KesslerWilliams Legal Blog
What does “mitigation” mean in Federal Court?
In the federal court system, mitigation refers to the process and factors considered by the defense to potentially reduce the severity of sentencing for a defendant. When a defendant is found guilty or pleads guilty to a federal crime, the focus shifts to sentencing,...
The police want to get confessions. They may not ask you outright
Although whatever people say to the police could implicate them in criminal matters, people often feel confident about talking to officers. Many people want to cooperate with the police during an investigation, especially if they have no concerns about their...
Does intent matter when sharing prescriptions?
It is generally neither legal nor safe to share prescription medications with others. Prescription medications are prescribed by healthcare professionals for specific individuals and medical conditions. Sharing prescription medications with someone for whom they were...
Facing federal charges for downloading illicit material?
The internet has opened up a world of information and opportunities in an increasingly digital age. However, it has also brought to light complex legal issues that many individuals may not be fully aware of. One such issue involves the potential federal charges that...
Drivers: Don’t try to talk yourself out of a ticket
People who get pulled over for a traffic violation often hope to avoid any actual consequences. Certain types of people, in particular, may think that they can talk their way out of traffic tickets. For example, historically, adult white men often report being able to...
What Missouri residents should know about self-defense claims
There are different defense strategies that people can employ when they are defending against criminal charges. The kinds of strategies that will work best for each individual largely depends on the situation that led to their prosecution. Those accused of a violent...
Can I really get in trouble for a bar fight?
A night out at the bars with your friends or significant other can be a huge stress reliever – unless something goes awry and you end up in an altercation with another patron. While it’s not something you can anticipate, it is something that can easily happen whenever...
Does a failed breath test ensure a Missouri DWI conviction?
Police officers in Missouri need evidence before they can arrest someone based on accusations that they committed a driving while intoxicated (DWI) offense. Sometimes, officers will have dashboard camera footage of someone swerving all over the road. Other times, it...
What is a straw gun purchase?
One of the key components of buying a firearm is that the process has to be completed properly and legally. Not everyone is allowed to purchase a firearm. For example, someone with a felony record will be disqualified from making firearm purchases. To get around this...
2 times a police search could be illegal
Police officers have a very specific responsibility to the public. They need to be ready to intervene during a crime in progress. They also help investigate criminal activity so that they can arrest and help prosecute those who are responsible for genuine wrongdoing....
