When Do You Need a Lawyer?
As an individual facing a legal issue, your first thought might be to immediately consult with an attorney. While in many circumstances this is in fact the best option, attorney fees can be costly and add up quickly, and some legal issues can be resolved without needing representation.
Local Resources – Part 2
Discrimination/Civil Rights California Rural Legal Assistance, mentioned in part 1 of this blog post, also assists individuals with civil rights issues. They are located in Santa Maria and can be reached at (805) 922-4563. The American Civil Liberties Union is a nationwide nonprofit organization that assists individuals in legal matters such as first amendment rights, […]
Local Resources – Part 1
If you cannot afford an attorney, there are several local resources that can assist with various legal matters. Part 1 covers landlord/tenant law, family law, and civil litigation.
Bench & Bar Conference 2017
Please join us for the Crown Jewel of local MCLE: The Bench & Bar Conference 2017
WHEN: Saturday, January 21, 2017, 8:15 am – 4 pm.
WHERE: at the Historic Santa Barbara Superior Courthouse
Can You Afford a Lawyer?
The Santa Barbara County Lawyer Referral Service is a free service that will connect a client with an appropriate attorney for a 30 minute consultation. However, the attorney will bill the client per any subsequent arrangements made after this initial meeting. There are a few different ways the attorney may request payment:
Hourly Fees
What To Do If You Receive An MIP
A Minor in Possession, or MIP, is a misdemeanor that can be issued whenever a person under the age of 21 possesses an alcoholic beverage in a public place. In California, a person who is found guilty of this offense may face a fine of $250, or up to 32 hours of community service, for the first offense and a fine of $500, or up to 48 hours of community service, for subsequent offenses. They may also have their driver’s license suspended for up to 1 year. Each subsequent underage conviction can lead to additional one-year suspensions.
The Superior Court, County of Santa Barbara intends to adopt the following forms for mandatory use in criminal cases:
CR-101 – Plea Form, with Explanations and Waiver of Rights – Felony
SC-3085 – Advisement of Rights, Waiver and Pela Form – Misdemeanor
SC-3001 – Addendum to Adivsement of Rights, Waver and Plea Form
See Attachment for full annoucement, and forms.