For you to count on a fair legal system, judges, jurors and lawyers must be able to handle their duties without undue bias. If any of these participants have a personal stake in your case that could call their objectivity into question, their service might be an...
In instances where you feel you have been wrongfully convicted of a crime, you can ask for post-conviction relief. These examine all factual and legal claims related to your case and take precedence over other court-related processes. Here is what you need to know...
Regarding theft crimes in Washington D.C., specific actions can fall under either a violent crime or a property crime. In general usage, people use the terms robbery and burglary interchangeably. In the courts, though, these words have more specific meanings and come...
Many people behind bars in Maryland and other parts of the country are there because someone said they saw them commit particular offenses. Many people believe eyewitness testimony is one of the most compelling and convincing types of evidence in a court case....
Facing false accusations in a courtroom can put your confidence into a tailspin. You may feel hopeless about your future and the likelihood of restoring your image. Even though you know that you are not guilty, proving your innocence to others often requires a lot of...
When you receive a sentence for a criminal conviction, there is the possibility that you will become incarcerated. Where you spend your time behind bars depends on a few factors. The National Institute of Justice explains you could either go to jail or prison. They...
After you receive your sentence for a criminal conviction, you may have the right to appeal your case to a higher court. An appeal allows you to ask the other court to review your case for accuracy. On appeal, you may receive the chance of a new trial. It is important...
Trace DNA uses STR analysis to identify skin cells or other tiny specimens of human genetic material left behind at a crime scene. In court, defense teams can protect clients against life-changing charges by pinpointing whose DNA was at the scene. The scientific...
Incarceration can leave a permanent impression on your life. During your time away, you might lose friendships, miss out on educational opportunities and have to put your career on hold. Finding support after your release can facilitate your reentry into society. With...
After your arrest, you might face pressure from a number of people to behave a certain way or say specific things. Complying with everyone's wishes or even casually discussing your situation could jeopardize your safety, however. Confessing because you feel like you...