You probably already know the term bank fraud. You may not know how broad bank fraud legislation is and what the term covers. Bank fraud is an attempt to defraud a financial institution, whether against the bank itself or a consumer scammed into giving you money,...
Criminal Defense
How do judges set bail?
When law enforcement arrests a person for a crime, the person will need to get bail set by a judge to get out. The concept of bail is to provide some security the person will show up for his or her court hearing. The idea is that a person has to pay money or put up...
What is money laundering?
Money laundering is a federal white collar crime. It involves moving money in an attempt to disguise its origins. Money laundering is typically tied to other crimes. For example, drug cartels launder their money, so authorities do not know it came from drug activity....
What are the penalties for DWI in Texas?
In Texas, driving while under the influence (DWI) can lead to significant legal penalties. Fines, jail time, and loss of license are all possible if convicted. You may also experience serious reputational effects, both personally and professionally. Accordingly, you...
Nondisclosure orders versus Expunctions of a criminal record
In Texas, those accused or convicted of a crime and who have served their sentence may have the opportunity to have their records either sealed or expunged. However, it is important to know the difference between an expunction and a nondisclosure order. Therefore,...
How many drinks does it take to get drunk?
The number of alcoholic beverages you consume will have a direct impact on your level of inebriation. As you become more intoxicated, you will also experience decreased driving ability. With every alcoholic beverage you consume, your blood alcohol concentration (BAC)...
Understanding search and seizure issues during traffic stops
The Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution protects you from unreasonable search and seizure by the government. Under this Amendment, a traffic stop is considered a seizure. As long as the police officer had reasonable suspicion to pull your car over due...
The differences between a misdemeanor and a felony drug charge
Texas law can charge drug crimes as either misdemeanors or felonies. Consequences include fines, prison time and a permanent criminal record. Misdemeanors and felonies can both affect your future by ruining your ability to hold jobs, qualify for financing, find...
What happens if police catch you with someone else’s prescription?
When a doctor gives you a prescription, you may not take it all. Then, if someone you know gets sick, you may consider sharing your medication. Doing so could get that person in trouble with the police. Taking a medication that a doctor prescribed for someone else is...
What you should know about your right to remain silent
Getting arrested is a scary and stressful experience. It is human nature to want to speak up and defend yourself. However, you have the right to remain silent in accordance with Miranda law, and it is often in your best interest to invoke it. Police interrogation...