It’s a Brave New World.

So here we go.  It’s a brave new world out there my friends.  We head into 2017 with new leadership in this great country, but one thing is certain - we are all Americans and we all need the same protection under the law that we have needed for decades past.  None of that will change with the passing of the torch…it never does.

Did you pay attention to the election?  California did some amazing things at the poles that captured the national spotlight.  One of those things was the referendum on the legalization of the recreational use of marijuana.  Look it up.  Whatever side of the issue you may fall on it may affect you in the year to come.  To be sure, we hope that you do not need the assistance of a great criminal attorney in 2017.

BUT…if you do, it is comforting to know that through the past eight presidential administrations Attorney William Chestnut has been protecting the citizens of the San Jose California area against criminal prosecution.  They come and go…the Republicans and the Democrats, but there is Bill.  If you need a great criminal attorney in the San Jose Valley give him a call at (408) 298-6990.

‘Tis The Season to Get Angry.

I know that this is supposed to be a joyous holiday season.  Sometimes, however, when family and friends gather together tempers flare and things get out of hand.  In recent years, California has upped its game to control domestic violence.  These days if you are accused you can expect a swift arrest, accelerated prosecution, and stiffer sentences.

What happened to constructive counseling and an honest commitment to change one’s behavior?  The best solution to an alleged family violence situation is not always summarily hauling someone off to jail and waiting for the courts to sort it out.  Unfortunately, this seems to be the time of year that incidents of this type occur more often.

If you are on the wrong end of a domestic violence charge you need immediate and aggressive defense.  That compassion comes from someone who has been dealing with these cases in the Big Bear State for nearly 4 decades.  He is San Jose domestic violence lawyer William Chestnut.  Call Bill at his office for a free consultation at (408) 298-6990.

Terroristic Threats in California.

What is the first thing you think of when you think of a terror threat?  It is only natural to think that someone from another culture or country is threatening America.  Let’s bring it down to a personal level.  A terroristic threat in California may be actionable between spouses!  That’s right - one person within a union may file an action against the other due to perceived verbal or written threats.

In the Big Bear state this is known as California Penal Code 422.  If someone even “feels” that they or their children’s safety is at stake or if a threat is specific it could result in a criminal charge.  Even communicating a perceived threat by modern means such as a tweet, a text, or an email can get someone in serious trouble. 

Don’t take a charge such as this lightly.  Even if both sides are fully aware that something was said or written in “the heat of battle” it is on the record.  If you or someone you care about has been charged for a domestic crime such as this, immediately call San Jose terroristic threat defense attorney William Chestnut.  Bill has just about seen it all in his 40 years of practice.  Call him today at (408) 298-6990.

Defense Against Sex Charges.

Talk about a life-changer.  If you or someone you care about is charged with a sex crime in the State of California, the stakes are high indeed.  Imagine having to register as a sex offender wherever you live for the rest of your life?  It becomes very public and extremely humiliating.  So many sex crimes are “he said-she said”.  More often than not it simply is not fair!

Some sex offenses in California include - 

1.)        Indecent exposure

2.)        Statutory rape

3.)        Possession of child pornography

4.)        Child molestation

5.)        What has become known as “date rape”

It is easy to see why people who are charged with crimes such as these are presumed guilty by the average citizen.  In a situation such as this you must seek the most aggressive counsel to defend you through the process.  That man is San Jose, CA sexual crime defense attorney William Chestnut.  Call Bill immediately to begin formulating your case at (408) 298-6990.

Tradesmen and Criminal Convictions.

There is a common misconception.  If someone in the trades loses their license due to criminal behavior their career is over.  It has happened thousands of times in California.  Maybe you or a loved one made a handsome living as a contractor, a teacher, or a real estate agent for example and because of a criminal driving conviction you feel that your career is over.

Let me introduce you to SR-22.  In the Big Bear state this is a document that verifies insurance for a high-risk individual.  This may be the answer to the problem of obtaining insurance after a criminal conviction.  It is filed with the department of motor vehicles and is obtained typically after a DUI or driving without insurance, for example.

For those residents of San Jose and the surrounding area call Attorney William Chestnut.  He is an experienced California DUI attorney with experience and knowledge about SE-22.  For decades he has successfully defended Californians who have lost their driver’s licenses.  Call Bill today for the help you need at (408) 298-6990.

Three Strikes Cases in California.

The “three strike law” has been an important deterrent to crime in our state.  It was originally enacted just over 20 years ago.  By definition it gives the judge latitude to impose a much harsher sentence on anyone who has been previously convicted of two prior serious criminal offenses.  This is where things become a bit fuzzy in defining prior “serious” criminal convictions.

For example, in one case an individual was accused of stealing $153 worth of video tapes from Kmart stores.  Because he had a distant past of drug abuse and had committed residential burglaries those video tapes might have cost him serious prison time.  As a result, this individual had “the book thrown at him” and was sentenced to life in prison with no possibility of parole for 50 years!

Whoa Nellie, does something seem excessive and unfair here?  We strongly urge you to call Attorney William Chestnut.  He is an experienced California three strikes defense lawyer in San Jose. He will bring nearly 40 years of experience and success to defend you against the possibility of an unduly harsh sentence.  Call Bill today for the help you need at (408) 298-6990.

Drug Trafficking Charge.

This is obviously serious business.  When simple drug possession becomes trafficking a whole new set of circumstances are in play.  This is not anything close to being caught with marijuana on your person or any other drug for that matter.  A drug trafficking conviction will haunt you for the rest of your life in attempting to get jobs and perhaps even where you live.

Drug trafficking by definition is the illegal sale or distribution of a controlled substance.  What is the difference between distribution and trafficking?  Distribution is a Class B felony which carries a maximum jail sentence of up to 20 years and a $10,000 fine.  You may not know this, but distribution can morph into trafficking just by the “weight” of the substances involved!

Something as seemingly innocuous as this could be the difference in how and where you will spend the rest of your life.  Without hesitation you must call Attorney William Chestnut.  He is an experienced drug trafficking defense lawyer in San Jose, California.  He will bring more than 40 years of experience and success to defend you aggressively.  Call Bill today for help with your case at (408) 298-6990.

Violent Crime Defense in California.

It isn’t our imagination…whether we like it or not violent crime seems to be more pervasive in the San Jose area.  Since the beginning of the century murders are up 33% (although down the last two years).  Robberies are up 20%.  Burglaries have risen a whopping 57%.  And, believe it or not, auto theft in our area has more than doubled!

Just because these crimes and others have escalated it does NOT mean that you or your loved one is guilty of what they are charged with.  Not only that, but the degree of the crime and the prior record of the defender will weigh heavily in the judge or jury’s decision.  Don’t think that an arrest for a particular violent crime is the end of life as you know it!

Do you need aggressive representation against the accusation of a major crime?  We urge you to call Attorney William Chestnut.  He is an experienced violent crime defense lawyer in San Jose California. He will bring nearly 40 years of experience and success to defend you ALL THE WAY.  Call Bill today for help with your case at (408) 298-6990.

Support Your Local Artists - South First Fridays and Street MRKT

South First Fridays & Street MRKT - September

(Follow link above for more information)

September 2, 2016

Friday, 7pm - 11pm

 

"The art walk is self-guided evening tour through galleries, museums, and independent creative businesses featuring exhibitions and special performances."

California Latino Crime.

Are you aware of this startling statistic?  In the state of California Latinos are killed at TWICE the rate of Caucasians?  They are also far more likely to be killed by a stranger.  Latinos face challenges at every level of the justice system.  Often they are given stiffer penalties such as extended jail time and much higher fines.

Latinos are also more likely to experience multiple crimes.  In a survey of crime survivors, the culture has had nearly half of its population be subjected to three crimes or more!  The survey also uncovered that the Latino population in California has a much harder time accessing services after a crime has been committed.  There may be several reasons for that.

One thing for sure is that the Latino population of the greater San Jose area needs immediate and aggressive representation when a crime occurs.  We urge you to visit this website - www.williamchestnutlegal.com.  Attorney Chestnut brings nearly 4 decades of compassion to all of the great citizens of the area.  He is a San Jose California Latino defense attorney fluent in Spanish and English.  Call Bill today for help with your case at (408) 298-6990.

Crime Comes in all Shapes, Sizes, and Colors.

With all of the news we have been experiencing lately you might begin to believe that we are living in a society ruled by anarchy.  America is the world’s test tube of how different races, creeds, and cultures can come together in harmony.  Lately, with all of the discord don’t think that California’s third largest city is immune.

To continue functioning as a society quality law enforcement is a must, but not brutality…and certainly not vengeance.  The San Jose area is a melting pot of diversity. 

Interpretation of the way law enforcement is handled is the job of the courts.  Now, more than ever, you need the best possible representation if you are accused of a crime. 

For the very best criminal legal representation in the San Jose area contact the law office William Chestnut in San Jose.  Call him now at (408) 298-6990.  The interpretation of crime and punishment may be changing dramatically in our country.  Your future freedom is too important to leave to chance.

Congratulations Sharks!

Before it gets away from us we wanted to take this space to congratulate our local major league sports franchise…The San Jose Sharks.  What a glorious run that was!  All the way to the Stanley Cup Final.  We are all very proud of our National Hockey League team and believe that next year the guys will take the final step to claim the cup.

We are also very proud of our community and area in the way that they celebrated every step of the way.  No violence was reported…just good old fashioned celebrating as the team advanced through the playoffs.  You can and should be very proud of yourself San Jose.  We just wanted to remind you how cool you sports fans of our area are.

We honestly hope that your family never needs our family, but if you do we will be here for you.  We are the law offices of Attorney William Chestnut.  Bill has defended thousands of people in Santa Clara County, San Mateo County, Alameda County, Silicon Valley and the South Bay Area for nearly 4 decades.  He is one of the area’s most noted criminal attorneys.  If you need him do not hesitate to call (408) 298-6990.

The Summer Increase in Drug Crimes.

Happy 4th of July to all of our friends in the San Jose area.  This is a time to celebrate life in the greatest country in the world and in one of its greatest areas to live.  Unfortunately, warm summers bring out the worst in some people while others are innocent victims of a false charge.  This is particularly true in the gray area of drug crime.

When someone is accused of said crime the question becomes are they being charged as a user, a trafficker, or something in between.  That gray area may the difference in the future freedom of you or someone that you love.  And know this…the police have stepped up their enforcement of drug crimes in the San Jose area and throughout California.

Attorney William Chestnut brings nearly 4 decades of dealing with people accused of any and all related charges.  Attorney Chestnut is a San Jose California drug possession defense attorney fluent in Spanish and English.  If you are arrested DO NOT deal with the police!  Call Bill today for aggressive help with your drug crime case at (408) 298-6990.

Don't Miss the San Jose Fireworks Show!

San Jose Fireworks!

(follow link above for more information)

 

Celebrating their 102nd year and a new century of service, the Rotary Club of San Jose invites you, your family, and your friends to enjoy another world-class fireworks display at Discovery Meadow in downtown San Jose on July 4, 2016

 

 

Petty Theft in California.

Good people make big mistakes.  In the summertime more people are out running around including teenagers.  What seems like an innocuous one-time lapse of judgement could turn into something that haunts you for the rest of your life.  Just because you or someone you love has no previous criminal record doesn’t mean that the California court system will give you a pass.

If you are convicted of a theft crime in the Big Bear State the consequences are long-term.  You may be one of the lucky ones who just gets probation, but many receive jail time and a big fine to pay back what was stolen.  Here is the problem…that conviction stays on your record for LIFE!  Talk about messing up your future.

If you or a loved one has been arrested for a crime such as this do not wait for the shoe to drop.  Your future freedom is on the line here.  Immediately call San Jose petty theft defense attorney William Chestnut.  Bill has been defending accused criminals of all types for well over 3 decades and is fluent in Spanish.  Call him for a free consultation at (408) 298-6990.

The Effects of Juvenile Crime in California.

Juvenile crime tears apart families.  If someone in your family is under the age of 18 and breaks the law, they can be charged with a juvenile crime.  Your case will be handled by the Juvenile System, including Juvenile Corrections and Juvenile Court.  This is true even if you are emancipated so don’t think for a second that changes the scenario.

There are different outcomes that a court may order in the state of California including…

1.  Your child may live with you under court supervision.

2.  Your child may be get probation. He or she may have to live with a relative, in a foster home or group home, or perhaps some other type of institution.

3.  The juvenile may be sent to a probation camp or ranch. Look up the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. If your child happens to be tried in adult court, he or she WILL be sent to the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. 

If you are ever faced with a minor being arrested in the San Jose area, make sure that you take immediate action.  Your first step is to call the experienced juvenile defense attorney William Chestnut.  Attorney Chestnut has been dealing with the defense of minors for 4 decades.  Call him to discuss the proper steps to take at (408) 298-6990.

San Jose Taco Festival of Innovation

San Jose Taco Festival of Innovation

 As one of the country's bona fide hubs of Mexican-style cuisine--and the "Capital of Silicon Valley"--San Jose is the obvious choice to host a gathering of some of the most innovative taco trucks in the industry. <follow the link above>

 

Understanding Proposition 47 in the State of California.

Proposition 47 has been on the books for a couple of years now.  What is California’s Prop 47 anyway?  When it was passed by the state’s voters it turned many felonies into misdemeanors.  When that happened many people were able to turn several years in prison into a year or less in jail.  If you are not aware, many of the non-violent crime prisoners are housed in county jails.

In some of California’s jurisdictions they are considering expanding the program.  Some criminals were not previously given the opportunity take advantage of Proposition 47 because their crimes were considered too serious.  There are programs available throughout the state whereby a person convicted of a drug crime may get help and reduce his or her sentence.

Obviously it takes a true professional to seek the help that you or your loved one need.  Future lives are on the line here.  San Jose California drug crimes defense attorney William Chestnut has handled hundreds of felony and misdemeanor cases over the last 40 years.  If you live in Santa Clara, San Mateo, or Alameda County and the surrounding area get the help you need.  Call San Jose drug defense attorney William Chestnut today at (408) 298-6990.

Reducing a Felony to a Misdemeanor in California.

In the state of California there is something known as Penal Code number 17.  If you or someone you care about has been convicted of a crime that has been deemed a felony, then you need to know about this special code.  It is designed to help many Californians to amend their felony conviction and change it into a misdemeanor.

Now what does that mean exactly?  Here is one stark reality…a felony is punishable by a minimum of one year in state prison.  A misdemeanor carries a much less severe penalty.  Have you ever heard of a “wobbler”?  This is a special class of crime that may be classified as a felony OR a misdemeanor depending on its severity.

Only a trained criminal attorney is qualified to sort this out for you.  San Jose California felony defense attorney William Chestnut has handled hundreds of felony vs. misdemeanor cases over the last 40 years.  If you live in Santa Clara, San Mateo, or Alameda County and the surrounding area get the clarification you need.  Call San Jose criminal defense attorney William Chestnut today at (408) 298-6990.

20th Annual A la Carte and Art Festival

20th Annual A la Carte and Art Festival
<click link above for information>

4/30/16 - 5/1/16

"Spring into festival season in style at A La Carte and Art in downtown Mountain View. The Bay Area's popular outdoor festival season kicks-off in Mountain View at this special 20th annual celebration with two days of stellar live music on stage and street throughout downtown, a juried arts and crafts show with 200 of the west coast's top artists showing their latest handcrafted wares, artisan specialty food purveyors, health and wellness displays, an organic and green products showcase, home and garden exhibits, festive food and drink with premium wine and microbrews, a farmers' market with fresh seasonal produce, A La Car & Art – the big classic car show sponsored by Hot San Jose Nights, plus captivating kids' amusements in the Super-Duper Funzone."

Sex Offense Crime in California.

A conviction for a sex offense will follow you around for the rest of your life.  When someone is found guilty of a sex crime they are forced to register wherever they go…FOREVER!  Even worse, when a juvenile is convicted of such a crime it may be minor by comparison, but it will haunt them for all of their remaining decades.

Whatever you do make sure that you do not talk to the police until you are represented by an attorney.  You could be charge with any manner of felony ranging from indecent exposure to rape if you say the wrong things in a police interview.  Most sex crimes may be charged as just a misdemeanor instead of a felony.  Did you know that?

San Jose California sex crimes defense attorney William Chestnut has handled hundreds of these cases over the last 40 years.  He is at the ready to protect you from false prosecution if you live in Santa Clara, San Mateo, or Alameda County and the surrounding area.  This situation will not go away on its own.  Call San Jose criminal defense attorney William Chestnut today at (408) 298-6990.

California is Tough on Domestic Violence.

In recent years California has concentrated more of its efforts to curb domestic violence.  Some of these new “get tough” policies have led to overzealous charges.  Many times criminal punishment is not the solution.  A revitalized family structure is a better alternative.  If there is a genuine commitment to change for the better the court system may be more lenient.

Some of the domestic violence charges in the Big Bear state may be domestic force, which causes injury.  Assault, which is any violence against a family member.  Perhaps the charge is kidnapping, which is a very gray area of holding someone against their will.  If there has been an attempt to dissuade someone into not calling authorities or not testifying, that too may be a charge of domestic violence.

Domestic violence defense lawyer in San Jose California, William Chestnut, will muster his nearly 40 years of experience to defend you vigorously against charges such as this and others that fall into the category.  If you have been accused of domestic violence in Santa Clara County, San Mateo County, Alameda County, Silicon Valley, or the South Bay area act quickly.  Call Attorney Bill Chestnut today at (408) 298-6990.

20 Easter Egg Hunts and Events for Kids in the Bay Area

Hunting Season: The Ultimate Egg Hunt List!

" From eggstravaganzas at sprawling estates to local community gatherings in the park, the Bay Area is home to some of the most scenic and varied egg hunts. Feeling like a bouncy house/parade/mad dash for eggs kind of holiday? We’ve got it. Looking for a mellow place for your toddler to join the hunt? We’ve got that too. Read on for our top egg-tacular events this spring. Don’t forget to BYOB! (Bring your own basket)" - Click on the above link.

A San Jose Criminal Defense Attorney Who Has Time for YOU!

How many criminal defense firms in the San Jose California area do you suppose there are?  There are many hundred who purport to practice that area of the law.  In many cases you will be bicycled to a paralegal that will take your information and pass it along to one of the many members of the firm to evaluate its worthiness.  That is no way to be treated.

You are looking for a San Jose Criminal Attorney that will take the time to listen.  After he has heard everything about your situation he will render honest advice that you need to hear.  Beyond a shadow of a doubt your attorney must be committed to a thorough investigation of your case.  Now comes the most important part - formulating a strategy to convince a judge or 12 of your peers that you are not guilty!

Just such a man is 39 year veteran of Criminal Law in the San Jose area, William Chestnut.  Over three decades he has seen it all and is skilled in all areas of criminal defense.  Hire the best attorney to defend yourself against criminal accusations.  Call Bill Chestnut today at (408) 298-6990.  Make an appointment at his new office located at 4020 Moorpark Ave. Suite 214.

What to do if you are accused of a Violent Crime.

Being accused of a violent crime in the state of California is a life-altering experience.  You need to get on top of the issue immediately.  If you have a friend or loved one that has been accused of a crime such as assault, sexual assault, rape, weapons charges, robbery or other related serious acts of violence you need to acquire the best defense possible right away.

Look for an attorney in the Golden Bear state that has been defending accused violent acts for decades.  DO NOT speak to the police even if you feel that what you say defends your innocence.  You must consult an attorney.  In this case “Silence is definitely golden”!  Each case of violent crime is different.  Assault is not treated the same way as rape which is not handled the same way as armed robbery.

DO NOT gamble with the freedom of a friend or loved one.  Attorney William Chestnut has been defending Californians accused of violent crimes for well over 30 years.  A skilled criminal defense lawyer in San Jose such as Bill Chestnut may help you avoid conviction or perhaps plead guilty to a lesser charge.  Make an appointment to see him at his new San Jose office at 4020 Moorpark Ave. Suite 214 by calling him today at (408) 298-6990. 

Don't miss South First Fridays!

Don't Miss First Fridays!

"The art walk is self-guided evening tour through galleries, museums, and independent creative businesses featuring exhibitions and special performances. The art walk takes place on the First Friday of the month, year around, except for January & July due to the major holidays."
Venue: The South First Area (SoFA) District
Address: South 1st Street
San Jose, CA 95113

What is Mistake of Fact in Criminal Law?

A great criminal attorney will pursue every avenue in aggressively defending you against a crime.  Mistake of Fact is a term used in criminal defense that you may not be aware of.  This term refers to a criminal defense that attempts to limit criminal liability on the ground that the defendant operated based on an incorrect assumption of fact rather than a criminal purpose.

Under normal conditions the mistake that the defendant made must be reasonable.  In order to be able to use Mistake of Fact as a defense understand that the mistake that the defendant made must have been one that an ordinary person would have made under the circumstances.  However, in some jurisdictions the Mistake of Fact defense has a broad interpretation of “reasonable”.

If you or a loved one is accused of committing a crime in the San Jose CA area you need every advantage at your disposal.  Count on the 35+ years of expertise that Attorney William Chestnut has brought to serving those facing criminal charges in California.  Make an appointment to visit him for a consultation at his office located at 1010 W. Taylor St. in San Jose by calling (408) 298-6990.

Defense Against Internet Crimes Accusations.

Obviously, internet crime is growing in the United States.  You may know it as cyber-crime or computer crime.  With privacy becoming almost a thing of the past anyone with a little bit of knowledge can participate in some sort of internet crime.  Bank accounts, credit cards, even social security numbers can be accessed with the click of a mouse.

There are several criminal offenses that qualify as internet crimes.  Among them are:

1. Unauthorized use of a computer

2. Tampering with anyone’s computer

3. Cyber harassment

4. Accessing child pornography

5. Soliciting sexual acts with a minor even if that solicitation was thought to be with an adult

6. Gambling via the internet

Any of these issues and perhaps others can put you or someone you care about behind the eight ball with the law.  And we’re not just talking about local law enforcement either.  At a time like this you need aggressive representation.  William Chestnut has been helping those accused of crimes in the San Jose area before there even were computers!  Call him today at (408) 298-6990.

Super San Pedro Square

Super San Pedro Square
One of downtown's most happening streets transforms into a football hub with games, chalk art and a street fair featuring local artisans.
Dates: 1/30/2016 - 2/7/2016
Times: Daily: 12pm-10pm
FREE!!

Being Saddled with a Criminal Record.

With the New Year upon us you or someone that you care about may be wearing a criminal conviction like a talisman around their neck.  A mistake in life should not cost you the rest of your days being hamstrung from realizing your dreams.  In the high-tech age every potential employer knows everything about your background. 

What can you do to reduce the damaging effects of having a criminal conviction on your record?  There really is a way!  Most misdemeanors and even felonies can be cleared in a California state court.  If the offense was more serious, then there is something called a certificate of rehabilitation for which you may apply. 

Your future is hanging in the balance.  Explore every possible option to clean up and rehabilitate any transgressions that may have occurred in your past.  Contact San Jose Criminal Attorney William Chestnut and explore your options.  He will put his considerable knowledge and nearly 40 years of experience to work for YOU or your loved one.  Call him today at (408) 298-6990 and make an appointment in his new office at 4020 Moorpark Avenue, #214 in San Jose.

New Year’s Eve DUIs

Did you or someone you care about really mess up on New Year’s Eve?  Last year the California Highway Patrol reported that traffic deaths and drunk driving arrests were up statewide compared to the previous year.  As a matter of fact, DUI arrests were up approximately 33% from 2013 to 2014.  You would think that everyone has learned their lesson by now.

But enough of the preaching.  If you have not exercised caution during the holiday season then you must exercise common sense in the New Year.  It may be you or a loved one, but whomever it is they will need aggressive representation when they go to court to defend themselves against that holiday DUI or other criminal charge.

Society has become less tolerant of DUI drivers, so if you need representation call someone who has 38 years of experience defending the rights of the accused in California.  So whether it was a drunk driving charge or some other criminal charge during the holiday season call San Jose area criminal attorney William Chestnut today.  Attorney Chestnut is dedicated to personal service, trust, and hard work.  Give him a call at (408) 298-6990 and make an appointment to consult with him at his new office at 4020 Moorpark Avenue, #214 in San Jose.