In September 2017, Texas lawmakers passed H.B. 1935 (the Texas Knife Law Reform Bill), which means that residents over the age of 18 are legally allowed to carry knives, machetes, sabers, spears and swords into most establishments in the state. More specifically, the law erased restrictions on blades that are longer than 5.5 inches, including those on: Bowie … [Read more...]
Due Process Often Ignored in Higher Education Title IX Cases
According to the U.S. Constitution, the 5th and 14th Amendments protect the federal government from depriving citizens of their legal rights without proving their guilt. For example, no one can be jailed or have their property taken without going through the legal system. However, in colleges and universities across the country, students accused of crimes—even serious crimes … [Read more...]
What are DNA Collection Laws in Texas?
If you've ever paid attention to court cases, then you've probably heard attorneys talk about the DNA of an individual and how it can make or break a case. Unfortunately, the DNA might not always be handled in the proper manner by officers or by the lab that processes the samples that are collected. At other times, the DNA samples collected might not reveal all of the details … [Read more...]
What is Title IX & How is it Applied to Sex Assault on College Campuses?
Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (20 U.S.C. sec. 1681 et seq.) is a civil rights act that prohibits all public and private schools from discrimination on basis of sex in all education programs and activities. The most publicly obvious effect has been to require universities to provide equal athletic opportunities to all students. However, the reach of Title IX … [Read more...]
How Widespread is Human Trafficking in the U.S.?
It’s nothing less than a modern form of slavery. And yes, it does happen here in the U.S. The buying and selling of human beings not only still happens, but human trafficking in the U.S. is a significant problem and a major industry—generating up to $150 billion for its overseers. A recently published report highlights this humanitarian crisis and the differences in criminal … [Read more...]
Alternatives to Prison for a Criminal Conviction in Texas
Texas is known for being tough on crime, and they have some of the harshest sentences in the U.S. Jail time is possible for anyone who breaks the law, but there may be other options available. For many people, rehabilitation is the better way to help someone get back on a law-abiding path. This is why Texas courts often offer alternative sentencing such as deferred … [Read more...]
