Defending against any criminal charge is serious business. The consequences for even a single misdemeanor conviction can be far-reaching, and could impact your career, housing options, and financial future. Whether you have been accused of a petty offense or a felony, it is critical that you have a skilled criminal...
What are the defense strategies can be used in a homicide/murder case? Murder and homicide are serious crimes, and convictions often result in life in prison. A defense lawyer can help you avoid a conviction by thoroughly investigating the facts of your case and building an effective defense strategy. There...
When it comes to white collar crimes, the allegations typically revolve around illegal acts involving financial gain. They don’t involve violence, but can include embezzlement, bribery, Medicare or healthcare fraud, insurance fraud, mortgage fraud, telemarketing fraud, counterfeiting and insider trading. These offenses are typically pursued by the federal and state...
If you have been charged with a drug crime, the penalties can be severe. Both state and federal laws criminalize the manufacture, distribution, or possession of illegal drugs such as heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, marijuana, ecstasy, certain prescription pills, and even certain types of paraphernalia (such as bongs). Penalties can range...
Misdemeanors are crimes that are less serious than felonies but more serious than infractions. They can carry a potential jail sentence, fines, community service and probation. Felonies, on the other hand, are more serious and often carry much longer prison sentences. The penalties for a misdemeanor can vary, depending on...
Traffic violations are a common and frustrating experience for many drivers. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including traffic congestion or the presence of construction work on a roadway. Regardless of the cause, drivers should be aware that they are not without options when it comes to...
What factors influence drug trafficking charges? A large number of people are arrested and charged with drug offenses every year. These convictions can have significant effects on a person’s life. They can result in serious jail time, loss of employment, and can negatively impact their family life. If you are...
Drunk driving (DUI) and driving while intoxicated (DWI) are often referred to as the same thing, but their meanings are not necessarily the same. In fact, some states actually classify them as separate crimes. The Difference Between DUI and DWI A DUI, which stands for driving under the influence, is...
If you are a victim of domestic violence, there are several ways you can seek protection from your abuser. The best choice for you will depend on your specific situation. One option is to get an order of protection from the court. This can be a temporary or permanent one...
Assault and battery are two related crimes that are often charged together. In Florida, assault and battery are both first-degree felonies that can lead to serious penalties. However, prosecutors need to prove each element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt to secure a conviction, and it is important that...
There are a few key elements required to prove arson in a criminal case. One of these is intent. Intent means that you must have been aware that a fire was likely to result in property damage. Another element that is essential to arson prosecution is motivation. Typically, the crime...
Drug possession penalties are determined by a number of factors. Some of these include whether the drug was a controlled substance, the amount of the drug and the person’s previous criminal history. The severity of a person’s charges is also dependent on the drug involved, the amount and whether there...
What distinguishes grand theft from petty theft? In most states, if the value of the stolen property is $500 or less, it is a petty theft. If it is over $500, it is considered grand theft and can carry felony charges. The penalties for these crimes can be very different...
In the United States, DUI laws and penalties vary based on the state in which you were arrested. These factors can make a big difference in the outcome of your case and your future driving. It’s important to find a DUI attorney who has experience in the state where you...
What role does motive play in homicide cases? Although criminal law is focused on proving intent, there are some instances where prosecutors may use evidence of motive to help explain why a person committed a crime. This type of evidence is usually used to make a connection between a defendant...
Intoxication, whether voluntary or involuntary, can negatively affect your criminal liability. Intoxication occurs when a person is under the influence of drugs or alcohol to such an extent that they cannot think clearly or control their behavior. This condition can cause a variety of harmful effects, including impaired judgment, loss...
Arson is one of the most commonly charged and prosecuted crimes in the United States. It is also a very serious crime, and the consequences can be harsh for those who are convicted of it. There are many reasons why someone may be charged with arson. These include: Natural Causes...
About 70 million adults in the US — one in three — have criminal records. These records can affect a person’s job, housing or licensing opportunities and have long-lasting effects. Getting your records cleared can be a difficult and costly process, but it’s possible to have your record sealed or...
Driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) is a serious crime. It can cost you a lot of money in fines and jail time, as well as your license. Luckily, some states have much more lenient DUI laws than others. Here’s a look at some of the best and worst...
If you are looking for a job in the USA, it is important to know that having a criminal record may make it difficult to get a work visa. You can still apply for a work visa, but you will need to prove that you have not committed a crime...
In the United States, a criminal record is a comprehensive list of arrests and convictions that a person has been subjected to. They’re compiled and updated on local, state and federal levels by law enforcement agencies for many reasons. These include background checks regarding a person’s identity and security, immigration/international...
