Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog

Huntington Beach, Orange County - With Thanksgiving week ahead many people are making preparations for dinners and parities for the holiday weekend, and local police departments are making their own preparations to crackdown on drunk drivers.

Law enforcement agencies in Orange County and throughout Southern California are planning for various DUI checkpoints and DUI saturated patrols during the long holiday weekend in hopes of catching those driving drunk.

[If you know of any specific DUI checkpoints in Orange, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside or San Diego Counties on Halloween night please let us know on our Facebook page.]

Now driving back home from the holiday festivities if you happen to see a DUI checkpoint ahead do you have the legal right to turnaround and refuse to go through a DUI checkpoint?

Huntington Beach criminal attorney Michael L. Guisti explains if you see a DUI checkpoint ahead you do have the legal right to turnaround and not go through it, however, when you turnaround just make sure you're not breaking any traffic laws.

Many times over, Guisti says, somebody approaching a DUI checkpoint will suddenly make a U-turn crossing over the double yellow lines, which gives police the right to pull you over.

Guisti says police can pull you over if they think you're driving drunk, or if you have some issue with your car, like a taillight out, expect to be pulled over.

Sometimes, according to Guisti, if you're able to turn around without breaking any traffic laws some police departments will keep squad cars posted along the opposite side of the street and nearby side streets to give the intimidating impression you're going to be pulled over if you turn around and refuse to go through their DUI checkpoint. Other times police will simply block off entries to side streets and even block legal U-turns with orange cones to ensure you go through their DUI checkpoint, according to Guisti.

As long as you turned around legally and didn't break any traffic laws there should be no reason you should be pulled over, says Guisti.

Now if you have been arrested for DUI, whether at a DUI checkpoint or during a routine pullover, understand you have several defense options, says Guisti.

First off it's very important to understand that if you've been arrested for alleged drunk driving you have only ten days to contact the Irvine DMV for a drivers license hearing, and when you hire a Southern California DUI lawyer they'll set up the hearing and delay suspension hearings so they can prepare a stellar DMV case for you, says Guisti.

Two things DUI attorneys look at in DUI cases is if you were lawfully pulled-over, because police cannot simply stop you based on a "gut-feeling," but rather must have a compelling reason, and the second thing DUI defense lawyers look at is if the DUI test were accurate and within regulation, says Guisti.

To the second point, Guisti says, DUI tests are notoriously flawed, but under Title 17 the way the tests are administered and blood tests are handled must follow very strict guidelines, and if police even slightly break the rules or it's found the test couldn't provide an accurate reading as outlined in Title 17 then your case is dismissed.

Another very important point, if you enter a DUI checkpoint and you're caught driving without a license or driving on a suspended license police can cite you and impound your car.

If you or somebody you know are facing a DUI charge call the drunk driving defense experts Orange County DUI attorney specialists at the Law Office of Michael L. Guisti right now at 888-478-8999 so we can examine your charge, investigate the arresting police officer's action and ensure justice for you.

Santa Ana, Orange County - An Irvine woman was in court Friday morning arranged on vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence charges as prosecutors allege she ran a red light while driving distracted and crashed into another car, killing the driver of that car.

Irvine criminal attorney Michael L. Guisti explains that under Penal Code (PC) 192(c) vehicular manslaughter is when you drive in an unlawful way, or if you drive in a lawful but dangerous way. Furthermore you can be charged with this crime if you staged an accident for insurance purposes and somebody was killed, and you'll probably also face insurance fraud charges, Guisti goes on to say.

Guisti explains if, for example, you're looking at your cell-phone or texting while driving and accidentally hit somebody and kill them you'll likely face this charge.

It's very important to have an attorney if you're facing this charge, Guisti explains, because it's a "wobbler," meaning it can be charged either as a misdemeanor or felony, and that can make the difference between something like a fine or a ten year in prison if convicted of felony vehicular manslaughter.

If you're facing vehicular manslaughter contact our Orange County vehicular manslaughter attorney specialists at the Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti at 888-478-8999 so we can give you the best defense in Orange County with the best outcome.

Costa Mesa, Orange County - We know of at least two DUI checkpoints happening this weekend in Orange County.

On Friday evening there will be a San Juan Capistrano DUI checkpoint at an undisclosed location between 6:30 p.m. and 2:30 a.m.

On Saturday evening there will be a Costa Mesa DUI checkpoint at an undisclosed location between 6 p.m. and 2 a.m.

[If you know of any other DUI checkpoints in Orange, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside or San Diego Counties please let us know on our Facebook page.]

A question commonly asked to our Orange County DUI attorney specialists is, if you see a DUI checkpoint ahead do you have the legal right to turnaround?

Orange County DUI lawyer Michael L. Guisti explains if you see a DUI checkpoint ahead you do have the legal right to turn around and not go through it, however, when you turnaround just make sure you're not breaking any traffic laws.

Many times over, Guisti says, somebody approaching a DUI checkpoint will suddenly make a U-turn crossing over the double yellow lines, which gives police the right to pull you over.

Guisti says police can pull you over if they think you're DUI, or if you have some issue with your car like a taillight out expect to be pulled over.

Sometimes, according to Guisti, if you're able to turn around without breaking any traffic laws some police departments will keep squad cars posted along the opposite side of the street and nearby side streets to give the intimidating impression you're going to be pulled over if you turn around and refuse to go through their DUI checkpoint. Other times police will simply block off entries to side streets and even block legal U-turns with orange cones to ensure you go through their DUI checkpoint, according to Guisti.

Orange County DUI attorney Guisti also points out that if you enter a DUI checkpoint and you're caught driving without a license or driving on a suspended license police can cite you and impound your car.

If you or somebody you know are facing a DUI charge call the Orange County DUI attorney specialists at the Law Office of Michael L. Guisti right now at 888-478-8999 so we can examine your charge, investigate the arresting police officer's action and ensure justice for you.

Walnut Park, Los Angeles - Earlier this week, Luis Jimenez, a 23-year driver, was arrested for allegedly killing a pedestrian in Walnut Park. According to the authorities, Jimenez allegedly drove through a stop sign at the intersection of California Street and Pacific Blvd., lost control of his vehicle and struck the pedestrian. The victim was a 42-year old man who later died at the hospital.

Jimenez suffered minor injuries was arrersted and booked for one felony count manslaughter and driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.

According to top Orange County Criminal 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 prongs. The first part is defined under 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 to be charged with both. These charges are considered misdemeanors in California. The punishments can be the suspension of your license, fines, and/or having an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle. However, if you have multiple DUI charges or have been convicted of a DUI three times within the last 10 years upon receiving a DUI charge, it can turn into a felony.

Our Fullerton Drunk driving defense attorney states that it is important and imperative to hire a strong, powerful and experienced Orange County DUI attorney if you are being charged with a DUI and/or drunk driving. The Westminster DUI defense lawyer explains that most people do not know that a DMV hearing must be requested within 10 days of getting a ticket or risk having your drivers license suspended.

If you or someone you care has been arrested or charged with DUI in Orange County, it is important to consult with a strong and powerful Orange County DUI Attorney or Orange County DUI defense lawyer immediately.

A leading Orange County DUI defense law firm, Michael L. Guisti has sucessfully represented hundreds of defendants arrested or accused of DUI, drunk driving, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Often time, we can help our clients reduce their charges to a minimum or have the charges dismissed, subject to proof of evidence.

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

Having a DUI charge on your record is serious. Many employers will complete a background check prior to deciding on a candidate. If you're looking for a job and have a DUI on your record, chances are slim that you're going to get that job or promotion. Some employers may be lenient which may be the exception but not the rule.

At the Law Offices of Michael Guisti, our qualified Orange County criminal defense attorney has been very successful representing defendants in DUI cases in throughout southern California including 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, driving drunk or vehicular manslaughter, whether it is a misdemeanor or a felony DUI charge or any kind of crimes, including assault, battery, murder, theft crimes, white collar crimes, sex crimes or a drug crime please contact our Orange County DUI defense lawyers or Orange County criminal attorney today. Call today for a FREE and comprehensive appointment at (714) 530-9690 or visit our website at www.topcalifornialawyer.com. You'll be glad you did.

Santa Ana, Orange County - Late last month, Robert Charles Serrano, 37, was convicted of killing Corban White, an 18-year-old lady by rear-ending the car where she was riding as a passenger.

On the morning of January 3, 2010, Serrano was extremely intoxicated after consuming several alcoholic beverages, while at Jasper's bar in Santa Ana. Serrano was driving his vehicle eastbound on MacArthur Blvd. while under the influence of alcohol. He has a passenger sitting in the passenger seat. At the intersection of MacArthur Blvd. and Main Street in Santa Ana, Serrano failed to stop and crashed into the back of a Toyota Scion, which was stopped at a red light. After the crash, Serrano exited his vehicle and fled the scene on foot. He was later arrested at his mother's home in Fountain Valley.

Several other persons and vehicles were involved in this tragic accident. Most of whom experienced minor injuries except for Ms. White. She was transported to the hospital and died due to blunt force trauma to the head as a result of the crash.

Serrano pled guilty to one felony count of gross vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence while intoxicated. Serrano also admitted to sentencing enhancements and allegations for causing bodily injury to multiple victims, fleeing the scene, a prior strike conviction for a 1992 robbery, a prior conviction for DUI in 2005 in California, and two prior convictions for DUI in 1997 and a reckless driving involving alcohol in 1999 in the state of Washington according to reports.

Serrano faces a maximum sentence of 33 years in state prison. The hearing will take place on April 14, 2011.

According to top Orange County Criminal DUI Defense Lawyers, Michael Guisti tells that driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious offense. The offense becomes more serious when someone is injured. In California, a DUI charge is broken into two prongs. The first part is defined under California Vehicle code section 23152 (a). It states that it is unlawful for a person to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

According to the Newport Beach DUI attorney the second prong is defined in California Vehicle code section 23151(b). It states that it is unlawful for a person to driver under the influence of alcohol if his blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is .08% or more. These are separate charges and it is common for a person being charged with a DUI to be charged with both.

The Irvine DUI attorney further explains that these charges are considered misdemeanors in California. The punishments can be the suspension of your license, fines, and/or having an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle. However, if you have multiple DUI charges or have been convicted of a DUI three times within the last 10 years upon receiving a DUI charge, it can turn into a felony.

Additionally, our Irvine criminal defense attorney and Vehicular Manslaughter 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, or charges such as gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, it is imperative that you contact a strong and powerful DUI Defense attorney as soon as possible. Our Southern California DUI Defense lawyers at Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti has more than ten years of experience defending defendants from DUI and gross vehicular manslaughter cases statewide.

Our Westminster DUI defense lawyer explains that many people do not know that they must request a hearing within 10 days of getting a ticket for DUI/DWI or risk having your drivers license suspended. Failure to do so will guarantee suspension of license.

If you or someone you care has been arrested or charged with DUI in Orange County, it is important to consult with a strong and powerful Orange County DUI defense lawyer immediately.

A leading Orange County DUI defense law firm, the 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 defendants arrested and/or accused of DUI, drunk driving, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Often times, we can help our clients have their charges reduced to a minimum or obtain a dismissal, subject to proof of evidence.

Why is it important to hire an experienced Irvine DUI defense attorney or an Orange County Vehicular Manslaughter attorney?

Having a DUI charge on your record is serious. Many employers will complete a background check prior to deciding to hire you. At the Law Offices of Michael Guisti, our qualified Orange County criminal defense attorney has been very successful representing defendants in DUI cases 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, driving drunk or vehicular manslaughter, whether it is a misdemeanor or a felony or any kind of crimes, including assault, battery, murder, theft crimes, white collar crimes, sex crimes or a drug crime please contact our Orange County defense lawyers or Orange County criminal attorney today. Call for an appointment at (714) 530-9690 or visit our website at www.topcalifornialawyer.com. You'll be glad you did.

Santa Ana, Orange County - Last week, 39-year old Patricia Ann Izquieta of Riverside, was sentenced to three years in state prison for killing Donald Murphy due to driving under the influence (DUI) and hit and run.

He pled guilty to one felony hit and run with permanent death or injury, one felony count of vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated without gross negligence, and one misdemeanor count of driving without a valid license with a sentencing enhancement for causing great bodily injury.due to driving under the influence and , a bicyclist, by crashing into him and then fleeing the scene.

Moreover, Izquieta plead guilty to vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated without gross negligence.

On December 9, 2009, Izquieta was driving her Saturn SUV in Newport Beach in the far right hand lane. Donald Murphy was cycling along the curbside of the road behind two of his friends. It was reported that Izquieta drifted towards the curb and hit Murphy from behind causing Murphy to be thrown from this bicycle to the curb rendering him unconscious.

Izquieta fled the scene and dragged Murphy's bicycle under her vehicle and was found by police about a mile down the road. Izquieta's vehicle sustained significant damage to the front hood and windshield of her car from the collision.

It was later determined that Izquieta had taken prescription medications / narcotics that early morning prior to the crash that impaired her driving including Methadone, Hydromorphone and Clonezepam.

According to top Orange County Drug Defense Lawyers, Michael Guisti
states that in California there are many different types of drug crime charges including 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).

Our Newport Beach criminal attorney and Santa Ana drug crime lawyers explain that it is illegal to be under the influence of a controlled substance. This includes drugs like Medthadone, Hydromorphone, Clonezepam, Opana, Oxycodone, Zolpidem, Hydrocodone, methamphetamines, cocaine and PCP, among others. If convicted of this charge you can face up to one year in jail, be ordered to go through a drug rehab program and pay fines. An Orange County drug crime lawyer familiar with drug crime charges can help those facing drug charges.

Penal Code 191.5(a) PC California's gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated law or otherwise known as "GVMI", is a felony punishable by up to ten years in the state prison (15 years-to-life if you have a prior DUI conviction).

Penal Code 191.5(a) states in pertinent part: "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 Section 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.

(b) 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 Section 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, but without gross negligence, or the proximate result of the commission of a lawful act that might produce death, in an unlawful manner, but without gross negligence."

How can you be successful in defending your vehicular manslaughter or drug crime case? Hire a strong and powerful Orange County criminal defense attorney or Westminster drug crimes defense lawyer.

At the Law Office of Michael Guisti, we have spent many years representing defendants that have been charged with a drug crime or possession of a controlled substance. In many cases wherein defendants have faced misdemeanor or felony charges, our experienced Orange County criminal defense attorney has been able to successfully reduce charges and sometimes obtain a dismissal. We help 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 including assault, battery, domestic violence, robbery, grand theft, 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 filing petition for writs, appeals and/or Habeas Corpus cases. Call our office toll free today at 1-888-478-8999 or visit our website at www.topcaliofornialawyer.com. You'll be glad you did!

Orange County DUI defense attorneys at Law Offices of Michael Guisti have seen a rise on the DUI arrests and DUI or drunk driving related cases during the holiday season. Our Newport Beach DUI lawyer and Fullerton DUI defense attorney noted that Christmas and New Year Holiday Season yielded more than 500 DUI arrests.

The Orange County Register reported as of January 1, 2011 that more than 500 people were cited and arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs between midnight on Friday, December 17 through midnight December 31, 2010. The holiday season allows us to have fun and be merry with family, friends and co-workers while being in the holiday spirit. But, it also causes some of us to make poor judgment calls when it comes to driving while under the influence. There are many good people in Orange County who made bad decisions over the holiday season. 504 people and counting as of January 1, 2011.

Orange County DUI attorneys here at the Law offices of Michael L. Guisti understand that life happens; but when life happens and a DUI occurs, your life may begin to turn into a whirlwind or be turned upside-down. You need bail money, you may need to ask your family for financial assistance, you may need to tell your spouse or partner of the horrible news, or you may need to tell your employer..... Don't fret. There is light at the end of the tunnel. If you have been arrested for a DUI (driving under the influence ) DWI (driving while intoxicated) or know someone that received a DUI/DWI over the holiday season 2010, call your Newport Beach DUI lawyer at (714) 530-9690. We can certainly help.

Fullerton DUI lawyer Michael Guisti has more than decade of local DUI experience in Santa Ana, Newport Beach, Fullerton and Westminster to conquer the legal process and keep you out of jail. Life will continue to move forward; but, you are now part of the legal system. The criminal system is complex and complicated. Seeking a lawyer to represent your case must become a high priority to keeping your world moving forward and further keep you out of jail.

In Orange County driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious offense. A DUI is broken up in to two separate charges. The first charge is defined in the California Penal code section 23152(a). It states that it is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle. The second charge is defined in the California Penal code section 23152 (b) it is unlawful for any person who has 0.08 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in his or her blood, to drive a vehicle.

According to California law, a DUI is a wobbler. This means the charge can either be a felony or a misdemeanor. It is important to retain an experienced Newport Beach DUI lawyer to help you defend your DUI charge.

Why is it so important to hire a skilled Newport Beach DUI defense attorney, a Santa Ana felony defense attorney or an Irvine DWI defense lawyer?

Your charge(s) of a misdemeanor DUI or a felony DUI will depend on the facts of your case; if have you been convicted of a DUI within the last 10 years and/or whether there was any bodily injury. Michael Guisti, an experienced Newport Beach DUI lawyer will help argue the facts and cite compelling law in your case.

At the Law Office of Michael Guisti, we have many years of experience, represented hundreds of DUI/DWI clients defend their DUI cases, and we can defend you too. Our Santa Ana criminal defense attorneys and Irvine criminal lawyers have been successful in defending clients in Orange County, Newport Beach, Santa Ana, Irvine, Tustin, Costa Mesa, Fullerton, Laguna Beach, Westminster, Huntington Beach, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside and San Bernardino Counties.

If you or a loved one is facing a DUI/DWI, felony DUI, drunk driving, vehicular manslaughter, driving under the influence or any other criminal charges including murder, first or second degree murder, reckless driving, assault, battery, domestic violence, a white collar crime, grand theft, robbery or a drug crime call us today. Call our toll-free hotline at 1-888-478-8999 or visit our website at www.topcalifornialawyer.com. You'll be glad you did.

Costa Mesa, Orange County - A recently Orange County crime news caught the attention of Orange County DUI defense attorney and Santa Ana felony crime defense lawyer, Michael Guisti concerning a DUI-related high speed crash in Newport Beach involving co-founder of Tapout, Charles "Mask" Lewis and Jeffrey D. Kirby.

Kirby, 53, was charged with vehicular manslaughter and gross negligence while intoxicated causing bodily injury and sentencing enhancements for fleeing the scene of the crash and causing great bodily injury to multiple victims. According to the Orange County DUI defense attorney Michael Guisti that if Kirby is convicted, he can face up to 18 years in prison.

The Newport Beach DUI lawyer explains that in Orange County driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious offense. A California DUI (driving under the influence) is broken up into two separate charges. The first charge is defined by California Penal code section 23152(a).

The Fullerton DUI defense lawyer further states that it is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle. The second charge is defined by California Penal code section 23152 (b) it is unlawful for any person who has 0.08 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in his or her blood to drive a vehicle.

The Irvine DUI attorney also explains that according to California law, a DUI is a wobbler. This means the charge can either be a felony or a misdemeanor. It is important to retain an experienced Newport Beach DUI defense attorney to help you defend your Orange County DUI charge.

Why is it so important to hire a skilled Newport Beach DUI lawyer, a Santa Ana feloney defense attorney or an Irvine criminal defense attorney?

Whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or a felony in California will depend on the individual facts of your case, have you been convicted of a DUI in Orange County within the last 10 years and whether there was an injury. An experienced Orange County criminal defense attorney will help you argue the facts in your case.

At the Law Office of Michael Guisti we have more than 10 years of experience helping clients defend their DUI charges. Our Santa Ana criminal attorneys and Westminster criminal lawyers have been successful in helping clients in Orange County, Newport Beach, Santa Ana, Irvine, Tustin, Costa Mesa, Fullerton, Laguna Beach, Westminster, Huntington Beach, Los Angeles County, San Diego County, Riverside County and San Bernardino County.

If you or a loved one is facing a DUI, felony dui, drunk driving, vehicular manslaughter, driving under the influence or any other criminal charge like strikes, assault, battery, domestic violence, a white collar crime, grand theft, fraud or a drug crime call us today. Call our experienced Huntington Beach criminal defense attorney toll free at 1-888-478-8999 or visit our website at www.topcalifornialawyer.com. 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.

Irvine , Orange County - Earlier this month, doctor Amanda Waugh was arrested after a police officer witnessed her car weaving. Waugh was later arrested on suspicion of drunk driving.

A few hours later, Waugh reported drunk to work for her overnight shift. According to board records, the state medical board placed her on five-years probation. She pled guilty to driving recklessly with alcohol and sentenced to three years probation and fined $250.

In Orange County driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious offense. A DUI is broken up in to two separate charges. The first charge is defined in the California Penal code section 23152(a).

It states that it is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle. The second charge is defined in the California Penal code section 23152 (b) it is unlawful for any person who has 0.08 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in his or her blood, to drive a vehicle.

According to California law, a DUI is a wobbler. This means the charge can either be a felony or a misdemeanor. It is important to retain an experienced Newport Beach DUI defense attorney to help you defend your DUI charge.

Why is it so important to hire a skilled Newport Beach DUI defense attorney, a Santa Ana feloney defense attorney or an Irvine criminal defense attorney?

Whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or a felony will depend on the individual facts of your case, if have you been convicted of a DUI within the last 10 years and whether there was an injury. An experienced Orange County criminal defense attorney will help you argue the facts in your case.

At the Law Office of Michael Guisti, we have had years of experience helping our clients defend their DUI charges. Our Santa Ana criminal attorneys and Irvine criminal lawyers have been successful in helping clients in Orange County, Newport Beach, Santa Ana, Irvine, Tustin, Costa Mesa, Fullerton, Laguna Beach, Westminster, Huntington Beach, Los Angeles County, San Diego County, Riverside County and San Bernardino County.

If you or a loved one is facing a DUI, felony dui, drunk driving, vehicular manslaughter, driving under the influence or any other criminal charge like reckless driving, assault, battery, domestic violence, a white collar crime, grand theft, robbery or a drug crime call us today. Call our experienced Huntington Beach criminal defense attorney toll free at 1-888-478-8999 or visit our website at www.topcalifornialawyer.com. You'll be glad you did.

Brea, Orange County - A top news regarding an Orange County voluntary manslaughter case was brought to the attention to our California criminal lawyer and Irvine criminal defense attorney.

An Orange County man in his 20s was found stabbed four times in his back in a quiet neighborhood near James and Reynoso Drives. According to the police and three witnesses, the stabbing might be associated with a party held nearby and the victim was stabbed because of an altercation. The suspect was seen driving away in a black Honda after the incident.

According to California Penal Code 192 (a), Voluntary Manslaughter is a killing upon a sudden quarrel or heat of passion. Voluntary Manslaughter is seen as a lower case of murder because the defendant commits the crime out of an unexpected burst of anger instead of premeditation.

According to the California criminal attorney, who has many years of experience in manslaughter and other related felony charges such as voluntary manslaughter, vehicular manslaughter, involuntary manslaughterr, homicide, murder, states that the key point here is the proof of "heat of passion" out of plaintiff's or the victim's provocation.

For example, finding your spouse in bed with another, defendant got violently robbed by the victim right beforehand, murder of a family member are considered sufficient provocation. However, mere name calling, staring or looking by another are not sufficient provocation and thus the killing followed will usually be considered murder. said the Orange County manslaughter defense attorney.

The Californioia criminal lawyer further explains that Voluntary Manslaughter is a severe crime after murder. A defendant can face up to 11 years of imprisonment if convicted. If it is a third strike judging from the defendant's prior criminal history, the defendant may face 25 years to life imprisonment.

How can an experienced California criminal defense attorney help you in manslaughter defense, homicide defense or Murder defense in Orange County, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside throughtout California?

If you or anyone you know has been accused of voluntary manslaughter, it is important to consult an experienced California criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Our California defense attorneys in the Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti are experts in handling voluntary manslaughter.

Our skilled Santa Ana criminal defense attorneys are also highly experienced in trial and appeals in both state and federal court in Orange County, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino and Riverside. Our California appeals attorneys and Orange County trial lawyers will utilize every possible way to achieve the best result possible. Call us today at 714-530-9690 for a free consultation with our skilled California criminal lawyers.

Santa Ana - Orange County - A tragic accident involving a drunk driver striking 9 pedestrians including a 2-year old girl grabs the attention of Orange county criminal lawyer Michael L. Guisti of Law offices of Michael L. Guisti.

Earlier this week, Miguel Sandoval a 43-year old Santa Ana man is charged for felony DUI along with sentencing enhancements. In this tragedy, an innocent 2-year old along with her mother were struck and dragged for 50 feet before hitting seven other innocent bystanders.

In this story, luckily, no one was killed. But, it could have been worse. According to the Orange county DUI defense attorney, Sandoval will need an aggressive Orange County DUI attorney to defend his rights for DUI. Santa Ana Criminal Defense attorney Michael L. Guisti has the reputation and vigilant skills to defend Sandoval or an individual who has had similar situations involving drinking while driving in Orange County.

In Orange County driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious offense. A DUI is broken up in to two separate charges. The first charge is defined in the California Penal code section 23152(a). It states that it is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle. The second charge is defined in the California Penal code section 23152 (b) it is unlawful for any person who has 0.08 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in his or her blood to drive a vehicle.

According to California law, a DUI is a wobbler. This means the charge can either be a felony or a misdemeanor. It is important to retain an experienced Newport Beach DUI defense attorney to help you defend your DUI charge.

Why is it so important to hire a skilled Newport Beach DUI defense attorney, a Santa Ana feloney defense attorney or an Irvine criminal defense attorney?

Whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or a felony will depend on the individual facts of your case, have you been convicted of a DUI within the last 10 years and whether there was an injury. An experienced Orange County criminal defense attorney will help you argue the facts in your case.

At the Law Office of Michael Guisti we have had years of experience helping our clients defend their DUI charges. Our Santa Ana criminal attorneys and Irvine criminal lawyers have been successful in helping clients in Orange County, Newport Beach, Santa Ana, Irvine, Tustin, Costa Mesa, Fullerton, Laguna Beach, Westminster, Huntington Beach, Los Angeles County, San Diego County, Riverside County and San Bernardino County.

If you or a loved one is facing a DUI, felony dui, drunk driving, vehicular manslaughter, driving under the influence or any other criminal charge like assault, battery, domestic violence, a white collar crime, grand theft, robbery or a drug crime call us today. Call our experienced Huntington Beach criminal defense attorney toll free at 1-888-478-8999 or visit our website at www.topcalifornialawyer.com.

Long Beach, Los Angeles - This news report regarding vehicular manslaughter caught the attention of our Orange County DUI defense attorneys because this could have happened to any one of our children. In fact, this tragedy did happen to a parents' child, a 17-year old young man.

Earlier this month, a Los Angeles teenage male driving a Ford Taurus and an 18-year old man driving a Ford Mustang was caught speed racing in the streets of Long Beach just after midnight. Four people in the Ford Mustang were killed as a result of a crash. The driver of the Ford Taurus and his passenger fled the scene of the accident and were later caught by authorities. They were not hurt nor did they sustain any injuries. The driver of the Ford Mustang along with his three passengers did not fare well, however. All four, including the driver, were killed as a result of the contest.

The young teenage male will be brought up on 8 felony charges of vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and involuntary manslaughter. According to the district attorney's office, they may seek to try the teenager as an adult. The car was stolen and the teenage driver was driving without a license.

A tragic moment in a young man's life may have cost him his for several reasons, but most importantly for killing several people in a costly accident which included robbery, theft, driving without a license, loss of life, driving while intoxicated, driving under the influence and fleeing the scene of an accident.

Under California Penal Code Section 191 and Penal Code Section 192, Gross Vehicular manslaughter is a serious crime causing the death of another person due to illegal driving, including negligence, drunk driving or reckless driving.

California Vehicular manslaughter can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances and seriousness of the crime. Gross negligence can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony; but if it is involved with the death of a person, it usually is charged as felony.

If you or your loved one has been charged or arrested for vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, involuntary manslaughter or related felony cases or misdemeanors in California, whether it is in Orange County, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside or San Bernardino, you need to seek the legal consultation from an experienced Orange County criminal defense attorney or Southern California vehicular manslaughter defense attorney to protect your rights and freedom. Orange County Criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti have handled hundreds of criminal cases in both state and federal court, including murder, among many other crimes.

How can an experienced Long Beach criminal defense lawyer and Orange County DUI defense attorney help you in your felony DUI defense and murder defense in Southern California ?

At Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti, our attorneys have won the respect from judges, prosecutors and law enforcement agents. We have the experience and resources to fight for your rights and freedom. Call our skilled Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney and Orange County DUI Defense attorney at Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti toll-free at 1-888-478-8999 or visit us at www.topcalifornialawyer.com. We represented clients in Newport Beach, Fullerton, Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, Westminster, Laguna Beach, Long Beach, Irvine, Garden Grove, Tustin, Los Angeles, Beverly Hills and cities throughout Southern California. Call us now, you'll be glad you did.

Santa Ana, Orange County - The Orange County DUI attorneys and Orange County criminal attorneys at our Orange County DUI law firm read a very sad news regarding dui caused death in Fullerton or vehicular manslaughter case on the Orange County Register recently. It reported that Fullerton man, Jared Nobel Berggren, was guilty on two counts of felony gross vehicular manslaughter plus a penalty enhancement for causing great bodily injury.

Jared was intoxicated and charged for the 2009 deaths of two close friends killed in a car crash when he lost control of his vehicle and crashed into a tree after an evening of drinking. Mr. Berggren's passengers, Jacquelyn A. Ardalan, 19, of La Habra, and Miles A. Christensen, 19, of Fullerton were ejected from the truck on impact and died at the scene. Jared's blood -alcohol level was above 0.10 percent at the time of the crash according to the Orange County District Attorney's office.

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. 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.

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 more 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 first time offenders, second time DUI offenders), to more serious felony DUI charges (such as repeated DUI charges or vehicular manslaughter cases). Orange County DUI lawyer 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.

Orange County- Alex Trujillo or Garden Grove located in Orange County is facing murder charges. It is alleged that Trujillo killed women, Catherine Busse, while driving under the influence of alcohol. Trujillo was driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol when he hit the victim and her 15 year old son while the two were riding their bikes on the sidewalk. Witness detained Trujillo at the scene until police arrived. Trujillo has a prior conviction of driving under the influence. If he is found guilty he faces a maximum of life in prison.

In California, if a person is convicted of murder, they face some of the harshest punishments given to people charged with a criminal charge. In California, murder can be broken down into two charges and is defined in the California Penal Code section 187(a). It states that murder is the unlawful killing or another. The first kind of murder and the more serious murder charge is first degree murder. The punishments for first degree murder are death, life in prison without parole or a prison sentence of 25 years to life. The second murder charge is call second degree murder. The punishment for murder in the second degree is 15 years to life in prison. The individual facts of a person case will determine whether you are charged with first or second degree murder. An experienced Orange County murder defense attorney will have the experience needed to look through all of the facts of the case and help you defend the charge.

Murder is the one of the most serious charges a person can face. It is imperative to your case and to your freedoms to hire a skilled Santa Ana murder defense attorney to help you defend this serious charge.

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