Micah Schwartzbach

Attorney · UC Law San Francisco
Criminal Law Basics
Learn what a crime is, where crimes come from, and more. ... READ MORE

Search Warrants: How They Work and When Officers Need Them
Ever wonder what a search warrant is, when officers need one, or what happens when they carry one out? ... READ MORE

What Are Criminal Indictments?
An indictment comes from a grand jury—it’s a way to prosecute someone. But what sets it apart from typical criminal proceedings? ... READ MORE

Entering a Plea to Criminal Charges
Learn about five different types of pleas in criminal cases and what they mean. ... READ MORE

A Criminal Defendant’s Right to a Speedy Trial
Understand what the 6th amendment's right to a speedy trial actually means or doesn't mean. How long is too long for a speedy trial? And what happens if there's a violation? ... READ MORE

Criminal Complaints
A criminal complaint is a document that charges a defendant with a crime. Learn who files the complaint, what's in the complaint, and what it means for the defendant in the case. ... READ MORE

When Can I Plead the Fifth?
The Fifth Amendment offers criminal suspects and defendants key protections. Learn what these rights mean and how they protect you. ... READ MORE

Is a Nolo Contendere Plea the Same as a Guilty Plea?
A no contest or nolo contendere plea means you won’t officially admit guilt but you accept the punishment. Learn why this distinction matters. ... READ MORE

Classification of Crimes: Misdemeanors, Felonies, and More
Learn the difference between felonies, misdemeanors, wobblers, and infractions. ... READ MORE

What Happens When You're Arrested?
After arrest usually come several steps, including going into custody, being booked, and appearing in court. Do all arrestees get booked in jail? How soon can one bail out? Learn more about what typically happens during this stressful time. ... READ MORE