California Title IX & Criminal Defense Attorneys

If you are arrested, stay calm, compliant, and silent. You are likely going to be angry, confused, and nervous. Officers will ask you questions, but do not comment, argue, or try to explain anything. The police may seem friendly or pretend like they care about your side of the story. But they want you to talk because you may say something that can be used against you. Be polite and listen to instructions. Ask to speak with our criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Other than your lawyer, do not discuss your case with anyone. This strategy is the best way to protect your rights, prevent additional charges from being filed, and give yourself a shot at securing a dismissal, plea, or not-guilty verdict.

Title IX is a federal civil rights law that applies to every school and educational institution that receives government funding. It specifically provides protection to students against sex-based discrimination based on their gender identity, sex, or pregnancy status. Under Title IX, all students and employees at federally-funded schools have the right to equal access to academic, athletic, and educational activities. It also ensures a safe environment, free of sexual harassment, assault, and other forms of sexual misconduct. Title IX extends protections to all aspects of the K-12 and higher educational experience including admissions, enrollment, scholarships, housing, and more. All institutions are required to assign a Title IX coordinator and design comprehensive reporting and investigative policies.

Misdemeanors are generally lesser crimes like disorderly conduct and petty theft. Consequences are usually jail time, fines, and mandated community service. Felonies are more serious, and typically violent offenses like robbery, homicide, and aggravated assault. Penalties are more severe, such as a year or more of prison time, substantial fines, and the loss of some rights, including voting, immigration, and gun ownership. There are additional factors that differentiate felonies and misdemeanors like prior criminal history, intent, and whether or not harm was caused.

Plagiarism is usually not a criminal offense, unless it infringes on intellectual property, like a copyright violation, or is part of a fraudulent scheme. At an academic level, students who are accused of plagiarism are often mandated to attend an academic integrity hearing. During this meeting the student and his or her lawyer may present a defense against the allegations. If the educator or institution proves plagiarism, consequences vary based on the school’s policies. However, the minimum punishment is likely a failing grade with marks on the student’s permanent record. Often, punishments are more severe, especially in higher education, such as suspension or expulsion. Working with our education law attorney is essential to protecting your rights and further educational opportunities.

Domestic violence differs from other assault or battery charges because the victim has a close connection to the offender. Each state defines household and family members differently. Romantic relationships like past and current spouses or dating partners qualify. Family relationships like parents, children, and siblings are also included. Depending on where the crime occurs, domestic violence protections may extend to roommates and other co-habituating situations. Incidents between co-workers or housemates with no familial relation or emotional ties generally do qualify.

Whether or not your situation is classified as domestic violence is important for several reasons. First, it can impact whether or not you can seek protective orders. Prosecutors may file charges differently, like opting for a felony offense instead of misdemeanor. Additionally, domestic violence offenders can be subjected to stricter sentencing requirements, specifically concerning contact and proximity to the victim.