Perlman & Cohen Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers Blog

A federal criminal trial is where prosecutors must prove the charges against the defendant beyond a reasonable doubt. Federal trials follow a structured process governed by federal rules, constitutional protections, and the procedures of the particular court. Understanding the major stages of a trial can help defendants know what to expect and how the...

f you're on probation in California, it's important to understand that even a minor misstep can lead to serious consequences. The court grants probation as an alternative to jail or prison, but it comes with strict terms—and any violation can result in penalties, additional supervision, or incarceration. There are two main categories of probation vi...

Key Takeaways - Domestic Violence Defense How a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help If You're Accused of Domestic Violence A late-night knock from police can turn your life upside down within minutes. We understand that fear at Perlman & Cohen, and we know how fast domestic violence allegations can spiral into formal domestic violence charges. [&hell...

Key Takeaways - Money Laundering What Are the 3 Stages of Money Laundering? Facing questions from federal agents about your finances can feel terrifying. We understand that fear at Perlman & Cohen, and we know how fast a financial inquiry can change your life. The 3 stages of money laundering are placement, layering, and integration. […]...

Key Takeaways - Restraining Orders in California Violating a restraining order in California is a serious offense that can lead to arrest, criminal charges, and jail time, even if the contact seems small, like phone calls, text messages, or social media interactions, because courts strictly enforce protective orders such as domestic violence restraini...

Key Takeaways: Being falsely accused of domestic abuse is one of the most disorienting experiences a person can face. The accusation alone can destroy your reputation, break apart your family, and set the legal system in motion before a single fact is confirmed. In California, police can arrest based on probable cause alone, without first […]...

Key Takeaways - DUI The difference between DUI and DWI comes down to where you were charged and what terms the state uses to describe impaired driving. Picture this: a police officer pulls you over at a traffic stop, and you are not sure what charge applies. The NHTSA reports that about 37 people in […]...

Key Takeaways What is considered self-defense in Los Angeles depends on whether a reasonable person in the same situation would have felt the same reasonable fear and responded with similar force. California's self-defense laws allow individuals to defend themselves when they face imminent danger, but strict legal standards determine whether that forc...

Key Takeaways Murder charges fall into different categories under California law, and the degree of the charge determines the severity of the punishment. Understanding first degree vs second degree murder explained is essential because first-degree murder involves willful, deliberate, and premeditated killing, while second-degree murder typically cove...

When a case is dismissed without prejudice, the court closes your case temporarily rather than permanently. The plaintiff or prosecutor keeps the right to refile the case later. This type of dismissal applies to both civil and criminal cases. A dismissal without prejudice sounds like good news, but the details matter significantly. So, what does [&hel...