Prosecutors often take cases to a grand jury when they believe they have enough evidence to pursue felonies and other serious criminal charges. However, a grand jury will not automatically return indictments. Learn more about how grand juries evaluate evidence by reading the following … [Read more...] about Why Would a Grand Jury Decline to Indict a Criminal Case?
How Police Get You Talking Without Violating Your Rights
You’ve seen it a million times on TV: The police catch the suspect, put handcuffs on them, read them their Miranda Rights, and then ask questions. While law enforcement officers will eventually receive Miranda warnings before formal questioning, officers are taught many legal interview techniques … [Read more...] about How Police Get You Talking Without Violating Your Rights
Should You Ask for a Lawyer Even If You’re Innocent?
People often think they don’t need an attorney if they didn’t do anything wrong. However, one of the best things you can do for yourself during a criminal investigation or arrest is to exercise your right to an attorney. Whether you’re guilty, innocent, or somewhere in between, asking for a lawyer … [Read more...] about Should You Ask for a Lawyer Even If You’re Innocent?
Does the Defense Have to Turn Over Evidence to the Prosecution?
Many defendants believe their attorneys can withhold any and all evidence, witnesses, and strategies from prosecutors until right before trial. While defendants do have certain rights under the Constitution, they are typically required to turn over evidence under Texas law if certain conditions are … [Read more...] about Does the Defense Have to Turn Over Evidence to the Prosecution?
What Should You Do If You Think Your Defense Lawyer Isn’t Fighting for You?
If you are charged with a crime, you will likely face one of the most stressful situations you have ever experienced. During this confusing and frightening time, you need your defense attorney to advocate on your behalf, explain your legal options, and protect your rights. What should you do … [Read more...] about What Should You Do If You Think Your Defense Lawyer Isn’t Fighting for You?
Choosing Between Public Defenders vs. Private Attorneys
If you are facing criminal charges, at some point you will be asked if you would like to have a public defender or an attorney represent you. This decision is often one of the first choices you’ll have to make after being charged with a crime. For many defendants, this decision comes at one of the … [Read more...] about Choosing Between Public Defenders vs. Private Attorneys
Does Talking to Police Ever Actually Help Your Case?
Most people believe that if they are stopped, questioned, or arrested by police, their best course of action is to be as cooperative as possible and explain everything. You’ve probably heard “just tell the truth” or “if you didn’t do anything wrong, you have nothing to worry about.” However, the … [Read more...] about Does Talking to Police Ever Actually Help Your Case?
Can You Be Charged for a Crime You Didn’t Personally Commit?
It’s a common belief that criminal charges only apply to the individual who commits a crime. Suppose someone else carried out the act. In that case, many people figure they won’t be arrested or charged with a crime themselves. However, criminal laws are rarely that cut-and-dry. In many instances, … [Read more...] about Can You Be Charged for a Crime You Didn’t Personally Commit?
Why Would a Prosecutor Refuse a Plea Deal and Go to Trial?
If you or someone you care about is facing criminal charges, one question often comes up early in the process: “Why would a prosecutor refuse a plea deal and go to trial?” After all, most cases in the United States are resolved through negotiated agreements rather than courtroom battles. Trials take … [Read more...] about Why Would a Prosecutor Refuse a Plea Deal and Go to Trial?
Can Police Lie to You During an Investigation?
If you have ever watched a crime show or heard stories from friends, you might have wondered, “Can police lie to you during an investigation?” Sure, it’s a fair question, and the answer is not as black and white as most people think. The reality is that law enforcement officers are allowed to use … [Read more...] about Can Police Lie to You During an Investigation?
