One of the most important things to know in criminal law is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor. It is important to know the difference for many reasons, but especially because of the severity of the punishment associated with one versus the other. Not...
You might think that breaking the law only gets you in trouble with local police, but did you know that some crimes can land you in big trouble with the federal government? Yep, it's true! And knowing about these crimes is crucial because they can really mess up your...
When it comes to criminal justice, understanding the basics of search and seizure law is essential. Search and seizure laws safeguard personal privacy, while still enabling law enforcement to gather evidence. These rules, based on the Fourth Amendment of the U.S....
Different types of financial crimes can result in different social consequences. For example, widespread financial fraud can serve as a deterrent to those who would otherwise consider investing in businesses. Embezzlement can harm individual businesses by putting them...
Many people have a certain idea in mind when they think about computer hacking. They likely think of how it looks in the movies, with someone running sophisticated software to break through passwords and firewalls. They know that this is illegal because that person is...
If you are either at risk of being convicted of criminal wrongdoing or have already been sentenced to a term of incarceration, you may be wondering how best to protect your interests – and your loved ones – if/when you spend time in jail. What will happen to...
Housing is a fundamental need for individuals and families alike. However, for those with a felony conviction on their record, finding suitable housing can be an arduous task. The impact of a felony conviction extends beyond the criminal justice system, often...
Massachusetts requires professional licensing for a number of different careers. Those working in certain medical professions, real estate jobs, commercial transportation and even architecture have to fulfill minimum educational requirements, undergo a background...
The First Step Act, passed in December 2018, stands as a landmark legislation in the U.S. criminal justice system, as it aims to rectify many longstanding issues associated with excessive sentencing and prison overcrowding. This bipartisan act represents a significant...
The validity of unanimous jury verdicts entered the public sphere when the United States Supreme Court issued Ramos vs. Louisiana. The 2020 ruling struck down the retroactive status, representing a landmark decision mandating unanimous jury verdicts to convict...