When Government Action Separates Families: Legal Issues That Can Affect Children With Disabilities
News stories sometimes highlight situations where government action suddenly separates families. One recent report described a deaf child who had been attending school in California and was removed from the United States with his family during an immigration enforcement action. According to public statements by the family’s attorney and state education officials, the child depended […]
When Threats Cross the Line: What a Recent Federal Case Says About Custody Disputes and Criminal Law
Family court cases can be some of the most emotional legal disputes people experience. Issues involving children, custody, and parental rights often create intense stress and frustration for everyone involved. But when anger turns into threats of violence, the situation can quickly move beyond family court and into federal criminal court. A recent case involving […]
When Parents Agree on Custody in Domestic Violence Cases: What California Law Still Requires
In many family law cases, parents reach agreements about custody. Lawyers often turn those agreements into written stipulations and submit them to the court. This can save time and reduce conflict. But when a case involves domestic violence, California law does not allow custody decisions to be handled that way alone. Family Code § 3044 […]
Cruel and Unusual Punishment in SHU: What It Means and Your Options
In California criminal law, prisoners placed in the Security Housing Unit (SHU) are sometimes subjected to conditions that may be considered “cruel and unusual punishment.” The Eighth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution prohibits punishments that are excessively harsh, degrading, or inhumane. This applies to both jail and prison inmates, including those serving sentences or seeking […]
Understanding the Settlement Process: A Timeline from Acceptance to Check-in-Hand
At The Mines Law Firm, we understand that after reaching a settlement in your case, you’re eager to receive your portion of the settlement funds. It’s crucial to be aware that this process involves several stages and can be time-consuming. This is a reason we consistently let you know that settlement money should be considered […]
Should You File to Open a Case in Family Court if the Other Parent is Already Absent?
When the other parent is absent from your child’s life, you may wonder if it’s necessary to involve family court. Filing a case can provide structure and clarity, but it may also bring challenges. Below, we’ll explore the pros and cons to help you decide if it’s the right step for you and your child. […]
Life After a Not Guilty Verdict: Rebuilding Your Reputation and Moving Forward
When you’ve been found not guilty in a case that has harmed your character, it can feel like both a victory and an ongoing battle. Even though the legal case has concluded, the consequences of being accused may linger in your personal and professional life. Here’s a guide on what you can do to reclaim […]
How Newly Discovered Medical Evidence Can Impact Felony Murder Convictions in California
In California, newly discovered medical evidence can play a pivotal role in challenging felony murder convictions, particularly when it undermines the prosecution’s theory of causation. Whether through ineffective assistance of counsel (IAC) claims or asserting actual innocence, such evidence can serve as a basis for post-conviction relief. Legislative developments like SB 467 and evolving case […]
How to Serve Someone Out of State in a California Family Law Case
When initiating a family law case in California, such as divorce, child custody, or support, serving the other party with a summons and petition is a crucial first step. If the other party lives outside California, the process requires extra steps to comply with both California law and the laws of the state where the […]
How to Prepare for a Personal Injury Deposition
Preparing for a personal injury deposition is essential to ensure you present accurate, consistent, and credible testimony. This process can seem intimidating, but following these steps with guidance from your attorney will help you feel confident. 1. Understand the Purpose of the Deposition A deposition allows the opposing attorney to: Your goal is to provide […]