The Texas Department of Public Safety operates an online database where you can search for information about criminal arrests and convictions. The public has limited access to this information, but authorized law enforcement agencies, authorized government agencies and authorized private entities can obtain far more information. Overview of the TDPS Online Database The Texas Department …
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Types of Criminal Offenses Under U.S. Law
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 …
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 …
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 …
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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 …
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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 …
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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 …
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Involuntary Manslaughter in Texas: Legal Insights and Real-world Perspectives
Involuntary manslaughter refers to the unintentional killing of another person, usually through reckless behavior or negligence. It’s different from other homicide offenses because it doesn’t require intent, deliberation, or premeditation. Even with the distinction, involuntary manslaughter is still a serious offense that carries severe legal penalties and consequences. If you or a loved one are …
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Understanding Personal Bonds in Legal Proceedings
If you are arrested and charged with a crime, you will usually be asked to return to court at a later date for further proceedings. Most people would prefer to go home and get on with their lives while waiting for their next court date, but to be released from custody, you may need to …
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Austin Warrant Search: Navigating, Understanding Consequences, and Searches
An outstanding warrant can impact your life in unexpected ways, especially if you never know of its existence. Fortunately, there are ways to find out beforehand if a warrant has been issued against you. In this blog, you’ll learn about the resources available to locate this information and how an Austin criminal defense attorney can …
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