An arrest is traumatic for most people. You may wonder what will happen next. After police take you into custody, you will face a series of steps before your case goes to trial in Iowa. You may find some comfort in knowing what those steps are. Initial...
Month: December 2018
3 things you need to know about federal investigations
In the United States, far more people go to prison for state crimes than federal offenses, but federal charges are just as serious, if not more so. If you suspect you may be charged with a federal crime, here are a few things you need to know.1. What counts as a...
Federal First Step Act would reduce crack sentencing disparity
It appears that the First Step Act, a criminal justice reform bill backed by bipartisan groups and supported by the President, may yet come up for a vote this year. The bill proposes changes in federal criminal sentencing and promises some reforms in the prison...
Supreme Court may rule some forfeitures are ‘excessive fines’
The use of civil forfeitures has been called "policing for profit." The civil forfeiture process usually begins when someone is charged with a crime, either at the state or federal level. At that point, police and prosecutors may find that some of the defendant's...
Do you know when to remain silent?
You have probably heard of someone being read their Miranda Rights or "pleading the fifth" when arrested. However, people often misunderstand their right to remain silent and their misunderstanding can hurt their case. Is silence golden?It is commonly believed that...
