Polygraph tests are used in a variety of situations. In addition to being a tool used by police investigating a crime, a person may be asked to take one during a pre-employment background check or during internal investigations where employee theft is being...
Criminal Defense
When can you raise a ‘sudden passion’ defense in Texas?
Imagine finding out something that completely makes you lose your cool, like discovering your partner’s infidelity. Now imagine acting out in the heat of that emotion and facing criminal charges because of it. Can you claim you were acting in a moment of emotional...
What not to do at a DUI checkpoint in New Mexico
The state of New Mexico is cracking down on drunk driving. With too many fatal crashes involving alcohol in recent years, the state is understandably stricter about driving under the influence (DUI). DUI checkpoints are a reality for drivers in New Mexico. That's why...
Why eyewitnesses are frequently incorrect
In many criminal cases, a conviction is heavily influenced by the testimony of an eyewitness. This is especially true in jury trials. If an eyewitness goes before the jury and recounts their version of events, blaming the defendant and stating that they are guilty,...
Should you believe everything the police tell you?
Police officers hold positions of great public responsibility. So you might assume that when they tell you something, it will be true Unfortunately, this is not the case. What’s more, a police officer lying to you may be totally legal. Lying is a valid police...
Accessory crimes: What to know
Did you know that there’s no such thing as a “minor role” when you’re involved in a crime? It takes a lot of people by surprise to find out that being charged as an accessory to a crime can actually net them the same punishment as the principal offender. What’s an...
Will I lose my license if I get a DUI?
Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in New Mexico, and it carries significant legal consequences. If you are caught driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, you can be charged with DUI. For commercial drivers, the limit...
When does assault become aggravated in New Mexico?
The word “assault” is often thought of in a broad sense. Assault is commonly used to refer to a physical attack on another person. Nonetheless, the legal definition of assault in New Mexico is very specific. Perhaps surprisingly, physical contact is not required for...
Do you have to provide ID when asked by police?
No one wants to be pulled over by police. That’s especially true if you’ve had a drink or two, have some drugs in your car that you don’t have a prescription for or are pretty sure they want to ask you what you know about some criminal activity you may or may not have...
Is it illegal to destroy electronic evidence you own?
Electronic evidence plays a big role in criminal prosecutions involving fraud, embezzlement, insider trading and more. From incriminating emails to financial records stored on computers, tablets and phones, electronic evidence can give law enforcement and prosecutors...