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Posts by Michael MacNeil

Michael C. MacNeil is a San Diego Family Law and Criminal Defense attorney. With a Juris Doctor degree from the University of San Diego School of Law, MacNeil has a solid understanding of our justice system. As a member of the State Bar of California, MacNeil can practice before all courts in the state. MacNeil believes that the law should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial status. With over 20 years of experience, Michael C. MacNeil is passionate about the law and will work tirelessly to get the best possible outcome for you. Call Mr. MacNeil at 858-922-7098.

Father and daughter drawing on a coloring book

CALIFORNIA CUSTODY LAWS FOR UNMARRIED PARENTS

Table Of Contnet Who Gets Immediate Custody Rights? Can an Unmarried Father Take the Child from the Mother? Paternity: The Foundation of Father’s Rights How Courts View the Father in Unmarried Child Custody Situations Types of Child Custody Who Has Custody of a Child if There Is No Court Order in California? Other Things You […]
Law enforcement in tactical gear apprehending a suspect in a neighborhood

Ramey Warrants: What You Need to Know

Uncertainty about immediate law enforcement actions can leave individuals trapped in a maze of complex regulations and lingering fears. Confusion often escalates, compounding stress levels when police show up at your door unexpectedly, demanding you come in for questioning. Without proper knowledge, such legal actions will impact your personal freedom and daily routines. However, if […]

Child Support Arrears in California: What You Need to Know

The ripple effects of divorce and child custody disputes last long after the divorce proceedings, particularly when it comes to your children. If you’re facing child support arrears in California, your ex-spouse is likely contacting you about it frequently. You may have even been contacted by their lawyer asking you to settle your child support […]
Emergency Protective Orders: Should They Be Served in Public?

Emergency Protective Orders: Should They Be Served in Public?

In cases of domestic violence, child abuse, and abduction, emergency protective orders (EPO) serve as critical tools in addressing immediate threats. However, a recent incident at the 4S Commons Town Center has ignited a debate on whether to serve them in public spaces. San Diego Police Sergeant Anthony Elliott was tragically shot in the head […]
Man peeping out of a window with the blinds closed

How To Get a Restraining Order: Protection from Civil Harassment

Unrelenting civil harassment can leave individuals feeling vulnerable, anxious, and threatened. Without a sense of security, no place feels safe. That includes your job, your home, or any public space. Lack of freedom directly affects emotional well-being, and that is unacceptable. To protect yourself against unwanted attention from strangers, get a restraining order. This legal […]
Man drinking without knowledge of a San Diego DUI checkpoint

San Diego DUI Checkpoints: Your Rights and What to Expect

Encountering a San Diego DUI checkpoint can be an anxiety-inducing experience. In those unexpected moments when flashing lights and uniformed officers signal you to halt, it’s crucial to understand your rights. While California Vehicle Code 2814.2 mandates drivers to stop at properly marked checkpoints, police cannot search your vehicle without a warrant. Today, I’ll explain […]
Police officers waiting outside with a warrant for your arrest

What To Do When There’s a Warrant for Your Arrest

Facing the distressing situation of having a warrant for your arrest in California can be overwhelming. As a criminal defense attorney, I, Michael C. MacNeil, understand the importance of grasping the implications and taking immediate action to navigate this challenging circumstance. This quick read aims to provide clear and informative guidance to address this issue […]

How To Find a Good Criminal Defense Attorney

Finding a competent criminal defense attorney is crucial when facing legal challenges. I, Michael C. MacNeil, understand the difficulties clients encounter during this process as a seasoned defense attorney and former prosecutor. Facing criminal charges can be overwhelming. Therefore, acquiring a knowledgeable attorney is paramount. In this post, I aim to provide my professional expertise […]

Understanding the Impact of SB 731 on Criminal Record Relief

As a legal expert, I understand the profound impact that Senate Bill 731 has on criminal record relief for millions of Californians. SB 731 helps address barriers ex-offenders commonly face when seeking employment, housing, and education. The bill aims to seal conviction and arrest records for eligible individuals who successfully avoid committing additional felonies for […]

Understanding Criminal Record Expungement in California

For many individuals with a criminal past, the burden of a conviction feels like a heavy weight that’s difficult to shake off. It significantly hinders the pursuit of employment, housing, and education opportunities. The harsh reality is that the damaging effects of a felony can follow the person long after serving their time. In the […]

Bail in California: What is a PC 1275 Hold?

As a legal professional who has witnessed countless criminal cases unfold, I understand how overwhelming and intricate navigating the justice system can be. One particularly stressful aspect is the PC 1275 Hold. In this blog post, I’ll shed light on this penal code, which directly impacts the burden of proof in criminal cases and potential […]

AB 960: Expanding California Compassionate Release

As an experienced criminal justice professional from San Diego, I am passionate about advocating for more humane and empathetic incarceration methods. Recently California passed AB 960, which offers a compassionate release for inmates who suffer from infirmities or are facing the inevitabilities of old age. This article will discuss the specifics of this revolutionary bill, […]