Defending Your Rights, Your License, and Your Livelihood

If you have been cited, arrested, or are under investigation for a Fish and Game Code violation in California, you are facing a highly specialized, complex, and rigid legal system. Many people make the mistake of assuming these are minor infractions, but they can quickly escalate into serious misdemeanors or even felonies, resulting in heavy fines, forfeiture of equipment, and permanent loss of hunting or fishing privileges.

As a dedicated criminal defense attorney, I understand that for many, hunting and fishing is not just a hobby—it is a way of life. For commercial fishermen, these charges are a direct threat to your livelihood. I am committed to fighting for your rights, conducting thorough investigations, and crafting a strategic defense to protect your reputation and freedom.

Types of Fish & Game Violations I Defend

California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) regulations are vast. I provide legal representation for a wide range of violations, including:

• Fishing Violations: Fishing without a license, exceeding bag limits, taking undersized fish (abalone, sturgeon, salmon, crab, lobster), and using illegal gear.

• Hunting Violations: Unlawful taking of wildlife, hunting out of season, spotlighting (using lights), shooting from a vehicle, and hunting while intoxicated.

• Commercial Fishing Charges: Misreporting, using prohibited gear, or violating Marine Life Protection Areas.

• Commercialized Poaching: Charges involving the illegal sale or purchase of fish and wildlife.

• License/Tag Violations: Misuse of tags, tagging violations, or failing to report.

• Trespassing: Hunting on private property.

The Consequences of a California Fish & Game Conviction

A conviction for a fish and game violation can be severe. Depending on the severity of the charge, consequences may include:

• Fines: Up to $1,000 for standard misdemeanors, with higher penalties for repeat offenders.

• Jail Time: Up to six months in county jail.

• Forfeiture: Permanent seizure of boats, vehicles, firearms, and fishing gear.

• License Revocation: Suspension or revocation of hunting or fishing licenses, potentially for life.

Strategic Defense Strategies

I do not believe a mistake should ruin your future. I focus on:

• Challenging Evidence: Investigating if game wardens acted within their legal authority.

• Lack of Intent: Proving that you did not knowingly break complex, often confusing regulations.

• Entrapment: Arguing that law enforcement induced illegal activity.

• Negotiation: Working to reduce charges to infractions, seeking dismissal, or limiting the impact on your licenses.

Contact a Dedicated California Fish & Game Defense Attorney

Do not wait to act. The sooner you hire an attorney, the more options you have to protect your rights. I offer a free case evaluation to discuss your situation and outline a personalized defense strategy.

Call the Law Office of Chris Caraway at (530) 591-4304 to schedule your free consultation today.