With New York legalizing the recreational use of marijuana in 2021, business owners and intrepid entrepreneurs have their sights on capitalizing on the budding industry once things get going. That all depends on how quickly New York policymakers draft appropriate...
What distinguishes false arrest from false imprisonment?
The violation of your civil rights through a false arrest is a serious matter. You have the right to due process under the U.S. Constitution, so a police officer or anyone else does not have the right to detain you without cause. While you may have grounds to sue for...
What are the consequences of a New York DWI conviction?
As of August 15, 2010, the penalties for driving while intoxicated (DWI) in the state of New York became more stringent. What caused this change and what sort of penalty does a driver with a DWI conviction face? Leandra’s Law The changes in New York Vehicle and...
Money laundering charges and conviction requirements
Federal officials may file money laundering charges against individuals alleged to have used funds generated by illicit activities. According to Whistleblowers.org, allegations may include disguising the source of funds. A conviction requires evidence an individual...
What is assault in New York?
“You are under arrest for assault and battery.” This phrase gets said so often in crime dramas that many people are under the impression that these two terms mean the same thing. In fact, the reality is much more complex than this. Whether or not “assault and battery”...
How can courts help children give a reliable testimony?
Sometimes, a case can hinge on witness testimony. What can you do if that witness happens to be a child? According to the American Bar Association, children can make reliable witnesses when approached appropriately. Issues begin to arise when the adults involved do...
What is false arrest?
When an officer places you under arrest, you usually are quite aware of the reason why. In most cases, even if you do not completely understand the reason, the officer has a legal right to place you under arrest. In some situations, though, the officer may lack the...
How harshly does New York punish driving while intoxicated?
It can be difficult to judge your own level of intoxication after having a couple of drinks. In some cases, you might feel alright and decide that you can probably drive home. Before you take that risk, it’s important to understand the consequences of being pulled...
Is a plea bargain right for you?
When facing criminal charges, you may also hear the term plea bargain thrown around. In certain situations, the defendant faces the option of taking a plea bargain. Usually, they do so in exchange for a guilty plea. But if someone offers you a plea bargain, should...
Do you have rights when incarcerated?
When you go to prison after a court sentences you for a criminal conviction, you lose some rights. Most notably, you lose your right to freedom. However, you still retain some of the rights you have as an American citizen. The ACLU explains that the constitution...