Los Angeles Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude

Los Angeles Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude

Crimes involving moral turpitude are a big deal in Los Angeles. They can lead to all sorts of consequences, including deportation for immigrants. But what exactly are these crimes? And how do you defend against them? Let’s break it down.

What is Moral Turpitude?

Moral turpitude refers to conduct that is considered contrary to community standards of justice, honesty or good morals^[1]. Basically, they involve dishonesty, fraud, or intent to harm others. The term “moral turpitude” comes from old English common law and has worked its way into modern U.S. law.

There’s no definitive list of moral turpitude crimes in California or Los Angeles. But some examples include^[2]:

• Robbery
• Burglary
• Embezzlement
• Murder
• Perjury
• Aggravated assault

It’s determined on a case-by-case basis. The main factors are intent and depravity. If the crime was done intentionally to harm or deceive others, it’s more likely to be a moral turpitude crime.

Why Do Moral Turpitude Crimes Matter?

Moral turpitude crimes can lead to harsher sentences and penalties. But for immigrants, they can be devastating – even resulting in deportation^[3].

Under immigration law, moral turpitude crimes can make someone “inadmissible.” This means they are not allowed to enter or remain in the U.S. Even legal permanent residents can be deported if they commit these crimes.

For immigrants accused of moral turpitude crimes in Los Angeles, the stakes are high. That’s why it’s critical to have an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side.

How are Moral Turpitude Crimes Defined in Los Angeles?

There’s no single statute in California that defines moral turpitude crimes. Los Angeles courts look at each case individually and base rulings on case law. Some factors they consider include^[4]:

• The criminal intent – Was the crime done intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly?
• The inherent nature of the crime – Does it violate accepted moral standards?
• The level of harm caused – Did the crime cause substantial harm to victims?

Courts also look at how the case law has treated similar crimes in the past. So precedents matter.

How Can These Crimes Be Defended in Los Angeles?

The best defense depends on the specific circumstances of your case. But some common strategies include:

• Argue the crime doesn’t meet the legal definition of moral turpitude. For example, show that it was done without criminal intent.
• Negotiate a plea deal to a non-turpitude charge. For instance, plead to disorderly conduct instead of assault.
• Challenge the evidence and raise reasonable doubt about your guilt.
• Present mitigating circumstances that show the crime was out of character.
• Argue that precedents show similar crimes were not moral turpitude offenses.

An experienced Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer will craft the best defense to avoid or minimize the moral turpitude consequences.

What Are Some Recent Los Angeles Cases?

Here are a few recent moral turpitude cases from Los Angeles courts:

• In People v. Jimenez (2020), the court ruled that felony false imprisonment is a crime of moral turpitude. The defendant unlawfully restrained hospital ER staff and prevented them from rendering medical care^[5].
• In People v. Lopez (2018), the court found that misdemeanor sexual battery involves moral turpitude. The defendant touched an intimate part of the victim for sexual arousal against her will^[6].
• In People v. Diaz (2016), the court held that felony possession of child pornography depicts moral turpitude. The defendant knowingly possessed over 600 images of child pornography.

These cases illustrate how Los Angeles courts determine moral turpitude on a case-by-case basis.

What Are the Consequences of Moral Turpitude Crimes?

Beyond the direct criminal penalties, moral turpitude crimes can lead to:

• Ineligibility for immigration benefits like green cards or citizenship.
• Loss of professional licenses for doctors, nurses, teachers, etc.
• Inability to possess a firearm.
• Potential job loss or difficulty finding employment.
• Bars from housing assistance programs.
• Prohibitions on running for public office.
• Sex offender registration in some cases.

As you can see, the stakes are high, especially for immigrants. These long-term consequences make skilled legal defense critical.

Get Experienced Legal Help in Los Angeles

If you or a loved one is facing accusations of a moral turpitude crime, don’t go it alone. An experienced Los Angeles criminal defense attorney can often get charges reduced or dismissed. For immigrants, they may be able to plea bargain to a non-turpitude offense and avoid deportation.

Don’t leave your future to chance. Get the strong legal defense you deserve. Reach out for a free case review now.

References

[1] https://www.losangelescriminallawyer.pro/los-angeles-crimes-involving-moral-turpitude.html

[2] https://sddefenseattorneys.com/blog/moral-turpitude/

[3] https://www.laattorney.com/immigration-and-moral-turpitude.html

[4] https://gastelumlaw.com/what-are-crimes-of-moral-turpitude-in-california/

[5] People v. Jimenez, Los Angeles Superior Court (2020)

[6] People v. Lopez, Los Angeles Superior Court (2018)

People v. Diaz, Los Angeles Superior Court (2016)