Category: Criminal Defense

Understandably, many teenagers are drawn to the idea of going viral—gaining instant attention through posts, videos or online stunts. For some, the drive to impress peers or build an online following can lead to poor choices, including behavior that crosses legal boundaries. When that happens, parents may find themselves facing a confusing and stressful situation: their child is now dealing with the criminal justice system. Many viral challenges and pranks that appear harmless on the surface can result in serious consequences. Acts like trespassing, vandalism, shoplifting or assault—especially if recorded and shared online—may lead to criminal charges. What may have started as a joke or a dare among friends can be

Many bad decisions begin with mind-altering substances. People out drinking after a long week at work might leave their boss an inappropriate voicemail or start a fight with their spouse. Individuals under the influence of drugs or fearing withdrawal symptoms might commit crimes to ensure they have continued access to their particular drug of choice. Many arrests take place while individuals are still under the influence of drugs or alcohol. When they sober up, they may insist that they never behave that way while sober. Chemical impairment can have a profound impact on people’s overall behavior and their decision-making. Can those accused of crimes committed while under the influence of

Property crimes are among the most common offenses committed in Montana. Some people, like teenagers, may engage in compulsive property crimes such as shoplifting. They may do it for the thrill of the experience or just to see if they can. Other times, people may steal property out of desperation. Unemployment and substance abuse disorders may increase the likelihood of individuals turning to theft because they cannot support themselves and their families. Many people recognize that certain types of theft are more serious than others. Obviously, armed robberies and burglaries are scenarios that might warrant harsh charges because they endanger other people. Are forms of theft like shoplifting that don’t

When it comes to law enforcement, utilizing police dogs, or K9 units, can add an extra layer of capability and efficiency. One of the scenarios where these highly trained canines may prove invaluable is during traffic stops. Police dogs undergo rigorous training programs to develop specific skills essential for law enforcement. Basic obedience, agility and scent detection are fundamental concerns due to the ways in which they’re used to support law enforcement units. The legal framework governing K9 unit deployment A key attribute of police dogs is their exceptional sense of smell. This skill is honed through specialized training to detect various substances, including drugs and explosives. During a traffic

In the world of legal rights, few things ring as familiar as the phrase, “You have the right to remain silent.” This line, often heard in movies and TV shows, is a crucial part of the Fifth Amendment rights of U.S. citizens. The Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution provides a range of legal protections for individuals against abuse of government authority in a legal process. One of the most significant aspects of this amendment is the protection against self-incrimination, which lead to the famous Miranda rights. The origins of Miranda rights Miranda rights stem from a landmark 1966 Supreme Court case, Miranda v. Arizona. In this case, the Court held that detained

Facing criminal charges for driving under the influence (DUI) is serious. Officials will likely approach you after an arrest and offer a plea deal. This may seem like a great idea. You may think, “If I just accept this deal, it will all go away, and I can move on with my life.” This is a dangerous thought. These officials do not have your best interests in mind. You must advocate for your rights. The first step is to realize that the quick answer, taking the deal, is generally not the best in the long run. Instead, it is often best to put time and effort into the early stages