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DUI checkpoint set up by the Bakersfield Police Department

Posted by Christopher Martens | Sep 27, 2024 | 0 Comments

Martens also mentioned that in some cases like Rob’s, where the BAC is barely over the limit, it’s possible to negotiate for a lesser charge, like a wet reckless. A wet recklessn is a reduced charge that carries fewer penalties than a full DUI conviction. Rob wouldn’t lose his license, and the fines would be lower. It would also mean less impact on his record and avoid the stigma associated with a DUI.

When Jealousy Crosses the Line: A Story of Domestic Violence

Posted by Christopher Martens | Sep 21, 2024 | 0 Comments

Jessica’s face turns red with anger. “You think I’m stupid? I know you’re talking to other girls!” She starts flipping through his messages, his emails, his social media accounts, her fingers moving rapidly across the screen. James feels his heart pounding in his chest. It’s not about what she might find—there’s nothing there—but the blatant disregard for his privacy. He reaches for the phone again, but Jessica shoves him back, hard.

Grand Theft Charges in California

Posted by Christopher Martens | Aug 24, 2024 | 0 Comments

California law classifies theft into two categories: petty theft and grand theft. Petty theft involves taking property valued at less than $950. In contrast, grand theft applies when the stolen property’s value is $950 or more. In addition to value, California law also designates certain property types that qualify as grand theft, regardless of their monetary worth.

Grand Theft vs. Petty Thef

Posted by Christopher Martens | Aug 24, 2024 | 0 Comments

California Penal Code classifies theft into two main categories: grand theft and petty theft. The distinction primarily depends on the value of the property taken. Grand theft typically involves property worth more than $950, while petty theft involves property valued at $950 or less. Petty theft is a common charge in California, encompassing offenses like shoplifting or retail theft.

Receiving Stolen Property

Posted by Christopher Martens | Aug 24, 2024 | 0 Comments

California Penal Code Section 496 defines the crime of receiving stolen property as when a person buys, receives, conceals, sells, or withholds any property that has been stolen or obtained through theft or extortion, with knowledge that the property was stolen or unlawfully obtained. This law also applies to individuals who aid in these activities.

White-Collar Criminal Defense

Posted by Christopher Martens | Aug 24, 2024 | 0 Comments

White-collar crimes like embezzlement are complex and require a deep understanding of California’s legal system. Martens Law Firm has the experience needed to navigate these cases successfully, whether it involves negotiating with prosecutors for reduced charges or fighting in court to secure an acquittal.

Protect Your Rights with Christopher Martens

Posted by Christopher Martens | Aug 01, 2024 | 0 Comments

Being charged with a crime is a serious offense that can lead to stress and anxiety. Hiring the right lawyer is essential to ensure your rights are protected and your case is handled diligently. At Martens Law Firm, with offices in Bakersfield and Visalia, our experienced attorneys represent clients throughout California's Central Valley

When Should You Hire a Private Investigator?

Posted by Christopher Martens | Aug 01, 2024 | 0 Comments

Hiring a criminal private investigator is a significant decision. Being well-informed and asking the right questions can help you avoid potential issues. An experienced criminal defense attorney, like Christopher Martens, can connect you with reputable investigators and streamline the process, ensuring the best possible outcome for your case.

Expert Guidance from Christopher Martens

Posted by Christopher Martens | Aug 01, 2024 | 0 Comments

Navigating plea bargaining requires a skilled criminal defense attorney with strong negotiation and trial skills. Christopher Martens, with years of experience in the Bakersfield area, can effectively evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecutor’s case and negotiate the best possible outcome for his clients.

The Trial Process

Posted by Christopher Martens | Aug 01, 2024 | 0 Comments

During the trial, both sides present evidence and call witnesses to testify. Each side has the opportunity to cross-examine the other’s witnesses. This phase is critical, as the evidence and testimonies presented will form the basis of the jury’s decision.

Stages of Criminal Proceedings

Posted by Christopher Martens | Jul 31, 2024 | 0 Comments

Navigating the criminal court process can be overwhelming, but understanding each stage can significantly improve your chances of a favorable outcome. In Bakersfield, California, the legal proceedings follow specific phases, each with its own critical steps. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you grasp what to expect and how to prepare.

Search Warrants

Posted by Christopher Martens | Jul 31, 2024 | 0 Comments

Under the U.S. Constitution, all Americans are protected from unreasonable search and seizure of their property by law enforcement. The State of California has established general rules upon which search warrant documents and supporting affidavits for warrants are to be written and obtained.

Difference between Detention and Arrest

Posted by Christopher Martens | Jul 31, 2024 | 0 Comments

• Never consent to a search of any kind or sign a consent form, no matter what the police say to you. • Never discuss the case over the jailhouse phone. It is always being recorded. • Never discuss your case with other inmates. • Never speak with an investigator or detective without your attorney present, not for any reason

our Right to an Attorney

Posted by Christopher Martens | Jul 31, 2024 | 0 Comments

When a crime occurs, police will arrive at the scene to investigate and speak with witnesses and anyone who may have useful information. Under Federal Law, you are under no obligation to answer any questions, whether you are a witness or a suspect. It is generally wise to produce your identifying information to the police, but that is as far as it needs to go. A suspect or witness is free to decline to answer any police questions and to contact a lawyer to protect your rights, even before being taken into custody. Remember, there is no such thing as “off the record” when dealing with the Visalia police or detectives from Tulare County Sheriffs Department

Vehicular Manslaughter in California

Posted by Christopher Martens | Jul 30, 2024 | 0 Comments

Driving is inherently risky, but driving under the influence (DUI) exponentially increases the chances of a fatal accident. Under California state law, if you were driving while intoxicated in Bakersfield and caused a deadly accident, you could face severe and life-altering consequences

What Are Miranda Rights in California?

Posted by Christopher Martens | Jul 30, 2024 | 0 Comments

At Martens Law Firm, we know how to identify and act on Miranda rights violations. Contact us today at (661) 336-9335 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation. Get the defense you deserve if you have been charged with a criminal offense in Bakersfield.

Christopher Martens Successfully Defends Client Charged with Carrying a Concealed Dirk or Dagger

Posted by Christopher Martens | May 08, 2024 | 0 Comments

The resolution of this case serves as a reminder that individuals facing charges of carrying concealed weapons should seek experienced legal counsel to protect their interests and mount an effective defense. By leveraging their knowledge of the law and their advocacy skills, attorneys like Christopher Martens play a pivotal role in upholding the principles of justice and ensuring fair treatment within the legal system.

Possession of Marijuana under California Health and Safety Code 11359

Posted by Christopher Martens | May 08, 2024 | 0 Comments

About Attorney Christopher Martens: Attorney Christopher Martens is a distinguished legal professional known for his relentless advocacy and unwavering commitment to his clients' causes. With a focus on criminal defense and a reputation for excellence, Mr. Martens has earned widespread recognition for his courtroom skills and strategic approach to litigation. He is deeply committed to upholding the principles of justice and fairness, ensuring that each client receives the personalized attention and vigorous representation they deserve.

How to Hire an Attorney for your DUI case

Posted by Christopher Martens | Feb 01, 2024 | 0 Comments

Normally, lawyers work with a team that handles their paperwork and documents. It is possible that the attorney you are opting for works with a team, so you need to know in detail about it. Ask about the qualifications of his team members and their experiences in handling DWI cases. It is most likely that the team of that lawyer will prepare your case, so you need to select an attorney who has a seasoned team and can prepare a sound case that can increase your chances of victory.

How to Get Through a Field Sobriety Test

Posted by Christopher Martens | Feb 01, 2024 | 0 Comments

Standardized field sobriety tests are used by police officers to determine the sobriety of a driver. It is a crime to drive while impaired and it is a wise step to drive when all the alcohol has been drained from your system. If you drive while you are intoxicated, you will likely be identified by an officer of the law. The officer will test your breath using a breathalyzer and if the alcohol content in your blood is higher than 0.08 percent, it will be nearly impossible for you to pass the different field sobriety tests.

Types of Field Sobriety Tests

Posted by Christopher Martens | Feb 01, 2024 | 0 Comments

To find out whether or not you are drunk, the officer dealing with you will move an object in front of your eyes and will ask you to follow it as it is moved back and forth. The officer will look for any twitching in your eyes and how your eyes chase the moving object. If Nystagmus takes place within 40-45 degrees of your eyes' center, the officer could charge you with a DUI violation. If you aren't intoxicated, you won't have any Nystagmus and will be able to easily track the pen or any other object. Moreover, you will be able to observe a motionless object steadily when it is placed at an angle of 45 degrees from your eyes.

Understanding Field Sobriety Tests

Posted by Christopher Martens | Feb 01, 2024 | 0 Comments

Another thing he must keep in account is the age and weight of the suspect. If the suspect is an elderly and obese person, then the officer should administer the breathalyzer test only. Usually, overweight and elderly people have trouble with the field sobriety tests, making it tough for the officer to determine whether or not they are sober. They will not be able to keep their balance and might sway from side to side because of their obesity or age. Hence, the officer must not arrest an elderly or overweight suspect based on these tests and must conduct proper chemical tests to prove whether or not he or she is intoxicated.

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