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: …
Success Rate of Representing Yourself in Court: Understanding the Odds Read More »
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 »
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 …
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, …
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 »
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 »
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 »