Jul 13
If you asked, just about any first-year law student or police academy newbie could quickly tell you which season is typically the most crime-heavy: Summer. How do we know about summer crime? It's simple—there's data. read more
May 26
When an officer of the law is slapping cuffs on your wrist or peppering you with questions at a police department, it can be extremely frightening. It's a good idea to know exactly what you're entitled to do under the law to protect yourself. That means understanding your constitutional right to stay quiet and using it when the time comes. If you've been accused of a crime—even if you've just been stopped by a traffic cop!—do yourself (and your attorney) a favor and follow these steps: read more
Mar 23
When a person shows clear signs of substance abuse issues, prison can be the worst possible place for them. Instead, a judge may choose an alternate sentence, like work release or another type of diversion. Ankle monitors, in addition to being a fairly common plot device in television and films, are also a possible avenue. However, their representation in the media is, unsurprisingly, not always 100% accurate. read more
Dec 10
If you're stopped by police during the season's increased holiday safety patrols, it's in your best interest to be polite to the officer, be cooperative, and say as little as possible to avoid self-incrimination. These are basic, but they're good to remember should be situation arise. Another good tip? Don't snort cocaine during a traffic stop. read more
Sep 22
Washington state's decriminalization of marijuana didn't decriminalize driving under the influence. If you're stopped for a suspected marijuana DUI, it's important to know your rights -- and your options. read more
