What are your Fifth Amendment rights?

Most people have heard mention of “pleading the Fifth.” Yet, they might not understand the full scope of its coverage. Here are the five rights your Fifth Amendment gives you: 1. Protection against self-incrimination This is the element you should consider if stopped or arrested by the police. It’s the reason the police must give … Read more

The trouble with “trace DNA” evidence

DNA or “genetic” evidence has revolutionized the way that forensic science is used in the courtroom, particularly when there’s a violent crime involved. These days, juries almost expect to see DNA evidence as part of the prosecution’s case – something that wasn’t even permissible before 1987 in the United States Since that time, however, not … Read more

Can a felony charge be reduced?

Reducing a felony charge to a misdemeanor can be desirable for several reasons. First, misdemeanors typically carry lighter penalties, which minimizes the social stigma associated with a conviction. Second, you will not lose your civil rights, such as the right to vote or bear arms, if convicted of a misdemeanor. For non-citizens, it may help … Read more

Why is eyewitness memory often unreliable?

Discovering that someone who claims to be an eyewitness is going to testify against you could provoke fear and confusion. You might think it guarantees a conviction. You might also wonder how they could have seen you somewhere if you weren’t actually there. Eyewitnesses’ memories are not always as accurate as they think. That means … Read more

Possession with intent to distribute in New York

A conviction for possession of drugs with the intent to distribute in New York results in harsh penalties, likely including time spent in prison and fines. As the nature of the offense involves an intention to sell, manufacture or deliver illegal substances to other people, the state treats it seriously because it facilitates the illegal … Read more

3 things to consider about plea deals

People who are facing criminal charges may want to get their cases resolved as quickly as possible. For some, the possibility of a plea deal may seem tempting, but they must ensure they fully understand what they’re agreeing to before they accept a deal. One of the most important things to remember is that plea … Read more