Criminal Defense

There are certain areas that tend to report higher rates of crime than others for various reasons. It is important for community members to be aware of these statistics so that they can take appropriate precautions and make informed decisions about their personal...

During an encounter with police officers, people are often anxious about what might happen next. Many people want to prevent the situation from escalating into an arrest. They try to be as cooperative as possible with officers. In some cases, officers might engage in...

People need to know their rights to make use of them. There are several important rights that protect people during encounters with law enforcement. After an arrest, individuals may want to make use of their Miranda rights. They have the right to remain silent and...

When facing criminal charges, many people focus solely on the risk of incurring penalties handed down by the courts, such as jail time, probation and fines. However, the impact of a conviction often extends far beyond the courtroom.  Extended consequences, known as...

Imagine the adrenaline rush when you see flashing lights in your rearview mirror. The anxiety can cloud your judgment, leading you to make hasty decisions like giving a false name. You are not sure why you did it, but it happened. And you ask yourself why you resorted...

Facing felony charges in Missouri can turn your world upside down. One of the first hurdles you'll encounter is the bail process. This guide explains what you must know about bail for felony charges in the Show-Me State.   What is bail?   Bail is a financial agreement...

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...

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...

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...

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...