We’ve all watched the great legal dramas on television and movies and probably wondered how much of that is real and how much is Hollywood taking a little creative license. We’re also probably grateful we don’t have to find out in person—who wants to be on trial in a criminal case? While most of the law is not practiced in a courtroom and we may never be in that position, … [Read more...]
Search Warrant Requirements & Exceptions
The Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution protects citizens from searches by legal authorities, but that right is not absolute nor unlimited. In certain circumstances, the police may search your property for evidence of a crime. When authorities follow specific search warrant requirements, they can enter your property. The operative legal phrase is “probable … [Read more...]
Understanding Texas’ Statute of Limitations for Sexual Assault & Rape
Depending on the crime committed, there could be a statute of limitations on the amount of time a victim has to report a crime and the defendant can be charged in Texas. The amount of time between when a crime is committed and the time at which the statute of limitations expires depends on the type of crime. In the instance of a sex crime involving an adult, Texas law states … [Read more...]
Top Issues Facing the Court System Today: Mental Health & Cybercrime
The challenges facing legal professionals are considerable and seem to be growing by the day. Everyone from judges to health professionals to policymakers has to be engaged to meet the issues facing the court system today. Perhaps no 2 issues present bigger challenges or higher stakes than those of mental health and cybercrime. Mental health and drug addiction The numbers alone … [Read more...]
What Was Behind the Landmark Case of Indian Territory in Oklahoma?
In July 2020, the Supreme Court handed down a 5-4 decision that ruled Native American land that covers eastern Oklahoma, including most of the city of Tulsa, is subject to federal rather than state jurisdiction. What may seem like an arcane legal dispute over what level of government handles prosecution had implications for tribal sovereignty, treaty rights and the validity of … [Read more...]
What is a “Deadly Weapon” in Texas Aggravated Assault Cases
Regardless of the weapon classification, a weapons charge is typically a serious matter. Anyone who faces an aggravated assault with a deadly weapon charge in Texas should familiarize themselves with how Texas defines a deadly weapon as this could help you prepare a defense for yourself. The Texas Penal Code defines a deadly weapon as the following: “A firearm or anything … [Read more...]
