A traffic stop can turn serious fast when an officer starts asking about drugs, bags, pills or “anything illegal” in the car. Many people do not know where the line is between a valid stop and an unlawful search. Police do have some power to search vehicles, but that...
In Massachusetts, driving under the influence (DUI) is also known as operating under the influence (OUI). This serious crime arises when someone operates a vehicle while they are under the influence of drugs, alcohol or both. If you have been arrested for DUI in the...
Have you ever felt the weight of your past holding you back from new opportunities? Many people with previous convictions often face significant challenges when applying for housing, jobs or loans. Routine background checks often reveal your criminal history which...
In Massachusetts, law enforcement must follow strict rules when seeking and executing a search warrant. If they fail to do so, the warrant may be ruled invalid, and any evidence found could be excluded in court. Below are some key situations where a search warrant...
Entrapment is a common issue in drug cases involving undercover officers or confidential informants. If law enforcement persuaded someone to commit a drug offense they otherwise would not have committed, that person might claim entrapment. But the legal...
After criminal charges are filed against you, the prosecution is going to present their position as if they have failproof evidence that’s sure to secure a conviction. While they might have a strong case in many instances, sometimes this simply isn’t true. And given...
If you want to challenge the prosecution’s case, then you’re bound to head to trial unless you can demonstrate that the state’s case is so weak that it needs to be dismissed beforehand. And going to trial can be nerve-wracking. Unless you ask for a bench trial, your...
Failed field sobriety tests often provide Massachusetts police officers with probable cause to arrest you for DUI. However, the prosecution must still prove the DUI charge beyond a reasonable doubt. The results of some field sobriety tests can be used in court, but if...
To put it lightly, being hit with criminal charges can be stressful. You might find yourself worrying about what a conviction could mean for your freedom and your future, which may drive you to seek quick resolution that spares you from the harshest penalties...
Learning that you have been accused of domestic violence and had a restraining order entered against you can be devastating. Being labeled an abuser can have major consequences for many areas of your life, including your career, education and personal relationships....
