How 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 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 MoreAre 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 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 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 MoreVoluntary vs. involuntary manslaughter in Missouri
Missouri distinguishes between voluntary and involuntary manslaughter when prosecuting a crime in which a person kills another person recklessly or purposely. While the law considers both crimes less severe than murder, they still constitute felony convictions. Learn more about how the state defines types of manslaughter and penalizes offenders for these convictions. What is voluntary […]
Read More3 types of bail bonds offered to defendants in Missouri
When Missouri residents enter the jail system, they may be offered an opportunity to receive bail. When a defendant gets bail, they agree to appear in court when they’re ordered to. A court will grant bail if they believe that a defendant will actually show up to trial. In order to guarantee their appearance, a […]
Read MoreMissouri law forbids brass knuckles in almost all circumstances
Protecting yourself if you get into a fight is something that anyone would want to do. It is important for you to know that how you protect yourself matters. Missouri laws sets some very harsh penalties for weapons-related crimes, so if you are facing one of these charges, you should learn all you can about […]
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