Acts of interpersonal aggression are against the law in Missouri. The details of the situation, including the consequences for the other party, will largely determine what criminal consequences someone may face if convicted of this kind of wrongdoing. If an incident...
Criminal Law
Should you help a loved one who has been accused of wrongdoing?
If you have a loved one who has recently been arrested, you may be working hard to figure out how best to help them or you may be wondering if you should let them figure out a resolution to their situation on their own. Both responses to this kind of stress are both...
When can law enforcement use civil forfeiture?
The penalties for criminal activity are different depending on the accusations that someone faces. Missouri judges can send people to prison, order them to pay large fines or require that they submit to probation after a guilty plea or conviction, depending on the...
What is attorney-client privilege?
The concept of attorney-client privilege is one of the most important principles of the law. Attorney-client privilege is one of the most critical things you should understand when you’re facing any kind of criminal charge. When attorney-client privilege applies, your...
Criminal defendants: Stay off of social media for now
It’s vitally important that you take steps to protect your interests if you’ve recently been accused of criminal wrongdoing. If you are like most adults, you spend a relatively significant time scrolling and posting content on social media. This is understandable, as...
Risks and consequences from false statements to investigators
If you’re being investigated by federal authorities, your initial encounters with them may seem fairly cordial – particularly if they involve a “white collar” crime. You may be interviewed by people in business clothing rather than uniforms. They may even seem more...
What are the leading causes of wrongful convictions?
Since 1991, 54 individuals have been exonerated in Missouri for crimes they did not commit. Some served decades behind bars. In most cases, mistaken witness identification, false accusations, perjury or official misconduct led to bogus arrests and convictions. DNA...
Home searches: warrants generally required
The right to protection against law enforcement intrusion into the home is deeply valued in American law. As the maxim goes, your home is your castle – and police have a high bar to try to overcome to get beyond those privacy expectations. Here are four things to know...
How are shoplifting offenses addressed in Missouri?
Some states have shoplifting laws, while others, including Missouri, include this offense in its theft laws. Most people view shoplifting as a petty crime, at worst, but such charges can lead to harsh penalties. Whether a rite of passage for your teen, an impulsive...
Domestic assault in Missouri: degrees and definition
Domestic violence or domestic assault charges in Missouri are serious and can carry severe and often life-altering penalties. If you have been accused of domestic violence in the state of Missouri, it is important to understand your options and to work quickly toward...