Shortly after its development in 1985, DNA testing became a powerful defense tool. It enabled offenders to challenge criminal convictions by presenting new evidence connected to their own unique DNA. According to the National Registry of Exonerations, DNA evidence...
The appeal process allows individuals to challenge the decision of the trial court and seek a review of the case by a higher court. The option to appeal a conviction is available in almost every case. However, individuals need to make sure they have proper grounds for...
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...
A criminal conviction can often seem like a devastating result. It does not, however, need to be the end of the road. Even after a conviction, there is still a chance to fight for your innocence through criminal appeals. The process is complex, and the journey might...
When a verdict comes down, and it is not in your favor, it could feel like the end of the world. However, the legal system acknowledges that the path to justice does not end with a guilty verdict. Post-conviction relief represents an opportunity to challenge the...
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...
DNA evidence can be instrumental in exonerating individuals who have suffered wrongful convictions, especially in cases where such evidence and testing were not available at the time of the original trial. Each person has a unique DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) profile...
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...
It is essential to grasp how DNA evidence works, and its limitations. The role of DNA in criminal defense To date, there have been 375 cases where DNA evidence has been instrumental in exonerating individuals from life-changing sentences, including the death penalty....
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...