Articles Posted in Criminal Defense

Missing a court date can be a stomatch-churning experience, and we understand the anxiety and uncertainty it can bring. Not showing up for court can have serious consequences, such as the issuance of a bench warrant for your arrest, additional charges or penalties, and potential impacts on bail or future legal proceedings. This situation demands…

According to the New York Law Journal, “Various studies of federal diversion programs, from 2011 to 2023, reflect that, by and large, participants in pretrial diversion programs have lower recidivism rates compared to comparable non-participants—and save a lot of money in the process. For example, a 2011 study of a drug treatment pre-trial diversion program…

Plainly speaking, the accuracy and credibility of witness testimony can determine the outcome of a case. Eyewitness testimony is not always reliable and can be subject to human interpretation, which can go unchecked with a less than meticulous lawyer. The right Orange County criminal defense lawyer will provide high-level legal guidance and advice and have…

California vehicle code violations can extend beyond just receiving a traffic ticket. At the Law Office of William Bruzzo, we do represent people in court for any and all types of vehicle violations. Here is an overview of some common California vehicle code violations our Orange County criminal defense lawyer has assisted with. If you…

Self-defense claims can arise in a variety of criminal matters, such as assault or homicide cases, where the accused individual alleges that their actions were necessary to protect themselves from harm. However, the legal intricacies and proving a self-defense claim can be challenging. Just ask Erik and Lyle Menendez. In 1989, Lyle and Erik Menendez…

During the investigation and subsequent trials of the January 6th Capitol riots, prosecutors heavily relied on social media posts made by the rioters themselves. The content shared on platforms such as Facebook, Tik Tok, Twitter, and Instagram provided crucial evidence of individuals’ involvement in the rioting and their intentions. Roughly 700 people were convicted of…

In one of the most notorious criminal cases that relied heavily on DNA evidence, the Green River Killer was finally brought to justice after a killing spree that spanned two decades. The Green River Killer, also known as Gary Ridgway, was responsible for the murders of 49 young women in the Seattle area in the…

Did you know that people with addictions, mood disorders, and schizophrenia have higher rates of criminal behavior than those without these mental health conditions? (1) Mental health plays a crucial role in many criminal cases, whether it is assessing the mental capacity of the accused, exploring the effects of a mental health condition on behavior,…

The “three strikes” law in California has had a significant impact on the state’s criminal justice system. Implemented in 1994, the law mandates harsher sentences, including life imprisonment, for people convicted of a third felony offense. While the law was initially aimed at deterring repeat offenders and protecting public safety, it has faced criticism for…

A misdemeanor may not sound as serious as a felony, but for those who find themselves facing one, it can still be a distressing and life-altering experience. You need to keep in mind that the severity of a criminal charge is not solely determined by its classification, but by the potential consequences and impact it…