Massachusetts remains one of the puritanical states in the nation, even in these modern times. While many cities in the state have specific ordinances that govern what is and is not allowed in terms of alcohol, there exist many state laws that residents or visitors may unknowingly break. Violating any one of these laws may lead to unexpected criminal charges.
Criminal defense: What are the advantages of taking a plea deal?
In some criminal cases, the prosecution offers defendants a way to reduce the charges they face. This is called plea bargaining, and many defendants choose this as a way to minimize their sentences. Criminal defense attorneys may or may not encourage their clients to accept a plea bargain, but ultimately, it is up to the defendant.
Make sure your rights remain protected upon an arrest
Even relatively minor criminal convictions have a way of haunting your life long after you have fulfilled any sentence handed down by a court. Examples include first-time drunk driving convictions and convictions for simple possession of substances like marijuana. Along with gaining a criminal record and possibly losing your freedom, you may also suffer basic rights' violations in some arrest situations.
Your conduct after an arrest could help or hurt your case
Regardless of the charges you face, it is important to remain on your best behavior following an arrest. We know how tempting it is to lash out at the officers arresting you, especially if you are innocent. However, giving in to extreme emotion is nearly always a terrible idea. In truth, doing so may hurt your chances of developing a solid criminal defense in the long run.
Man breaks into house, cleans up, gets arrested
In a rather odd incident recently out of Massachusetts, a man allegedly broke into a home and then was arrested by the police while he was apparently trying to clean the place up.
Do you really just get 1 phone call from jail?
You see it all the time on television: Someone gets arrested and told that they can have only one phone call. They may even demand it, saying it's a basic right. The police resentfully allow them that call, as if this right is somewhere in the Constitution -- even though it was drafted before phones were invented.
Doing time does not mean a conviction stops impacting your life
When facing criminal accusations, you may find yourself focusing only on the legal consequences of a conviction. These could include fines and jail time. This naturally leads you to assume that, when you have done your time, the conviction will cease to be a part of your life.
How do I defend against charges of driving drunk?
Drunk driving is a problem all across the country. Law enforcement personnel do all they can to curb this problem but as long as people make mistakes, the longer this problem will affect millions of people. Should you ever find yourself in a drunk driving checkpoint or arrested due to impairment, you will want to do everything possible to fight the charges. So, how do you defend charges of drunk driving?
Can my criminal charges be dropped with a diversion program?
Have you been charged with a crime in Franklin, Massachusetts? This is a stressful, overwhelming situation. If this is your first criminal charge, you likely have no idea what to expect. One option that might be helpful is entering into a diversion program. There are programs for drug charges, driving under the influence and various other criminal charges.
Why shouldn't I represent myself in court?
Being charged with a crime in Franklin, Massachusetts, is just the beginning of a very long battle. Criminal charges come with varying penalties, including fines and prison time, which is why you should never represent yourself in court. Let's take a look at the myriad of reasons why representing yourself in court is never a good idea so you don't make the mistake many have made in the past.
