Miranda rights come from the Supreme Court case Miranda v. Arizona (1966). Police must read you your rights ONLY before a custodial interrogation — when you are in custody and being questioned. The rights are: right to remain silent, anything you say can be used against you, right to an attorney, right to a court-appointed attorney if you cannot afford one. If police do not read Miranda rights, statements made during that interrogation may be excluded from court.

Police can search your car without a warrant if: they have probable cause (they smell marijuana, see a weapon), you consent to the search, you are arrested, or there are exigent circumstances (emergency). You have the right to refuse consent to a search. Clearly say "I do not consent to a search." If they search anyway document everything for your lawyer. Never physically resist a search even if unlawful — challenge it in court instead.

A misdemeanor is a less serious crime punishable by up to 1 year in county jail and fines. Examples: petty theft, first DUI, simple assault, minor drug possession. A felony is a serious crime punishable by more than 1 year in state prison. Examples: robbery, serious assault, drug trafficking, murder. A felony conviction can affect voting rights, gun ownership, employment, housing, and immigration status. In California some crimes are wobblers that can be charged as either.

During a traffic stop you must: provide your driver's license, registration, and proof of insurance. You do NOT have to: answer questions beyond identifying yourself, consent to a vehicle search, explain where you are going. Keep hands visible at all times. Be polite but firm. If you receive a ticket, sign it — it is not an admission of guilt, just a promise to appear. You can contest any ticket in traffic court.

Wrongful termination means being fired for an illegal reason. In California (an at-will employment state) employers can fire you for any legal reason or no reason — but NOT for: race, gender, age, religion, disability, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation. Also illegal: firing you for reporting illegal activity (whistleblower protection), filing a workers comp claim, taking FMLA leave, or refusing to do something illegal. If wrongfully terminated consult an employment attorney — many work on contingency.