Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog

Fullerton, Orange County - California criminal attorney and Orange County white collar crime defense lawyer, Michael Guisti, recently reviewed a California white collar crime case regarding public employee involved in grand theft and embezzlement.

Darryl Phillips, a 45-year old Fullerton man, was arrested earlier this month for allegedly organizing and defrauding City of Fullerton. It is alleged that Phillips involved his cousin Tracey Williams, 35, and her boyfriend, Darnell Mackey, 25, into scheming and making false claims for payouts by the City of Fullerton. Phillips, who worked as Fullerton's risk manager between April 2008 and August 2010 allegedly sent property damage claim forms to Williams and Mackey.

Williams and Mackey would claim they were injured in automobile crashes caused by city employees. Phillips would then approve the claims and authorize payments to be mailed according to the district attorney's office. All in all, Phillips misappropriated approximately $35,000 of public funds to enrich his, Williams' and Mackey's lives.

Phillips is charged with 10 felonies including three counts of misappropriation of public funds and two counts of embezzlement as a public employee. If convicted, Phillips faces a maximum of 10 years in prison. Williams is charged with 15 felonies and also faces a maximum of 10 years in prison. According to Irvine embezzlement defense attorney that if convicted of grand theft and embezzlement, Mackey could be facing two felonies charges and faces a maximum penalty of three years and four months in prison.

According to the California white collar crime attorney, in California, crimes like embezzlement are referred to as "white collar crimes". Examples of a California white collar crime are: grand theft, bank fraud, wire fraud, mail fraud, securities fraud, unemployment fraud, tax fraud, honest services fraud, mortgage fraud scheme, foreclosure rescue scams and loan modification fraud, blackmail, bribery, healthcare fraud, Medicare fraud, credit card fraud, and identity theft among others.

The Newport Beach grand theft defense attorney states that the charge of embezzlement is defined in the California Penal code section 503. The Fullerton criminal attorney explains that embezzlement has occurred when embezzlement is the fraudulent appropriation of property by a person to whom it has been entrusted. This crime is very common amongst the employee and the employer.

The Santa Ana grand theft attorney and Orange County criminal defense lawyer also explains that In California, Grand theft is a common charge that comes along with many embezzlement charges. Grand theft is defined in the California Penal code section 487. Grand theft occurs when the amount of property taken is over $400. Many white collar crimes are charged as felonies. Punishments include a prison sentence, fines and restitution.

The Costa mesa theft crime attorney and California white collar crime attorney also explains that in California, white collar crimes including embezzlement are considered very serious. It is important to hire a California white collar criminal defense attorney to help you defend your criminal charges. Many times, you will not be charged with one felony. Most of the time it is many depending on the number of acts committed.

Why is it important to hire a Orange County white collar crime defense attorney or a Newport Beach grand theft defense attorney?

At the Law Offices of Michael Guisti, we understand the seriousness of a charge like embezzlement and grand theft. We have been successful defending our clients' white collar criminal charges. We have handled cases in Orange County, Irvine, Santa Ana, Newport Beach, Fullerton, Costa Mesa, Tustin, Huntington Beach, Westminster, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego County. Our Orange County criminal defense attorney has spent years helping clients with their misdemeanor and felony charges and has the experience to help you defend your case.

If this is a first time offense, you have no idea what to expect. Your mind, your body and your brain are trembling with fear. You don't have any idea what to do or who to trust. Talk to an expert. Call the Orange County white collar crime expert, Michael Guisti, ..he'll help relieve your concerns and answer most of your questions. As an expert in embezzlement and grand theft, this life altering act may cause you to paralyze and feel numb about your decision making process. Let us help you through this trying time in your life. Schedule an appointment with our Irvine white collar defense attorney today.

If you or a loved one is facing a California white collar crime charge or any other misdemeanor or felony charge like assault, battery, rape, sexual battery, possession of marijuana, or domestic violence call our experienced Santa Ana criminal defense attorney today. Call for an appointment at (714)530-9690 or visit our website at www.topcalifornialawyer.com. You'll be glad you did.

Lake Forest , Orange County - 19 year old, Jesse Hankins, is arrested and in jail for assault with a deadly weapon and vandalism. Hankins responds to his grandmother's innocent request to dress better for an upcoming class picture by grabbing her by the head and shaking her; throwing a chair in her direction then finally, picking up a baseball bat and striking her car, swinging the bat at his grandmother's head! He continued his rage towards damaging several other vehicles on the street by breaking windows.

Assault with a deadly weapon is considered a serious offense in California. It can be defined in the California Penal code section 245(a). It states that any person that commits assault to another with a fire arm can either be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony. In California it is called a "wobbler". This means that the unique factors for your case will determine whether it gets charged as a misdemeanor or a felony.

It is important to hire a Fullerton criminal defense attorney if you are facing charges like assault with a deadly weapon. An attorney with experience will be able to successfully defend you in court.

Since "wobbler" charges like assault with a deadly weapon for example, can either be a felony or a misdemeanor it is important to retain an attorney that has had experience defending a wide range of criminal defense case.

How can an experienced Fullerton criminal defense attorney help you in your California Assault and Battery or Assault with deadly weapon charge ?

At the Law Office of Michael Guisti we have been successful representing clients for years and our skilled attorney knows what defenses to raise that will help you in defending your case.

We have helped clients with felony and misdemeanor charges like assault, battery, felony assault and battery, sex crimes, domestic violence, murder, vehicular manslaughter, DUI, grand theft and white collar crimes cases like fraud, embezzlement, or identity theft. Our Orange County criminal defense attorney has the knowledge to help you defend your criminal charge.

If you or someone you know is facing a felony or a misdemeanor, retain a Orange County assault defense attorney today. We have help clients in Orange, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties. Call our office today to schedule an appointment at (714) 530-9690, toll free 888-478-8999 or visit our website at www.topcalifornialawyer.com. You'll be glad you did.

Orange County, California - According to reports, David Cassidy, 60 years, was booked earlier this month and arrested for DUI.

Cassidy admitted to taking a pain pill for his back earlier in the day but may have been tired from an early morning funeral he attended, but claims he was not drunk. Cassidy took a couple of breathalyzer tests and blew 0.139 and 0.141.

According to Orange County criminal defense attorney and Orange County DUI defense lawyer, Michael Guisti, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can be a serious offense. The offense becomes more serious when someone is injured. In California, a DUI charged is broken into two parts. The first part is defined in the California Vehicle code section 23152 (a). It states that it is unlawful for a person to drive under the influence of alcohol of drugs.

According to the Newport Beach DUI attorney that the second part is defined in the California Vehicle code section 23151(b). It states that it is unlawful for a person to driver under the influence of alcohol if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is more than .08% or more. These are separate charges and it is common for a person being charged with a DUI is charged with both. These charges are considered misdemeanors in California. The punishments can be the suspension of you license, fines, and having a ignition interlock device installed in your car. However if a person has multiple DUI charges it can turn into a felony.

The Fullerton Drunk driving defense attorney states that it is important to hire an experienced Orange County DUI attorney if you are being charged with a DUI, drunk driving, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

The Westminster DUI defense lawyer explains that many people do not know that they must request a hearing within 10 days of getting the ticket. After those 10 days, if you do not request a hearing, the DMV can suspend your license.

If you or someone you care has been arrested or charged with DUI in Orange County, it is imperative to consult with an experienced Orange County DUI Attorney or Orange County DUI defense lawyer immediately.

A leading Orange County DUI defense law firm, Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti, our Newport Beach DUI attorneys, Irvine DUI Attorney, Fullerton DUI attorney, Santa Ana DUI attorney , Huntington Beach dui attorney, and Westminster DUI attorney have sucessfully represented hundreds of clients arrested or accused of DUI, drunk driving, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Often time, we can help our clients to get their charges reduced to minimum or get the charges dismissed.

Why is it important to retain an experienced Irvine DUI defnse attorney or an Orange County DUI attorney?

Having a DUI charge on your record is very serious. Many employers will check driving records before deciding to hire someone. At the Law Offices of Michael Guisti, our qualified Orange County criminal defense attorney has been very successful representing clients in DUI cases. We have helped clients in Orange Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside, and San Diego Counties.

If you or a loved one is facing a DUI in Orange County, Driving under the influence, Drunk driving, or a vehicular manslaughter, whether it is a misdemeanor or a felony DUI charge or any kind of crimes, such as assault, battery, murder, theft crimes, white collar crimes, sex crimes or a drug crime contact our Orange County DUI defense lawyers or Orange County criminal attorney today. Call today for an appointment at (714) 530-9690 or visit our website at www.topcalifornialawyer.com. You'll be glad you did.

Laguna Niguel, Orange County - Orange County criminal Defense attorney Michael Guisti recently spoke about California drug crimes in an interview. The Orange County drug crime defense attorney said that many of the California drug crime charges came with more serious punishments than people expect. It is imperative that if a person is facing a drug crime charge that they retain a skilled Santa Ana drug crime defense attorney to help them defend their charge.

Earlier this month, Allan James Waters, 37 of Laguna Niguel, a former deputy sheriff, already facing drug charges including driving under the influence has been additionally charged with felony counts for allegedly obtaining prescription pills by providing false information and repeatedly switching doctors; driving under the influence causing bodily injury, two felony counts of selling a substance in lieu of cocaine, nine felony counts of obtaining a controlled substance by fraud, plus a sentencing enhancement for causing great bodily injury to an elder.

It began in March 2010 when Waters crashed his 2008 Mercedes-Benz into a Toyota crossing over the center median and into oncoming vehicles. The driver sustained minor injuries but his 78-year old passenger was transported to the hospital and sustained injuries to her back according to reports.

CHP arrived at the scene and charged Waters with DUI of prescription drugs Zolpidem and Hydrocodone.

Prosecutors allege that between March 2009 and March 2010, Waters went to eight different doctors to obtain prescription drugs by giving false stories in order to receive the drugs. When one doctor would stop or refuse to provide a prescription, Waters would go to another doctor according to the DA's office.

According to Criminal defense lawyer Michael Guisti, if convicted of all charges, Waters may face a possible sentence of 13 years and four months in state prison.

The Orange County drug crime attorney states that in California there are many different types of drug crime charges like possession of an uncontrolled substance, being under the influence of a controlled substance, possession of cocaine, and selling cocaine. Being under the influence of a controlled substance can be found in the California Health & Safety Code, section 11550(a).

The Newport Beach criminal attorney and Newport Beach drug crime lawyer explains that it is illegal to be under the influence of a controlled substance. This includes drugs like Opana, Oxycodone, Zolpidem, Hydrocodone, methamphetamines, cocaine and PCP, among others. If convicted of this charge a person can face up to one year in jail, may be ordered to go through a drug rehab program and may have to pay fines. An Orange County drug crime defense attorney that is familiar with drug crime charges can help a person whose facing these charges.

Moreover, Waters was charged for DUI. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can be a serious offense. The offense becomes more serious when someone is injured. In California, a DUI with an injury or death is considered a "wobbler". Whether it is charged as a felony or a misdemeanor depends on two things:

1. What the circumstances are of the individual case
2. And whether you have had a DUI before and how long ago was it.

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol with injury can be defined in the California Vehicle Code 23153(a). It states it is unlawful for any person, while under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle and concurrently do any act forbidden by law, or neglect any duty imposed by law in driving the vehicle, which act or neglect proximately causes bodily injury to any person other than the driver. If convicted of a felony a person could face fines, restitution, and prison sentences.

Many of the drug crime charges came with more serious punishments than people expect. It is imperative that if a person is facing a drug crime charge that they retain a skilled Santa Ana drug crime defense attorney to help them defend their charge.

How can a successful Orange County criminal defense attorney or a skilled Westminster drug crimes defense attorney help you when faced with a felony or misdemeanor?

At the Law Office of Michael Guisti, we have spent years representing our client that are being charged with a drug charge or possession of a controlled substance. In many of our clients cases that are facing misdemeanor or felony charges, our experienced Los Angeles criminal defense attorney has been able to get the charges reduced and even dismissed. We have helped clients in Orange, Riverside, Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Bernardino Counties.

If you or a loved one is facing a felony or misdemeanor charge like assault, battery, domestic violence, robbery, grand theft auto, petty theft, sex crime, or if you need a Newport Beach white collar crime defense attorney to help you with you white collar crime charge call our office today. Our experienced Orange County Appellate lawyer has also been successful in representing clients with their appeal and Habeas Corpus cases. Call our office toll free today at 1-888-478-8999 or visit our website at www.topcaliofornialawyer.com to learn more about our Orange County criminal defense attorney. You'll be glad you did.

Laguna Beach , Orange County - California criminal lawyer and Orange County drug crime defense attorney at Law Offices of Michael Guisti have seen increases in drug trafficking cases as the economy has been slow to recover. Ecstasy possession and trafficking have become more common with the increase in the drugs popularity. The Newport Beach drug crime attorney and Irvine criminal attorney recently commented on a drug cases reported on the news.

Gee Kim, 21, of La Palma and Dennis Oh, 21, of Anaheim were arrested late last month in a drug bust for possession and intent to sell 5,000 Ecstasy pills to undercover investigators in a Cal State Fullerton parking lot. The estimated street value for the pills are $50,000.

According to the Orange County drug crime attorney and Santa Ana drug crime attorney that in California, Drug crimes are very serious crimes. It involves narcotics offenses such as drug possession, drug distribution, drug sales, drug manufacture, and controlled substances, such as MDMA, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, meth, and marijuana.

Also the names of controlled substances including cocaine, heroin, meth, LSD, and MDMA or "ecstasy", and other prescription drugs.

The Huntington Beach drug crime attorney and Orange County drug defense attorney explains that if one is convicted of drug crimes in California, he could have very severe penalties. It can carry jail time or long term in state prison from 15 years to life, depending on the amount and the type of drug used and prior criminal records.

California drug crime are usually charged as California felony charges. For example, under California Health & Safety Code 11550: if a person is convicted of being under the Influence of a Controlled Substance, the punishment is at least 90 days of jail, it is also applied to someone who is intoxicated on narcotic, or if he doesn't have a lawfully issued prescription.

The Westminster criminal attorney further states that whatever the type of the drug crimes, whether it is a felony drug poccession or drug sales, it is all serious charges. If you or someone you know has been charged or arrested for drug related crimes, it is critical to seek the legal help from an experienced Orange County drug crime defense attorney.

Our Laguna Beach drug defense attorney and Santa Ana drug crime attorney will use their experience and knowledge to fight for your California drug crime charges. We will take every step the possible way to help you to minimize your charges or dismiss all your charges.

The Fullerton drug crime attorney also explains that under California law, possession of narcotics, recreational drugs or unauthorized prescription drugs is a serious crime in California. At Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti, our Newport Beach Drug Crime Defense attorneys have the experience, the skills and the knowledge in drug crime defense and have successfully represented hundreds of clients who have been charged with drug crimes in Orange County, Laguna Beach, Irvine, Newport Beach, Fullerton, Westminster, Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, Garden Grove, Los Angeles, and other cities in Southern California.

If you or someone you love has been charged with a drug crime in Southern California, you need to contact an experienced Orange County drug crime defense attorney or Los Angeles criminal defense attorney at Law Offices of Michael Guisti immediately for a free consultation at 714-530-9690 or visit us at www.topcalifornialawyer.com. You'll be glad you did.

Fullerton , Orange County - The Newport Beach criminal defense lawyer Michael Guisti recently read about a murder case on the news regarding a Fullerton man who was charged with murder for the crime happened 10 years ago. The Santa Ana felony crime defense attorney explained that if convicted with murder, the defendant could face a maximum sentence of 25 years to life in state prison.

A 31-year old Fullerton man, Christopher Michael McAmis, is being charged with murdering Lynsie Leigh Ekelund on February 17, 2001 according to the Los Angeles District Attorneys office.

A joint investigation involving the District Attorney's office task force and the Placentia Police department reopened its investigation in 2008 in an effort to focus on catching killers, rapists and sexual offenders. It is alleged that McAmis attempted to rape Ekelund in his Hollywood apartment. Prosecutors further allege that McAmis killed Lynsie Leigh Ekelund and disposed of her body after a night out at a San Diego club.

According to Orange County murder crime defense attorney and California criminal defense lawyer Michael Guisti that the defendant, McAmis, if convicted, may face a minimum sentence of life without the possibility of parole.

The Huntington Beach criminal defense lawyer and the Westminster criminal attorney explained that under California Law, Murder is the unlawful killing of a human being with malice aforethought. In California, there are two degrees of murder. First degree murder is a second degree murder plus an aggravating factor, therefore it is punished more severely.

California criminal defense attorney and Fullerton criminal lawyer explains that under California Penal Code Section 190 (a), a conviction of first degree murder carries a sentence of imprisonment for a minimum of 25 years to life. If certain conditions are met, one can be sentenced to the death penalty. One of these conditions is murder committed after lying in wait. In addition, using a firearm to commit murder or any other California felony crime can increase the sentence by 3 to 10 years.

Santa Ana murder defense attorney further explains, whether it is first degree murder, second degree murder, attempted murder, three strikes, homicide or manslaughter, murder is the most serious of all crimes committed, and severely punishes those who violate or break the law. A conviction can and will destroy a person's life. It is imperative for an individual facing a murder charge to retain a highly qualified California murder defense attorney or Orange County felony crime defense lawyer who also has experience in high profile cases as quickly as possible.

At the Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti, we have highly experienced attorneys to help reach the best result possible. Our top Orange County criminal defense lawyers will inform you of your rights throughout the pre-trial process, explain the elements that the prosecutor needs to prove for a conviction, familiarize you with all possible defenses you can assert, and defend you in court.

Our law firm also represent clients in all types of other related criminal charges such as appeals, domestic violence, assault and battery, murder, attempted murder, hit and run, DUI, drug crimes, white collar crimes, embezzlement, fraud, professional licensing defense, abuse, sex crime, appeals appeals, and habeas corpus.

Our Newport Beach felony defense attorney and Santa Ana felony defense attorneys have successfully defended clients in Orange County, Newport Beach, Corona del Mar, Laguna Beach, Laguna Niguel, Santa Ana, Westminster, Huntington Beach, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Costa Mesa, Tustin, Los Angeles, Long Beach, San Diego, Riverside and San Bernardino.

Whether you have been wrongfully accused of a crime or want to avoid a difficult or unjust sentence, we are available day or night to come to your defense. From misdemeanors to serious felony crimes, the law offices of Michael L. Guisti has the experience and firepower to fight any criminal charges you may face.

Committing murder is a serious charge that has grave consequences. If you or someone you love has been arrested or charged with a felony in Orange County, Los angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside or San Diego like murder in the above story, call us today at our toll-free number at (888) 478-8999 for a free no-obligation consultation with our skilled Orange County criminal defense attorneys. You'll be glad you did.

Orange County, California - Orange County Fraud defense attorney Michael Guisti has recently reviewed a case regarding Orange County insurance fraud. In an interview, the Irvine insurance fraud defense attorney and Newport beach criminal attorney discussed about the California law in fraud, medical fraud, medicare fraud and insurance fraud.

In the case,12 individuals including chiropractors, doctors and staff members were arrested in Orange County and will be charged for insurance fraud over-billing scheme. The arrests were made as a result of a sting operation which targeted illegal patient referral by the local Orange county doctors, chiropractors and attorneys.

The Santa Ana white collar defense attorney explains that committing insurance or business fraud is a white collar crime which can have grave consequences and the charges are serious. It could mean they would serve time in prison, be placed on probation, serve and perform hundreds upon hundreds of hours of community service, pay restitution, and/or surrender or forfeit their medical license. Lastly, this act may cause the professional practitioners to close and no longer operate their business.

The Irvine professional license defense attorney further explains that in California, Crimes like insurance fraud is among a group of crimes called white collar crimes. These crimes also include grand theft, Medicare fraud, credit card fraud, and identity theft.

The Newport Beach Theft crime defense lawyer also states that insurance fraud is defined in the California Penal Code section 550(a).

Irvine criminal attorney states that the making of fraudulent claims as knowingly present or cause to be presented any false or fraudulent claim for the payment of a loss or injury, including payment of a loss or injury under a contract of insurance. California White collar crimes like insurance fraud are usually charged as felonies.

Santa Ana insurance fraud defense attorney states that since white collar crimes are felonies, the punishments can be harsh and if convicted, the consequences can effect a person's life and future. The punishments include long prison sentences, fines, and restitution, among others as noted above. It is important to hire an experienced Westminster criminal defense attorney or a skilled Irvine white collar crime defense attorney to help you defend these serious charges.

How can a experienced Irvine criminal attorney or an skilled Newport Beach Fraud defense attorney help you defend your white collar crime charge?

At the Law Offices of Michael Guisti we have spent years representing our clients accused of or investigated for fraud charges, grand theft charges, embezzlement, petty theft, shoplifting, insurance fraud, real estate fraud or medical fraud, health care fraud, credit card fraud from Orange County, Los Angeles, Costa Mesa, Beverly Hills, Santa Ana, Fullerton, Irvine, Newport Beach and many other Southern California cities in their white collar crime charges.

If you or someone you know is facing a white collar crime charge like insurance fraud or grand theft or is facing a felony or misdemeanor charge like assault, battery, domestic violence, theft crimes, murder, attempted murder, aggravated assault, or a drug charge contact our skilled Orange County criminal defense attorney today. Call our Orange County Theft crime defense attorney or Irvine criminal defense attorney at (714) 530-9690 or visit our website at www.topcalifornialawyer.com. You'll be glad you did!

Anaheim Hills, Orange County - William Mordick, 64, was convicted of one felony count of murder for a crime committed in 1983 of slashing a throat to his then-estranged wife, Kathryn Mordick. The act took place because the Mordicks were going through a bitter divorce and William could not think of paying for child support or losing custody of the children.

The Mordicks were separated for three months prior to the murder. Mordick moved to the state of Washington and opened a photography studio which mainly known for family portraits and weddings.

DNA evidence was found at the scene of the crime which belonged to William. Mordick will be facing life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Under California Law, Murder is the unlawful killing of a human being with malice aforethought. In California, there are two degrees of murder. First degree murder is a second degree murder plus an aggravating factor, therefore it is punished more severely.

Anaheim Hills criminal attorney explains that under California Penal Code Section 190 (a), a conviction of first degree murder carries a sentence of imprisonment for a minimum of 25 years to life. If certain conditions are met, one can be sentenced to the death penalty. One of these conditions is murder committed after lying in wait. In addition, using a firearm to commit murder or any other California felony crime can increase the sentence by 3 to 10 years.

Santa Ana murder defense attorney further explains, whether it is first degree murder, second degree murder, attempted murder, three strikes, homicide or manslaughter, murder is the most serious of all crimes committed, and severely punishes those who violate or break the law. A conviction can and will destroy a person's life. It is imperative for an individual facing a murder charge to retain a highly qualified California murder defense attorney or Orange County felony crime defense lawyer who also has experience in high profile cases as quickly as possible.

At the Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti, we have highly experienced attorneys to help reach the best result possible. Our top Orange County criminal defense lawyers will inform you of your rights throughout the pre-trial process, explain the elements that the prosecutor needs to prove for a conviction, familiarize you with all possible defenses you can assert, and defend you in court.

Our law firm also represent clients in all types of other related criminal charges such as domestic violence, assault and battery, murder, attempted murder, hit and run, DUI, drug crimes, white collar crimes, embezzlement, fraud, professional licensing defense, abuse, sex crime, appeals appeals, and habeas corpus.

Our Newport Beach felony defense attorney and Santa Ana felony defense attorneys have successfully defended clients in Orange County, Newport Beach, Corona del Mar, Laguna Beach, Laguna Niguel, Santa Ana, Westminster, Huntington Beach, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Costa Mesa, Tustin, Los Angeles, Long Beach, San Diego, Riverside and San Bernardino.

Whether you have been wrongfully accused of a crime or want to avoid a difficult or unjust sentence, we are available day or night to come to your defense. From misdemeanors to serious felony crimes, the law offices of Michael L. Guisti has the experience and firepower to fight any criminal charges you may face.

Committing murder is a serious charge that has grave consequences. If you or someone you love has been arrested or charged with a felony like murder in the above story, call us today at our toll-free number at (888) 478-8999 for a free no-obligation consultation with our skilled Orange County criminal defense attorneys. You'll be glad you did.

ewport Coast , Orange County - Last week, Dr. Nazar Al Bussam, 71, of Newport Coast was charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Dr. Bussam along with his employees. Rosemary Mendoza, 75, and James Park, 72, were all charged for the same offense.

Drug Enforcement Administration agents conducted a 2-year investigation into Dr. Bussam's practice and were contacted by several pharmacies informing them of his prescribing activity. Authorities indicate that Bussam wrote nearly 60,000 prescriptions that were used to obtain narcotics including OxyContin, Percocet, Percodan, Dilaudid, Vicodin, Norco , Lortab, Xanax, Suboxone, Subutex and Soma.

Doctors are prohibited from writing prescriptions without a legitimate medical purpose.
The idea is that physicians should not act like drug dealers and "divert" controlled substances to illegitimate uses. Law enforcement can come down hard in these cases. The Los Angeles District Attorney's Office recently convicted a doctor who was among the largest prescriber of certain medications in the country.

California Health & Safety Code Section 11153 hs talks about this issue. According to the statute, a doctor cannot issue a prescription 1) outside the usual course of the doctor's practice; 2) for a medical purpose that is not legitimate; and, 3) including to an addict outside of professional treatment.

Bassam and his employees can face up to 20 years in federal prison for committing these crimes. Additionally, Bassam may be placed on probation, serve and perform hundreds upon hundreds of hours of community service, pay restitution in the thousands to several health care insurance programs, and/or Bassam may have to surrender or forfeit his medical license as well as his DEA registration number, which allows him to issue prescriptions for controlled substances.

Bassam may have to close his office and no longer operate his business in Downey and Los Angeles county.

If you are a licensed doctor and being investigated by the medical board or by the DEA, you need a vigilant and aggressive attorney to tell you your rights and defend them appropriately.

If you're charged with a California felony, you need to consult with an experienced Orange County Criminal defense attorney immediately. A highly qualified attorney can help you avoid jail, minimize the penalties and achieve a favorable outcome in your case.

How can an experienced Orange County Criminal attorney can help you in White collar crime, fraud and professional license defense in Southern California ?

At Law Offices of Michael Guisti, Mr. Guisti is a renowned white collar criminal defense attorney who provide highly skilled defense representation to people who are charged with white collar crime or fraud or need professional license defense.

Our criminal defense attorneys have the knowledge and resources in both state and federal cases. Our Orange County criminal attorney and Los Angeles White Collar Crimes attorney have solid experiences defend successfully in the white collar crimes and professionals licensing defense for corporate executives, entrepreneurs,CPAs, CEOs, CFOs, doctors, lawyers and many people who have been arrested or under the state and federal criminal investigations.

If you or someone you love have been charged with white collar crime, fraud or felony grand theft, contact our vigilant and aggressive Orange County criminal defense attorney at the Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti immediately to protect your rights at 714-530-9690 or visit us at www.topcalifornialawyer.com. You'll be glad you did.

Fullerton , Orange County - Newport Beach criminal attorney and Fullerton criminal defense lawyer at Law Offices of Michael Guisti recently reviewed a case regarding felony grand theft and commercial burglary.

In the reported theft crime news, 9 men robbed a jewelry store. The robbers wore hoodies and masks to cover their faces. They walked in started smashing jewelry boxes and glass cases and walked out with jewelry, necklaces, and rings escaping with a significant amount of merchandise according to the local authorities.

According to Orange County criminal attorney and Orange County theft crime attorney, Michael Guisti, who has successfully handled many high profile felony crime cases, if these 9 men get caught, they could potentially be charged with felony grand theft, felony arson, commercial burglary, vandalism, and felony conspiracy. If convicted, these defendants could be sentenced to 15 years to 31 years in prison.

According to Costa Mesa theft crime attorney and Orange County theft crime lawyer, in California, theft crimes are very serious crime, whether a theft is charged as a misdemeanor or felony, the penalties can be very severe. If convicted, a person can be punished severely with jail time, prison, fines, and restitution. The seriousness of the punishment and the charges also depends on the value of the property stolen, what kind of force was used and any records of prior convictions. If any of the persons are not a US citizen, it could also affect their immigration status for a visa, green card, or naturalization.

If you or someone you know has been charged or arrested for theft crimes, it is very important to consult with an experienced California defense attorney who specializes in California theft crime defense. Whether it is felony grand theft, embezzlement, white collar crime, fraud, you need an experienced and skillful defense lawyer on your side to protect your rights..

The common criminal cases on theft related crimes we take on include, but not limited to, the following: Grand theft, Petty Theft, shoplifting, Identity Theft, Receiving Stolen Property, Burglary, Grand Theft Auto, Grand Theft Firearm, Auto Burglary, white collar crime, Embezzlement and fraud, insurance fraud, medical fraud, and medicare fraud.

How can an experienced Fullerton Theft crime defense attorney or a Santa Ana criminal lawyer help you in the theft crime defense in California?

The California criminal defense lawyers of Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti provides high quality representation with decades of experience. Our Orange County theft crime attorneys have successfully represented and defended clients against theft charges in Newport Beach, Santa Ana, Fullerton, Huntington Beach, Westminster, Tustin, Irvine, and cities throughout the Orange County, Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Riverside. We also handled hundreds of theft crime cases like shoplifting and petty theft at the store such as target, marshalls, South Coast Plaza, Nordstrom, macys, etc.

Our California theft crimes attorneys Newport beach and orange county criminal attorney Irvine have worked with hundreds of clients and have successful experiences in helping to get clients charges reduced or dismissed.

Our Irvine criminal defense lawyers and Costa Mesa Theft crime attorneys at our law firm represent clients in all type of criminal charges, such as domestic violence, assault and battery, murder, attempted murder, hit and run, DUI, drug crimes, white collar crimes, embezzlement, fraud, professional licensing defense, abuse, sex crime, appeals and habeas corpus. Call us at (714) 530-9690 or (888) 478-8999 for a free consultation with our skilled California criminal attorney specialized in Orange County theft crimes. You'll be glad you did.

Anaheim Hills, Orange County - A recent news regarding a California vehicular manslaughter case involving drunk driving and felony DUI caught the attentions of Orange County DUI defense attorneys at Law Offices of Michael Guisti.

Earlier this week, Jessica Lynn Shekell, a 23-year old woman, pled guilty to killing two sisters and injuring two minors while driving drunk on the wrong side of the freeway in Anaheim. Shekell had been drinking with her friends at a couple of bars in Placentia when she was driving on the wrong side of the freeway and collided with Sally Miguel's vehicle.

Sally Miguel, and her sister, Patricia were killed in the crash. Their nieces and Sara Miguel, survived the crash but suffered serious injuries.

Shekell has pled guilty to two felony counts of gross vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence while intoxicated, a felony driving under the influence of alcohol causing bodily injury, and a felony count of driving with a blood-alcohol level more than .08 percent causing bodily injury. She was also admitted sentencing enhancements for causing great bodily injury. Shekell faces up to 19 years and eight months in prison.

Newport Beach DUI attorney and Newport Beach criminal defense attorney Michael Guisti, who has successfully handled many felony dui cases and felony vehicular manslaughter cases, discussed about this case. He explains that Californa Penal Code 191.5(a) PC California's "gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated" law is a felony punishable by up to ten years in the state prison (15 years-to-life if you have a prior DUI conviction).

Fullerton DUI defense attorney who reviewed this case explained about the law on the California vehicular manslaughter or Orange County DUI caused death. The Newport Beach DUI defense attorney sugguested that in California, Gross vehicular manslaughter or DUI death is an extremely serious crime under California Law.

The Santa Ana felony defense attorney also explains that if a person is convicted, it can lead to lengthy jail terms or prison time. Jared Nobel Berggren is this particular case could be sentenced up to 14-years in prison for dui caused death in Orange County.

The Irvine criminal attorney and Irvine DUI lawyer states that under California Penal Code Section 191.5(a), "Gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated is the unlawful killing of a human being without malice aforethought, in the driving of a vehicle, where the driving was in violation of Sections 23140, 23152, or 23153 of the Vehicle Code, and the killing was either the proximate result of the commission of an unlawful act, not amounting to a felony, and with gross negligence, or the proximate result of the commission of a lawful act that might produce death, in an unlawful manner, and with gross negligence."

If you or someone you care has been arrested for a Orange County DUI , DWI, drunk driving crime, or charges such as gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, it is absolutely imperative that you contact a highly qualified Orange County DUI attorney as soon as possible. Our Southern California DUI Defense lawyers at Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti has over ten years of experience defending clients from DUI and gross vehicular manslaughter cases.

At Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti, our Southern California criminal defense attorneys have successfully represented hundreds of clients accused of felony DUI charges or vehicular Manslaughter cases throughout Southern California, Orange County, Los Angeles, Newport Beach, Anaheim Hills, Villa Park, Orange, Yorba Linda, Brea, Santa Ana, Laguna Beach, Corona del Mar, Newport Coast, Irvine, Tustin, Fountain Valley, Anaheim, Garden Grove, Stanton, Fullerton, Westminster, Huntington Beach, Seal Beach, Surf City, Costa Mesa, Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, and San Diego.

How can an Orange County DUI Defense Attorney help you in a successful DUI Defense in Orange County?

The Southern California DUI Defense attorneys at Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti specializes in the area of DUI/DWI defense, as well as complex cases involving gross vehicular manslaughter, such as the case noted above.

We have represented numerous clients in various types DUI cases, from misdemeanor DUI charges (including Orange County first time DUI offenders, second DUI offenders), to more serious felony DUI charges (such as repeated DUI charges or vehicular manslaughter cases). Orange County DUI lawyer and Westminster criminal attorney Michael Guisti has successfully represented hundreds of clients who have been charged with various DUI offenses, including cases where he has reduced the charges or had the case dismissed.

If you have recently been arrested in for DUI or drunk driving, dring while intoxicated or driving under the influence of drugs while driving in Orange County, have an upcoming hearing date and have NOT sought legal counsel, we urge you to contact one of our skilled Orange County DUI defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti immediately at 714-530-9690 OR can call our toll-free hotline at 1 (888) 478-8999, with no obligation necessary. We are on your side.