From petty theft to violent offenses, crime can take various forms and have varying consequences for the individuals and communities involved. Generally, criminal acts are divided into five main categories: crimes against a person, crimes against property, inchoate crimes, statutory crimes, and financial or “white-collar” crimes. The severity of the crime and the resulting damage …
Ben Michael
Is Blackmail Illegal? Yes, Almost Always.
Under federal laws and all state laws, blackmail is illegal. Generally, blackmail involves demanding money, property or services in exchange for not exposing potentially damaging information. For example, someone might try forcing a victim to pay $100,000 in order to keep quiet about a marital affair. What is Blackmail? Simply put, blackmail is a form …
Car Insurance After a DWI (DUI) in Texas: Consequences for Drivers
Not only can a DWI in Texas take a toll on your driving record, but it can cause serious consequences for your car insurance. If you’ve been convicted of DWI in Texas, you could see your car insurance rates go up by 50% or more. Auto Insurance Consequences of a DWI Offense in Texas Following …
Car Insurance After a DWI (DUI) in Texas: Consequences for Drivers Read More »
Felony Murder: Distinctions and Implications
The Felony Murder rule allows defendants to be held accountable for a death that happens during the commission — or attempted commission — of a dangerous felony, such as a robbery. The element of intent, which is usually required for a killing to constitute murder, is not needed in Felony Murder cases. The application of …
Criminal Statute of Limitations in Texas
A statute of limitations is the period of time in which charges can be brought against an individual after an alleged crime has taken place. In Texas, statutes of limitations exist for both civil and criminal cases, but the length of the period differs depending on the severity of the alleged crime. Furthermore, some crimes, …
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Online Classes
If a motorist is convicted of drunk or drugged driving, their sentence might include a requirement to complete the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Victim Impact Panel program. When someone is ordered to go through MADD’s Victim Impact Panel (VIP) program, they may be able to meet the requirement at an in-person class. Or they …
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Online Classes Read More »
Right to Remain Silent: Safeguarding Justice in Legal Proceedings
You’ve probably heard it many times on crime dramas like “Law and Order: Special Victims Unit”—“You have the right to remain silent.” This isn’t made-up dialogue, though. It’s the beginning of a constitutionally required phrase that protects the rights of U.S. citizens who are under arrest. Once an arresting officer has read someone their Miranda …
Right to Remain Silent: Safeguarding Justice in Legal Proceedings Read More »
Incest Laws: Legal Definitions, Penalties, and Key Considerations
In every state, incest is illegal. However, the crimes and punishments connected to incest vary from state to state. For instance, state laws may differ regarding which relatives fall under the legal definition of incest. Incest involves sexual contact between close relatives, including brothers and sisters, parents and children, grandparents and grandchildren, or aunts or …
Incest Laws: Legal Definitions, Penalties, and Key Considerations Read More »
Criminal Trespass in Texas: Legal Aspects and Ramifications
Texas law protects the rights of property owners. Whether it’s a private home, a business, or land, you need permission to be on the premises. If you access someone else’s property without authorization, you can be arrested and charged with a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances. However, not all intrusions are intentional; there …
Criminal Trespass in Texas: Legal Aspects and Ramifications Read More »
Is Deferred Adjudication Available for DWI Charges in Texas?
Under some circumstances, deferred adjudication is available for first-time DWI offenders in Texas. If you have no prior DWI convictions and meet the other eligibility requirements, your DWI attorney could seek deferred adjudication. If you complete community supervision, the court will dismiss the DWI charge, allowing you to avoid a formal conviction. The DWI charges …
Is Deferred Adjudication Available for DWI Charges in Texas? Read More »