Not every Indiana resident or visitor is familiar with state laws regarding traffic stops. While some drivers and passengers understand fundamental constitutional rights, such as the right to remain silent, others do not. And then there are those entirely unfamiliar...
How does “mens rea” affect criminal cases?
A defendant's intentions may factor into how the Indiana justice system prosecutes the crime. In some instances, the defendant's mindset and mental state could establish that no criminal violation occurred, but the person may face a civil complaint. "Mens rea" might...
Are deceptive interrogation practices legal?
Lying to the police could get an innocent person in trouble. Ironically, if the police lie to a suspect, the suspect could face decades in jail while the officers face no sanctions. Deceptive practices sometimes lead to the police securing confessions in Indiana...
Why should you take advantage of your right to remain silent?
If you are arrested in Indiana, you may not know what to do. The police will certainly want to interrogate you once you are brought to the police station. However, you have the right to remain silent, and you should take full advantage of that right. It's important to...
Drug dogs aren’t always accurate
Authorities in Indiana and around the country often use dogs as a tool to find evidence of drugs in a vehicle. In the event that a drug dog alerts an officer to the presence of a controlled substance, that officer generally has probable cause to search your vehicle....
How can you fix a damaged reputation?
Committing a criminal act may impact your life in numerous ways including the loss of your reputation. Even after you have honored the legal consequences of your sentence, you may find that others still show hesitation about trusting you. Fixing your reputation and...
Drug court may result in dismissed charges
As more people come to understand addiction, the justice system has adapted, turning away from strictly punitive measures and dealing with the underlying issues instead. One of the outcomes of this approach is drug court. The National Drug Court Resource Center...
Can I expunge my criminal record?
Having a criminal record could hinder you in many ways. It may make it more difficult to get a job or limit what types of housing you can get. It also comes with a stigma that can haunt you. According to Indy.gov, you may be able to expunge your criminal record or...
What is the “right to an attorney” really mean?
One of the rights law enforcement officers alert you to upon arrest is the right to an attorney. You may wonder how this works and why you have this right. The right to an attorney comes from the Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. Basic details The...
How much can an Indiana OWI raise your insurance rates?
An Indiana conviction for operating while intoxicated has the potential to change your life in many ways. You may have to spend time in jail and pay a substantial amount in fines. You may also have to install an ignition interlock device on your car. If you are a...
