An arraignment is the defendant’s first criminal court appearance, where the judge formally reads the charges, advises of rights, and asks for a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest). It typically occurs shortly after arrest or a summons and often determines release conditions like bail and initial court dates. This article explains each step […]
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What You Need to Know About Sentencing Implications
Sentencing implications determine the penalties a court can impose after a conviction, often including jail or prison time, fines, probation, restitution, and mandatory programs. The outcome depends on factors like the offense severity, criminal history, statutory minimums or maximums, and available plea agreements. This article explains how judges calculate sentences, what aggravating or mitigating factors […]
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Understanding the Justice System – Legal Structures and Processes
The U.S. justice system is split into two parallel court systems—federal and state. Law enforcement investigates, prosecutors and defense counsel litigate, and judges and juries decide outcomes under constitutional due process. This article explains the key legal structures and processes that keep laws applied fairly and consistently. The justice system is a cornerstone of any […]
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Understanding the Ballard Motion in Civil and Criminal Law
A Ballard motion asks a court to reclassify or dismiss charges based on the evidence and applicable legal standards, potentially reducing exposure to conviction or liability. Used in both criminal and civil contexts, it targets defects such as insufficient proof, improper charging, or procedural errors. This article explains what a Ballard motion is, when to […]
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How In-Custody Defendants Should Prepare For The Pre-Sentence Probation Interview
In-custody defendants should prepare for the pre-sentence probation interview by reviewing the charges and case facts, gathering mitigating records, and coordinating closely with counsel before speaking with probation. This interview heavily influences the probation report and sentencing recommendations the judge will rely on. This article explains what probation will ask, what documents to collect, what […]
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DNA GOES TO COURT – ll
DNA has been used in law enforcement since 1985 to identify individuals through unique genetic profiles. In court, it can strongly link a suspect to evidence, but experts still dispute interpretation, lab practices, and statistical certainty. This article reviews those debates and how DNA testimony impacts criminal prosecutions. Second Of A Three-Part Series By John […]
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Kobe Bryant: What Really Happened, and Where Does It Go From Here?
Kobe Bryant was charged with sexual assault in 2003, and the criminal case was dismissed in 2004 after the accuser declined to testify. The article reviews the allegations, media coverage, and legal aftermath, including civil-settlement context. It also features Bill Bickel’s interview with Jeffrey Scott Shapiro about his book “Kobe Bryant; The Game of His […]
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Felons In The Workplace
In most states, employers can hire people with felony convictions, but many roles are limited by background-check rules and industry licensing laws. Federal and state protections may also restrict how and when employers can consider criminal records, especially for older or unrelated convictions. This article explains employer rights and duties, common job restrictions for felons, […]
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Can I get Drug Diversion For My Second Arrest?
Maybe—California drug diversion can still be available after a second arrest if you meet the statute’s eligibility rules and the court approves. Prior diversion use, disqualifying priors, or ineligible charges can bar you, and Santa Clara County practices may affect outcomes. This article explains who may qualify, common disqualifiers, and what to ask your attorney. […]
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Cooking Up Salvation
Jeffrey Henderson, 37, says he “poisoned a whole generation” while becoming one of Southern California’s youngest, wealthiest crack cocaine dealers. The article contrasts his teenage excess—cars, women, money, and Las Vegas trips—with his later life in Las Vegas. It recounts his criminal rise and personal path toward salvation. By the editorial staff of Crime, Justice […]
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It’s Time For Me To Die: An Inside Look At Death Row
Michael Ross wrote this death row account in 1998 while awaiting resentencing after his original death sentence was overturned. The piece, introduced by the late editor Bill Bickel, reflects on life and mindset under a death sentence. This article republishes that firsthand narrative and its publication context. Forward by the late Bill Bickel – former […]
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Three Strikes Get a Second Look
“Three strikes” laws impose life or near-life prison sentences after a third qualifying felony in many states, but courts and legislatures have increasingly narrowed who qualifies and how prior convictions count. Recent reforms and appellate decisions have expanded options to challenge strikes, seek resentencing, or reduce enhancements based on the nature of the offenses and […]
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