Are there different kinds of plea bargains?
Most Americans are familiar with plea bargains. However, far fewer know that there are a variety of plea bargains available. This means that if the prosecution offers you a plea bargain in your criminal case, it is possible that it will look different than what you expected. To be precise, there are three varieties of […]
Read MoreUnderstanding the levels of assault in Missouri
Facing assault allegations can be an overwhelming experience. When your freedom is on the line, it’s important to understand what charges you may be facing, and how you and your criminal defense attorney may be able to defend yourself against the prosecution. The degrees of assault A general definition of assault is the act of […]
Read MoreMissouri DWI Laws: Revisions to the criminal code & DWI charges
Recently, Governor Jay Nixon signed Missouri Senate Bill 491, which is legislation aimed at revising the state’s current criminal code. While the changes outlined in the bill are not set to take effect until 2017 – unless, of course, lawmakers take additional action before then – some of the modifications are significant, particularly in the […]
Read MoreWhat is the punishment for identity theft in Missouri?
If you use another person’s personally identifying information without his or her permission and for the purpose of committing fraud or another crime, the state may charge you with identity theft. “Personally identifying information” refers to a person’s name, credit card information, Social Security number and other personal or financial information. All 50 states and […]
Read MoreIndecent exposure can lead to criminal charges
When most people think of sex crimes, they think about crimes like rape or sexual assault. Some people might not realize that there are several other sex-related criminal charges that a person might face. One of these crimes is indecent exposure. Indecent exposure means that you are accused of showing your genitals to another person […]
Read MoreSexting Laws In Missouri: Teenager vs. Adult Charges
Most people understand sexting to be the sending or receiving of sexually explicit messages through electronic methods, such as text message or email. When consensual adults send these types of messages for noncommercial use, it is generally acceptable. In contrast, when these messages involve images of children under the age of 18, people can face […]
Read MoreRecent proposals for Missouri self-defense laws
Missouri has relatively strong self-defense laws. According to the Revisor of Missouri, an individual may use physical force on another person if they reasonably suspect they are in danger. However, the burden of proof still lies on the defender. If you use self-defense, you must prove you acted reasonably in court. Senate Bill 666 Missouri […]
Read MoreIs it legal to own nontraditional self-defense weapons?
When you are interested in protecting yourself from physical harm, having some kind of weapon is one of the best ways to accomplish your goal. However, not everyone is comfortable carrying or using a firearm. These people often desire other self-defense methods to deal with assault attempt. Businesses and manufacturers across the nation are eager […]
Read MoreFraudulent misrepresentation may be an element in a criminal case
When you are entering into a contract with another person, you have to make sure that you are being fully honest about all aspects of the matters at hand. Failing to be truthful can lead to claims of you making fraudulent claims. People might not realize that they might end up facing criminal charges in […]
Read MoreCan police officers read your mail?
You’re not home all day long. You have work and plenty of other commitments. If the police are investigating you, can they go to your house and read through your mail? After all, it gets dropped off long before you get home, so you could not stop them and may not even know. Fortunately, you […]
Read More