People often use the terms burglary, robbery and theft interchangeably. In a legal context, they mean very different things, and understanding the difference could be important. Generally speaking, theft occurs when a person takes something that does not belong to him...
Criminal Defense
Things to consider before marriage
Tying the knot is an exciting event for a couple, but couples need to make sure that they discuss certain legal topics beforehand. While not fun or romantic, getting legal issues sorted out prior to marriage will save a couple from potential headaches and heartaches...
Does a drug conviction impact financial aid eligibility?
You want your college student to behave while he or she pursues a college degree. Yet, sometimes, teens and young adults get caught up in their first tastes of freedom and wind up experimenting with drugs or alcohol. You may have heard that any drug conviction your...
Could a digital insurance card allow officers to look at other information on my phone?
Traffic stops can be nerve-wracking. While you are waiting for the officer to approach your car, you try to remind yourself of what you should and should not do as you wonder why they pulled you over in the first place. In the past, police officer requests for your...
Tips for handling an encounter with the police
When you find yourself stopped and questioned by law enforcement, there are some things you should and should not do. The entire encounter may wind up clearing you or instigating a more thorough investigation. The police are bound by legal procedures when it comes to...
What do you do if police come to your door?
As a civilian, it is important for you to know your rights when it comes to dealing with the police. On top of that, it helps to understand how to appropriately interact with police in a way that will keep you as safe as possible. It is crucial to understand safe...
How can a DUI conviction impact your child’s college career?
When your child faces charges for first-time DUI-related crimes, you might feel tempted to brush them off. After all, you may think that first-time offenses often end up treated more charitably. Or perhaps you believe that since your child is still in college, the...
What is a Family Assessment Response?
The Family Assessment Response is an important part of Minnesota's child protection program. It is the most common state-level reaction to reports of child abuse. You would encounter one of these responses if someone reported neglect in your family. A FAR contrasts...
How are assault and battery different?
It is likely that you have heard the phrase “assault and battery” mentioned by police on television when they are arresting a suspect on your favorite crime show. However, many people are unaware of what the difference between assault and battery actually is. ...
Alternative sentencing may avoid imprisonment
Penalties for a drug offense generally include incarceration, a fine and community service. Under certain conditions, however, nonviolent drug offenders may avoid incarceration through an alternative sentence. Instead of spending time in jail, a judge may order a...