By Richelle Cioco | Published July 20, 2024 | Posted in Criminal Defense | Tagged Tags: Castle Doctrine, homicide, Violent Crimes | Comments Off on How Texas’s “Castle Doctrine” and “Stand Your Ground” Law Justify Use of Force
In Texas as in other states, the law recognizes circumstances in which the use of force and even deadly force may be justified. The terms “castle doctrine” and “stand your ground” are often treated interchangeably in casual parlance. However, they have different meanings and apply in different situations. Their similarity is that they can be Read More
Read MoreThe recent trial and conviction of former president Donald Trump in New York has directed national attention to the white-collar crime of falsification of business records. The high-profile case underscores the critical importance of prosecutors proving intent to defraud or harm as a pivotal element in securing a conviction. It also points out the need Read More
Read MoreShoplifting, often considered a minor offense, can have serious consequences in Texas. Understanding how Texas law defines and penalizes shoplifting can help you avoid a criminal record and its lasting repercussions. Texas law punishes shoplifting as a type of theft, based on the value of the stolen property. The offense classifications and penalties range as Read More
Read MoreTexas motorists, like all Americans, have certain protections against unreasonable searches and seizures of their vehicles. These rights stem from the Fourth Amendment of the United States Constitution, and Texas law enforcement must adhere to federal law. The core principle of the Fourth Amendment is that police cannot search your vehicle without probable cause, which Read More
Read MoreTitle IX is a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex at educational institutions receiving federal funds. But the law goes beyond institutional practices. It also forbids students, faculty and staff from engaging in harmful conduct based on gender, including harassment, assault and interpersonal violence. Alleged violations of Title IX Read More
Read MoreIn Texas, intoxication manslaughter means causing death of another person by reason of being intoxicated while operating a motor vehicle in a public place. It also applies to operating an aircraft, watercraft or amusement ride while intoxicated and causing death as a result. In essence, this is the most extreme instance of driving while intoxicated Read More
Read MoreDrug trafficking is a serious federal offense that encompasses the illegal manufacturing, distribution or importation of controlled substances. Also known as drug distribution, these acts pose significant threats to public health and safety, which is why they carry stiff penalties. Anyone charged with such a crime needs to bolster the strongest defense possible. Federal law Read More
Read MoreDomestic assault, also known as family violence, is a serious offense in Texas and one that is given high priority among prosecutors. The priority given to victims’ rights and protections can put a person accused of domestic violence at a significant disadvantage. Nevertheless, there are often effective defenses that can be raised. Generally, domestic assault Read More
Read MoreThe American legal system operates in a dual court structure, with both state and federal courts handling criminal cases. While these systems share core functions, they differ in several fundamental ways, relating to the nature of the crime, potential consequences and investigative processes. State crimes violate the laws established by individual states and are prosecuted Read More
Read MoreIn the age of smartphones and social media, “sexting” has become popular among teens and even some adults. While the name derives from texting, it actually involves sending, receiving or forwarding sexually suggestive or explicit pictures or videos. While teens may view sexting as a harmless way of flirting or expressing intimacy, it can have Read More
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