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.

Juvenile Crimes

Juvenile crimes are a nightmare for the entire family.  Lives may be torn apart when a minor is accused of a serious crime.  If you are under 18 and break the law, you 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.

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

•           Your child may live with you under court supervision.

•           Your child may be put on probation. He or she may have to live with a relative, in a foster home or group home, or in an institution.
•           Your child may be put on probation and sent to a probation camp or ranch. Your child can be sent to the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. If your child is 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 the proper and immediate steps.  Your first step is to call the experienced juvenile defense attorney in the area, William Chestnut.  Attorney Chestnut has been dealing with the defense of minors for over 30 years.  Call him to walk through the proper steps at (408) 298-6990.

California State Law on Marijuana.

Just because some surrounding western states have legalized the recreational use of marijuana does not mean anything has changed in the state of California.  Many forms of possession, use, and sale of marijuana could get you arrested and land you in jail.  Here is a brief overview of the current California law on the subject.

Unless you are a qualified marijuana patient, possession of 28.5 grams or less for personal use is considered an infraction with a maximum penalty of a $100 fine.  If there is an intent to distribute ANY amount of the drug, that is a felony subject to between 16 months and 3 years of incarceration!  Even if you cultivate any amount of marijuana the penalty once again could be up to 3 years in prison.

If you or someone you care about has been arrested for any marijuana infraction you must not hesitate.  Maybe someday soon the laws of the Big Bear state will change, but for now you must call Attorney William Chestnut a top criminal attorney for more than 3 decades at (408) 298-6990.  Tomorrow’s accepted lifestyle may be today’s prison sentence!

San Jose Criminal Attorney

When someone is charged with criminal spousal abuse charges relating to an argument involving domestic violence in the State of California, there are two common charges that they face in a criminal court. Those charges are corporal injury to a spouse, which is charged a felony crime or spousal battery which is generally charged as a misdemeanor crime. In this blog, we will discuss those two possible charges and will focus on certain issues that I have seen arise in various criminal cases that the Law Offices Of William H. Chestnut have handled involving criminal charges stemming from domestic violence.
Understand however, that every case is unique and that only an experienced criminal lawyer who is familiar with the facts of your case can properly advise you regarding your criminal matter. That is why if you or someone you love is facing criminal charges, the best thing that you can do for that person is to hire a San Jose Criminal Attorney to handle the criminal case. Going it alone can and will leave you at the mercy of the justice system which isn't very merciful when dealing with an accused domestic abuser.
Don't let the courts stigmatize you. We will fight for your freedom and good name. Call us today for a consultation.

Is San Jose The Safest Big City In America?

There is a crime spike in San Jose right now that has taken the title "Safest Big City" away. Is there a rise in crime? Or is it lack of police or even inefficient policing?

There are a laundry list of reasons one can come up with, but the fact is crimes are committed in every city. Ours happens to have had a spike in burglaries and theft but are far short of the violent crimes that bigger cities such as San Francisco and Oakland have.

So what is the answer? More Police Officers? That costs an extraordinary amount of money to the tax payers. Unfortunately, harsh convictions seem to be the only answer to the problem. Harsh convictions can disenfranchise and even create criminals.

If you are facing criminal charges in San Jose, be warned that harsh sentences are being handed down in an effort to offset the rising crime rate. Again, this rise in crime is in burglary and theft. If you are facing these charges or any other criminal charges in San Jose, call us for a consultation. Don't let prosecutors balance the numbers by padding yours.

Don't Drink And Drive This Fourth Of July

The Fourth of July is upon us again. In San Jose, outdoor activities are at their apex and so are the alcoholic beverages consumed by the patriotic revelers.

Unfortunately, the holidays are a deadly time to be on the road. Every year, hundreds of Americans die as a result of alcohol-related car crashes. The Fourth of July has repeatedly ranked as the deadliest holiday of the year -- even deadlier than New Year's Day.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has been tracking car crash statistics for a quarter of a century. Fourth of July almost always tops the list. Statistics gathered over the past 25 years show that, on average, nearly 51 percent of all deadly traffic crashes on July 4 are related to alcohol - although that percentage varies from year to year. Other holidays on the list include Labor Day, New Year's, Memorial Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

The NHTSA research has consistently shown that more people are killed in crashes that involve an alcohol-impaired driver on the weekends and at night. In 2008 alone, 58 percent of drivers and motorcycle riders were killed in alcohol-related crashes that took place over the weekend and at night. But no matter what day it is, most crash fatalities occur on two-lane roads. Also, more people die while driving in rain compared to snow or sleet.

So now that we have your attention, think twice before you engage in such activities. But, if you or someone you know happens to get a DUI this Independence Day, be fully aware that you will be facing severe penalties that will make you wish you heeded the warning. If you have been arrested for a DUI, contact San Jose Criminal Defense Attorney William Chestnut at 408-298-6990 for assistance with your San Jose DUI matter.

A Theft Charge Can Range From Petty To Grand Larceny.

A theft charge can range from petty to grand larceny. Both of those and everything in between can carry with them stiff penalties. Whether it was accidental or intentional, the law doesn't show much regard for an "accused thief".

We don't regard you as "thief", we regard you as a human being with liberties bestowed upon you the day you were born. Protecting those liberties and rights is our primary concern. We will not let you be labeled an unfair "Scarlett A" applied to one who is charged with theft. Sometimes it's a misunderstanding, sometimes it's just a bad decision made. Whatever it is, we don't judge. We defend.

If you or someone you know is facing charges of theft--be it petty to grand larceny, we are here to fight for you. Giving us a call today could be the difference between freedom and imprisonment.

Someone Willing To Fight For Me On A Sex Offense Charge.

A sex offense charge can carry with it not only a harsh penalty, but an unshakable stigma. Unfortunately, our laws make anyone who has had a sex offense register as a "sex offender". When people hear: "sex offender" they are inclined to place all sex charges under the same umbrella. This can not only inhibit your ability to gain or maintain employment for the rest of your life. It will also inhibit or render impossible the ability to obtain a residence.

Whatever your sex offense charge may be, The Law Offices of William Chestnut are willing to fight for you. Don't let a stigma ruin your future. Going it alone will guarantee a bleak future. We aren't here to judge, we're hear to ensure that ALL of your rights are protected. Our attorney's will fight for you and your future.

If you or someone you know is facing sex offense charges, give us a call NOW. Time is of dire importance. Don't let the legal system chew you up, spit you out and then stigmatize you.

More Detailed Information Regarding My California Drug Possession Case

FEDERALLY

If convicted on drug possession charges, you are facing a wide gamut of penalties at sentencing, varying from state to state. Penalties for simple possession can range from a fine of less than $100 and/or a few days in jail to thousands of dollars and several years in state prison for the same offense. Simple drug possession sentences tend to be the lightest, while intent to distribute drugs or the manufacturing of drugs carry much heavier penalties. Prosecutors sometimes offer plea deals to defendants who may be able to help them with a higher-priority investigation, perhaps leading to the arrest of an organized crime leader and/or dismantling a cartel.

LOCALLY

Federal lawmakers enacted mandatory minimum sentencing guidelines for drug offenses in 1986 in an attempt to target high-level distributors. However, these minimum sentencing guidelines also impact lower-level drug defendants. Most states have adopted a similar approach to drug sentencing. These fixed sentences are based on the type of drug, the weight of the drug, and the number of prior convictions. Kentucky, which has adopted similar mandatory minimum sentencing guidelines, has some of the toughest provisions. For simple possession, first offenders in Kentucky get two to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $20,000. In contrast, here in California, we have some of the lightest drug possession sentences: between $30 and $500 in fines and/or 15 to 180 days in jail. We realize there are much bigger fish to fry!

DRUG COURTS

Many states have instituted what are known as drug courts, which are programs for felony drug defendants overseen by a judge who aims to rehabilitate the defendant (often repeat offenders) instead of taking the case to trial. Judges have substantial control over the operation of drug courts. A drug defendant who agrees to drug court spends roughly 12 to 15 months attending treatment sessions and undergoing random drug tests while appearing before the drug court judge on a regular basis. Those who fail to appear in court or fail drug tests are arrested and often given a brief jail sentence. But the idea of lengthy sentencing for repeat drug offenders is becoming a less popular solution. A "nudge from the judge" is sometimes exactly what some people need.

SENTENCING

Factors that influence penalties for drug possession -- aside from mandatory minimum sentences -- include a defendant's past record, the amount and type of drug. Some states have effectively decriminalized possession of marijuana, making it a simple infraction (not unlike a traffic ticket), while possession of crack cocaine once carried the harshest penalties in most states. Depending on a given state's sentencing rules, judges have a certain degree of discretion and can impose sentences ranging from fines, community service hours and probation to lengthy prison sentences.

Contact San Jose Criminal Defense Attorney William Chestnut at 408-298-6990 for more detailed information pertaining to your California drug possession case.

You Have The Right To Refuse A Breathalyzer Test

As the weather gets warmer and the days grow longer, a familiar scene is taking place all over America's vacation destinations. Spring Breakers are converging on every locale from the mountains to the beach. With that influx comes an increase in DUIs.

If you or someone you know has had a DUI, then you know what a costly and taxing ordeal it can be. Your spring break can go from a dream-like oasis to a nightmarish hell.

When people see the red and blue lights in their rear-view mirror they are often times so petrified with fear that they immediately start giving away their rights. Generally, the thought is if they are courteous and compliant with the officer then they could perhaps charm, or lie their way out of it. That's a big mistake. Yes, you should always be courteous and respectful to any peace officer. However, they are not there to make friends or even to cut you a break.

If you are accused of drunk driving, the arresting officer will ask you to perform a field sobriety test. Don't do it. It is your right not to and you should exercise that right. Also, you have the right to refuse a breathalyzer. Refuse it. This is another attempt to essentially try and convict you on the spot. Simply and respectfully decline. They will arrest you and they will impound your vehicle, but now you have a leg to stand on. You haven't provided field evidence that can be far more damning than any tests they subject you to when you get to the station.

It is not an ordeal anyone wants to go through. The best way to avoid a DUI, obviously, is through abstinence. But, reality has proven that the best of us still get caught up in the worst of scenarios. Just remember, if you do get caught up in one of those scenarios--Clam up and lawyer up.

Contact San Jose DUI Attorney William Chestnut at 408-298-6990 if you have been arrested for a DUI.

Take The Initiative To Resolve An Outstanding Arrest Warrant

Do you think you have an outstanding warrant and are too scared to ask the police? Understandably so. Your first option in obtaining this information should be by conducting an online private search over the internet.

Another option is to visit the court house in the county you believe the warrant was issued. One way to obtain this information is to go in person to the court house and ask for the records department. Be mindful, this method can be very time consuming and inconvenient since typically the court house is only open during normal working hours. Also be advised that this method can also pose some risk for whom the warrant was issued since the individual may be detained by legal officials on the spot. To avoid this, utilize the online court system to get a complete background check and criminal history report.

Once you find out you have an outstanding warrant the best way to deal with it is to obtain legal representation. Taking the initiative to resolve the matter looks good in the eyes of the court. Your defense attorney may even be able to have the warrant recalled or quashed.

Whether the properties of the outstanding warrant are criminal in nature or simply a bench warrant, it's always in your best interest to contact a criminal defense attorney that is well versed in these matters so they can advocate on your behalf. It could be the difference between spending days behind bars or spending time with your family.

It should be noted that once an arrest warrant is issued there is no statute of limitations. This means that the warrant doesn't expire and an individual can be apprehended at any time, anywhere. This isn't a problem that will go away. Every time there is an officer behind you, on foot or on the road, you run the risk of being thrown in jail.

That's no way to live! Take care of your warrants TODAY. Contact San Jose Criminal Defense Attorney William Chestnut at (408)298-6990 for legal defense on your outstanding warrant.

The Reduction Of Juvenile Incarceration

Can reducing juvenile incarceration decrease crime? When it comes to jailing juvenile offenders, the United States incarcerates a disproportional amount of youths compared to other industrialized nations. The juvenile crime rate is higher in the U.S., which tells us simply locking up our youth is not the answer.

There are many different types of detention facilities around the country who claim they are there to reform troubled kids. Statistics show that in most instances reform isn't exactly what is happening. Juveniles are exposed to deplorable conditions and humiliating treatment from staff and other inmates. After enduring this treatment they become conditioned.

Many other industrialized first world nations wouldn't dream of incarcerating their youth. There is still hope for a child. With the right guidance and discipline many, if not, most can be rehabilitated. Building character, trust, and getting to the root of the child's behavior with medical, psychological, and spiritual tutelage are more common practices abroad. In the United States we inhibit those possibilities by suggesting that the child is a criminal and needs to do "hard time." Some studies have revealed an increased propensity for violence among youths as a direct result of juvenile incarceration.

For more extensive information regarding the incarceration of youth, read the Annie E. Casey Foundation's report: The Case For Reducing Juvenile Incarceration: No Place For Kids.

If your child is facing legal action, you are not alone. Act quickly to preserve your child's future by contacting San Jose Juvenile Defense Attorney William Chestnut at (408)298-6990.

Is Your Child Facing Criminal Charges?

If your child has been accused of a crime in the state of California, it is of the utmost importance that you understand how crucial it is to take appropriate measures to ensure that your child's future is not jeopardized. It can be an overwhelming ordeal when the police contact you to tell you they have your child in custody. It's devastating for both the parents and the child. Don't go it alone. Your child's future can be saved or sabotaged simply by words spoken. Enlist in the experience of a knowledgeable Criminal Defense Attorney who understands the legal wrangling of the juvenile court system and can work with the court to preserve your child's future. It can be the difference between your child attending Penn. State or the State Pen.

Don't bet on the courts being lenient just because your child is young, or because it's their first offense. Often times the courts will prefer to rehabilitate youthful offenders but if there are multiple instances involved, or violent circumstances, the court may find it more advantageous to seek the fullest punishment allowed by law-- without regard who's ‘baby' they're jailing.

Remember that you are not alone in these circumstances. Many youths find themselves in trouble with the law for a myriad of reasons. It's possible that they got mixed up with the wrong crowd. Perhaps it was a momentary poor choice or a lapse in judgement. Many kids straighten up and fly right after a brush with the law. You can bet that the ones who did, did so with the assistance of an experienced Juvenile Defense Attorney. Preserve your child's future by contacting San Jose Juvenile Defense Attorney William Chestnut at (408)298-6990.

Just Say "No"...To Searches

Every day, United States citizens are submitting to, or being tricked into, allowing a police officer to search their home, car, or person. The Fourth Amendment of the United States Constitution protects all U.S citizens from ANY unwarranted searches and seizures. This means that, both federal and local law enforcement are strictly prohibited from conducting a search and seizure of your home, body, and/or property unless the following criteria is met:

1.They have probable cause to believe that an illegal activity has or is about to occur.
2.They have obtained a search warrant.

If an officer of the law does in fact obtain information without meeting the criteria stipulated in the constitution, that evidence is not admissible in a court of law as it was illegally obtained.

If you were arrested after a law enforcement official conducted a search of your home, body, or property, then be sure to contact us immediately. In such cases time is of the essence. Search and seizure is a complicated subject. Many people are simply terrified when dealing with police officers and will forgo their rights because they feel intimidated. Don't be intimidated! A police officer will recognize when they are dealing with an informed citizen. Be courteous and respectful and never agree to a search. Once you have given them permission to rummage through your belongings, ANYTHING in your possession can be held against you. So just say NO to searches.

Contact San Jose Criminal Defense Attorney William Chestnut today if you believe you were illegally searched.

This The Season For... Shoplifting

The holiday season is upon us. Department stores will stay open later than ever from now until Christmas in an effort to maximize holiday revenue. However, as shopping hours increase, so do thefts.

Theft is a serious offense and if you are charged with it, will reflect on your permanent record. If you are accused of theft the best thing you can do is to keep quiet and retain counsel.

Many department stores pursue shoplifters with overt aggression to teach a lesson to would-be thieves. As a result, something as simple as shoplifting a DVD could have you facing jail time. There is a San Jose Criminal Defense Attorney who is ready to fight for you. If you have been charged with theft we will work tirelessly to come up with a creative solution to either drop the charges or significantly lessen them. It isn't fair that an individual suffering from a lapse of judgement be housed with hardened criminals.

Obviously the best way to avoid the time is to avoid the crime, but sometimes circumstances force us to act outside of our better judgement. In the case of an individual who was laid off from their job during the holidays and was caught shoplifting a teddy bear for his or her daughter to have for Christmas, they shouldn't be subjected to the same treatment a career criminal would face. Each case should be judged individually. There is no "one size fits all" when it comes to such cases. A person's intentions and prior criminal record should also be considered. That is where our knowledge of the law will come in and make sure you (remove) that all of your rights are protected and a fair solution is reached.

Don't wait, contact San Jose Criminal Defense Attorney William Chestnut if you have been charged with theft.

States Like Washington And Colorado Have Legalized Marijuana For Recreational Use, California Has Not

Marijuana is becoming more accepted by mainstream society every day. While states like Washington and Colorado have fully legalized it for recreational use, California has not.

Some say that the states of Colorado and Washington have decided to wage war on the federal government. The state law is in direct conflict with the federal law that classifies marijuana as a schedule II narcotic. Which means, the states of Washington and Colorado have essentially said to the Feds, "Come and get us."

In California, we have the compassionate care-givers act. This allows patients to use marijuana for medicinal purposes. The license is given out by doctors after a brief examination. It is easy to obtain and it is the difference between breaking the law and abiding by it. Even though this seems like a loop hole, it's actually a much better way to navigate around an archaic law while not directly challenging the federal government.

If you are unlicensed and you are caught with marijuana, the punishment is relatively minimal... Unless that is, you have an eighth of marijuana broken up into little bags. Then you could be arrested for "intent to sell and distribute." There are all sorts of loopholes where law enforcement can trump up charges. In the cases of individuals who are caught selling LSD, they will busted for "weight" rather than quantity. The paper that the LSD comes on weighs far more than the LSD itself. As a result, there are many doing prison time simply for paper weight.

Back to marijuana -- the best way to avoid police interference is to become licensed. If you have been accused of or charged with marijuana possession, contact San Jose Criminal Defense Attorney William Chestnut immediately. While you probably aren't facing jail time (unless you were moving large quantities or multiple packages) you could be facing a myriad of fines and probation. If you're going to smoke get licensed, and if you have already been arrested, call us.

Contact Criminal Defense Attorney William Chestnut if you have been arrested for possession of marijuana.

Stay Safe This Halloween

This Halloween, before you head home from that wild party your co-workers hold in the office every year, think about the perils of a DUI.

A DUI, whether driving under the influence of alcohol and or drugs, is a very serious offense that could hinder you emotionally and financially for years to come. It is a serious offense committed by people from all walks of life. Sometimes it’s a belligerent alcoholic who is slalom driving through a construction zone in reverse. Other times, it’s someone who had 2 glasses of wine and a salad and thought they were okay to drive. Maybe they were. Perhaps they weren’t pulled over for weaving--but a tail light was out, or there was a DUI checkpoint, and that’s what prompted police suspicion.

Unfortunately, that’s an all too common occurrence. We have a drink or two, we think we are fine, an hour later we’re in holding cell.

How can you prevent this? Well, as always, abstinence is the best way. If you’re going to drink, don’t drive. Organize a carpool or opt for a taxi. Do you really want to drive on the freeway in a Lone Ranger costume anyway?

What if it’s too late for abstinence? Already had a drink or two and then drove huh? Got pinched less than a mile away from home? Yep, that’s how it goes. In this case, you will now need competent legal representation to see that all of your rights are being protected. Don’t go it alone. It is a legal and bureaucratic inundation of penalties, fees, jail time, and more, that will make you regret ever taking the wheel that fateful night. Let us help to soften that blow.

If you have been arrested for DUI, contact San Jose Criminal Defense Attorney William Chestnut. He can help!

WORLD WIDE WEB OF DECEPTION

All too often people are airing their grievances in social media forums. It seems as though every thought is now shared on social media. Many times, people will take to social media, blogs, and comment sections of online news forums and say some pretty awful things, even as far as making death threats.

In the wake of the 911 tragedies, what can be defined as a "terrorist threat" has now included language used online. The misconception by some is that freedom of speech gives one the right to say anything and everything they please without repercussion: Wrong! You can and will be held liable for threats made online, especially if they result in harm to another.

In this political season, people can become so divided that their anger spills over online. Some will make a snarky remark about a candidate on Facebook, while another becomes so enraged that he tweets death threats to a candidate, creating a serious situation for both parties.

More and more, technology is being developed to essentially abolish anonymity online. The government simply can't investigate every threat made on the Internet, but they have made it increasingly more difficult to not leave a digital trail.

Online bullying is another offense being taken much more seriously by lawmakers as they ramp up punishment in both state and federal laws regarding the severity of punishment.

As easily as authorities can catch Internet fraud, they can also trace back the origins of many threats. Sometimes when the person making the threat uses their actual name, they save the cops a lot of time and effort.

If you or anyone you know has been charged with "online crimes," contact San Jose Criminal Defense Attorney William Chestnut.

The Law Offices of William Chestnut 
1625 The Alameda, Suite 400 
San Jose, CA 95126 
E: williamchestnut@msn.com 
P: (408) 298-6990 
F: (408) 899-2269 
www.lawyersanjose.info 
www.williamchestnutlaw.com

STEALING FROM THE DIGITAL COOKIE JAR

It's no surprise that when the economy is down, crime is inevitably up. As the saying goes, "desperate times call for desperate measures." Unfortunately, in acts of desperation we aren't thinking clearly and tend to do things we may end up regretting.

Theft is a serious offense and can come in many forms. We typically think of a guy with a ski mask climbing out of a window across a lawn with ill-gotten goods, high stepping to the get away van, but not always.

One form of theft that is on the rise is online fraud. The false sense that the Internet isn't "the real world" is a thought shared by many novice criminals now doing time. Authorities and law makers have caught up with online fraud by expanding their resources and policing the web. It's a game of cat and mouse, all with the click of a mouse. Often times, someone will take to the Internet to sell stolen goods or receive compensation without any intent to distribute a product. In this economy, for some, it seems like an easy answer to take from the digital cookie jar. Make no mistake, there are real life consequences for fraud on the web.

Many benefit programs are done online these days and one may be tempted to falsify information online feeling as if it's no big deal as if they're lying to a robot. It isn't the robot they're lying to, it's the State Government. You can incur swift penalties if found guilty, among them being prison time.

If you or someone you know is facing theft and/or fraud charges alleged to have been committed via the Internet, contact San Jose Criminal Defense Attorney William Chestnut.

The Law Offices of William Chestnut 
1625 The Alameda, Suite 400 
San Jose, CA 95126 
E: williamchestnut@msn.com 
P: (408) 298-6990 
F: (408) 899-2269 
www.lawyersanjose.info 
www.williamchestnutlaw.com

Have a Safe and Happy Labor Day!

The end of summer is here and Labor Day is upon us. With Labor Day, comes barbecues and beaches and a chance for one last hoorah before we return to our seasonal routine. All too often what starts as a terrific weekend can turn terribly tragic in an instant if responsibility and vigilance isn't taken behind the wheel.

Statistics have shown that Labor Day weekend has historically had a significantly higher number of auto accidents than non-holiday weekends. This holiday alone has 15 percent more auto fatalities as well. Many motorists will opt to drive if gas prices donʼt climb. Which will reflect itself with an increase of traffic and the increase of danger.

It is encouraged for all motorists to drive responsibly by taking the following precautions this Labor Day weekend.

- DO NOT drink and drive. If you plan to consume alcohol, plan to designate a sober driver. This simple decision can, and will, save the lives of many.

- DO ensure that your automobile is fit to travel. This means along with the oil, tire pressure, and other mechanical concerns--Your registration and insurance! Make sure these documents are up to date. There are stiff penalties for not having both forms and it is highly likely your vehicle will be impounded if you fail to show proof.

- DO NOT get distracted when driving. Leave all mobile devices in an unreachable area when occupying the wheel. If you have a passenger, have them navigate the directions for you while you focus on the road.

- DO have a good time! Be safe and responsible and celebrate the smart way!

Contact Criminal Defense Attorney William Chestnut if you face legal troubles this holiday weekend.

The Law Offices of William Chestnut
1625 The Alameda, Suite 400
San Jose, CA 95126
E: williamchestnut@msn.com
P: (408) 298-6990
F: (408) 899-2269
www.lawyersanjose.info
www.williamchestnutlaw.com