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The Public Has a Right to Know Whether Government Agencies Followed the Law Before Taking Someone’s Freedom.

- by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

Los Angeles and San Diego officials are withholding public records related to the prosecution of Giselle Farias Smiel, raising concerns about transparency and due process. Despite legal obligations under the California Public Records Act, agencies have issued denials and delays, undermining public trust and accountability in the justice system.

The Public Has a Right to Know Whether Government Agencies Followed the Law Before Taking Someone’s Freedom. Read More
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Inside People v. Smiel: When Process Becomes the Story

- by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

Giselle Smiel faces five felonies, including kidnapping, for picking up her crying child at a San Diego school. Her defense argues there was no force or substantial movement, pointing to lack of evidence and jurisdictional issues. Advocates highlight constitutional violations and ADA neglect in her arrest, seeking dismissal of charges and oversight on family-court mechanisms in criminal cases.

Inside People v. Smiel: When Process Becomes the Story Read More