Paving The Way To Justice
In most cases, prosecutors classify crimes as a felony or misdemeanor. However, there are certain types of offenses that can be charged as either a felony or misdemeanor, depending on the circumstances of the crime. These are wobbler offenses, also known as...
As tourists soak up the sun on Waikiki Beach, a different kind of heat simmers in Hawaii's federal courtrooms. The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) casts a long shadow over the Aloha State's legal landscape. This powerful federal law,...
Embezzlement is a serious crime that involves the misappropriation or illegal taking of property by someone in a position of trust or responsibility over those assets. However, a person accused of embezzling is not immediately guilty, even with evidence stacked...
Imagine a conviction that relies solely on the testimony of one eyewitness. Now, picture that witness later admitting that their initial statement was false. Though this may seem unlikely, such situations can lead to many post-conviction appeals. While these cases are...
Picture this: It is a typical workday when suddenly, federal agents storm your office. They are seizing computers, files and phones. In the world of white-collar crime investigations, this scenario is all too real. But did you know that how evidence is collected can...
When facing fraud charges, you should understand that the concept of restitution can be crucial in determining the outcome of your case. In Hawaii, restitution is a critical aspect of fraud cases, and knowing how it can impact your sentencing and plea deals is...
Eyewitness accounts often play a big role in criminal trials. However, studies show that human memory can be flawed and easily influenced. Factors such as stress, the presence of weapons or cross-racial identification can affect how accurate these accounts are. In...
If you've been convicted of a crime, you know how the conviction can affect every aspect of your life - from getting a job to renting an apartment and even applying for a loan. But what if you could erase that criminal record and get another chance to have a clean...
Money laundering is a complex crime involving the disguise of illegal money sources. You might associate it with large criminal operations, but it is more nuanced than that. Hawaii relies on both state and federal laws to counteract money laundering. Knowing which...
A criminal conviction does not necessarily mean the end of the road. Individuals sentenced for felony crimes in Hawaii may have a chance to challenge their verdict by seeking post-conviction relief. However, it is crucial to understand that time is of the essence when...