Monthly Archives: December 2018

Criminal Laws Can Impact Anyone

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Harassment Via Text Messaging

Most states have criminal laws against harassing texts, in some form or another. Harassment has a rather low level threshold: it is repeated, unwanted contact. Even spam may be considered harassing texts, but these aren’t the kind in which to call the police, and if you do, do not expect any action to be taken… Continue Reading »

Steps to Take When Being Pulled Over

Most of us at some point in our lives may get pulled over by a police officer one day. There are simple steps during traffic stops that one should follow in order to have a fighting chance to contest a ticket. Step One: Pull over quickly and safely, letting the police officer know you understand… Continue Reading »

Passage of a New Criminal Justice Bill

SQ Attorneys

Earlier this week the US Senate passed a significant and sweeping criminal justice bill. The concern was the imprisonment of far too many Americans for non-violent related crimes, specifically drug crimes. These folks go to prison but upon release are ill prepared to return to society and are at great risk of reoffending. The bill… Continue Reading »

DUI’s and Diabetes

SQ Attorneys

Diabetes is a troubling disease, no doubt. And it can be a real challenge for someone stopped for DUI. This is so because diabetic reactions can often cause the outward symptoms that mimic, or otherwise mirror, intoxication – the tell-tale signs of … flushed face, drowsiness, impaired coordination, slurred speech, impaired motor control and even… Continue Reading »

Jury Nullification

The United States Constitution guarantees a trial by jury to all persons accused of a crime. That jury is comprised of average citizens from all walks of life with no special training or skills to serve other than being a U.S. citizen who is at least 18 years old, residing in the judicial district for… Continue Reading »

Mandatory Sentences and Theories

State and federal criminal statutes that include mandatory sentences require judges to impose identical sentences on all persons convicted of the same offense. Mandatory sentences are state and federal legislators’ response to the public perception about judicial leniency or inconsistency in sentencing practices. However, it’s important to note that most crimes do not carry mandatory… Continue Reading »

VAWA to Lapse

SQ Attorneys

Word is out that the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) will not be extended by Congress, and will thus lapse for the first time in 25 years. The lapse is a direct result of not being included in a two week stopgap government spending bill.  The VAWA supported victims of sexual assault and domestic violence.… Continue Reading »

Appealing a Sentence

Imagine you were charged with a serious felony by your state prosecutor. You went to trial and, despite your attorney’s best efforts, twelve people didn’t believe your story and found you guilty “beyond a reasonable doubt.” Can you appeal? Now imagine the same scenario, but instead of taking the case to trial, you pled guilty… Continue Reading »