If you receive a subpoena, you likely feel overwhelmed and have many questions. By understanding the basics, you can help ease your concerns and prevent any legal repercussions. 1. What is a subpoena? A subpoena is a legal document that commands you to appear in court...
Criminal Defense
Is expungement an option in Louisiana?
In the state of Louisiana, individuals who have criminal charges may have the opportunity to clear their records through a process known as expungement. Expungement allows a person to erase their criminal history from public view, offering a fresh start and a chance...
What are assault charges?
Navigating the legal system can sometimes feel daunting, especially when it comes to understanding different charges and what they mean. In Louisiana, the law classifies assault based on the severity of the act and the intention behind it. Assault does not necessarily...
Are there long-term effects if you are overcharged?
Overcharging is a method used by certain prosecutors in which the defendant receives multiple criminal charges beyond what the police arrested them for. The goal of overcharging is often to pressure the defendant into accepting a plea bargain. Not only can it feel...
Reasons to refuse a plea bargain
At some point when you face criminal charges, the prosecution may approach your attorney with an offer for a plea deal. Your attorney has a legal obligation to bring that offer to you for consideration. Before you decide whether to accept the deal, there are important...
Working To Minimize Over-Incarceration in Louisiana
With 564 prisoners per 100,000 people, Louisiana has one of the highest incarceration rates in the United States. At least 86,000 people go to jail in Louisiana each year. This over-incarceration problem has serious effects on the state's families and communities....
Can Louisiana drug court keep you out of jail?
In the state of Louisiana, drug courts serve as an alternative to incarceration for individuals with substance abuse issues. These courts aim to provide treatment and rehabilitation rather than punishment. Participating in a drug court program could indeed keep you...
Why are your Miranda rights important?
When an officer asks you to participate in an interrogation, you should always keep your Miranda rights in mind. It is important to understand not only the Miranda rights, but also why you should utilize them and what purpose they serve. What are your Miranda rights?...
Understanding why the police might overcharge you
In the realm of criminal justice, charges serve as a formal accusation that a person has committed a crime. However, there are instances where law enforcement may levy more serious charges than the circumstances seem to warrant. This phenomenon, often referred to as...
What you should know about grand juries
Individuals who are unfamiliar with the criminal process may not know the difference between a trial jury and a grand jury. These two juries play very different roles and occur at different times during criminal procedures. Therefore, these are some things to know...