Federal Agents Cannot Force You To Open Your Phone

Can police force people to unlock a mobile phone with a face or finger? Before this month the answer would have been “yes.” But a decision by a California judge in a recent decision will protect people’s privacy from police searches. Before this ruling by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California […]
Know Your Rights When Confronted By Ice

Knowing your rights when interacting with ICE is critical to protecting yourself and your family. This article explains key constitutional protections, including the right to remain silent, the right to refuse consent to searches, the requirement of a judicial warrant to enter your home, and the importance of speaking with an attorney before signing anything. […]
You Got Arrested For DUI. Now What?

If you’ve been arrested for a DUI in California, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about what comes next. A DUI arrest can lead to criminal charges, DMV consequences, and serious long-term impacts on your driving record and future. Learn the steps you should take immediately after your arrest, how California DUI laws work, and why having an experienced Bay Area criminal defense attorney on your side can make all the difference in protecting your rights and future. Pamela Ortiz brings decades of defense experience and a deep understanding of local courts in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties to help guide you through this challenging process.