A DWI conviction usually puts a big dent in your car insurance. On average, your insurance premium for full coverage goes up roughly 70% after a DWI conviction. An insurer might even refuse to provide coverage if a DWI shows up on your driving record. The consequences might be even more severe if a DWI …
Law
What Happens if a Prosecutor Decides Not to Prosecute?
Some criminal cases brought to a prosecutor might not result in criminal charges being filed. A prosecutor may decline to proceed with a case for various reasons, such as insufficient evidence, an uncooperative witness, or a violation of the suspect’s constitutional rights. Understanding the Prosecutor’s Decision Several factors influence a prosecutor’s decision to file criminal …
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Success Rate of Representing Yourself in Court: Understanding the Odds
If you have limited resources or maybe some knowledge of the legal system — but without a law degree — you might be tempted to represent yourself in court. This is known as “Pro Se Litigation”. But how successful are those who represent themselves? There isn’t great data available on this, but the bottom line: …
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TDPS Online Database: A Comprehensive Guide
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 …
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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