Know Your Rights: Can a Police Officer Legally Search Your Car?
Traffic stops can be anxiety-inducing experiences for anyone. The flashing lights in your rearview mirror, the realization that you need to pull over, and the uncertainty of what will happen next can all create a sense of unease. One common concern during a traffic stop is whether a police officer can legally search your car. […]
Read MoreHow to tell police you want a lawyer present for questioning
One of the most well-known rights American citizens have when facing arrest is the right to remain silent. This right aims to prevent people from providing self-incriminating evidence to the police. You do need to provide basic information to the police. For example, if an officer pulls you over as you drive, then you need […]
Read MoreWas your horizontal gaze nystagmus test done correctly?
Most drivers in Missouri who have been arrested for DUI have undergone a field sobriety test. One of the three components to determine field sobriety is a procedure called an HGN test. HGN is an acronym for horizontal gaze nystagmus, a test that helps determine whether someone is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. […]
Read MoreWhat is felony murder?
States have multiple murder laws. Typically, the type of murder charge depends on the circumstances and evidence available in a case. Felony murder is a special type of charge. It is much different from other murder charges. The Springfield News-Leader explains felony murder occurs when a person is involved in felony activity that results in […]
Read MoreHow does Missouri treat first-degree murder?
First-degree murder is a class A felony in Missouri, for which the penalty upon conviction can be either death or life imprisonment without the possibility of parole or probation. The only exception to the death penalty is if the defendant was under 18 years old at the time he or she committed the murder. Under […]
Read MoreDoes Missouri have a mandatory arrest law for domestic violence?
The state of Missouri defines domestic assault as an assault against a current or former spouse or partner, a family member, a co-parent, or a current or former cohabitant. A common belief is that when the police respond to a domestic violence situation, the law requires them to make an arrest. In Missouri, this is […]
Read MoreWhat are common date rape drugs?
If you face rape accusations, you may encounter further accusations that you used a drug to perpetrate the crime. According to the Susan B. Anthony Project, alcohol and drugs often play a role in these situations. Knowing about any substances involved can help you when devising your defense strategy. Common drugs The most often used […]
Read MoreUnderstanding Missouri’s Stand Your Ground Law
Whether you own a home or rent in the Show Me State, you want to feel secure when you go to bed at night. You also want to enjoy everything St. Louis has to offer without worrying about your personal safety when you are out on the town. If you encounter someone who wants to […]
Read MoreWhat evidence is required to prove embezzlement?
Embezzlement is a legal term used to describe employee theft. In other words, it’s the illegal act on the part of an employee who misappropriates money that was entrusted to his or her care by another person. Embezzlement is usually carried out by an employee, but it could also be committed by anyone entrusted with […]
Read MoreHow Does An Ignition Interlock Device Work | Step by Step
One of the potential ramifications of DUI in Missouri is a court mandate to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in your car. This is a tiny machine that a certified installer will place in your vehicle. It acts as a breath-testing machine. You must exhale into the ignition interlock device to start the car. […]
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