In October 2022, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) released a draft report that shocked some people in the criminal justice system. The report was a response to the landmark 2009 study by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and...
Criminal Law
Knowing your rights if you are accused of a crime
When you are accused of a crime, you still have rights that are guaranteed by law. The Missouri constitution ensures this protection through the bill of rights which states that in criminal prosecutions, the accused shall have the following rights. The right to appear...
Fruit of the poisonous tree: What is it, and how does it impact evidence in court?
In legal terminology, the phrase "fruit of the poisonous tree" refers to evidence obtained by means of an illegal search or seizure. Under the fruit of the poisonous tree doctrine, if evidence was improperly obtained, it must be excluded from trial to protect against...
Possible legal defense strategies for white-collar crimes
White-collar crimes refer to non-violent financial crimes committed by individuals, businesses, or government professionals to enrich their personal wealth. It includes several crimes, including fraud, wire fraud, tax fraud, credit card fraud, and many more. It can be...
Going to trial: What to expect
The vast majority of criminal matters do not go to trial in Missouri. Prosecutors try to get plea deals. Plea agreements save them the trouble of preparing to go before the bench and get them the points that enhance their reputation with the district attorney. No...
What you should do when the police come to your home
When the police show up at your door, it can be a very high-anxiety situation. Regardless of why a police officer comes to your home, it's essential to be aware of your rights, make intelligent decisions, and protect yourself from any potential problems. While you...
What is the Penalty for Money Laundering in Missouri?
Money laundering is the act of concealing or trying to conceal the origin of money obtained from illegal activities. In St. Louis, MO, this type of white-collar crime carries heavy penalties under the law. If you've been accused of money laundering, it is essential to...
What are your rights if you are accused of a crime?
When someone is accused of a crime, it is important to remember that all US citizens are granted specific rights during a criminal court proceeding. These rights are outlined in the United States Constitution and are there to protect individuals throughout each stage...
Common types of police encounters
As a person living in the U.S., it's important to understand the different forms of police-citizen encounters. This way, if you ever come into contact with the police, you will be aware of what to expect and knowledgeable about your constitutional rights. Some common...
Types of white-collar crimes
A white-collar crime is a nonviolent crime often committed by government officials and corporations for financial gain. Commonly characterized by concealment, deceit, and trust violation, the motive behind this crime is to secure a personal or business advantage and...