When accused or suspected of a crime, it is especially important for a Texas adult to know his or her rights. This includes the right to remain silent when questioned by police. One’s Fifth Amendment rights, often referred to as Miranda Rights, apply when someone is...
Criminal Defense
A defendant’s rights during questioning
Part of the criminal justice process is the investigation, during which Texas police may ask a suspect certain questions about his or her role in the alleged crime. Even if suspected of a crime, a person still has rights during questioning in police custody. It is...
Should I allow police to search my car or home?
You may be just hanging out at home on a Saturday afternoon watching TV. Then, you hear a loud knock at the door. It’s the police and they want to search your home because they received a tip you may be dealing meth. Or, police pull you over because you’re speeding on...
Mail theft is a federal crime
Federal crimes are, quite often, much more serious -- and punished more harshly -- than state-level offenses. Mail theft, for example, is a federal crime that can carry significant consequences. The following is an overview of how mail theft is defined under federal...
Defending against allegations of computer crimes
Even if they seem relatively harmless, certain activities on a computer could result in serious criminal charges. Cyber crime is a term used to describe a wide variety of activities that violate state or federal laws. Computers may be employed in a variety of offenses...
You might be surprised by the definition of domestic violence
When most people think about domestic violence, physical fights, black eyes, and bruises usually come to mind. It's common for many people to believe that domestic violence is only physical and that if a person does not have physical injuries, they have not suffered...
What’s the difference between federal and state courts?
In the United States, there are two types of courts: state courts and federal courts. If you are accused of a crime and you need to defend yourself, you will need to appear in one of these courts. In most cases, a defendant will be tried in state court, especially if...
Giving a good reason for your probation violation
If you are currently on probation, you're probably thankful that you've been able to avoid jail time, but you'll also be frustrated by the number of rules and restrictions by which you have to abide. You may feel as though you are in limbo and that you are unable to...
Is your smart phone safe from police intrusion?
If you’re like most people, details of your entire life can be found on your smartphone. In addition to the pictures you take and texts/emails you send, anyone with access to your phone might also be able to access your banking information, who you’ve been in contact...
Computer crimes can carry serious consequences
The term "computer crimes" is used to describe a very wide range of different crimes. Some computer crimes may be considered relatively minor, while other crimes are treated very seriously. Many carry felony charges that can result in long years in jail following a...
