The Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects your privacy. It is because of this Amendment that Missouri police must obtain a warrant before searching your vehicle, home, property or person. While there are times when the court may waive that requirement, in most cases, a warrantless search is a civil rights violation. If an […]
Missouri stiffens penalties for fentanyl possession Contention is rising between U.S. policymakers regarding a particular issue in the criminal justice system. It is well known that there is an opioid crisis in Missouri and throughout the country. Many believe that increased penalties for fentanyl possession will worsen the crisis and prevent people in need of […]
You’re driving along a Missouri roadway when you come upon a section of road where traffic is coming to a stop. You see police lights, multiple patrol vehicles and numerous police officers approaching various drivers. You realize then that it’s a DWI checkpoint — essentially, a police roadblock. You wonder if it’s even legal and […]
In 1931, the “Drunkometer” became the first roadside breath-testing device. Developed by Rolla Neil Harger of the Indiana University School of Medicine. Manufactured and sold by the Stephenson Corporation, the machine had motorists suspected of drunk driving blow into a balloon inside the machine. From there, it pumps through a solution. If alcohol was detected, […]
Being charged with drunk driving in Missouri is a serious offense. It can result in the suspension or permanent revocation of your license. There may also be fines that can seriously impact your ability to meet your other needs, along with the possibility of jail time and criminal convictions. However, there are legitimate means to […]
Lying to a federal law enforcement officer is a serious offense in Missouri with potentially severe consequences. It is a federal crime to make false statements or provide false information to any federal law enforcement officer, including agents of the FBI, DEA, ATF and Secret Service. The penalties for lying to a federal law enforcement […]
As a small business owner in Missouri, you’re already aware that small businesses are particularly vulnerable to fraud. Smaller businesses may lack the resources and infrastructure to detect and prevent it. Fraud is a deliberate deception or misrepresentation that results in financial loss and can take many forms. Employees committing fraud One common […]
You may assume that a DUI charge relates to driving while under the influence of alcohol. However, you can be charged with DUI while driving under the influence of any substance that may impair your ability to operate a motor vehicle safely. If Missouri authorities believe that you are impaired by a controlled substance, you […]
Missourians recently voted to legalize the recreational use of marijuana by passing an amendment to the Missouri Constitution. What does this mean for you or your friends? When you can roll The amendment takes effect on December 8, 2022, but you won’t be able to legally purchase marijuana from a licensed dispensary until February 6, […]
The criminal justice system is a cold, lonely place. Once you’re arrested, you’re just another name on a docket sheet, waiting to be processed. You can try to explain yourself to the prosecutor or the judge, but they’ve heard this story before. You’ve heard the phrase “innocent until proven guilty,” but it sure doesn’t feel […]