criminal, to the executives involved. Joe Francis created "Girls Gone Wild" years ago, but has faced legal troubles over the ages of the girls in his videos, sexual assault and even tax evasion. Now, the owner of the company that bought the Australian "Girls Gone Wild" franchise has been charged with a fatal hit and run crash in West Hollywood. Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyers everywhere are paying special attention to this unique case that involves a high profile individual who faces quite a bit of bias because of his profession. The prosecutor for Los Angeles has charged Ryan Bowman of leaving the scene of a collision and he could be facing up to four years in state prison if convicted. He could also be facing other charges as well. Allegedly, Bowman struck and killed a 21 year old woman named Lauren Ann Freeman with his Bentley in a crosswalk in West Hollywood. His Attorney could not be reached for comment. Bowman is the CEO of a company based in Sidney Australia called Zeal Entertainment. he is jailed on $2 million bail pending an arraignment in Beverly Hills. Whether defending Joe Francis or Mr. Bowman, having a client who is involved in pornography or some other controversial industry means that a Defense Attorney will have his work cut out for him. Francis has faced continued legal troubles since 2003, and continues to wrestle against the courts throughout the country. Juries and judges will naturally be biased against someone who pays young girls to take their tops off while they are drunk, but only a skilled lawyer can get them to look past their bias and look only at the facts before them. At Kestenbaum Eisner & Gorin has a top rating from attorney rating agencies and a successful track record, they have been serving clients for years. Call our offices if you need a skilled criminal defense lawyer. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorneys and CelebritiesPosted on: October 26, 2010 at 8:02 p.m.Los Angeles is the home of many of the world's most famous celebrities. It is also the home of some of the nation's most prominent crimes and criminals. This week, more than a few celebrities have found themselves in need of a Los Angeles Criminal Lawyer including some repeat offenders.
Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Lohan, Los Angeles and the LawPosted on: October 22, 2010 at 10:05 p.m.Lindsay Lohan and Michael Lohan are running into the law quite a bit lately, and they both have need of the counsel of a skilled Los Angeles Criminal Lawyer. Michael Lohan, father of the now infamous Lindsay Lohan, told police that he was attacked last night and that the alleged assailant slashed his neck. He claims he was attacked outside his home in Santa Monica, CA, and also claims that he received a threatening phone call an hour before the incident. He explained to police that when he went to open his car door after the phone call he was jumped from behind and a man in his 50's or 60's allegedly began choking him and took some kind of sharp object to slice his neck. If this is true, Mr. Lohan need to make sure to get all the information to police; however, if he is lying as a publicity stunt during his daughter's situation, he needs a Defense Attorney to help keep him out of jail for such a stunt. Lindsay Lohan, who has been in and out of jail, rehab, house arrest, movie sets and television studies since May of this year, was ordered to go back to rehab until January 3, 2011 after she failed drug tests during her last rehab trip. While in rehab, she will be subject to drug tests, and in between her rehab release and her next court date (February 25) she will be subject to drug tests as well. If she does not test positive for drugs or alcohol before her next court date, she could have her sentence converted to unsupervised probation. The District Attorney recommended that Lindsay Lohan get 180 days in county jail, but with an aggressive Attorney at her side, the judge stated he wanted her in rehab through the new year. Unfortunately, this family is no stranger to courts, judges, criminal attorneys and other difficult circumstances. While you may not have a famous last name, you may have serious legal troubles. At Kestenbaum Eisner & Gorin, LLP, we provide top notch legal representation to anyone looking for a good criminal lawyer. If your or someone you know has been charged with a crime, our we can help you get the defense you need to stay free from jail. Many people face continued legal troubles after an initial run in with police, which is why we work hard to get you the best defense possible by using our legal knowledge and a skilled team of experts. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Fake Criminal Accusations in Southern CaliforniaPosted on: September 28, 2010 at 12:27 a.m.Imagine hiring a Los Angeles Criminal Lawyer because you have been accused of all sorts of crimes, only to have the alleged victim recant his or her story. Imagine having your family, community and coworkers consider you "slime" for committing crimes that the alleged victim will simply admit to falsifying. It happens far more often than people like to admit, and there have been two high profile examples just in the last few weeks. For Defense Attorneys, representing people accused of false crimes is no easier even with the recent examples of lying alleged victims. In San Diego County, a 15 year old girl reported being kidnapped and sexually assaulted while walking home from school in Encinitas. However, the entire story was fabricated. The teen met an adult man she met over the Internet and had "consensual sex" with him after skipping her last class. Later, when being questioned by her parents, she got embarrassed and made up a story about being sexually assaulted by three men. While there is still an investigation due to the girl's age, the crime of rape or sexual assault is out the window. However, because the girl is 15 years old, statutory rape is still a crime that can be prosecuted. A Criminal Attorney has to look at every potential option in a case like this. However, if the general public were to hear such a story, they would immediately look at the man in question as being evil, dangerous and a menace to society. Stories like this however prove that just because someone, even someone as seemingly innocent as a minor, should not be trusted until all the facts have been investigated. If you or someone you love has been accused of a crime, contact Kestenbaum Eisner & Gorin, LLP by calling 877-781-1570. We will provide you with concise examination of your case, and help you craft the best defense possible to keep you out of jail and free from fines. Contact us today if you need a skilled lawyer. We will be behind you throughout the process, before, during and after the trial. With over 50 years of experience, we are the criminal law firm to trust. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Former Cop Arrested for Sex Crime ChargesPosted on: August 31, 2010 at 1:33 a.m.A former Southern California police officer from Huntington Beach was arrested on several charges, and is in desperate need of a highly skilled Los Angeles sex crime lawyer. He was charged with rape, sodomy, vandalism and 19 total felony charges and will face a trial on all of them. A judge recently upheld 19 out of 20 felony charges brought by prosecutors. Hon. Richard Beacom agreed to move forward with the charges against 34 year old Jmes Roberts after hearing testimony from his ex-wife during a three day preliminary hearing in Santa Ana. Roberts is charged with allegedly committing these acts against his wife, an alleged mistress and another man while serving as a police officer. He pleaded not guilty in February to rape, forcible sodomy, false imprisonment by violence or deceit, criminal threats, domestic battery, aggravated assault, dissuading a witness and vandalism. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 23 years and four months in prison. Being a former police officer and facing 19 felony charges, he is well aware of how important it is to have a skilled Defense Attorney working for him. The man's wife testified about a pattern of abuse which took place from June 2007 through March 2008, while Roberts was still on the force. This is a highly contentious case however as the ex-wife making the allegations allegedly had sex willingly with the man, and sent messages that she wanted to get back together with him. There seems to be a great deal of evidence on both sides. Being accused of domestic assault, sex crimes and violent crimes in Los Angeles is no laughing matter, and only a skilled Attorney can provide the kind of qualified legal defense necessary to get the best results possible. At Kestenbaum Eisner & Gorin, LLP, our team of lawyers has over 50 years of combined experience, and possesses a unique insight into the tactics of prosecutors, investigators, police and judges. If you or someone you love has been charged with such serious felonies, contact Kestenbaum Eisner & Gorin today. As former lawyers who worked in district attorneys' offices throughout Los Angeles, we can help guide you through the legal process and provide top notch legal defense before, during and after a trial. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney More Healthcare Fraud ConvictionsPosted on: July 27, 2010 at 12:13 a.m.Health Care Fraud is a growing area of concern for state and federal governments, and this is spelling trouble for anyone who works in the health care industry. Recently, a South Florida couple chose to plead guilty for Medicare fraud after participating in a $13.7 million HIV infusion scheme according to the Departments of Justice and Health and Human Services. The man and his wife pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, to cause submission of fale claims to Medicare and to pay health care kickbacks, one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and three counts of submitting false claims. One of the easiest ways to be found guilty of Health Care Fraud is by overbilling, or any type of out of whack medical billing. The couple is currently facing up to 10 years in prison. The husband was the owner and operator of a rehab clinic in Miami that provided expensive injections and infusion treatments to patients coping with HIV. His wife served as the office assistant. They apparently billed Medicare for services that were not rendered, offering kickbacks and bribes to patients so they could bill Medicare. This took place over the course of two years. With the government paying increased attention to health care issues due to President Obama's recent bill, anyone practicing int he health care industry will face great scrutiny. Doctors, nurses, medical billers, pharmacists and more could be facing serious punishment if they are convicted. Additionally, the public shame of these accusations (taking advantage of HIV patients, stealing from children's hospitals, etc.) could ruin your life for years to come. If you are convicted of Health Care Fraud, you are facing imprisonment, fines, public scrutiny, years or probation and the loss of your job. With a skilled Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney representing you, your chances of avoiding serious punishment increase incredibly. An experienced lawyer can guide you through the legal process, help you understand the charges and protect your future. If you have been charged with Health Care Fraud, contact the Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorneys at Kestenbaum Eisner & Gorin, LLP by calling 877-781-1570 today. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Mortgage Fraud DefensePosted on: July 8, 2010 at 10:27 p.m.Since late 2007, the economy has hit such difficult moments that people are still thinking that we are in the midst of, or the beginning of, another Great Depression. Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyers spend more and more of their time defending people who are accused of trying to take advantage of such a situation. In fact, some legitimate industries, such as loan modifications and debt settlement, are being targeted by the California state government. People who are obeying the law, or who have to adjust to new laws, are facing an increasingly difficult time of late. For example, some bad apples are making life difficult for so many others. Recently, two men in the San Francisco area were sentenced to 20 years in prison after being caught in a Mortgage Fraud scam. They claimed they could eliminate their clients' mortgage debts for a fee of $1,000 to $3,000. These individuals also insisted on acting as their own lawyers. According to the prosecution, from 2003 to 2005 these two men recruited distressed homeowners from around the country through Internet ads and got them to sign letters to their lenders claiming that their home mortgage loans were actually illegal. When the lenders did not respond, they declared these loans paid in full and told the homeowners to arrange new financing. This Mortgage Fraud case left each man with more than 20 years of prison time and a $500,000+ restitution bill. Clearly, this case demonstrates how vital it is for a defendant in any criminal trial to have a Defense Lawyer representing them. The courts questioned the intelligence and the competence of these men, and yet still threw them in prison for over two decades each. While some homeowners may have felt taken advantage of, these men did not do themselves any favors by refusing hire adequate legal representation. At Kestenbaum Eisner & Gorin, LLP, we can provide the kind of legal defense you need to avoid serious jail time in state and federal courts. If you or someone you do business with has been accused of Mortgage Fraud, contact our skilled, knowledgeable and successful lawyers today at 877-781-1570. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorneys and the Fourth of JulyPosted on: June 29, 2010 at 5:48 p.m.For Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyers, the Fourth of July can be an extremely busy holiday. People get arrested every year for selling, buying and manufacturing illegal fireworks, and many are in desperate need of a qualified lawyer to represent them in court. Some of these are small matters, mostly misdemeanors; however, many of these crimes can involves hundreds of thousands of dollars and years in prison as felony charges. For example, in El Monte recently, Los Angeles Police claim to have seized almost two tons of illegal fireworks. A detective said the seizure was made in downtown Los Angeles as part of an ongoing investigation into illegal fireworks sales and distribution. The fireworks were allegedly worth $125,000. So far, no arrests have been made, but police are ever on the lookout for illegal fireworks in Los Angeles as the holiday approaches. In fact, just last week, the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Deputies say they seized around half a million dollars worth of fireworks in La Puente and arrested two men for the crime. Why You Need a Los Angeles Criminal Defense AttorneyYou may be wondering why it is so important to have a lawyer representing you if arrested for selling, buying, manufacturing or distributing illegal fireworks. The reality is that the charge could incorporate more than just a simple illegal fireworks charge. Crossing state lines with illegal substances, white collar charges such as tax evasion, being charged with a violent crime if a child is hurt by the products and more could all be thrown at anyone who is selling illegal fireworks. The jail time could be serious, not to mention the fines and other repercussions of being convicted of such crimes.This is why having a skilled, experienced and successful Defense Lawyer is so important. As someone out side the law, you may have no clue how or why the charges you are facing are so serious. However, if you have a knowledgeable lawyer by your side, he could help guide you through the legal process with a much more informed perspective. If you or someone you love has been charged with an illegal fireworks crime, contact Kestenbaum Eisner & Gorin, LLP for a free case review. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Suge Knight and Los Angeles Weapons ChargesPosted on: May 20, 2010 at 5:33 p.m.Suge Knight, the internationally known hip hop producer and founder of Death Row Records, is in trouble with the law once again. He was detained by the LAPD’s Robbery and Homicide Division for allegedly brandishing a weapon. The altercation took place in Los Angeles, but he was arrested in Gardena in his white Cadillac Escalade. He was allegedly flashing a weapon at a man and is also accused of robbery. Police are booking him for driving with a suspended license as well. Los Angeles Weapons Crimes carry heavy penalties, especially for individuals who have prior convictions. They can also make any violent crimes carry extra years in prison. Suge Knight has a long criminal history, which could make any Los Angeles Weapons Crime charges more complicated. He was sent to prison in 1997 for 9 years over a parole violation (although released in 2001). He went to jail again in 2003 after assaulting a parking lot attendant. He has been involved in numerous weapons related charges and violent crimes over the last decade in both Los Angeles and Las Vegas. If a defendant commits a violent crime that is also a Los Angeles Weapons Crime, he or she will find themselves facing a felony charge which carries with it heavier jail time. If you are facing a felony charge and/or a Los Angeles Weapons Crime, you need a qualified Criminal Defense Attorney who knows how to properly defend you in and out of court. At Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin, LLP, our lawyers have over 50 years of combined experience with violent crimes, weapons charges, felonies and more. We are one of the most sought after criminal defense firms in Southern California, and are Top Rated by Martindale-Hubbell (an attorney rating system). We have a long, successful track record of defending people facing felony charges. If you or someone you love has been charged with, accused of or arrested for a Los Angeles Weapons Crime, contact the Criminal Defense Attorneys at Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin today by calling 877-781-1570. We are a highly respected law firm and can provide excellent legal representation to anyone in need of qualified lawyers. Contact us today! Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney, weapons Summary of New Laws Impacting Los Angeles Criminal Defense AttorneysPosted on: March 30, 2010 at 9:09 p.m.The last few years have seen a major shake up in a number of laws, and this year will be no different. There are a number of new laws that Defense Attorneys want their clients, and the general public, to be well aware of. Some of these laws involved DUI, some involve Theft Crimes, others involve sentencing. However, each of these laws could have a major impact on anyone convicted of a crime. Here is a quick breakdown of new laws handed down by the California State Legislature for 2010: AB 14 – This law states that a car, truck or motorcycle can be declared a “public nuisance" and be impounded for up to 30 days when the vehicle is used for specific crimes such as soliciting a prostitute. AB 58 – It is now an infraction to be involved in a betting pool with less than $2,500 at stake. This is an important law for small poker games, NCAA betting pools and other friendly matches to be aware of. AB 91 – This is a new test program for Los Angeles and other counties which requires an “Ignition Interlock Device" to be installed on the vehicle of first time DUI offenders. AB 532 – This will allow law enforcement to get a search warrant to seize guns from any domestic violence or mental health scare. SB 748 – This forbids anyone from posting the contact information of anyone involved in the Witness Relocation and Assistance Program with the intent to commit a crime. AB 750 – This gives courts the choice to sentence a deferred entry of judgment instead of jail time for minor offenses. AB 962 – This law requires gun sellers to record sales of ammunition and also requires the taking and cataloguing of fingers prints of every gun purchaser. This means that someone convicted of a Los Angeles Drug Crime could be sentenced to rehab instead of going to prison. As you can see, some of these laws can be helpful for a defendant, others can be dangerous, but only with a skilled Los Angeles Criminal Lawyer can someone take advantage of every opportunity to stay out of prison. Some of these laws can radically change the nature of how law enforcement approaches criminals, the accused and ex-convicts. Many of these laws change the way judges can sentence someone convicted of a crime, which is why it is that much more important to haw a lawyer who understands the law and who understands how to best defend someone accused of a crime. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Domestic Violence On The RisePosted on: February 20, 2010 at 2:29 a.m.A Los Angeles crime defense attorney team understands that a person accused of domestic violence could have an array of mitigating factors surrounding their alleged crime and will work on your behalf to protect your rights in court. Advocate groups for women and authorities are alarmed at the rapidly increasing instances of domestic violence in Massachusetts and across the country. The latest incident in Westford, Massachusetts involved a man that critically wounded his wife before fatally shooting his daughter and himself. Since Jan. 9, at least five women have been killed in domestic violence incidents in Massachusetts. Two others were severely wounded in the total of six different incidents. There seems to be a common connection between the domestic violence incidents in Massachusetts and across the county. In another Massachusetts city, a man took his own life after shooting his sick wife and their horse, setting fire to their home and his pickup truck. The man in this incident was facing a foreclosure auction before the incident occurred. Women’s advocates believe that one underlying cause is an unforgiving economy that has intensified family disputes, inflamed some men’s abusive tendencies, and left some women more reluctant to leave violent relationships. In many of these cases, women reported that financial pressures had made their husbands or boyfriends more angry and prone to violence. A grim economy is just one of the problems and stresses that a person accused of domestic violence might be faced with. The dwindling economic situation has left many primary providers stressed out and worried about not being able to provide for their families. The layoffs and cut hours across the country have left many wondering how they will make ends meet and survive with a family to take care of. If you have been accused of a Los Angeles domestic violence offense, you need a professional and knowledgeable team on your side to protect your rights and offer proof of the many circumstances revolving the alleged crime. The professional team at Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin, LLP has more than 50 years of courtroom experience and will be able to protect your rights in court at all times. We have a proven track record and are amongst the highest rated criminal defense teams in the country. If you have been accused of a Los Angeles domestic violence crime, call us immediately at 1-877-781-1570 or visit our website at www.keglawyers.com for more information. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Los Angeles Sex Offender Stigma And Its ImplicationsPosted on: February 14, 2010 at 2:10 a.m.Being convicted of a Los Angeles sex crime can change a person’s entire life in more ways than one. Not only can it affect what one is allowed to do and not do, but it can also change a person emotionally and physically as well. Take for example, Ricky Blackman of Oklahoma, a Tier 3 offender on Oklahoma’s sex offender registry. Blackman was a sociable, outgoing teenager, but that all changed when he was convicted for having sex with a 13-year-old girl he believed was 15. Blackman was 16 at the time and the sex offender followed him for years after the incident. This affected Blackman severely as he was unable to attend high school, go to his younger brother’s football games or visit the town library. His mother, Mary Duval, says that Blackman is not the same person he was before the incident, “He was so fun-loving and just full of life. I mean there’s no other word. Ricky was full of life and now he’s definitely more cautious, more reserved." Blackman lived with the "sex offender" label for nearly four years, until a law that took effect in Oklahoma in November removed his name from the registry. After his conviction, Blackman's family moved to Oklahoma where he finished his probation and sex offender treatment. His record was expunged in Iowa, but the same was not the case in Oklahoma; Blackman continued to be on the sex offender registry there. Blackman had to comply with state residency restrictions that prevent registered sex offenders from living within 2,000 feet of a school or day care center and his attempts to enroll in high school were unsuccessful because he considered a danger to the rest of the students. Another aspect of Blackman’s life that became difficult was finding a job. He was continually turned town by employers such as Wal-Mart, McDonald's and another fast food restaurants. "I know what I did was wrong and I deserved to be punished for it. But this destroyed my life. Took it away from me," said Blackman. Like Blackman, many sex offenders face the same hurdles in California. The stigma that follows sex offenders can take a heavy toll on their lives, but there is something you can do about it. If you have been charged with a sex crime, contact the Los Angeles sex crime defense attorney team at Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin, LLP immediately. Our Los Angeles sex crime defense attorney team has more than 50 years of courtroom experience and will fight on your behalf to protect your rights. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney, los angeles sex crime defense attorney Los Angeles Sex Crimes And Housing IssuesPosted on: February 3, 2010 at 6:36 p.m.Any Los Angeles sex crime defense attorney understands there is much more at stake for a defendant in a sex crime case than just jail time. There is a new "Scarlet Letter" that is painted on the record of anyone convicted of a sex crime in California, and it takes the most skilled lawyer to be able to clear a person's name. On Monday, the California Supreme Court upheld residency restrictions for sex offenders, ruling that thousands may be barred from living near schools and parks. The 5-2 decision permits California to continue enforcing residency restrictions on thousands of sex offenders who were paroled after Proposition 83 took effect in November 2006. The decision will also allow California to enforce the residency restrictions on those who were convicted years before the law took effect. Proposition 83, also known as “Jessica’s Law", bans sex offenders from living within 2,000 feet of schools or parks where there are children present. Four sex offenders on parole challenged the law, saying that there was no place in which to live and be in compliance of the law in the cities to which they had been paroled. Although the four parolees were convicted before Proposition 83 passed, the decision will require them to adhere to the residency rules that were put in place after Proposition 83 was passed. In densely populated cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles, it is difficult for sex offenders to comply with the rules because of the proximity of schools and parks to housing. Offenders do have the right to challenge the residency rules before a judge if they have a legitimate claim of not having a place to live due to the residency restrictions. The main defense that an accused sex offender can have, however, is staying off of sex offender registry lists in the first place. A sex offense charge can have serious consequences, including the housing issues mentioned above, so avoiding a sex offender registry list altogether is the best defense against these consequences. If you have been charged of a Los Angeles sex crime, you need a Los Angeles sex crime attorney team on your side to protect your rights at all times. The proximity of schools and parks to housing in Los Angeles makes it difficult for sex offenders to comply with the residency rules placed upon them. Having a knowledgeable and professional team on your side will prove to be beneficial to you as housing becomes increasingly scarce for registered sex offenders. The team at Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin, LLP can help protect your rights as a parolee and will fight to keep you off of sex offender registry lists so that you can live your life as normally as possible. Contact us immediately at 1-877-781-1570 for more information on Los Angeles sex crimes and how our team can help you in your time of need. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney, los angeles sex crime defense attorney Los Angeles Comedian Arrested for Sexual AssaultPosted on: January 27, 2010 at 4:22 p.m.Comedian and actor Andy Dick was arrested in West Virginia this past Saturday after police say he sexually assaulted two men at a bar. Dick, who was scheduled to perform at a comedy club in Huntington, West Virginia, is accused of grabbing the bouncer’s crotch and later groping and kissing another male patron in the very early morning hours on January 23rd. Dick was arrested and later released after posting $60,000 bail. Police have charged the comedian with two felony counts of sexual abuse. Dick’s next hearing is scheduled for February 2nd. This latest arrest is one of a long history of bad behavior for the comedian. Dick has been arrested numerous times on both drug and alcohol-related charges, as well as being arrested for several other related sex offense incidents. In 2007 Dick was forcibly removed from the Los Angeles set during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live after repeatedly touching fellow guest Ivanka Trump. In 2008 the comedian was arrested on suspicion of drug possession and sexual battery after pulling down the blouse of a 17 year-old girl, exposing her breasts. In 2009 Dick appeared on Sober House, a spin-off of Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew in an attempt to deal with his excessive drinking habits. While Dick’s latest brush with the law occurred in West Virginia, sex offenses are taken no less seriously in Los Angeles. Sex crimes by their very natures can easily derail a person’s life. While what classifies as a sex crime can vary from illegal possession of pornography to sexual assault or battery to rape, most sex crimes in Los Angeles are considered felony criminal offenses. Being convicted of a sex crime in Los Angeles also very often means being required to register with the state’s sex offender registry. This registry is online and available for the public to view, effectively punishing those convicted of sex crimes long after their jail sentences or other punishments are completed. Being convicted of a felony criminal offense in Los Angeles can also limit your choices in looking for work or finding a place to live. Being convicted of certain sex crimes may make finding a decent home even more difficult by placing restrictions on how close you may live to schools, parks or even bus stops. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney, los angeles sex crime defense attorney Assault in College FootballPosted on: January 16, 2010 at 12:20 a.m.USC isn't the only university with a head football coach making the news, the University of South Florida is having some headaches of its own. A assault crime is serious business, can carry major penalties and may ruin the life of the accused if he/she is found guilty. Jim Leavitt, former South Florida football coach, wants his job back, insisting his dismissal for allegedly striking one of his players and then lying about the incident was unwarranted. "The allegations were misreported. I said that from day one, and I don't care how long it takes, I'm in this for my life -- my name, my reputation, my family," Leavitt said Monday during a news conference. Leavitt was fired last week after a university investigation concluded he grabbed one his players by the throat, slapped the athlete in the face and then lied about what occurred during halftime of a game against Louisville on Nov. 21. When asked if he choked and slapped a player, the coach said: "Absolutely not. I've said that from day one." Prior to the news conference, the law firm of Florin Roebig released a statement on behalf of Leavitt, saying the firing "is contrary to the terms of his contract" and violates the coach's constitutional rights. The statement said Leavitt "fully and voluntarily" cooperated with the university investigation and consistently denied any wrongdoing. It also noted the player and player's father had denied the coach acted improperly. "Based upon the facts [rather than the conclusions] of the university's investigation," the statement continued, "Coach Leavitt's termination is unwarranted, and he deserves to be immediately reinstated in full to his former position." The former coach is now in a position that many find themselves, accused of a violent crime and without a job because of it. A violent crime allegation can have serious consequences in all aspects of life. Depending on the severity of the violent crime, you can face probation, mandatory anger management classes, community service and even jail time. Leavitt believes that his contract and constitutional rights were both violated because there was no basis to the conclusions made by the university, even though they stand by their findings. A thorough investigation and a fair trial are needed to find out whether Leavitt did, in fact, commit a violent crime or if his contract and constitutional rights were violated. If you have been accused of a assault crime you need an experienced and professional team on your side to prove your innocence. The Los Angeles assault crime lawyers at Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin, LLP will work diligently on your behalf to devise a defense strategy that is beneficial to you. In order to avoid or reduce the consequences associated with a violent crime, call us immediately at 1-877-781-1570. Tagged as: los angeles assault crime, los angeles criminal defense attorney Four Suspects Arrested After Hollywood Hills Home-Invasion RobberyPosted on: December 31, 2009 at 5:48 a.m.Three men and a woman were arrested Wednesday after a man and his dog were shot and wounded during a home-invasion robbery in the Hollywood Hills, according to law enforcement officials. Three of the suspects forced their way into a home in the Hollywood Hills home at about 1:40 a.m. while the fourth waited in a getaway car, according to a Los Angeles Police Department statement. The suspects ordered the victim to open a safe and took large quantities of cash. One of the suspects then unexplainably opened fire and shot the victim and his dog. The man was shot through the neck and taken to a hospital, where he was listed in stable condition, said Lt. Bob Binder of the LAPD's Hollywood Division. The man's wife and newborn baby were in the house but were unharmed, law enforcement officials said. A number of witnesses who called 911 said they heard several gunshots and then saw a white Dodge Charger fleeing the scene. As officers arrived, they saw a car matching the description and chased it until the car crashed near Pico and Hauser boulevards. The suspects fled on foot, scattering cash as they went. The suspects were then taken into custody without incident, police said. A robbery is defined as the taking of another person's property, from the person's possession or immediate presence, accomplished by force or fear. A robbery charge can carry serious consequences and may be punishable by up to five years in prison. Additionally, if a weapon is used or a physical injury is caused to the victim, there may be additional punishments as well. The suspects in this case may face tough jail sentences for their alleged robbery in the Hollywood Hills because of the fact that a weapon was used to cause injury to the victim. There are, however, many instances in Los Angeles where suspects are wrongfully charged with robbery in which an experienced defense lawyer provide help. Two common defenses that may be used by highly experienced defense attorneys are identity of the possible suspect and determining the suspect’s state of mind at the time of the alleged robbery. The Los Angeles theft and robbery defense attorneys at Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin, LLP can help you if you have been wrongfully accused of a robbery or theft. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney, los angeles robbery defense Former State Assemblyman Arrested After Alleged AssaultPosted on: December 11, 2009 at 6:59 p.m.Walter Karabian, 71, a former majority leader of the state assembly, was booked on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon after an incident at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Karabian was arrested on Saturday after he allegedly ran over a parking lot attendant before the USC football game. Karabian posted $30,000 bail and was released on Saturday evening, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. The condition of the parking lot attendant is unknown, and public safety officers at Exposition Park did not release further details on the incident. A USC graduate, Karabian was elected to several state Legislature terms in the 1960s and early 1970s. California law defines assault with a deadly weapon as an assault that is committed with any type of deadly weapon (including a car) or by means of force that is likely to cause great bodily injury to another. An assault with a deadly weapon charge can be filed as a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the type of weapon or instrument used, whether the victim sustained an injury (and if so, the severity of that injury), and the nature of the victim (whether it be an office, firefighter, or other “protected" person). In California, there are plenty of instances where people are wrongfully accused of assault with a deadly weapon for various reasons. Often times people exaggerate their claims or downright lie to police officers and that results in a assault with a deadly weapon charge that is one sided, leaving you facing charges you might have not committed. With the professional team of Los Angeles criminal defense lawyers at Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin, LLP you can make sure that a fair trial is given to you when you are accused of assault with a deadly weapon. Acting in self-defense or without the intent to hurt anybody are two defenses that can prove to be successful with a knowledgeable team of Los Angeles criminal defense lawyers. Like in the case of Karabian, the other side must be heard in order for a judge to make a fair decision. Los Angeles laws regarding assault with a deadly weapon charges are ambiguous and include some clauses that are beyond the scope of one would regard a ‘deadly weapon’. For example, a deadly weapon can include, but is not limited to, a beer bottle, a pencil, a dog, a cigarette lighter, a car, and even your hands and feet in certain instances. Tagged as: assault with a deadly weapon, los angeles criminal defense attorney Los Angeles WarrantsPosted on: November 25, 2009 at 11:30 p.m.Nikola Dragovic, UCLA’s Serbian star forward, was arrested last Friday in connection with an incident that took place after a concert in Hollywood last month. Dragovic and a friend have been accused of pushing a man into a glass display case following an argument. Initially, Dragovic filed a report of the incident with UCLA’s campus police. But after the district attorney filed a felony assault charge against him and issued a Warrant for his arrest, Dragovic turned himself in after a game against Cal State Bakersfield. While Dragovic was booked and later released on bail, he has been suspended from playing basketball for the university. Dragovic plans to plead not guilty when he appears before a judge in late December. Now is a great time to discuss the different types of Los Angeles Warrants that are issued in the city. Our nation’s Constitution protects us from being arrested or searched for no reason. Warrants essentially give a Los Angeles police officer the right to arrest, detain, or search you in connection with a crime. All Warrants issued in the city are court orders signed by a Los Angeles County judge. A warrant for arrest is issued in cases like Dragovic’s where a defendant is suspected of having committed a crime, but has not yet been arrested by law enforcement agents. A bench warrant is typically issued when a defendant has failed to show up at a scheduled court date. Bench warrants are then issued allowing law enforcement agents to hunt you down and bring you before the court. Search warrants give Los Angeles law enforcement agents permission to either search you or a particular location in connection with a crime that has been committed and that you are believed to be involved in. Once you find out that either an arrest Warrant or a bench Warrant has been issued in your name, it is important that you contact the Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys at Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin, LLP immediately. As experienced Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys with decades of experience in dealing with all types of warrants, we know that ignoring warrants can lead to big problems. Call today for expert legal advice and help in dealing with any warrants issued against you. Tagged as: arrest warrant, bench warrants, los angeles criminal defense attorney, los angeles warrant Juvenile Crime StatsPosted on: November 25, 2009 at 11:26 p.m.Juvenile crime is a serious issue in Los Angeles, with many gangs utlizing young people who may have lost their way. Our Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys actively represent all minors accused of Juvenile crime. Many of our attorneys have worked in Los Angeles district attorney's offices, which gives us a unique instight into Juvenile crime criminal trials, law enforcement tactics and much more. A new report by the County of San Diego revealed that arrests rates in the county have actually risen slightly over last year, in large part due to increasing numbers of minors being arrested for Juvenile crime. Unlike San Diego County, most other large counties in California, including Los Angeles, have seen a slight decrease in the number of arrests made over the last year. According to the San Diego Association of governments, adult arrests in the county rose just 1% while the number of minors being arrested jumped by 9%. Many parents are under the impression that children under the age of 18 either do not commit or are generally not arrested for criminal acts. This viewpoint could hardly be farther from reality. While it is true that crimes committed by minors in Los Angeles are taken very seriously indeed by law enforcement agencies, it is also true that courts tend to focus on more rehabilitative punishments. In Los Angeles, minors are even subject to a completely different judicial system when they commit a crime, the Juvenile Court System. In some states this same court system may also be called Family Court or Probate Court. The focus of many punishments for juveniles convicted of a crime is reforming or reshaping the child’s behavior. Many people believe that with the proper counseling, younger criminal offenders are more likely to “straighten up," and go on to lead normal, law-abiding lives. Minors who commit more serious Juvenile crimes may actually be tried in the regular, adult court system depending on the nature of their crime and their age. Because minors can and do commit crimes ranging from shoplifting and vandalism to assault, sex crimes and even murder, punishments also vary widely. Probation, counseling, community service, and fines are frequently given in the case of a conviction. For more serious crimes, juvenile offenders may find themselves sentenced to time in a juvenile detention center or even an adult jail. If your son or daughter has been charged with a Juvenile crime, call the attorneys at Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin, LLP today. Our attorneys are experienced in dealing with juvenile crimes of all types and can help you navigate the often confusing Juvenile Court System. You would not give up on your child, and neither will we. Tagged as: juvenile crime, los angeles criminal defense attorney Reaching a Plea BargainPosted on: November 23, 2009 at 6:22 p.m.If you've been arrested for, or charged with, a crime, you need a qualified Los Angeles criminal defense attorney who knows how to defend you, how to operate during a trial and possible how to please bargain successfully. Former NBA star Jayson Williams is expected to reach a plea bargain deal on Friday November 20, 2009 for a case stemming from a 2002 incident that resulted in the accidental shooting death of a limousine driver at his home. The case has dragged on for nearly eight years and the plea bargain would effectively reduce the initial aggravated manslaughter and reckless manslaughter counts to a count of aggravated assault. The plea bargain will reduce Williams’ jail sentence to no less than 18 months and no more than three years. Plea bargains are agreements in criminal cases where the prosecutor offers the defendant the opportunity to plead guilty, usually to a lesser charge or to the original charge with a recommendation of a lighter sentence. A plea bargain can also reduce the severity of charges in a criminal case, for example, a felony hit and run charge can be reduced to a misdemeanor charge if a plea bargain is reached. Reaching a plea bargain requires a professional defense attorney that will negotiate with the prosecutor on your behalf to attain a favorable outcome. The Williams case is one out of countless of cases that occur each day where a plea bargain is negotiated or reached. Every day, defendants are offered plea bargains and agree to these bargains for a reduced sentence. With the assistance of a defense lawyer, a defendant could get a plea bargain that helps them stay clear of prison and even serious fines. In Los Angeles, these instances are concurrent and can happen to anyone. A professional attorney can help sort out your legal troubles through negotiation and plea bargains. With a dedicated team of attorneys you can be given opportunities to reduce a jail sentence or avoid jail time altogether. The criminal defense lawyers team at Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin, LLP can assist you in reaching a plea bargain in criminal cases and potentially reduce your criminal charge to a lesser charge. The former Philadelphia 76ers and New Jersey Nets player faced a trial on a reckless manslaughter count where the jury deadlocked, he was to face a retrial in January. The plea bargain will essentially resolve all charges in the case and reduce the charge to aggravated assault. Through the plea bargain, Williams will avoid a longer jail sentence and heftier charges. When you need to reach a plea bargain but don’t know where to start, contact us and we will work by your side to reach that plea bargain you seek. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Can A Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney Keep You/Get You Out of Prison?Posted on: November 17, 2009 at 10:25 p.m.With the recent economic recession hitting every area of public and private industries, the state of California has been searching for new and creative ways to deal with prison population levels. A skilled Los Angeles criminal lawyer may be able to help anyone facing jail time to take advantage of this situation. Like many other things in Los Angeles, the prison system is overcrowded and under-funded. It is so overcrowded, in fact, that several United States federal judges have intervened, ordering Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to draft a proposal to reduce the state’s prison population by roughly 40,000 prisoners over the next two years. Governor Schwarzenegger had previously submitted a proposal to federal judges back in September, which was rejected by all three of the judges who reviewed it. While lawyers for the state of California have made statements to the effect that it is improper for a federal authority to intrude in state affairs, Governor Schwarzenegger went back to the drawing board to try and come up with a plan that would appease federal judges. The governor’s new plan would open up 42,000 prison beds by 2011, some through new construction, some through sentence reductions for people already serving time in a state prison, and some through alternate sentencing. Within the state, a reduction in sentencing for people already incarcerated would need the approval of state lawmakers. One of Governor Schwarzenegger’s suggestions in the proposal was putting up to 25,000 current inmates on house arrest with satellite tracking devices. The governor had previously tried proposing such a measure before it was rejected by state legislators during budget fights last summer. The proposal also called for the transfer of certain inmates from a state prison facility to a county jail, depending on the severity of the crimes for which they had been incarcerated. The landscape of California’s prison system is being forced to change, one way or another. In times like these, it becomes increasingly important to have an experienced criminal defense attorney by your side. A attorney could examine your case and get the prosecuting attorney to agree that jail time is not the best option. However, in order to take advantage of this once in a lifetime situation, you must hire a criminal lawyer who understands the courts, understands prosecutors and who has a successful track record. Our team has years of experience in District Attorneys' Offices, giving them a unique insight into any criminal case. If you have been charged with a serious crime, having the right law firm could mean the difference between being sent to prison, being sentenced to home detention or being acquitted. Call Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin, LLP today. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney Los Angeles Marijuana PossessionPosted on: November 16, 2009 at 2:32 a.m.In Los Angeles, marijuana laws are complicated. Having a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney to help defend your Los Angeles drug offense will go a long towards keeping you out of prison. Major League Baseball pitcher Tim Lincecum of the San Francisco Giants was arrested two weeks ago in his home state of Washington after local law enforcement agents found a small amount of marijuana in his car. Lincecum was initially pulled over because he was speeding, driving 74 miles per hour in a 60 mile per hour zone. When the officer approached the star pitcher’s car, he smelled the marijuana and immediately asked him to surrender the drug. Lincecum handed over roughly 3.3 grams of marijuana, in addition to a marijuana pipe from the car’s center console. Since the state of Washington considers most quantities of marijuana of less than 40 grams to be for personal use, Lincecum will most likely avoid felony drug possession charges and will instead be charged with a misdemeanor criminal offense. In the state of Washington, a first-time charge for the possession of marijuana for personal use typically garners a fine of about $622. Lincecum will also be cited for speeding. In Los Angeles, small amounts of marijuana for personal use are technically legal-depending on which law enforcement agency finds them. Since marijuana laws allow for the use of marijuana for medical purposes, state and city agents might not arrest you if you are consuming the marijuana in your home. According to Los Angeles marijuana law, carrying the marijuana outside your home (in a car or in a public place, for instance), however, might make you eligible to be charged with a misdemeanor drug possession offense. Depending on the circumstances of your case, probation, community service, fines or time in a county jail may be assessed if you are found guilty. For many first-time drug offenders, Los Angeles also has a deferred entry of judgment program that would allow for drug treatment rather than jail time. In these cases, a defendant pleads guilty to drug possession charges, but instead of being sentenced to harsher punishments, the defendant’s case is instead put on “hold" for a time. The defendant is then required to complete a six-month series of drug education classes and avoid being arrested or convicted of another crime for 18 months. If the defendant successfully completes both requirements, the case is dismissed and criminal charges are wiped from their record. Los Angeles marijuana laws surrounding the use of pot can be confusing. However, the help of an experienced Los Angeles criminal defense attorney is invaluable when you have been charged with a drug offense. Call the attorneys at Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin, LLP today to find out what your options are. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney, los angeles drug laws, los angeles drug offense, los angeles marijuana laws Hartsfield Convicted in ShootingPosted on: November 16, 2009 at 2:23 a.m.California Three Strikes laws can ruin a person's life if they don't have a qualified Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer representing them. The California Three Strikes laws were designed to lower the crime rate, but they have largely damaged the lives of low-level offenders, and punished people guilty of misdemeanors with decades in prison. Tyrone Hartsfield was found guilty last week of attempted first-degree murder in the shooting of Jacksonville Jaguar’s football star Richard Collier in 2008. Hartsfield, who has six prior felony convictions and has twice served time in Florida state prisons, was accused of shooting Collier six times while he sat in his Cadillac Escalade outside a Jacksonville apartment building. As a result of the shooting, Collier is now paralyzed from the waist down and has had his left leg amputated. Hartsfield had previously testified during the trial that he had had no involvement in the shooting. Prosecutors in the case believe Hartsfield shot Collier in retaliation after being knocked out in a physical altercation with Collier in a nightclub nearly eight months earlier. The jury deliberated for just under three hours before returning their guilty verdict to end the nine-day trial. Hartsfield, who is facing life in prison, is scheduled to be sentenced in December. While this crime occurred in Florida, Los Angeles laws are also very strict in dealing with crimes such as attempted murder. Prosecutors in Los Angeles must prove that a defendant acted with deliberate, intentional and reckless or extreme disregard for human life. That may sound vague, but in simpler terms, the prosecution must show that the defendant either intended to kill someone or inflict injuries so severe that they most likely would have resulted in death. In Los Angeles, Hartsfield would also most likely be facing a life in prison sentence as he has had six prior felony convictions. In the state of California, certain felony crimes count as “strikes" under California Three Strikes laws, meaning that if a person has committed and been convicted of at least three eligible felonies, they are nearly always sent straight to a state prison for a life sentence, with very few possibilities of parole. Three Strikes laws were designed to deal harshly with repeat violent criminal offenders. If you have been charged with a violent crime, or if you are in danger of being convicted under a California Three Strikes law, call the Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys at Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin, LLP today. Defending against such serious criminal charges can be difficult and complicated, but we have the courtroom experience in defending against criminal charges of all types. Tagged as: california three strikes law, los angeles criminal defense attorney Los Angeles Excessive Use of Force ProbePosted on: October 31, 2009 at 3:51 a.m.At Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin, our Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys are skilled in exposing Los Angeles police brutality in criminal defense cases. Recently, the Federal Bureau of Investigations has begun a probe into several members of the Burbank Police Department amidst allegations of the excessive use of force by as many as 12 current and former Burbank policemen. Federal investigators have requested information from the police department that specifically focuses on several officers’ use of Tasers, pepper spray and defensive tactics from as far back as 2003. The probe will examine the possible violation of suspects’ civil rights. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is also involved in the Los Angeles police brutality investigation. The excessive use of force by law enforcement officials is a fairly sticky topic these days. Admittedly, Los Angeles police and Los Angeles County Sheriffs Deputies have a very difficult and very dangerous job. On a daily basis they may deal with both alleged and convicted criminals, some of whom may become physically violent. In many cases, law enforcement agents must chase, fight or physically restrain suspects, many of whom might be armed with a weapon of some sort. Sometimes retaliating in kind is seen as "necessary" in the line of duty, but very often, police may get carried away and engage in what is called the excessive use of force, or Los Angeles police brutality. Los Angeles police brutality occurs when Los Angeles law enforcement officials use more force than is necessary to apprehend or arrest a criminal suspect. Police have very strict guidelines at to when and how they may collect evidence of a crime against you. However, the line between law enforcement acting in a brutal or unfair manner or acting appropriately in any given situation is less clear. A police officer may use a weapon against you if he or she is “reasonably" fearful for their life. If you pull out a weapon, or anything that resembles a gun, they may “reasonably" fear for their lives and injure, if not kill you with weapons of their own. If you have been arrested by police and believe you have been the victim of Los Angeles police brutality, or that you were treated unfairly by member of the Los Angeles Police Department, call the attorneys at Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin, LLP today. In many instances, criminal proceedings against you can be dismissed because of the improper conduct of police officers. Our attorneys have over 50 years of combined experience in defending against criminal charges of all types and know which details to look for. Call today to begin preparing your case. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney, los angeles police brutality defense Los Angeles Paparazzi Laws UpdatesPosted on: October 31, 2009 at 3:45 a.m.The Los Angeles criminal defense attorney team at Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin is highly skilled, highly regarded and highly experienced. We've defended some of the most high profile cases in recent history, giving our defense attorney team unique experience. We work hard to keep our eyes on new criminal laws, whether they affect petty theft charges or paparazzi. In Hollywood, attorney teams must stay up to date with all paparazzi laws, especially with a celebrity governor in office. By the most basic of definitions, paparazzi are photographers who primarily focus their efforts on photographing celebrities. The lives of actors and actresses have long held the interest of the public, leading to the immense popularity of tabloids and gossip columns centered on them. In recent years, however, paparazzi behavior has become increasingly invasive, and even dangerous. While photographing celebrities in a public place such as a restaurant or park is perfectly legal, many celebrities have complained about the intrusion on their privacy, and even successfully sued members of the paparazzi for things like wiretapping their homes and physical altercations. Stories of the well-known having been pursued in cars by the paparazzi, sometimes leading to collisions, abound. Photos taken of celebrities in their most private moments may sell well in tabloids, but cause mountains of embarrassment for the celebrity and their families. In order to combat the more intrusive members of the paparazzi, the nation’s first anti-paparazzi legislation was signed into law in 1999, making it a criminal offense for a photographer to invade the privacy of the rich and famous by taking unauthorized photos of them in their homes or tapping their phone lines to listen in on their conversations. This first law didn’t seem to be enough to stop the paparazzi, so in 2005, new legislation went into effect that specifically dealt with the more violent photographers who enter into physical altercations with celebrities in their attempts to get photographs of them. Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger recently signed legislation that also makes it easier for celebrities to sue the media outlets that purchase these photos from the paparazzi and profit from them. With legislation on their side, the wealthy and well-known are fighting back with both civil suits and criminal charges. Stalking and trespassing are common criminal charges against the photographers. Stalking, legally defined as the repeated harassing or threatening of another person, is either a misdemeanor or felony criminal offense in Los Angeles. Trespassing is the unauthorized intrusion of a photographer that interferes with a person or their property. While typically considered a misdemeanor, stalking carries a penalty of up to six months in a Los Angeles County jail and up to $1,000 in monetary fines. Battery and assault are also frequent byproducts of interactions between the paparazzi and celebrities, and are often serious criminal offenses, punishable by jail time. If you are a photographer and have been accused of a crime involving a celebrity, call Kestenbaum, Eisner & Gorin, LLP today. Let us fight for your freedom and good reputation. Tagged as: los angeles criminal defense attorney, los angeles paparazzi law Kestenbaum Eisner & Gorin LLP has been recognized as one of the best U.S. law firms, based on the experience, professionalism, and ethics of its criminal defense lawyers and attorneys. We aggressively defend clients in all Southern California courtrooms on state and federal charges, including DUI, DMV, misdemeanor, felony, juvenile cases, in the following communities and courthouses. |
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