Your smartphone holds a wealth of personal information. But what happens when you're pulled over in Missouri? Can the police search your phone during a traffic stop? Let's dive into the limits of these searches and your rights. The Fourth Amendment and your phone The...
Empower Yourself, Know Your Rights
Criminal Defense
Can joyriding land you in prison?
Joyriding, the act of taking a vehicle without the owner's consent, is a criminal offense in the US. Despite the thrill it may offer, it can lead to severe legal repercussions. What makes joyriding a crime? Joyriding becomes a crime the instant an individual takes a...
Drinking in a parked car can still lead to a DUI charge
It's common knowledge that drinking and driving is against the law. No person who drives after drinking expects to get away with it. This is because the risk of getting into an accident or injuring another person is so great that the law unequivocally discourages this...
Is assault always a felony in Missouri?
Assault is a serious criminal offense, and the consequences differ depending on the situation. Sometimes, it may be a minor misdemeanor, while other circumstances could lead to a felony charge. But what exactly makes assault go from a misdemeanor to a felony in...
Motor vehicle theft and why it’s a more severe crime
Theft is a criminal offense, with the penalties dependent on the value of the items or money stolen. But what happens if the item stolen was a motor vehicle, like a car or truck? In Missouri, motor vehicle theft is a graver offense than simple theft of possessions....
Catalytic converter theft – an offense more serious than regular theft
There’s more to car theft than just stealing the vehicles or any possessions left inside an automobile. Some individuals may instead target the vehicle's parts, such as its catalytic converter. Stealing a motor vehicle’s catalytic converter in Missouri is a serious...
The risks of too good to be true online deals
Finding low-priced designer goods, gadgets and other high-ticket items on online marketplaces is enough to make you double-take. The thought of snagging such a steal can be irresistible, but making the purchase could have consequences. For some time now, goods stolen...
Missouri assault: From felony to misdemeanor, know your risk
Facing assault charges is incredibly daunting, especially given the complex legal landscape in Missouri. Navigating your trip through the justice system is best done with experienced representation. At the same time, having a basic grasp of the different degrees of...
Is it illegal to give the police a false name?
Law enforcement encounters can be tense and confusing, leading individuals to make decisions they may later question. One such decision is providing the police with a false name. When you’re being questioned by law enforcement, giving them a fake name instead of your...
Do you have to open the door for the police?
Going to answer a knock on your door only to see the police outside can put you in a difficult situation. Do you have to open it to them, or can you just pretend you are not home? The answer is that it depends. If the police have a search warrant or arrest warrant If...