On behalf of Spellman Law, P.C. posted in Criminal Defense on Wednesday, April 17, 2019.
Sometimes, the non-court consequences of criminal activity are as serious as the consequences of a conviction. These "collateral consequences," however, have traditionally come as the result of criminal prosecution. Most of the time, society doesn't inflict serious consequences on people who have never been convicted.
On behalf of Spellman Law, P.C. posted in Criminal Defense on Friday, March 15, 2019.
On March 15, students around the world plan to strike in order to highlight the global climate crisis and urge leaders to act. Many participants will be skipping school to engage in discussions, lobbying, protests and demonstrations.
What happens during your initial court appearance?
After the police charge you with a crime, you will need to make an initial appearance in court. Before you enter the courtroom, be sure to know your rights and prepare the necessary materials.
What happens before a criminal trial?
On behalf of Spellman Law, P.C. posted in Criminal Defense on Thursday, December 27, 2018.
An arrest is traumatic for most people. You may wonder what will happen next. After police take you into custody, you will face a series of steps before your case goes to trial in Iowa. You may find some comfort in knowing what those steps are.
On behalf of Spellman Law, P.C. posted in Criminal Defense on Wednesday, December 12, 2018.
The use of civil forfeitures has been called "policing for profit." The civil forfeiture process usually begins when someone is charged with a crime, either at the state or federal level. At that point, police and prosecutors may find that some of the defendant's money or property is connected to criminal activity. In essence, the prosecutor charges these valuables with being connected to or the proceeds of crime. The defendant bears the burden of proving that they were not. If the defendant fails to prove that, the police and prosecutor's office get to seize the money and property permanently -- even if the defendant has not yet been convicted of any crime.
Do you know when to remain silent?
On behalf of Spellman Law, P.C. posted in Criminal Defense on Thursday, December 6, 2018.
You have probably heard of someone being read their Miranda Rights or "pleading the fifth" when arrested. However, people often misunderstand their right to remain silent and their misunderstanding can hurt their case.