Tough Former Prosecutors
40+ Years Trial Experience
You look up and see flashing lights in your rearview mirror. Maybe you just had a glass of wine with dinner, maybe a few beers while watching the game, but are you drunk? If you are concerned that the officer making the traffic stop could smell alcohol on your...
A couple from Fort Worth, Texas took a trip to the Margaritaville Resort Casino hotel. Someone within the resort called police around 2:00 am to report a domestic disturbance within the room. Upon arrival, enforcement officers reported a young woman was present within...
What happens when an officer conducts a traffic stop? In most cases, state and federal law requires officers to have reason for a traffic stop. The stop may result in additional evidence that can lead to criminal charges, but it is important to have evidence to...
Smart phones can contain contact information for acquaintances, business associates, friends and family in these devices. These devices may record the locations we stop at throughout the day and often save months and even years’ worth of text message conversations. It...
Driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while intoxicated (DWI) are two terms that may seem interchangeable, but in some states, there are important differences. What is the difference between a DUI and a DWI? The answer depends on the state. In many states,...
Using GPS devices in criminal investigations is gaining popularity with law enforcement. Law enforcement departments throughout the country are using this form of technology to track a suspect's movement and gather evidence to support criminal charges. In some cases,...
Law enforcement officers generally take an oath to protect the communities they serve with integrity, bravery and honor. Most officers abide by this oath. Unfortunately, there are cases where an officer may violate this oath. Whether for personal gain or other...
The basic rule of law is that a warrantless entry by police into a private home is presumed unreasonable. However, there are exceptions to this basic rule. For example, officers may enter a home without a warrant if a resident gives voluntary consent. But consent,...
Criminal forfeiture allows law enforcement agencies to seize cash, cars and artwork linked to a crime. It requires a criminal conviction; however, it's cousin civil asset forfeiture goes directly after property - often vehicles (even if the owner was not the driver) -...
The Felony Mental Health Court has been around for a few years. Since 2012, this problem-solving court has been diverting those suffering from mental illness away from prison and facilitating access to treatment and other community resources. In October 2018, the...