The legal system is quite complex and intricate. Not everyone is well-versed in how things work in the justice system. For instance, many think an appeal is like a trial where their cases will be heard afresh. It can’t be further from the truth. While appeals and...
A criminal conviction will have massive consequences. Even if the sentence the judge hands down is not that harsh, the very fact you have a criminal record could affect you for years. It can harm your reputation and your ability to secure work, housing and education...
If you are indicted and charged with a crime, you have several options. If you take your case to trial, you always have the possibility of an acquittal. But, what happens if you’re convicted? You can appeal the verdict. Appealing a criminal conviction, however, is a...
To those who aren’t routinely involved with the criminal justice system, it may sound far-fetched to say that people can be wrongfully convicted. However, the truth is that this happens all the time. If one thing goes wrong on the day of your trial, you could be...
It’s hard to imagine anything more devastating than being convicted for a crime you did not commit. For those unfamiliar with the judicial system, this might seem impossible. Nonetheless, wrongful convictions do occur, and they always have done. Fortunately, you can...
When you are found guilty of a criminal offense and sentenced, you probably have your eyes on appealing the judgment. But, what are your chances of a successful appeal? It all boils down to the facts of your case and if the trial court followed the law in...
When you face criminal charges, you have the right to an attorney. You probably understood that you needed the advice and guidance of someone familiar with both state law and established precedents to defeat those charges. You need someone to speak rationally on your...
When the state accuses you of a crime, you have the right to an attorney. More than that, you have a right to adequate representation -- not just a lawyer sitting next to you. When you hire a lawyer to defend you, you expect that they will fight for you and protect...
Hearing the jury come back with a guilty verdict doesn’t have to be the end of the road for a defendant. Sometimes there are circumstances that prevent people from mounting a thorough and successful defense in criminal court. For those whose situation meets certain...