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Why are traffic tickets so expensive in California

Each violation listed on a citation is assessed a base fine. In addition to the base fine, there are additional assessments added to make up the total fine amount due to the court.

Understanding the Real Cost of Speeding Tickets in California: Penalties, Fees, and Ways to Fight

An explanation of the base fine and assessment breakdown is shown below. The total fine amount due can also be increased by priors or points on a person’s driving record. If Traffic school is allowed, there is an additional $52.00 added to the total amount due.

This breakdown is applicable to Sacramento County and will parallel  to other counties.

Base Fine: [Insert Amount] Set by legislation and the Judicial Council of California. Penalty Assessment: Penalty assessments are allocated for such items as court and jail facility construction and other items as noted below. $10.00 per $10/base fine per PC 1464 goes 70% to State Trial Court Trust Fund; 30% to County General Fund. $2.00 per $10/base fine per GC 76100 goes to the County Courthouse construction fund. $2.50 per $10/base fine per GC 76101 goes to the County Jail Construction Fund. $0.50 per $10/base fine per GC 76102 goes to County Automated Fingerprint Fund. $2.00 per $10/base fine per GC 76104 goes to Maddy Emergency Medical Fund (State/County split). $3.00 per $10/base fine per GC 70372.(a) goes to State Court Facilities Construction Fund. $1.00 per $10/base fine per GC 76104.6 goes to the DNA Identification Fund (County/State split). $4.00 per $10/base fine per GC 76104.7 goes to the DNA Identification Fund (County/State split). (First $1 per $10 effective on violations on/after 07/12/06; additional $2 per $10 effective on violations on/after 06/10/10; $1 per $10 effective on violations on/after 06/27/12.) $2.00 per $10/base fine per GC 70372(a) goes to the State Court Facilities Construction Fund – Immediate and Critical Needs Account. Night Court Assessment Fee pursuant to Vehicle Code 42006; goes to the State Court Facilities Construction Fund – Immediate and Critical Needs Account – $1.00. DMV History fee pursuant to Vehicle Code 40508.6; goes to the court to offset cost of recording and maintaining defendants prior convictions of the Vehicle Code – $10.00. Twenty percent Criminal Surcharge pursuant to Penal Code 1465.7; goes to the State General Fund. 20% is calculated on the base fine amount. Court Security Fee pursuant to Penal Code 1465.8; goes to the State Trial Court Trust Fund – $40.00. Criminal Conviction Assessment pursuant to Government Code 70373; goes to the State Court Facilities Construction Fund – Immediate and Critical Needs Account (assessed per conviction). – $30.00 (Misdemeanor); $35.00 (Infraction) Citation Processing Fee per Government Code 295550(c); goes to the County – $10.00. Emergency Air Medical Transportation Act Fee pursuant to Government Code 76000.10; goes to County Emergency Air Medical Transportation Fund – $4.00. Parking Violations Processed by the court . These violations must be issued on a Notice to Appear and signed by the violator.- $3.00 per parking violation. Pursuant to SB 857 and Government Code 76000.3, effective 12/19/10; goes to the State Trial Court Trust Fund. DMV Traffic Violator School Completion Certificate Fee . $3.00 charged per certificate. Pursuant to AB 2499 and Vehicle Code 11208(d), effective 09/01/11; goes to State Department of Motor Vehicles.

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Common Questions When Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney

If you’re considering hiring a criminal defense attorney, it’s natural to have questions. Below are five important questions to ask, along with detailed responses:

What experience do you have defending first-time shoplifting cases?

I have extensive experience defending shoplifting cases throughout Orange County, representing both first-time offenders and repeat clients. My background includes handling cases where individuals were accused of shoplifting with sophisticated tools, as well as cases involving medical conditions that affect memory and intent. I often utilize counseling and therapy as part of a rehabilitative approach. I’ve successfully defended cases at major retailers and venues, including Target, Disneyland, Costco, and Kohl’s.

How familiar are you with procedures at the Orange County Courthouse?

I am well-versed in the procedures at all Orange County courthouses, including the Fullerton Courthouse, where many Disneyland-related shoplifting cases are heard, as well as Westminster, Santa Ana, and the Harbor Justice Center. My familiarity with the arraignment and pretrial process, along with the prosecuting agencies, allows me to approach each case efficiently and effectively.

Can you explain the steps involved in my case and how long it may take?

Typically, charges are filed within 45 days of the incident. The arraignment date follows, where we enter a plea of “not guilty” and set a pretrial date, which is usually within another 45 days. If the case isn’t resolved at that point, the timeline may extend another 90 days for further pretrial hearings or settlement discussions. In general, I aim to resolve cases within four to six months, prioritizing a thorough approach to achieve the best possible outcome.

Are there options for payment plans or alternative fee structures?

Yes, we offer payment plans and flexible fee structures. Many criminal defense cases require upfront payment, but my office often allows clients to put down half initially, with the remaining balance divided into 25% installments due every 30 days. This can ease the financial burden, particularly for clients who may be facing unexpected legal expenses.

What specific strategies have you used successfully in cases similar to mine, particularly at the Fullerton Courthouse?

For first-time shoplifting cases at the Fullerton Courthouse, I often advocate a rehabilitative approach. This may involve classes, counseling, and community service to show accountability and address any underlying issues. This strategy balances the need for accountability with the goal of keeping your criminal record clean. My aim is to ensure that all parties’ needs are met, while working toward a favorable resolution for you.

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5 Key Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Domestic Violence Attorney

What is the likelihood of my domestic violence charges being dismissed or reduced?

Domestic violence charges can be dismissed or reduced, but this depends heavily on the specifics of the case. Key factors that may influence dismissal include the absence of a confession by the defendant and weak or unreliable evidence. If the defendant has not admitted to the accusations, it strengthens the defense. Additionally, many arrests are based on accusations not directly witnessed by the responding officer. Witness testimony is another important element. Sometimes witnesses recant, fail to appear in court, or their testimony becomes inconsistent, all of which can work in your favor. Your attorney will likely focus on these aspects to challenge the prosecution’s case.

What are the possible outcomes if I am convicted of domestic violence in Orange County?

The consequences of a domestic violence conviction in Orange County vary depending on whether the charge is a misdemeanor or a felony. If convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence, you could face up to one year in jail, though probation without jail time is also possible. For felony domestic violence, the penalties are more severe, with a potential sentence of up to three years in state prison. The final outcome will depend on the specifics of the case, including any aggravating factors like prior convictions, injuries, or violations of protective orders.

How do protective orders work, and how can they impact my ability to communicate with family members?

Protective orders are designed to prevent contact between the defendant and the protected party. They can range from “no contact” orders, which prohibit all communication, to “peaceful contact” orders, which allow communication as long as it is non-threatening and civil. Violating a protective order can result in additional legal consequences. However, protective orders can sometimes be modified. For example, if the defendant completes anger management classes and the victim participates in victim empowerment programs, the court may relax the terms of the order, allowing for peaceful contact instead of no contact.

What should I expect at my first court appearance (arraignment), and how should I prepare?

At your arraignment, you will be formally charged, and the court will ask you to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. If you have an attorney, they will guide you through the process, and you may spend 2 to 2 ½ hours in court. If you do not have an attorney, you can request more time to hire one, and the judge will typically grant a 30-day extension. It is critical to attend your arraignment, as failure to appear can result in a bench warrant for your arrest. The court may also issue a protective order during this time, so your presence is required.

What evidence will be used against me, and how will my attorney challenge it?

The evidence in a domestic violence case typically includes the victim’s testimony, witness statements, and police reports. Body camera footage from the responding officers may also be used. If you made any statements to the police, those could be used as evidence against you. Your attorney will work to challenge the evidence by scrutinizing the reliability of witness statements, questioning how the evidence was gathered, and reviewing the police report for inconsistencies. They will also examine whether the officers asked leading questions or influenced the victim’s statements, which can undermine the prosecution’s case. The goal is to identify weaknesses in the evidence and challenge the prosecution’s narrative wherever possible.

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Halloween and DUI: A Dangerous Combination

Halloween is one of the most exciting nights of the year, filled with costumes, parties, and celebrations. However, it’s also a night that sees a significant spike in DUI-related incidents. Mixing alcohol, drugs, and driving on Halloween puts everyone at risk, including pedestrians and children who are out trick-or-treating. It’s crucial to understand the dangers associated with impaired driving on Halloween and to take proactive steps for a safe celebration.

DUI Fatalities During Halloween

Halloween consistently sees higher rates of DUI-related fatalities. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), around 40% of fatal crashes on Halloween involve an impaired driver. With so many people celebrating on foot and in cars, it’s easy to see how quickly impaired driving can lead to tragedies. Taking steps to prevent impaired driving is critical for reducing these incidents and keeping everyone safe.

The Impact of Alcohol and Drugs on Driving Ability

Alcohol and drugs seriously impair the ability to drive safely in several ways:

Slowed Reaction Time: Impaired drivers react more slowly, which is especially dangerous on a night with increased pedestrian traffic.

Decreased Coordination: Motor skills essential for safe driving—such as steering, braking, and acceleration—become compromised.

Reduced Judgment: Alcohol can lower inhibitions, leading to poor decisions like speeding or running stop signs.

Lack of Focus: Drugs and alcohol make it hard to stay focused on the road, which can be risky when Halloween’s distractions are everywhere.

Tips for Celebrating Halloween Safely

Here are some ways to enjoy Halloween responsibly while keeping friends, family, and neighbors safe.

Hosting a Safe and Responsible Halloween Party If you’re hosting a Halloween party, provide plenty of food and non-alcoholic options for guests. A festive, responsible atmosphere can help prevent guests from drinking too much, and can keep them from getting behind the wheel while impaired.

Providing Non-Alcoholic Drink Options Include Halloween-themed mocktails and non-alcoholic drinks as part of the celebration. When guests have fun alternatives, they may be more inclined to stay sober, making the night safer for everyone.

Encouraging Designated Drivers Remind guests to select a designated driver before the night begins. Offering incentives like a special non-alcoholic drink can encourage people to volunteer as designated drivers.

Offering Transportation Alternatives Have contact information for local ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft readily available. Making these services accessible can encourage guests to avoid driving home if they’ve been drinking. Public transportation or local taxi services can also be excellent options, especially in urban areas.

For those needing legal advice following a DUI-related incident, the Law Office of Hieu Vu provides guidance on DUI cases and can assist with legal information regarding rights and responsibilities.

With a bit of planning and consideration, Halloween can be a safe and enjoyable night for everyone.

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Handling Old Warrants in Orange County

Warrants are typically issued when individuals fail to appear in court or violate the terms of their DUI probation. While there are various types of warrants, this article focuses on old warrants in Orange County Superior Court, specifically those tied to missed court dates or unresolved legal matters from years past. These warrants do not simply disappear and can have significant legal consequences, even if the underlying case was minimal or happened a long time ago.

Understanding Old Warrants

Old warrants are usually issued when someone misses a court date, fails to meet the conditions of probation, or neglects legal responsibilities such as completing a class. Once a warrant is issued, it stays in effect indefinitely. Warrants, whether for minor infractions or more serious offenses, don’t vanish over time. Even if the original charge was minor, the existence of an active warrant means you are always at risk of being arrested.

The Dangers of Ignoring Old Warrants

Arrest Risk: If you have an old warrant and encounter law enforcement, there’s a high chance you’ll be taken to county jail, especially if the warrant was issued in Orange County.

International Travel Issues: Old warrants can lead to being detained at border crossings when entering or exiting the U.S.

Job and Background Checks: Many employers conduct background checks, and an old warrant can show up, creating obstacles when applying for new jobs or promotions.

Types of Warrants

Warrants generally come in two forms:

Arrest Warrants: Issued when law enforcement needs to take someone into custody.

Bench Warrants: Typically issued when a person fails to appear in court or comply with a court order.

Common Reasons for Old Warrants

Probation Violations: Failure to meet the conditions of probation, such as attending mandated classes.

Missed Court Dates: Skipping a court appearance can lead to a warrant being issued.

New Offenses: Committing a new crime while already on probation or facing charges can result in a warrant.

Legal Consequences of Old Warrants

Having an old warrant can affect your legal standing in many ways:

Impact on Immigration: Old warrants can complicate immigration status or lead to deportation in some cases.

Employment Opportunities: Warrants appearing on background checks can result in job denials or dismissals.

Travel Restrictions: Individuals with active warrants may face detention when traveling internationally.

Clearing Old Warrants

Addressing an old warrant in Orange County requires swift action. While the situation may seem overwhelming, having a defense attorney who knows the local courts is crucial. Here are some common steps attorneys take to clear old warrants:

Case Review and Research: Your attorney will investigate the reason for the warrant and gather the necessary information about your case.

Tailored Legal Strategy: A skilled attorney will develop a strategy based on the specific reasons for the warrant, whether it’s a probation violation or failure to complete court-ordered programs. For example, if a client missed a court-ordered class, the attorney might have the client complete the class before appearing in court.

Court Representation: Your attorney can often appear in court on your behalf, which may help avoid immediate arrest and detention. The court may be more lenient if the client has taken steps to correct the issue before the hearing.

Motion to Dismiss or Reduce the Warrant: Your attorney may file motions to dismiss the warrant or negotiate with the judge for a more favorable outcome.

Orange County Specific Programs

Statement of Assets Warrants: If the warrant is due to failure to submit a statement of assets, bringing the completed statement to court may help resolve the issue.

MADD Classes: If the warrant is for failing to complete a Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MAD) class, it’s wise to complete the class before appearing in court.

Proactive Steps to Take

If you suspect there’s an old warrant for your arrest, it’s critical to act proactively:

Check for Warrants: Use local court websites or the Orange County Sheriff’s Department warrant checker.

Consult an Attorney: An experienced defense attorney can help you navigate the warrant process, whether you are in or out of state.

How Our Office Can Help

Our office has handled numerous cases involving old warrants in Orange County. We assist clients by:

Looking Up Warrants: We can quickly check to see if there is an active warrant in your name.

Court Representation: Our attorneys frequently appear in court on behalf of clients with old warrants, helping to minimize the risk of immediate arrest.

Tailoring Legal Solutions: We develop personalized strategies based on the circumstances of the warrant, whether it’s for missed court appearances, probation violations, or other issues.

Conclusion

Dealing with old warrants in Orange County is not something to put off. The longer the warrant remains unresolved, the greater the risks to your freedom and future. If you suspect you have an old warrant or need assistance in clearing it, contact our office today. We can help you navigate the legal system, clear your record, and avoid the negative consequences of an old warrant.

Call to Action: If you have an old warrant in Orange County or suspect that one exists, contact our office today. Our experienced team is ready to assist you in clearing up your legal issues and helping you move forward.