Defending Against Sideshow-Related Charges in California: What You Need to Know

If you’ve been charged with a crime related to participating in or watching an illegal sideshow in California, you may be facing serious legal consequences. Sideshows, which involve dangerous car stunts and draw large crowds, have become a growing problem in many cities, particularly in the Bay Area.

Law enforcement and prosecutors are cracking down on sideshow activity, and if you’re caught, you could be looking at hefty fines, jail time, and a criminal record that impacts your future.

At The Nieves Law Firm, we’ve seen a significant increase in clients facing sideshow-related charges. In this post, we’ll break down the common charges, potential penalties, and defense strategies for these cases.

Common Sideshow-Related Charges in California

Sideshow participants can face a variety of criminal charges under California law, including:

• Vehicle Code 23109(a): Speed contests on a highway
• Vehicle Code 23109(c): Engaging in a motor vehicle speed contest with a related act of reckless driving
• Vehicle Code 23103: Reckless driving
• Penal Code 647(c): Willfully obstructing or blocking the free movement of a person or vehicle in a public place
• Penal Code 415: Disturbing the peace
• Vehicle Code 2800.1: Evading a police officer
• Penal Code 148(a)(1): Resisting, delaying, or obstructing a peace officer

Charges can be filed against drivers participating in the sideshow, passengers, and even spectators who are blocking traffic or otherwise aiding and abetting the illegal activity.

Potential Penalties for Sideshow Convictions

The penalties for a sideshow conviction depend on the specific charges and whether you have any prior convictions. Here are some of the potential consequences:

• Misdemeanor charges: Up to 90 days in county jail, fines of up to $1000, probation, driver’s license suspension
• Felony charges: Up to 3 years in state prison, fines of up to $10,000, probation, driver’s license suspension
• Vehicle impoundment: Police can impound vehicles used in sideshows for up to 30 days, with storage fees and fines to retrieve the vehicle
• Court-ordered restitution: If property was damaged during the sideshow, you may have to pay restitution to the victim(s)
• Criminal record: A sideshow conviction will result in a criminal record that can impact your future

In addition to these criminal penalties, a sideshow conviction can lead to skyrocketing insurance rates, civil lawsuits if someone was injured, and reputational damage.

Defending Against Sideshow Charges in the Bay

If you’ve been charged with a sideshow-related offense, it’s crucial to mount a strong legal defense. Here are some strategies our attorneys at The Nieves Law Firm use to fight these charges:

1. Challenging probable cause: We examine whether the police had sufficient reason to stop or arrest you in connection with the sideshow. If your Fourth Amendment rights were violated, we can move to suppress any illegally obtained evidence.
2. Asserting lack of knowledge or intent: If you were a passenger or spectator, we may argue that you weren’t aware the sideshow was happening or didn’t intend to participate in illegal activity.
3. Negotiating for reduced charges: In some cases, we can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce felony charges to misdemeanors or have charges dropped in exchange for community service, restitution, or other alternative sentences.
4. Presenting mitigating evidence: We gather evidence of your positive character, community ties, and lack of criminal history to argue for leniency in sentencing.
5. Exploring diversion programs: Some counties have diversion programs that allow defendants to complete classes, community service, and other requirements in exchange for having charges dismissed.

Every sideshow case is unique, and our attorneys will develop a personalized defense strategy based on the specific facts and evidence in your case.

Arrested at a Sideshow? Contact Our Bay Area Criminal Defense Attorneys

If you or a loved one are facing sideshow-related charges in California, it’s essential to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Early intervention by a skilled lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

At The Nieves Law Firm, we have a track record of successfully defending clients against sideshow charges. We understand the high stakes involved and will fight to protect your rights, freedom, and future.

Don’t let a sideshow charge derail your life. Contact us today for a confidential consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and provide the strong advocacy you need during this challenging time.