Posts by Caroff Writer

A popular belief among many is that police must always read Miranda rights during an arrest. It’s not difficult to understand how this misconception became widespread when American TV shows like “Law & Order” have depicted the process this way repeatedly. However, that’s simply for entertainment purposes. In reality, the law is much more specific…

YES, CHARGES CAN BE FILED WITHOUT ARREST Many people assume that an arrest must occur before criminal charges can be brought, but in California that is not always true. In fact, prosecutors can initiate formal charges after a thorough investigation and review of the evidence, even when no arrest has taken place. The process begins…

Being arrested for a serious crime, or felony arrest, can be one of the most frightening experiences a person and their loved ones may ever face. The moment law enforcement places you under arrest, a chain of legal and administrative processes immediately begins. From interaction with the Orange County courts to understanding your charges, the…

For individuals with an arrest or criminal conviction, your past doesn’t have to define your future. At the Law Offices of David A. Stein in Orange County, we believe in second chances and using the law to help clients clear or limit the impact of a criminal record. Whether you’re seeking expungement, sealing arrest records,…

Have you suddenly received unexpected detective calls? Is law enforcement quietly reviewing your case? If you’re a target of investigation in Orange County, the time before formal charges are filed can be critical. A pre-filing intervention is an initiative-taking, strategic legal approach that uses pre-charge advocacy to influence the decision of the prosecutor during the…

Facing ghost gun or unserialized firearm charges in Orange County, CA? Understanding your exposure and defenses is critical. Penal Code (PC) § 29180 prohibits the clandestine manufacturing, possession or transport of a firearm or kit that lacks a state or federal serial number. In practical terms, possessing an unserialized firearm, a kit gun, ammo, or…

DUI arrest Orange County As with all counties throughout the State of California, the arresting officer of a suspect driving under the influence in Orange County will seize the driver’s license and serve the driver with a Notice of Suspension (legally referred to as DMV for DS367), usually after release from custody. If this has…

In California, search and seizure law applies emphatically to digital devices. A cell phone search is among the most intrusive kinds of searches law enforcement can conduct — because phones contain deeply personal data like messages, photos, location history, and more.  Understanding your rights around warrant requirement, consent, password protections, and border issues is key…

Has a bench warrant been issued against you in Orange County, California? You’re not alone. Many people face this consequence after a failure to appear (FTA), missing a court date, or even a probation violation. The good news is there are concrete steps you can take to recall and quash the warrant — sometimes via…

To be accused of a crime can feel overwhelming, but what you do in the first hours after being arrested in Orange County will shape the outcome of your case. Whether the charge is minor or serious, you have constitutional rights designed to protect you — if you know how to use them. The key…