What is Heat of Passion Manslaughter?
The heat of passion manslaughter, which falls under first-degree manslaughter, can subject you to serious criminal penalties if you are ultimately convicted. In order to convict you, a prosecutor must...
View ArticleCan You Avoid Jail Time for a Criminal Conviction?
A conviction for any serious crime usually means the person convicted faces jail or prison time as punishment for the crime they have committed. The law sets out what punishment a convicted person must...
View Article5 Steps to Build a Strong Criminal Defense
When you’re charged with a crime, there’s nothing more important than having a good lawyer. While it is hard to find specific state-wide stats on total arrest figures, Minnesota had more than 13,000...
View ArticleWhat Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
If you have been accused of a crime, you will need a criminal defense lawyer. A criminal defense lawyer may be hired by a defendant or may be appointed by the court. No matter how counsel is obtained,...
View ArticleImportance of Witnesses in Criminal Cases
The gravity of witness testimony cannot be denied. One study found that about 77,000 individuals are named suspects in cases based solely on the statement of an eyewitness. Along with providing...
View ArticleCan a Prosecutor Call a Defendant as a Witness?
You have to refer to the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution when it comes to calling witnesses. This amendment says that a defendant does not have to, in a criminal case, be a witness against...
View ArticleWhat are 4 Types of Criminal Defenses?
As a defendant facing criminal charges, you have the right to defend yourself against the allegations. The prosecutor must prove charges beyond a reasonable doubt, and a defense strategy might...
View ArticleDo I Have to Answer Police Questions?
Most of us have heard what’s called the “Miranda rights” many times on TV shows and movies. To refresh your memory, here are your Miranda rights if you are arrested: “You have the right to remain...
View ArticleWhat Happens When You Get Arrested?
Being taken into police custody can be very stressful, whether it’s happening to you or someone you care about. To be arrested means the police have probable cause to believe you committed a crime. It...
View ArticleWhat Does an “Arraignment” Mean?
The Sixth Amendment to the US Constitution says, “In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial.” Your arraignment is the first step in ensuring that your...
View Article