The term assault can refer to various acts, from negligent physical harm to causing serious injuries with full awareness. Missouri law differentiates between different types of assault. Furthermore, courts punish more severe offenses with harsher consequences....
Criminal Defense
When can the police conduct a search of your vehicle?
The police can pull you over if they see you break the law. When can a routine roadside encounter lead to a request to search your vehicle? If the police believe you have evidence of a crime, a search is the next logical step in their investigation. What if the police...
4 main types of evidence in a criminal case
If law enforcement personnel arrest you for committing a crime, your life can quickly turn upside down. As you face the charges in court or with a prosecutor, it is important to know what types of evidence the prosecutor has against you, and to watch for signs of...
Drug possession defense options
Drug possession charges can leave you feeling helpless, especially if you aren’t sure how to fight them. Many people mistakenly believe that there are no defenses for drug possession, but that is not the case. There are a few different avenues available to defend...
Principles for successful self-defense arguments
Citizens have a right to use force when their lives are in danger. Violence is, without question, justifiable under qualified circumstances. Some may interpret injurious actions as despicable transgressions. In the aftermath, a lawsuit may arise. Particular legal...
An overview of theft, robbery and burglary charges in Missouri
Theft, robbery and burglary are all crimes that involve taking someone else’s property without their permission. In Missouri, these crimes are punishable by fines and maybe imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense. Understanding the basics of these three...
What constitutes a wrongful conviction?
There are many stories in the news today about wrongful convictions. Some people spend years and even decades in jail or prison for things they did not do. As technology adapts and becomes more sophisticated, juries scrutinize evidence at a more intense level and may...
How much does a DUI really cost?
Being arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) will land you in big legal trouble. Possible penalties include jail time and loss of license, both of which can impact your freedom. DUIs also cause financial issues, which can become quite expensive rather quickly....
Legal justifications for losing your right to own a firearm
The Second Amendment grants law-abiding citizens legal permission to own a gun. By exercising this freedom, people may protect themselves and their families. Meanwhile, the government wants to eradicate gun violence. Thus, there are many rules relating to the...
How can a DUI impact financial aid?
When dealing with a DUI conviction, even a first time one, it is not unreasonable to be concerned about matters like government backed financial aid for schooling. But exactly how much does one DUI conviction impact financial support? Can it potentially ruin a...