# gallagherlawpartners.com ## Posts - [How Juvenile Court Is Different from Adult Criminal Court in California](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/how-juvenile-court-is-different/): When a young person becomes involved in the legal system, many parents understandably assume the process will resemble adult criminal court. In California, juvenile court operates very differently, with a distinct purpose and structure. Understanding how juvenile court works and how it differs from adult criminal court can help families better navigate the process and […] - [Does Expungement Really Clear Your Record? What Employers Can Still See](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/does-expungement-clear-your-record/): Once someone learns they may qualify for expungement, the next question is almost always about timing. PExpungement is often described as “clearing” a criminal record, but that phrase can be misleading. While expungement can significantly improve how a record appears, it does not make the past disappear entirely. Understanding what expungement does and does not […] - [How Long Does Expungement Take in California?](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/how-long-does-expungement-take/): Once someone learns they may qualify for expungement, the next question is almost always about timing. People want to know how long the process will take and when they can realistically expect relief from the weight of a criminal record. In California, expungement is not instantaneous, but it is often more straightforward than people expect. […] - [What Parents Need to Know if Their Child Is Arrested in California](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/what-parents-need-to-know-if-their-child-is-arrested/): Few experiences are as frightening for a parent as learning their child has been arrested. Emotions run high, questions pile up quickly, and it can be hard to know what to do next. In California, juvenile arrests are handled very differently from adult cases. Understanding the process, your child’s rights, and your role as a […] - [Can I Expunge My Criminal Record in California?](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/can-i-expunge-my-criminal-record-in-california/): Having a criminal record can affect far more than a single moment in your past. It can impact employment, housing, professional licensing, and even personal confidence. Many people wonder whether expungement is possible and, just as importantly, whether they personally qualify. In California, expungement can be a powerful tool, but it does not apply to […] - [Estate Planning for Small Business Owners: Why It Matters](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/estate-planning-for-small-business/): What is an Estate Plan for a Small Business Owner? Estate planning for small business owners is one of the most important — and most overlooked — steps in protecting everything you’ve built. An estate plan for a small business owner is called a business succession plan. It is the process of identifying and preparing […] - [Do I Really Need an Estate Plan in California if I Don’t Have a Lot of Assets?](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/do-i-need-an-estate-plan/): Many people assume estate planning is only for the wealthy—they imagine “Estate” and picture people with multiple properties, large investment accounts, and a lot of extra cash in the bank. In reality, estate planning in California is often more important for people with modest assets, because even modest estates can create stress and expenses for […] - [What Is a Felony DUI?](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/felony-dui/): A DUI involving an accident or injury can carry significantly more serious consequences than a standard DUI charge. In California, driving under the influence and causing injury to another person may be charged under Vehicle Code §23153. Depending on the circumstances of the case, DUI causing injury may be charged as either a misdemeanor or […] - [Drug and Marijuana DUI](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/drug-dui/): Marijuana, Drug or Prescription Medication DUI Cannabis and other drug use present different legal issues than alcohol-related impairment. Even though use of cannabis is legal in California, what happens if a driver is suspected of being under the influence of these substances at the time of driving?  Investigations of cannabis DUIs may include the use […] - [DUI Investigation and Arrest](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/dui-investigation-and-arrest/): Two elements are used to prove DUI under Vehicle Code 23152: driving and impairment (due to use of alcohol, drugs, prescription medication and/or cannabis). Commercial and juvenile investigations have different legal standards. The investigation may include an officer’s observations of the car’s movement and/or witness statements from passengers, members of the public, the driver and/or […] - [Prior DUI Convictions (10 Year Cutoff )](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/prior-dui-convictions/): During our firm’s investigation of your case, it will be important for us to know about any prior DUI investigations, including what outcome occurred and when. If a person has a prior DUI conviction for driving under the influence (and/or alcohol-related reckless driving, 23103 of the Vehicle Code (often used as a lesser charge with […] - [DUI Defense Checklist](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/dui-checklist/): Request a DMV Hearing In California you must request a hearing within ten days of your arrest and service of the DS 367 or DSM 367 to challenge the automatic suspension. If you miss the deadline, your license will be suspended automatically. Click here to learn more about your administrative per se hearing.   Your […] ## Pages - [Juvenile Defense](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/services/juvenile-defense/): Juvenile Defense Attorney Serving Sonoma, Napa & Marin Counties When your child is facing legal trouble, the stakes feel incredibly high. We provide experienced, compassionate defense to protect their rights, guide your family through the process, and help safeguard their future. Juvenile Defense & Record Sealing When a young person faces charges, the impact can […] - [Terms of Service](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/terms-of-service/): Effective Date: July 28, 2025 Welcome to the website of Gallagher & Al-Najjar LLP (“we”, “us,” or “ “our”). By accessing or using www.Gallagher & Al-Najjar LLP (the “Site”), you agree to be bound by the following Terms of Service. Please read them carefully. - [Trust Administration & Probate](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/services/trust-and-probate/): Trust Administration & Probate Attorney Serving Sonoma & Napa Counties Compassionate, knowledgeable guidance for trustees, executors, and families managing the affairs of a loved one. We make complex processes clear, compliant, and manageable. Compassionate Support for Families & Trustees Administering a trust or managing an estate can be overwhelming during a time of loss. At […] - [Small Business Formation](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/services/small-business/): Small Business Formation Attorney Serving Sonoma, Napa & the North Bay Start and grow your business with confidence. We guide California entrepreneurs through every stage of forming and protecting their companies — from LLC setup to ongoing compliance. Legal Guidance for Growing Businesses Starting a business is exciting — but it also comes with complex […] - [Expungement](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/services/expungement/): Expungement Attorney Serving Sonoma, Napa & Marin Counties Whether you’re seeking to clear a past conviction or start fresh after a criminal record, our attorneys provide skilled, compassionate representation across the North Bay. Clear Your Record and Move Forward Having a criminal record can limit employment, housing, and educational opportunities — even long after a […] - [Estate Planning](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/services/estate-planning/): Estate Planning Attorney Serving Sonoma, Napa & Marin Counties Secure your family’s future with a personalized estate plan that reflects your goals, protects your assets, and provides peace of mind. Plan with Confidence A well-crafted estate plan is more than documents — it’s a strategy for protecting the people and property that matter most. At […] - [DUI](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/services/dui/): DUI Defense Attorney Serving Santa Rosa, Sonoma & the North Bay Skilled and experienced DUI defense for drivers across Sonoma, Napa, and Marin Counties. We guide you through every step — from your DMV hearing to your criminal case — helping you protect your license and your future. Defending Your Rights After a DUI Arrest […] - [Services](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/services/): Legal Services Rooted in Integrity & Experience Gallagher Al-Najjar LLP provides compassionate, experienced legal representation for individuals, families, and businesses across Sonoma, Napa, and Marin Counties. Driving Under the Influence (DUI) & DMV Defense Whether you’re facing a DUI charge or navigating a DMV hearing, our team provides skilled, straightforward legal representation. We help you […] - [Ann Gallagher White](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/ann-gallagher/): Ann Gallagher White Partner DUI & Criminal Defense Attorney – Serving Santa Rosa, Sonoma, and the North Bay ann@gallagherlawpartners.com (707) 709-0550 Linkedin Areas of Practice DUI, Misdemeanor and Felony Juvenile Delinquency and Defense Expungement DMV License Protection Biography Ann brings over thirty years of legal experience, having served as both a prosecutor and public defender […] - [Kamila Al-Najjar](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/kamila/): Kamila Al-Najjar Partner Estate Planning, Trust & Probate Attorney – Serving Sonoma County & the North Bay kamila@gallagherlawpartners.com (707) 709-0550 Linkedin Areas of Practice Estate Planning Trust Administration Probate Small Business Formation Social Justice Advocacy Biography Kamila is an attorney with thirty years of experience, guided by a strong commitment to social justice and client-centered […] - [Resources](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/resources/): Legal Resources & Guides Explore helpful articles, checklists, and guides from Gallagher Al-Najjar LLP. Whether you’re navigating a DUI case, planning your estate, or forming a business, these resources are designed to help you make informed decisions with clarity and confidence. Search Search - [Contact Us](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/contact-us/): Contact Gallagher Al-Najjar LLP Have questions or need legal guidance? Our team is here to help. Give us a call or send us a message using the form below, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. Call 24/7 (707) 709-0550 ann@gallagherlawpartners.com kamila@gallagherlawpartners.com - [About](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/about/): About Gallagher Al-Najjar LLP Gallagher Al-Najjar LLP is a women-owned law firm serving Sonoma and Napa Counties, providing compassionate, experienced legal guidance across estate planning, DUI defense, criminal defense, and small business law. With over 60 years of combined experience, we deliver personalized legal solutions built on integrity, accessibility, and care for our community. Our […] - [Home](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/): Compassionate, Experienced Law Firm Serving Santa Rosa & the North Bay A women-owned law firm providing trusted legal guidance in DUI defense, estate planning, and small business law. Book a Consultation Explore Our Services Personalized Legal Services for Life’s Key Moments At Gallagher Al-Najjar LLP, we believe legal support should be accessible, understandable, and delivered […] - [Privacy Policy](https://gallagherlawpartners.com/privacy-policy/): Effective Date: July 28, 2025 UPDATES AND CHANGES We reserve the right, at any time, to add to, change, update, or modify this Policy, simply by posting such change, update, or modification on the Site and without any other notice to you. Any such change, update, or modification will be effective immediately upon posting on […] ## Optional - [Agent (MCP protocol)](websites-agents.hostinger.com/gallagherlawpartners.com/mcp) [comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)