Social media has revolutionized the way investigators collect evidence when appealing criminal cases. This platform now serves as a rich repository of personal interactions, opinions and even real-time activities, which can impact legal proceedings. As people continue...
Sex offenses are heinous crimes that leave lasting scars on victims. However, in cases with limited evidence, the pursuit of justice can lead to wrongful convictions. In Maryland, DNA testing has emerged as a powerful tool for exonerating the wrongly accused in sex...
In a criminal case, the process begins when police officers suspect a crime has been committed. They initiate an investigation, gather evidence at the scene and may arrest the defendant. Following the arrest, the defendant goes through the booking process, during...
You’re about to face a criminal trial and you’ve already secured legal representation. Now, it’s time to focus on preparation. This crucial phase might feel overwhelming, but taking the right steps can help you navigate the process more effectively. Here are three...
While it is true that accepting payments from drug companies can lead to legal scrutiny, not every instance is a crime. It is crucial for you to understand that the law does permit certain types of financial relationships under clearly defined conditions. The law...
In the complex world of the legal system, pretrial motions play a big role in deciding how a criminal case turns out. These are official requests made by the prosecutor or defendant before the trial begins. Understanding pretrial motions Pretrial motions are formal...
The U.S. government enforces strict rules against “crimes of moral turpitude” (CMTs). These crimes typically involve fraud, theft or the intent to harm people or property. They come with severe penalties and can often result in deportation. One of the often overlooked...
DNA evidence can be helpful in solving crimes and freeing the innocent. However, collecting and analyzing DNA evidence can also raise privacy concerns. To protect your privacy, law enforcement agencies need to get your permission before collecting your DNA sample. But...
The criminal justice system has sent innocent people behind bars. One man in particular, John Huffington, received two convictions for two murders he did not commit. The prosecutors of his case relied on expert testimony based on a scientifically unreliable analysis....
Trace DNA, often referred to as touch DNA, consists of minuscule amounts of genetic material left behind through contact. This can occur when a person briefly touches a surface, handles an object or sheds skin cells. Despite its near-invisibility, advanced forensic...