The evidence locker at your local police department holds more than just old files and fingerprints. Police and forensic labs are retesting decades-old crime scene DNA samples using modern techniques, which can lead to new prosecutions. Chances are, your genetic...
The way that the criminal justice system is designed is to avoid false convictions. This is why the standard of proof in a criminal case is so high, requiring that guilt be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. The idea here is that some guilty people may go free because...
We’re starting to see a lot more criminal cases prosecuted, at least in part, due to evidence based on defendants’ alleged fleeting contact with an item or person. Known as “touch-transfer DNA” (or “touch DNA”), forensic investigators claim that this evidence can...
People facing criminal charges are naturally anxious about the future. They worry about taking the case to trial and the attention that might attract. They may worry about the potential penalties that the courts could impose and the consequences of having a lifetime...
There are a variety of different circumstances that could lead to allegations of embezzlement. Some people face accusations because there appear to be intercepted payments or funds missing from a corporate bank account. Other times, inappropriate use of company...
Law enforcement officers do not possess unlimited authority to search individuals or their property. The Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. But what qualifies as an illegal search under the law? Understanding...
In criminal proceedings, evidence must stand up to scrutiny. When DNA evidence is less conclusive than claimed and the data is challenged, there may be a chance for a case dismissal. What factors does a judge consider when evaluating the strength and admissibility of...
Plea bargains play a significant role in the criminal justice system. They allow defendants to resolve their cases without going to trial. Plea bargains help reduce court backlogs while providing defendants with more predictable outcomes. Types of plea bargains Plea...
If you start noticing signs that you may be under investigation, such as unexpected visits from law enforcement, increased surveillance or unexpected interrogations or interviews from the police, it is important to act carefully. Your next steps can have a significant...
Even the slightest nuance can have a profound impact when the consequences are severe and your liberty is at risk. DNA evidence has become an essential tool in criminal investigations, helping to exonerate the innocent and convict the guilty. What types of DNA...