Nationwide, a controversial but common police practice has received increasing media attention. Called civil asset forfeiture, it refers to the police power to seize a suspect's private property if the police allege that it is involved in a crime. In many states,...
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Facing money laundering charges in Missouri
Both federal and Missouri state laws contain prohibitions against money laundering. Generally, this crime consists of purposely concealing the illegal provenance of funds. The Missouri statute applies the label of money laundering to transactions that aim to...
Should I plead the fifth when facing criminal charges?
One question that might cross your mind as you contemplate possible defense tactics is if you should plead the fifth. Regardless of the criminal charges you face, you have a constitutional right to avoid self-incrimination by remaining silent. You might believe you...
Facing marijuana drug charges in Missouri: drug court
The last article discussed the different types of charges for marijuana possession. Sometimes the users of marijuana and other controlled substances have an addiction and would benefit more from help than confinement. The courts recognize this and have put...
Facing marijuana drug charges in Missouri: types
Over the last few years, various law professionals have been working together to improve the sentencing for marijuana charges. Thankfully, their efforts are resulting in regulations that are not so harsh for first-time and minor offenders. However, those...
Is the government pursuing you for suspected mail fraud?
If you face accusations of mail fraud and indicted on federal charges, the government will be relentless when the court case against you takes place. Mail fraud takes many forms, and you may or may not have run afoul of the law. In any case, you will need legal...
What is entrapment
If you face federal drug or fraud charges, entrapment may be one of the defenses available to you. It is important to understand that effective use of this defense involves many nuances. The legal definition of entrapment can differ greatly from popular...
Understanding federal wire fraud charges
Wire fraud is a federal crime that consists of using an interstate communications device in the course of pursuing a scheme to defraud a person or entity of any type of item of value. Even though the law refers to the crime as wire fraud, it also includes wireless...
Children can face adult criminal charges and sentences
Children are known to make mistakes. However, there are some mistakes that warrant a hefty punishment. When a child commits a violent crime, criminal charges may follow. Some offenses may lead to a child standing as an adult at trial. In such instances,...
The impact of domestic violence charges
Domestic violence is a serious concern and includes more than just physical abuse. Whether the assumed victim decides to press charges or not, the prosecution may decide to file domestic violence charges when possible evidence is present. If you or a loved...