Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog

Santa Ana, Orange County - In June of 2008, 32-year-old Jodi Arias murdered her boyfriend Travis Alexander. The fact of the murder is assured, but the trial's length of over five years can be attributed to the expertise and skill of the attorneys on either side of the case, proving the importance of having a professional defense lawyer. On June 4th, 2008 - the night the murder occurred - Arias and her boyfriend had allegedly gotten into the biggest fight of their relationship, which was consequently their last.

According to ABC News, Arias described the encounter as follows: she and Alexander were taking nude photos in the shower when she dropped his new, expensive camera. He then became enraged and slammed her to the floor. She attempted to flee by running down the hall to his room, and then grabbed the gun on his shelf for protection. "I pointed it at him with both of my hands. I thought that would stop him," claimed Arias, "but he just kept running." But this is where it gets fuzzy. After he charged at her, screaming that he intended to kill her, "he was lunging at me when the gun went off...I didn't even think I was holding the trigger," stated Arias. After this moment, Arias claims that she has no recollection of the 27 slashes and stabs that were found on her boyfriend's body, or the two bullets in his head - or his severely slit throat. She only remembered her realization of the "horror."

Aside from the convenience of her memory lapse, the story has been yet more convoluted as Arias has frequently changed her account of the situation. Initially she claimed that she was never actually at Alexander's house that night, but then changed the story to include two masked people who allegedly broke into the house, killing her boyfriend and threatening her into silence, thus adding perjury to her ever-growing list of convictions. Because the fact that she did indeed murder her boyfriend has been agreed upon, the long deliberation process now concerns the degree of her murder charge - and this process is where an exceptional defense attorney can literally mean the difference between life and death.

A first-degree murder charge can result in either a life sentence in prison, which has the possibility for parole, or the death penalty. A conviction of second-degree murder, though (one without premeditation), can result in 20 years or a life sentence. But a conviction of manslaughter could find the criminal in jail for as little time as seven years. This is the ruling that expert attorneys attempt to win.

Orange County defense lawyer Michael L. Guisti describes voluntary manslaughter (covered under Penal Code 192) as a killing made during a sudden fight or in the heat of passion intentionally with a conscious disregard for human life. If the attorney can prove that the client had to premeditation of the murderous act then the judge or jury will often choose a manslaughter charge. In this way, a professional Orange County murder attorney like Michael L. Guisti can be the difference between life or death for the defendant. If you or someone you know is in need of expert defense in a critical matter such as a murder charge, do not hesitate to contact the law offices of Michael L. Guisti for free consultation: 888-478-8999

Orange County, CA - Police in Oxnard completed a month long investigation Wednesday, that resulted in the arrest of two men on possession of marijuana.

The investigation began after Oxnard Police received anonymous tips indicating these two men were involved in selling marijuana out of their home. On Wednesday, May 8th, Oxnard Police served a search warrant on the men at their home on the 300 block of Kiawah River Drive.

When police searched the home, they found more than fifteen pounds of marijuana. Police also found clear evidence that the drug was being sold from their home, which is located within 1000 feet of an elementary school.

Both men, Robert Mckee, 29 years old, and Cameron Fletcher, 23 years old, were immediately arrested at their home after the search warrant was completed.

Orange County has a very aggressive approach to drug crimes, particularly when the crime is occurring near children, such as close to a school or day care facility. Law Enforcement agencies in Southern California take these type of tips very seriously, and will always act upon information they receive. It is imperative that you have an aggressive, knowledgeable attorney on your side.

If you or a loved one are facing charges in for drug possession or drug sales, you need someone to protect and fight for your rights. The Orange County criminal attorneys at Law offices of Attorney Michael L. Guisti have been defending their clients for over a decade.

Whether you have been charged with a misdemeanor drug charge, or a felony drug charge in Orange County, you must make sure you have a dedicate Drug defense attorney working on your behalf. An Attorney like the specialist attorneys on staff at the Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti. A conviction for possession or sale of a drug can have a life long negative impact on your reputation and your earning ability. Having a record can severely limit the type of job you can be hired for, and the income you can earn.

The Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti know how to defend you. They have spent years developing working relationships with Orange County Law Enforcement agencies, prosecutors and courts. These relationships allow them to achieve the best possible outcome in every situation, for every client, regardless of the charge.

We know that if you or a loved one has been arrested or charged with possessing drugs it is a very scary time for you. The legal system is overwhelming and intimidating. Southern California Attorney Michael L. Guisti knows the system, and has over a decade of experience protecting his client's rights.

When arrested or charged with a crime, your first instinct might be to try and handle it alone, or to just pick the first attorney you find. It is important to keep in mind that Orange County is aggressive in its prosecution of drug crimes, and they will be working hard to convict. You need an attorney that will be working hard for you, making sure that your rights are not taken away. This is a serious matter, and you must have an aggressive, committed attorney on your side, one who is dedicated to protecting your freedom.

The Orange County Law offices of Michael L. Guisti, and his staff of specialist attorneys will be working hard to achieve the best possible result in your specific case. With years of experience, they have developed strategies and techniques, giving them the ability to win where others could not. They have a well earned reputation of being aggressive attorneys who will fight tirelessly on their clients behalf.

There is a reason that people tell others about their experience with the Law offices of Michael L. Guisti. They feel complete trust and confidence in their attorney, and when you are in a frightening situation, you need that kind of reassurance.

Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney Michael L. Guisti and his staff will protect your most valuable asset, your freedom. If you are facing criminal charges, do not hesitate to call. We are ready to stand by your side, and make sure that your life continues on with as little disruption as possible.

Orange County, CA - Off-duty Orange County Officer Kevin Meyer was involved in an alcohol related accident late Sunday evening, according to Florida Highway patrol.
Meyer, 50, who is a Sergeant in the Orange County Sheriff's Department was arrested on a misdemeanor DUI charge.

Meyer was driving an unmarked patrol car - a law enforcement pick up - with the lights flashing , when he rear-ended a moving car. Meyer was also in uniform at the time the incident happened. The accident occurred on County Road 535 (Winter Garden Vineland Road), at approximately 9:00pm, Sunday, May 5th, 2013. Meyer was going southbound, when he hit the other car from behind. The other driver had slowed to let him pass. The force of the impact from Meyer's pickup sent the other driver into the North-bound lanes, according to police reports.

Although when asked initially whether or not Sgt. Meyer was on duty at the time of the accident the spokesman for the Florida Highway Patrol declined to answer, it has since been learned that in fact Sgt. Meyer was off duty at the time, although he was dressed in uniform, in an unmarked police vehicle, with the lights flashing. Meyer told police at the time of the accident that he was on his way to an off-duty job at Walt Disney World.
Meyer, a 23yr veteran of the Sherriff's office was not injured in the accident. The victim, Victoria De Torres was not injured either. According to De Torres, she was heading southbound in the outer lane of Winter Garden Vineland Road. She said that she noticed a Dodge pick-up truck behind her with emergency lights flashing. Florida Highway Patrol said that De Torres tried to slow down to let the vehicle pass, but was unable to pull over because of the raised cement curb. The accident report states that the impact was fairly severe - it pushed her car up onto the shoulder, over a median strip, finally coming to rest in the northbound (opposite) side.

De Torres has told investigators that Meyer was not acting right. She said that he made very strange demands, such as asking her to "activate her four-way flashers", which were on, and "unlock her door", which was already unlocked.

In his report, a state trooper stated that Meyer smelled of alcohol, was slurring his words, was not steady on his feet, and his eyes were bloodshot. He was given a field sobriety test, which he failed. Meyer then refused to take any further tests. A dash camera recording, that has just been released, clearly shows an officer explaining to Meyer that he needs to conduct a field sobriety test because of the ""alcohol smelling on your breath", which was "very prominent once you got into the car." Inside the car troopers found a plastic bottle with pink colored liquid that "smelled like alcohol", according to the policed report. Meyer was then arrested at the scene.

If you or your loved one is arrested or charged with DUI, time is not on your side. You need an experienced criminal defense lawyer, familiar with the Orange County laws and court system. You need the Law offices of Michael L. Guisti. For over 15 years, Attorney Guisti and his DUI specialist attorneys have been fighting to protect the rights of their clients.

The offices of Orange County criminal Attorney Michael L. Guisti have successfully defended their clients against DUI charges in and around the courts in Southern California, Orange County, such as Newport Beach, Huntington Beach,Irvine, Fullerton, Santa Ana, Westminster, Costa Mesa. They have built working relationships with Orange County law enforcement agencies and the local prosecutors, enabling them to obtain the best possible outcome for their clients.

Do not waste time if you or a loved one has been arrested or booked on suspicion of DUI. Orange County aggressively goes after these crimes, and you need an attorney on your side that will fight tirelessly to make sure your rights are protected. You must have an attorney start defending you immediately, because the DMV does not wait to start the process of revoking your license.

You have 10 days from the date of your arrest. The offices of Criminal Defense Attorney Michael L. Guisti will make sure you keep your right to drive, and protect you and your family from any disruption to your daily life. Remember, TIME IS CRITICAL when you are up against the Department of Motor Vehicles. They begin the process of taking away your rights immediately. You need to be just as aggressive in protecting your rights. Orange County DUI specialist Michael L. Guisti will make sure that you are protected. They start working for you right away, and they will fight to maintain your way of life. They are only a phone call away. Please contact us for a free consultation at 1-888-478-8999 or visit us at http://www.topcalifornialawyer.com

Arcadia, Los Angeles - The search is on in Arcadia for the driver who struck a motorist on Tuesday, and then fled the scene of the accident, leaving the man, who was driving a motorcycle at the time of the crash, to die.

Just before 8:00pm Tuesday evening, Arcadia Police began receiving multiple 911 calls about an accident that had occurred in the 200 block of West Foothill Boulevard, Arcadia. Police responded, and found a motorcyclist lying on the road, who was clearly critically injured. He was rushed by ambulance to Huntington Memorial Hospital, where he later died from the injuries sustained from the crash.

The vehicle that hit the motorcyclist was said to be an electric blue Mitsubishi Lancer. The driver fled the scene. Based on evidence at the scene, the vehicle is expected to have damage on the passengers side.

According to police, both the motorcyclist and the Mitsubishi Lancer were driving Eastbound on West Foothill when the accident occurred. The motorcyclist slid at least 50 yards, before he slammed into a brick wall and came to a stop under a tree.

The 31 year old father and husband, who was not immediately identified, had friends that came to the scene of the accident. They were there to go through the wreckage and see if there was anything that they could save, to keep in remembrance of the victim. They collected pieces of the motorcycle to take with them.

As of right now, investigators say it is not clear why the accident happened, or who is at fault. The stretch of road where the collision occurred is well known as a common area where drag racers often speed. That particular stretch of road is well suited for it, according to witnesses. "There is a mile and half of straight street without a light," said neighbor Jon Wagner.

This is an active investigation. Anyone with any information at all is urged to call the Arcadia Police Department at (626) 574-5151.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a hit and run that resulted in injury or death, you need an experienced, aggressive attorney by your side. The Orange County Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti are ready to defend and protect you and your family. Orange County has an aggressive law enforcement agency and prosecutors office. They take hit and run crimes very seriously, and so should you. The consequences can be a long sentence and harsh punishment. Do not let yourself go up against the Orange County court system alone.

If you or a loved one are facing hit and run charges, you must have an experienced, aggressive attorney on your side. The defense lawyers at offices of Michael L. Guisti have been defending their clients in and around all of the courts in Southern California, for over a decade. Do not take chances with your most important and valuable asset, your freedom.

When you are facing criminal charges, you need the knowledge of a hit and run Attorney Specialist. The office of Michael L. Guisti has on staff the type of aggressive, skilled attorneys that you need. They start fighting for your rights immediately, and they keep on fighting until they have achieved the best possible outcome for all of their clients.

Serious charges require serious attorneys. The Orange County Law Office of Michael L. Guisti has earned a reputation in Southern California as a formidable opponent. Over the years they have developed working relationships with law enforcement, prosecutors offices and the courts in Orange County. These relationships allow them to obtain the best possible result for all of their clients, regardless of the charges.

Make sure you are not alone. If you or a loved one are facing hit and run charges, please call the Orange County Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti. They have skilled hit and run defense specialist who will fight for you. Their only goal is to win your case, and let you go back to your normal life, with as little interruption as possible. Remember, the hit and run specialists at the Southern California Law offices of Michael L. Guisti will make sure that you are represented by the strongest defense possible, and will protect your freedom. We are only a phone call away. Please contact us today for a free consultation.

Irvine, California - A 36 year old mother of three was killed Tuesday evening in a motor vehicle accident, according to authorities. The accident occurred in Mission Viejo on Santa Margarita Parkway north of Los Alisos Boulevard, at approximately 11:40 p.m.

The crash was a result of a wrong way driver traveling south on the northbound side of Santa Margarita Parkway, according to witnesses. The victim was Ana Martinez, of Trabuco Canyon. Martinez was driving her mini-van Tuesday evening when the driver going the wrong way, who was identified as William Carroll struck Martinez with his pick-up truck head on. The victim Martinez, was killed instantly and pronounced dead on the scene. Martinez's three children, whose ages range between 7 years old to 14 years old, were not with her at the time. William Carroll, 42, of Mission Viejo was taken by ambulance to a local hospital. Carroll is listed in critical condition.

The Orange County Sherriff's department spokesman, Jim Amormino, said that although formal tests are still pending, there is evidence obtained that points to the crash being the result of DUI by William Carroll. "Based on objective symptoms and the detection of odor of alcohol, it is presumed that he was impaired while he was driving," Amormino said. It also was reported that Carroll has at least one prior conviction for driving under the influence.

The crash caused Northbound Santa Margarita Boulevard to be closed from Los Alisos Boulevard to El Toro Road while police investigated.

Orange County has a strong law enforcement agency that takes DUI very seriously. If you or someone you love has been arrested or charged with driving under the influence you must take it seriously. You need an experienced attorney on your side.

The Law offices of Michael L. Guisti have been defending and protecting their clients freedom for over 15 years. Attorney Guisti and his staff of DUI specialist attorneys have been successfully defending their clients in all the courts in and around Southern California.

In a DUI case, time is of the essence. The Department of Motor Vehicles does not wait until your trial to being the process of stripping you of your right to drive. They start the process immediately of suspending your license. You can lose your right to drive if you do not have an aggressive, knowledgeable attorney fighting for you. Without a way to get to work, you can put your career, your finances and family in real jeopardy. Do not let that happen to you or your family. Make sure you have a dedicated attorney in your corner, fighting to protect your rights.

Orange County DUI specialist Michael L. Guisti has been winning cases for his clients in and around Southern California for years. During that time he has earned a reputation as a formidable opponent. He has also built working relationships with the Orange County law enforcement agencies, as well as the prosecutors offices and courts. Because of these positive relationships, Attorney Guisti is able to obtain the best possible outcome for all of his clients.

We know that if you or a loved one are facing DUI charges, it can be an overwhelming time. You are not alone. The criminal defense attorneys at Orange County Law offices of Michael L. Guisti are here to stand by your side, and fight to protect your way of life. Remember, this is not a charge that you want to face alone. This is serious, and you need a serious DUI specialist to defend you.

There is no better firm to have by your side when you are up against the powerful Orange County law enforcement and prosecutors offices. Attorney Guisti, and his staff of highly trained, dedicated and aggressive attorneys will make sure that your rights are protected. You must protect yourself, and your family. Do not hesitate to contact us. Remember that from the time of your arrest you have ten days before the DMV schedules a hearing to take away your right to drive. It is critical that you have an aggressive attorney by your side from the start.

The Orange County Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti are standing by. We are just a phone call away. Please do not go it alone. We will aggressively protect your rights, and have you back enjoying your life with as little interruption as possible.

In a stunning turn of events, one of the Orange County teenaged hitchhikers that was the focus of an intensive search and rescue mission after going missing in Trabuco Canyon this past March, was charged Wednesday, May 1st with possession of methamphetamine.
This past Easter Sunday, Orange County teenagers Nicolas Cendoya, 19, and his friend, 18-year-old Kyndall Jack, went hitchhiking in Trabuco Canyon. When they failed to return their families reported them missing, and the exhaustive search and rescue effort was underway. They were found separately a few days later, and while they were exhausted and dehydrated, thankfully neither was seriously injured.

The Orange County District Attorneys office said that on or around March 31st, methamphetamine was found in Cendoyas parked car whilst investigators were searching for the missing teens. "The Orange County Sheriff's Department was searching his car looking for any information that might help them locate the two missing hikers and while they were looking in the car they found 497 milligrams, or a small useable amount, of methamphetamine," said Farrah Emami a spokeswoman for the district attorney's office.
Nicolas Cendoya was charged with one felony count of unlawful possession of methamphetamine. This is a serious charge, and if convicted he could face up to three years in jail. According to the Orange County District Attorneys office Kyndall Jack has not been charged at this time.

Investigators did not request that the hikers take a toxicology test after they were found. Since Cendoya was charged with unlawful possession of methamphetamine, there has been a suggestion that perhaps Cendoya and Jack should be held legally and financially responsible for the exhaustive search that ensued after they went missing in Orange Countys Trabuco Canyon.

Orange County officials state that the cost of this search and rescue is over $160,000.00. In addition, one deputy involved in this was seriously injured.

At this time, however, Orange County officials have stated they will not be seeking reimbursement from the pair. Orange County Supervisor Todd Spitzer has expressed outrage over the entire series of events. The complete disregard for anyone else that the pair displayed is frustrating. Their reckless behavior has been a huge financial burden to California tax payers, as well as resulting in a serious injury to an Orange County deputy.
Cendoya has told reporters that he did not remember much from the time he spent lost in the Orange County canyon area, although he did remember having strange visions during that time. He has said that he was hallucinating and desperately searching for water. He would eat plants, and was even sucking the juice out of plants, because he was so desperate for water.

The Orange County law offices of Criminal Defense Attorney Michael L. Guisti have years of experience successfully defending people who have been charged with felony drug possession as well as many other crimes, from misdemeanors to major felonies.
They are skilled, aggressive criminal defense attorneys who have over a decade worth of experience in all Southern California court systems. Over the years they have earned a reputation as a group of attorneys that will work tirelessly for their clients, protecting and defending their freedom. Because they are trustworthy, dedicated professionals, they have been able to build working relationships with law enforcement agencies and prosecutors offices alike, in and around Orange County, thereby ensuring the best possible outcome for you or your loved one.

If you have been arrested or charged with a drug crime, time is not on your side. You must obtain legal counsel immediately, so that you have someone working on your behalf, looking out for your interests. The district attorneys office will begin to build their case right away. The criminal attorneys at the law firm of Michael L. Guisti will start working for you right away, to put in place the best possible defense and ensure the best possible outcome.

Orange County has an active, aggressive law enforcement agency and district attorneys office. Make sure that you have an experienced, tough attorney on your side. Michael L. Guisti, veteran criminal defense attorney, and his team of highly skilled and dedicated drug possession specialists have years of successfully defending their clients in the court systems in and around Southern California.

We understand how overwhelming and scary this kind of charge can be, for you and your family. Do not try to go it alone. You need the help of an attorney with a proven track record. The law firm of Michael L. Guisti will work to protect your freedom, and see to it that you can go back to your normal life, with as little interruption as possible. Do not wait, help is just a phone call away.

Irvine, Calfornia - On April 19th, Reese Witherspoon showed the world the utmost importance of having an expert DUI attorney on your side. She and her husband were arrested in Atlanta, Georgia that Friday night, after having "a few glasses of wine at dinner [and] thought that we were fine to drive," stated Mrs. Witherspoon.

While her husband received the drunk driving charge, Reese was charged with disorderly conduct for verbally fighting with the police officer. She is reported to have angrily accosted the officer: "Do you know my name? You're going to be on national news." In her fit, she even claimed to be pregnant, which she later dismissed as a lie. It is clear that the law does not discriminate according to fame; if an A-list actress like Reese Witherspoon can get pulled over and arrested, so can you.

The charges this couple faces respectively (driving under the influence and disorderly conduct) are by no means petty allegations; disorderly conduct can result in at least 90 days in a county jail. Drunk driving, though, has much farther-reaching ramifications. If convicted, Witherspoon's husband will have his license revoked for up to 1 year, will have to pay thousands of dollars in fines, must attend Alcoholics Anonymous classes as well as hours of community service, and could possibly face jail time. All because of that one, last glass of wine.

Each of these allegations comes with hidden or unexpected tasks to complete, too - Orange County DUI defense attorney Michael L. Guisti explains that you must contact the DMV within ten days of being arrested, or more fines and punishments will pile up. A simple slip-up like forgetting to call the DMV or missing a court date can result in hundreds of dollars in fines. Mr. Witherspoon's DUI experience will likely go much smoother than most, as he can afford top-notch lawyers who can expertly handle the process. Luckily, Michael L. Guisti is one of those professional attorneys; if you have been arrested for a DUI, your peace of mind is just a phone call away.

Even the Witherspoons know that having a trusted, experienced attorney is central to succeeding in court when convicted of a serious crime like drunk driving, or even disorderly conduct. Having someone like Southern California defense attorney Michael L. Guisti on your side is extremely beneficial for a number of reasons.

As an experienced lawyer, Guisti has years of experience and professional knowledge of DUI charges and courtroom proceedings, and knows the kind of things that can even invalidate your charge altogether. There are dozens of factors that can cause your DUI test to misread or malfunction, stresses Guisti, from overhead wires to unruly air quality.

And the Breathalyzer test is far from foolproof. In terms of disorderly conduct charges, simply remaining calm and compliant (the opposite of Mrs. Witherspoon), and calling an attorney like Guisti immediately after your encounter with the police can greatly benefit your chances in court. Aside from getting the charge reduced, which greatly reduces the consequences, Attorney Guisti has also often times gotten his clients' charge dismissed completely.

If you do not have an Orange County DUI specialist like attorney Michael Guisti and his team on your side, jail time is a much more likely result of what could have been just a simple mistake on your part - and Michael L. Guisti can help your cause. Your life is important to you, call us now at 888-478-8999 or visit us at www.topcalifornilawyer.com.

Santa Ana California - The Orange County Register reported that more than 25 years after the killing of Jimmy Casino, the murder has been solved and the case closed on one of Orange County's most notorious murder mysteries.

Richard C. Morris was found guilty in under an hour by an Orange County jury. Morris, who is 59 years old, and from Pearl City, Hawaii, was found guilty of murder, as well as murder for financial gain, murder during the commission of a robbery and murder during the commission of a rape. His sentencing is scheduled for June, and because of the seriousness of the crimes he could be facing life in prison with no possibility of parole.
Jimmy Casino was a well known and over the top owner of a Southern California nightclub.

Casino, whose real name was James Stockwell, owned the Mustang Topless Theater, a club that was doing very well in the southern California area. Casino, however, lived a lavish lifestyle and soon found himself living beyond his means. He made the wrong choice when he turned to the mob for financial assistance though. He found himself heavily in debt to the mob, and his club slowly fell more and more under the control of the mob.

The killing occurred in 1987 in Casino's Buena Park, CA condo. Prosecutors say that 2 intruders , one of whom was Morris, broke in to the condo. They raped Casino's 22 year old girlfriend who was there, shot Casino execution style with a silencer in the back of the head, and made off with the money, jewels, furs and luxury cars that were at the condo. This killing was the first of in several murders committed in execution style by the mob, that were connected to the Southern California nightclub.

Morris was caught and ultimately convicted through DNA evidence collected in an unrelated case in Hawaii. Although the DNA collected matched that collected from the rape of Casino's girlfriend, the statute of limitations had expired on that case, so he was not charged with that crime.

This case is a good example of how DNA evidence collected years earlier can convict someone on what has been considered a "cold case". It also demonstrates the need to have an experienced, aggressive attorney who knows the law, and knows how to protect your rights.

The law offices of Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney Michael L. Guisti have been successfully defending their clients from serious charges for over a decade in all the court systems in and around Southern California.

When you or a loved one are facing serious charges, you need someone on your side who has the knowledge and skill to defend you against the powerful justice system looking to solve cold cases and close the books on unsolved crimes, thereby improving their records.

Attorney Michael L. Guisti has a proven track record of winning the best outcome for all his clients, regardless of the crime they are charged with. His staff of experienced criminal defense attorneys, each with an important field of expertise, will work tirelessly to protect you and your family from any interruption to your life. Their philosophy is that everyone is entitled to the best defense available. Their goal is to provide it. With their thorough understanding of criminal law, and their relationships with law enforcement and the Orange County court system, they have the ability to protect your freedom.

When you or your loved one is facing any criminal charges, please contact us immediately for a free consultation.

Orange County, CA - OC District Attorney Tony Rackauckas announced recently that his office will begin naming those convicted of using the services of a prostitute. This practice, known as shaming, has been used by law enforcement agencies across the country. The reasoning behind this is that the fear of public exposure and humiliation will act as a deterrent for the clients, known as "johns". This type of act relies on anonymity, and most involved in this do not want to be identified.

However, as leading Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney Michael L. Guisti stated in a recent interview with the OC Register, this would only further punish the convicted but not really deter others from committing the crime. Attorney Guisti and his team of criminal defense specialists have been defending people in Orange County and all of Southern California for years against charges of solicitation and prostitution. They know the law, they know the prosecutors and courts, and are well respected by all, often leading to a better outcome in their clients cases.

In California, the law regarding prostitution, under Penal Code §647(b) states that those who solicit, agree to participate or actually do participate in prostitution can be punished. Prostitution is defined as any "lewd act between persons for money or other consideration". Put simply, according to attorney Guisti, this law is very vague intentionally. It leaves plenty of room for law enforcement agencies to arrest and prosecute even if no money has changed hands, and even if no sexual activity ever occurred. All that is needed for an arrest is a nod of the head, a wink, or some other equally vague gesture. This leaves almost everyone vulnerable to the whims of an aggressive law enforcement stance on prostitution.

This is where having an experienced, aggressive attorney on your side will make all the difference between humiliation and possible jail time. Don't let your reputation be damaged by this new approach. OC law enforcement is determined to take an aggressive approach to this typically victimless crime. Prosecutors are looking to make examples out of people. Don't let that be you!

Law enforcement will set up sting operations to catch prostitutes and their customers, often called "johns". This is where the nightmare can begin. A female officer can arrange a place to meet, and all the john has to do is show up. No further discussion is needed; no sex act has to take place. The laws are so intentionally vague that unless you have an experienced criminal defense attorney in your corner, you are highly likely to be publically humiliated, and possibly spend some time in jail.

Don't wait. Don't let your name be published, your reputation be ruined and your family exposed and ridiculed. Shaming can have a devastating impact on your family relations, your business reputation and your livliehood. The office of Criminal Defense Attorney Michael L. Guisti will not let that happen to you.

Just as they have helped hundreds of clients in Orange County and throughout Southern California, the office of criminal defense attorney Michael L. Guisti can help you. Whatever the charge, there is an experienced specialist attorney on staff to handle your case.

With their knowledge of the courts in Irvine, and surrounding areas in Orange County and all of Southern California they make sure that your privacy is maintained and that your reputation is not ruined. They have the skill and aggressive approach needed to get your life back on track with as little interruption as possible.

This new approach in Orange County of shaming in cases of soliciting a prostitute can have a truly damaging impact on your life, and the life of your family for years to come.

Don't be caught in the web of an aggressive approach by law enforcement. Make sure you have on your side the legal expertise of a firm willing to fight for your rights. The office of Michael L. Guisti will have start working on your behalf immediately. With over a decade of experience in the courts in and around Orange County, they have built a reputation as a defense team to be reckoned with. Their relationships with the prosecutors and courts means they are able to get the best possible outcome for their clients.

Continue reading "Orange County District Attorney Office to Begin "Shaming" Tactics to Curb Prostitution" »

Rancho Santa Margarita, Orange County - The Orange County Sheriff's Department made a burglary arrest late Tuesday after neighbors reported seeing an unknown person climb into a window of a nearby home.

After arriving and investigating the sheriffs' say the suspect claimed to be a caretaker of an elderly lady who lives in the home, and had permission to enter the house, but however the suspect claimed to have lost her keys to the home.

The elderly woman was reportedly in a nearby hospital receiving treatment for an unknown illness, according to officials.

Later investigation by detectives did reveal that the suspect was a caretaker for the elderly owner of the home, yet it is still unclear if the suspect had permission to enter the home, and sheriffs' are treating this as a burglary and will likely pass their findings to the district attorney.

Irvine criminal attorney Michael L. Guisti explains charges of burglary and even elder abuse are actually a very common problem with caretakers, in-home nurses and for people who deal with elderly people at their homes.

As is the nature of elderly people they sometimes require hospitalization, and the caretaker, nurse and/or maid comes to the elderly person's house to take care of business, and, Guisti explains, sometimes a family member, or neighbor, who don't know what's going on, call the cops, and the person who has been taking care of the elderly person is suddenly arrested for burglary.

Guisti stresses the burglary is a very serious theft crime, and if you're a caretaker or nurse and this is on your record, or even the arrest is on your record, it can making obtaining another job very difficult for you, which is why it's so important to contact an Orange County criminal defense attorney.

Of course, Guisti goes on to say, burglary carries major prison time, and this is why it is just so important if you're an in-home nurse or caretaker and a family member or neighbor is accusing you of breaking in to your patient's home to contact a criminal defense lawyer in Orange County.

Going to jail or prison is the last thing you, as a professional elderly caretaker or nurse, ever expected, and that is why a criminal lawyer who is a burglary defense expert is so important to have in a time like this, to keep you out of jail and protecting your reputation, explains Guisti.

What a good theft crimes expert will do, explains Guisti, is get your case before it goes to the district attorney and show you never, ever had any intent to commit any burglary crime.

Even if you have a burglary arrest on your record you can always have it expunged, and so it will never show up on background checks, says Guisti.

If you're a caretaker or in-home nurse and you've been wrongly accused of breaking into your patient's and now arrested for burglary, then you must contact the Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti.

For over 15 years their theft crimes defense lawyers have won dozens upon dozens of cases where there was a simple misunderstanding.

We know how the law works, and the successful defenses that work, and that is why you must contact us now!

Irvine, Orange County - A little known U.S. government program called the EB-5 Visa has taken off in recent years with investors from China. It's a program that allows foreign investors a method of obtaining a Green Card who invest $1,000,000 and create, or preserve, at least ten jobs for U.S. workers for about two years.

In Los Angeles and Orange County the EB-5 program has been a boom for building investment from China in constructing new hotels and other businesses.

The EB-5 Visa program has taken off recently due to demand from wealthy Chinese, and with that rapid demand have come delays, weak oversight and, what most people in China and Chinese immigrants here in Orange County are becoming victims of, increasing amounts of fraud that have left many Chinese immigrants in Los Angeles and Orange County, and back home in China, with no Visa and a large loss of money.

Attorney Michael L. Guisti has seen and dealt first hand with many EB-5 scam victims from China who are in Orange County, the San Gabriel Valley and all around Los Angeles. Many of Mr. Guisti's clients have invested over a million dollars or more in what were suppose to be various investment projects in Southern California. Yet Mr. Guist's clients soon learned that the person and company who his clients gave their money to was no longer returning any telephone calls, and were suddenly hard to find. Worst yet, there was no Green Card and their money was nowhere to be found!

If you're a Chinese immigrant and this sounds familiar to you, then sadly it sounds like you've been a victim of an EB-5 Visa scam, and whether you're in Irvine, Westminster, Garden Grove, Newport Beach, or anywhere in Orange County or Southern California, it's very important to contact The Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti.

When it comes to EB-5 related scams attorney Michael L. Guisti goes after any assets owned by the so-called lead investor and their associates who took his client's money.

Just how serious has the EB-5 scam become, well, the North American Securities Administrators Association, an advocacy group, now ranks EB-5-related scams as one of the top new threats to investors in China.

Back home in China you and your family have worked hard, desiring the American Dream that awaits you, and yet it's threaten, because somebody took your money under the false pretenses of starting a business in America.

America is the land of opportunity and land of immigrants, and as attorney Guisti points out, it's also a land of laws that see to it that an investor who has done you and your family wrong will answer to their crime.

Our immigration attorneys can and will help you obtain citizenship and help get your money back from investors.

While in recent times the Securities and Exchange Committee and INS have increased security measures to help prevent fraud, these government agencies are overworked and are unable to track any investment fraud from China or Chinese investors and developers.

This means for you as a Chinese citizen waiting for your Green Card and investment project the U.S. government may never track down who took your money, or catch you from being a victim of EB-5 Visa fraud, and this is why it's so important to have attorney Michael L. Guisti by your side. because he can help you if you think or know you've been a victim of EB-5 Visa Fraud.

If you or a family member back in China have been a victim of EB-5 Visa Fraud it's very important to contact The Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti so we can begin the process today of attempting to get your money back, and even obtaining citizenship for you.

Please call us right away.

Santa Ana, Orange County - The weekend is here, and police departments will be out doing DUI patrols and checkpoints, seeking DUI arrests. It also so happens that Saturday is April 20, or "4/20," which is a special date for marijuana smokers.

Law enforcement in Orange County, Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Riverside are also aware of this "special" date, and they're responding in kind with added DUI patrols.

At this time there is only one DUI checkpoint we are aware of.

Santa Ana DUI Checkpoint.

Friday, April 19
Santa Ana - Main Street, between First Street and Fourth Street
8 p.m. until 2 a.m.

Throughout Southern California police officers will be out looking for people DUI, DUI-Drugs, and under the influence.

If you know of any DUI checkpoints in Southern California this weekend please let us know on our Facebook page or on our Twitter, OCLegalHelp.

Santa Ana drug crimes attorney Michael L. Guisti explains that a DUI charge is something you must take very seriously, because a lot of people who receive a DUI for the first time think it's nothing more than a traffic ticket. Well, Guisti stresses, sadly they're wrong, because a DUI is a criminal offense that can result in jail time, and will be on your criminal record, which can make life difficult for you.

Now if you're under the influence of marijuana while driving, even if it's legal medical marijuana, you could be arrested and charged with DUI-Drugs, says Guisti.

Guisti explains that with DUI-Drugs, "drugs" means, under state law, "your physical or mental abilities are impaired to such a degree that you no longer have the ability to drive with the caution characteristic of a sober person of ordinary prudence under the same or similar circumstances".

To determine if you were DUID a Drug Recognition Evaluator from an Orange County law enforcement agency with special drug training is usually brought to in to assess a DUID suspect. Unlike a DUI test a DUID test usually takes place in a police station, explains Guisti.

With a DUI-Drug conviction you could have a drug crime on your record, says Guisti.

If you've been arrested for DUI, DUI-Drugs, marijuana, or any drug crime, please contact The Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti right away.

For over a decade the DUI specialists at The Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti have won very tough DUI and DUI related cases for our clients in the Orange County counts.

So please, contact us now.

Huntington Beach, Orange County - On Wednesday the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that police officers must generally obtain a warrant before subjecting a DUI suspect to a blood test in an 8-to-1 vote.

This case stems from a drunk driving suspect who was pulled over late at night after a police officer observed him driving erratically. The suspect refused to take a Breathalyzer test, and so the officer drove him to a local hospital and ordered a DUI blood test, which the police officer did not seek a warrant, even though he had done so in previous cases.

The police claimed that each passing moment blood isn't being drawn means valuable evidence is being lost, and so a warrant is never required for a blood draw. The Supreme Court has now ruled otherwise, basically saying a warrant is required regardless if DUI evidence is allegedly being lost.

Huntington Beach DUI defense attorney Michael L. Guisti explains that this ruling further enforces already strict rules in dealing with blood tests in regards to DUI.

One of the first things a DUI defense attorney will look at, explains Guisti, is how the police officer handled your case, because in addition to this Court ruling in California they're very strict laws governing how your DUI tests are handled, and even if there is a slight mistake in handling your DUI tests typically your DUI case must be dismissed.

This is why it's very important to contact a DUI law expert as soon as you've been arrested for driving drunk, because, says Guisti, a DUI attorney will closely examine all the steps the police officers took, and to see if they properly handled your case and obtained a warrant.

Many DUI cases have been dismissed in the Orange County courts simply because the police officer didn't, or maybe forgot, certain legal procedures, says Guisti.

In addition to handling your DUI blood tests and other DUI related tests, Guisti explains, that a drunk driving defense lawyer will also look at what led up to police pulling you over in the first place. The thing is, stresses Guisti, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in a case years ago that police cannot pull you over simply because they feel like it, but rather need to have good cause for pulling you over.

A DUI defense lawyer is important not just because they'll deal with your case in court, but a DUI expert will intervene BEFORE this even gets to DUI court as your drunk driving attorney can review all the police procedures that led to your arrest.

If you've been arrested for DUI, or any type of DUI offense, whether it's you're first time, or forth time, and you need to beat a DUI charge it is very important to contact the Orange County DUI defense lawyer experts at The Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti right away.

When you're arrested for DUI and other drunk driving crimes, time is not on your side, however the DUI legal team at the Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti know the defenses that work to help keep your driver's license.

So please, contact us now!

Irvine, Orange County - Police are looking for a woman who allegedly committed elder abuse and embezzled $350,000 from her elderly father-in-law.

The L.A. Sheriffs' Walnut/Diamond Bar station are searching for 55-year-old Hang Vu whose last known addresses were in Rowland Heights and Phoenix, Arizona.

Deputies said after the mother-in-law died, Vu began to care for the father-in-law who lived in the Diamond Bar area. She allegedly sold his home and emptied his retirement accounts, according to investigators.

Irvine criminal attorney Michael L. Guisti explains that it's very important to understand that in California the crime of elder abuse covers not just physical abuse or even mental and emotional abuse of seniors, but also covers financial abuse of seniors.

Guisti, who has successfully defended cases of his clients accused of elder abuse for several years in Orange and Los Angeles County, says that many of his clients are shocked when, after they were given control and permission over an elderly person's financial assets, and that there was never any physical or mental abuse, that they're suddenly accused of this crime.

There have been several cases where family members of the elderly person in question get involve and think the caregiver of the elderly person is misusing the elderly person's money, and, says Guisti, they decide to start a police investigation. This is why if you're accused of financial elder abuse you need to contact an Orange County elder abuse defense attorney right away.

As for the crime of embezzlement it's important to understand, explains Guisti, that occurs, under state law, when a fraudulent appropriation of property by a person to whom it has been entrusted has been used for personal gain without that person's, or business', knowledge.

Embezzlement is covered under California's theft crimes laws, says Guisti.

Elder abuse and embezzlement can result in prison terms and very steep fines, and that is why if you've been accused of financial elder abuse, or any type of elder abuse or theft crime, it is VERY important to contact The Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti right away.

For over a decade criminal defense attorney Michael L. Guisti and his legal team have won several cases for their clients of alleged financial elder abuse in Orange County and throughout Southern California.

Anaheim, Orange County - At least two banks were robbed in the Anaheim area on Monday, and the alleged robbers apparently got away on skateboards.

Police say the suspects walked into two banks, handed the bank teller a note demanding money, and rode off on skateboards.

This is the second time in less than a week banks in Anaheim have been robbed. Last week a robber held up a Chase Bank, and the Well's Fargo in downtown Anaheim, but suspect was quickly arrested by police

Orange County federal crimes attorney Michael L. Guisti explains that robbing a bank no doubt carries very serious charges.

Yet just how serious are these charges?

Well, Guisti explains, robbing a bank is a federal crime, and federal crimes are not only much more serious than state crimes, but, they're treated and tried much more differently than crimes at the county courthouse.

So, Guisti stresses, if you or somebody you know, have been charged with a federal crime, any federal crime, they're two things you need to do. First, you need to call a federal crimes defense attorney right away, and second, you need to keep your mouth shut and let your federal crimes defense lawyer do the talking for you, explains Guisti.

Anytime you get into trouble with the law it's a very big deal and big problem, but you need to understand this, the federal government going after you, says Guisti, and you do not want to fight the federal government all alone.

It is also very important to understand that federal crimes, in general, cover a very wide range of crimes, and they're certain crimes people are arrested for and very shocked to learn that the government is going after them, says Guisti.

One of the more common federal crimes lately in Orange County and Southern California have been government agents raiding medical marijuana shops, says Guisti.

Now medical marijuana clinics are legal in California, but, Guisti explains marijuana is still considered an illegal drug by the federal government, and the Obama Administration hasn't entirely been clear on their stance with medical marijuana in California.

Another federal charge some clients are surprised to receive involve real estate fraud, says Guisti.

Certain people face federal charges in relation to real estate fraud, because their real estate dealings were dealt between different states, says Guisti.

If you or somebody you know are facing federal criminal charges it is VERY important to contact the Orange County federal crimes attorney experts at the Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti right away at, 888-478-8999.

When the federal government is after you it's so important to have an experienced attorney by your side!

So please, call now!