As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, non-essential businesses have been shut down and millions of people across the U.S. have been subjected to stay-at-home orders. But while this is to increase the safety of Americans, it has actually had the opposite effect for many. In fact, due to this mandated confinement, many people who…
Can You Seal Your Criminal Record in Texas?
Dealing with the aftermath of a criminal conviction can be overwhelming. Not only must you pay any fines and do the time required of you by the court, but you are also left to deal with the impact of your conviction for the remainder of your life. From finding a new job to applying for…
When Does Domestic Violence Become a Felony?
Domestic violence – known under Texas law as Assault Family Violence – is one of the most common types of offenses. Domestic violence can either be considered a misdemeanor or a felony, which can impact your consequences. But how do we determine the classification of each incident? Domestic violence includes either physical or sexual violence…
Are Shoplifting and Petty Theft the Same Thing?
Texas, like most states, determines the classification and punishment of a theft offense, like petty theft or shoplifting, and based upon the value of what is stolen and sometimes the type of property that has been stolen. What is Petty Theft? Texas state law defines petty theft as those crimes that involve smaller amounts of…
Defining Probation in Houston
Probation is a court-ordered sanction that someone is put on when they have been. When an individual is placed on probation, he or she is still allowed to remain in the community but must report to a probation officer. It is important to note that this option is not always on the table. Some crimes…
What Is the “Law of Parties?”
If you were ever punished along with your sibling for something that they did when you were with them, then you already have a slight understanding of the Texas “law of parties.” The law of parties allows for one individual to be held criminally liable for actions committed by others. Under <, everyone who participates…
The Difference Between Criminal and Civil Cases in Texas
No matter if it is a criminal or civil case, no one wants to deal with the stressors surrounding it. However, it is important to know the differences between the two. In order to fully understand the ways in which criminal and civil cases differ in Texas, it is important to understand each on its…
Drones Prove to Be Both the Problem and Solution for Crime
The concept of drones is quite remarkable. Drones, which are remotely-controlled, unmanned aerial vehicles, have been widely available for public use for about five years. According to the Federal Aviation Administration, approximately 1.5 million drones – both commercial and recreational – have been registered in the U.S., though it does not account for those that…
Animal Cruelty May Soon Become a Federal Crime
When it comes to the treatment of animals and the law, our pets have always been looked at as property; no different than a couch or a car. However, it finally seems that they are beginning to receive more well-deserved protection as the sentient and loving beings that we know them to be. The recent…
I’ve Been Accused of Sexual Assault On My College Campus: Now What?
Unfortunately, sexual assault is one of the most common safety issues facing colleges and universities today. In fact, according to a study by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), which consisted of 5,000 college students at more than 100 colleges, 20 percent of women reported having been forced to submit to non-consensual sexual intercourse. Since…
