When you and your partners originally started talking about a money-making scheme that you knew was illegal under federal law, it was almost a joke -- until the conversation turned serious. Initially, you couldn’t help but think that it would be almost too easy to get...
Year: 2021
Crossing state lines can make something a federal crime
In some cases, actions that would be considered state crimes can become federal crimes. One way that this happens is when you cross state lines while doing it. For instance, stalking laws indicate that it’s a federal violation if you cross a state line while stalking...
What must be proven to be convicted of RICO charges?
Since the '70s the government has been applying the Federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) to ever-expanding situations. Originally created to give prosecutors the ability to battle mafia organizations, it is now being used to a variety of...
Appealing your federal conviction: The first steps
When you’re charged and convicted of a federal crime in a district court -- whether that’s over something like Medicare fraud or money laundering -- your next thoughts may (naturally) be about an appeal. Understanding what needs to happen now is very important. Your...
How addiction could actually help those accused of drug crimes
Addiction is the underlying cause of many significant criminal issues. Many people in jail for drug offenses may have an addiction to the substance that they got caught using, possessing or manufacturing. Addiction can also lead to secondary criminal offenses like...
2 ways you could run afoul of North Carolina’s gun laws
Many people in North Carolina own firearms. They might use them for their jobs, for home defense or even for sport. Regardless of whether you like to hunt or worried about a home invasion, you need to know that your firearms are legal. Most people assume that their...
2 times assault charges become federal, not state, offenses
Most individuals accused of violent offenses like assault will face state charges. Although the definition of assault varies from state to state, assault is one of the most common violent offenses in the country. Though most people accused of assault offenses will...
How can you defend against a white-collar crime charge?
If the authorities accuse you of a white-collar crime, it is crucial you realize the gravity of your situation. The penalties for these "victimless" crimes can often be more severe than those involving physical violence against someone. Panicking could make your...
What are a child’s “best interests” when it comes to custody?
If you’re getting divorced and the court is determining your child custody rights, you have likely heard that they do this based on the child’s "best interests." People often use this term when referring to the fact that the child comes first, even if what is best for...
How transactional and use immunity differ
You’ve gotten mixed up in something illegal, and now you’re facing charges. You’re relieved to hear, however, that the prosecutor considers you “small game” compared to others who are involved in the crime. You’re being offered immunity in exchange for your testimony...