Guides

The Many Uses of Felony Arrest Records

There are of course many legal records available on the internet these days, but among the most useful are felony arrest records. These felony arrest records can be used by a number of different individuals and businesses, from law firms researching legal briefs to individuals trying to gather information in advance of an upcoming legal action.

The Negative Effects of Deferred Prosecution

Deferred prosecution is a catch-all term for a variety of criminal intervention programs throughout the United States. These programs are designed to help first-time offenders avoid having a criminal conviction on their record.  Deferred prosecution places a defendant's criminal case on hold while he or she participates in a program designed to punish, educate, and rehabilitate. These programs vary from state to state and according to the alleged criminal offense, but they often include fines, classes, and community service as primary components. If a defendant completes the program, the prosecutor's office will then drop the criminal case. If, however, a defendant fails to complete the program, the criminal case will resume.

Defending Yourself in Criminal Matters Could Backfire

People who represent themselves at criminal trials seldom have a good outcome. While they may study the laws related to their case and think they are ready to defend against criminal charges, their lack of experience tends to backfire on them in ways they never anticipated. If you're facing criminal charges, it's important to consider the potential consequences if the prosecution can prove its case against you. With so much on the line, hiring an experienced defense attorney is the only logical thing to do.

Do You Need a Lawyer? How to Find an Attorney You Can Count On

Finding a good lawyer is an important part of dealing with any sort of legal problem. Whether you need a trust drawn up or a will created, the right attorney will help you get the job done as quickly and painlessly as possible. Unfortunately, many people aren't quite sure how to find a trustworthy lawyer. If you've never had to meet with someone for legal advice or counseling, chances are that you are unsure of where to start searching. No matter what type of lawyer you need, there are several ways you can be sure to get the best help possible for your personal situation.

How Trump's Immigration Policies Effect The Criminal Case Process

This is not an article about the recent Trump orders concerning travel bans.  This is a discussion on the orders signed by President Trump and the memorandums issued on February 21, 2017 by Homeland Security Secretary John Kelley that set out a new direction on agency policies intended to beef up immigration enforcement, deport more people, and prevent asylum seekers. The issues do concern immigration law (which is not discussed here) but the policies also greatly impact criminal case procedure.  Many of my clients are undocumented and they currently live in great fear over the new policies and so now is a good time to lay it all out so that you or someone you know is informed about what it all means.

How to Set Goals and Stick With Them (Very Much Unrelated to Law)

A new year is an opportunity to let go of bad habits or to start some new healthy ones. Many resolve to start exercising, quit smoking or lose weight, while others decide to take control of their finances or practice daily gratitude. Even though they may start strong, the majority of these resolutions don't last. It's unfortunate but not inevitable. The tips below can help you stick to your New Year's resolutions indefinitely.