Dealing with police officers or investigators is scary for the average person, whether guilty or innocent. Law enforcement officers can use your fear and anxiety against you during questioning about criminal activity. Your participation in interviews or even seemingly...
Criminal Defense
Do you have to let law enforcement search your home?
The job of law enforcement is to enforce the law and protect the general public. Most people view police officers as figures of authority and treat them accordingly. The police do have certain powers, but they are not unlimited. If law enforcement turns up at your...
Do people confess to crimes they didn’t commit?
If a person is facing criminal charges then it means that law enforcement and the prosecution have evidence against them. One of, if not the most compelling piece of evidence is a confession. This consists of the accused accepting liability for the criminal offense. ...
Defining probable cause in criminal cases
It is the job of law enforcement both to solve crimes and prevent them from occurring. Importantly, they cannot do this in an arbitrary or prejudicial manner. Typically, for a search or an arrest to proceed, there must be a presence of probable cause -- or the...
Why do many fraud crimes lead to federal charges?
Fraud is the legal term for intentionally misrepresenting a situation, usually with the intent to personally profit. There are many kinds of fraud, ranging from mortgage fraud to wire fraud, and each of them can have a damaging impact on those who fall victim to them....
Is the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act overused and abused?
The Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA) was enacted in 1986 – not long after the terms “hacker” and “hacking” entered the national consciousness. Since then, it’s been amended – and broadened – quite a bit. Unfortunately, this has left a gray area open that federal...
Sharing information with friends or family can be insider trading
Insider trading isn't just one professional telling another about certain as-of-yet private information so that they can make a few sneaky trades or investments with an agreement that they will receive similar tips in the future. It is often much simpler, often...
Know what can affect criminal sentencing
When you’re facing criminal charges, your primary concern might be finding out what types of sentences you might face if you’re convicted. There’s usually a range of sentences that are based on the type of criminal charge you’re facing. It might help you to...
Did you know the police can go through your trash?
As a general rule, you have an expectation of privacy in your home. Without a warrant or consent, the police cannot come into your house to search around. They may be able to look at items that are in plain view on your property, but anything in your home is generally...
Did you just lose your Miranda Warning rights?
With the federal Supreme Court recently turning out a number of major decisions in pending cases, there have been several significant changes that affect the rights of people across the United States. How the Supreme Court Justices rule in cases and interpret the law...