In criminal law, if you feel the officers pushed you to commit a crime, you could have a defense called entrapment. According to the Department of Justice, the theory behind entrapment is that officers cannot implant a criminal idea in an innocent person's head or...
Paving The Way To Justice
Criminal Law
Understanding the personal restraint petition
If you face a conviction for a crime, this does not necessarily mean that you have run out of options. There is an appeal process that you may decide to pursue, depending on your case. A personal restraint petition is one of the legal options you may have if you can...
What should you know about Washington’s first-degree murder law?
If you find yourself accused of having committed first-degree murder in Washington, this is a truly serious situation. FindLaw explains that, if convicted of this most serious of homicide crimes, you could face a maximum penalty of life in prison without the...
Understanding collateral attack and habeas corpus
When convicted of a serious crime in the State of Washington, defendants have the right to petition for post-conviction relief. Usually, this takes the form of a direct appeal. Other forms exist, however. Section 10.73.090 of the Revised Code of Washington authorizes...
How may ineffective counsel lead to an appeal?
Defendants who entered a guilty plea as part of an agreement with a federal prosecutor may appeal their sentencing. Even if the court included a sentencing appeal waiver, the Department of Justice’s website notes that you may challenge it based on ineffective legal...
Looking at statistics on tax fraud
Whether you are currently facing allegations of tax fraud or you worry about the possibility of such a case arising in the future, it is important to realize the potential penalties associated with tax fraud. In addition, reviewing statistics on this offense can...
Could embezzlement classify as a felony in Washington State?
The Revised Code of Washington State considers theft-related actions as larceny or embezzlement. Larceny generally describes most thefts of assets or services. Embezzlement, however, requires taking money or property by breaching a position of trust. As noted on the...
Is it impossible to find a job after serving time?
Adjustment to life after prison can feel intimidating. You may find yourself wondering if you will ever feel comfortable or if you will ever recover from the actions of your past. Getting yourself a job is an excellent way to feel productive and regain some control of...
White-collar crime and your loss of credibility
Criminal conduct in the workplace can destroy your reputation and replace your credibility with distrust. Even in situations of false allegations or exaggerated claims, others' views of you may permanently change. Allowing your situation to take control may jeopardize...
Drug offenders can now keep their federal financial aid
Obtaining a four-year degree is one of the more effective ways to succeed as a professional. Graduating from a college or university is also likely to increase your future earning potential. In fact, according to the Brookings Institute, the median lifetime income for...