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Reliable and easy-to-understand legal guidance from experts, plus connections to defense attorneys.

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Your Rights

Learn about your rights—and how to protect them—when dealing with the police and facing criminal charges.

Did You Know?

Police can–and often do–lie to people when questioning them. It’s a tactic they use to get incriminating information out of suspects.

Did You Know?

Police can–and often do–lie to people when questioning them. It’s a tactic they use to get incriminating information out of suspects.

Steps in a Criminal Case

No matter where you are in the process, we’ll break down what you can expect.

Did You Know?

Prosecutors don’t file charges in every case that comes across their desks. One study found that prosecutors rejected or dismissed nearly 30% of cases.

Did You Know?

Prosecutors don’t file charges in every case that comes across their desks. One study found that prosecutors rejected or dismissed nearly 30% of cases.

Criminal Laws and Penalties

From the least serious to the most, we cover the particulars of all kinds of criminal charges.

Did You Know?

Criminal convictions rarely result from jury verdicts. Over 90% come from guilty pleas and plea bargaining.

Did You Know?

Criminal convictions rarely result from jury verdicts. Over 90% come from guilty pleas and plea bargaining.

Working With a Defense Attorney

Get answers to key questions like how to find a lawyer and what to expect from one.

Did You Know?

One study found that defendants were 75% less likely to be convicted if they met with a lawyer within 48 hours of their arrest.

Did You Know?

One study found that defendants were 75% less likely to be convicted if they met with a lawyer within 48 hours of their arrest.

Other Criminal Defense Topics

Find answers to a variety of questions about the criminal justice system.

Recent Articles

Weapons Charges in New Mexico

Learn about New Mexico’s gun regulations, including restrictions on the possession, carrying, and use of deadly weapons.

Is Intoxication a Defense to Criminal Charges?

Most people assume being drunk might excuse their actions—but courts rarely see it that way. Whether intoxication can be used as a defense depends on how it happened and what crime was charged.

Domestic Violence Laws and Penalties

A domestic violence charge can mean jail time, a lifelong criminal record, and restrictions on your rights. Find out how states and federal law define these crimes and what consequences you could face

Revenge Porn: Laws & Penalties

Revenge porn—also called nonconsensual distribution of intimate images (NDII)—is the posting or sharing of sexually explicit images without the subject's consent. Federal law and nearly every state now criminalize it.

Attempted Murder

The crime of attempted murder can be charged when a person intends to commit murder and tries to carry out the killing but, for whatever reason, is unable to accomplish it.

Human Trafficking Laws: Federal and State Penalties

Most people don't know that human trafficking victims never have to cross a border. A trafficker could be living next door. Learn how human trafficking can go unnoticed, how to report it, and what the penalties are.

Doxxing Laws: Crimes, Penalties, and Victim Rights

For victims, doxxing is terrifying—but the law now offers real tools to fight back. For defendants, what feels like retaliation can mean felony charges. Here's what both sides need to know.

Phishing Penalties: Federal and State Laws Explained

For defendants, a single phishing scheme can trigger multiple felony counts under state or federal law. For victims, the damage can follow you for years. This guide covers what the law says, and what to do next.

What Is Marsy's Law?

Crime victims in a dozen states now have constitutional rights thanks to Marsy's Law—but the road has been rocky. Learn what it is, why it was created, and how courts are wrestling with victims' and defendants' rights.

Sextortion: Laws, Penalties, and Help for Victims

Online predators use sexual images to extort money, more photos, or compliance. Sextortion is a federal and state crime—and help is available. Here's what you need to know about the law.

Elder Abuse Crimes and Penalties

Elder abuse may always be charged under general criminal statutes, such as assault. Many states have also enacted special laws targeting elder abuse. These laws often provide for harsher punishment.

Can a Victim Press Charges? How the Process Works

"Press charges" is a phrase everyone knows, but few people understand. Find out who actually files criminal charges, what evidence it takes, and how much say victims really have in the process

Runaway Teenagers: Laws and Legal Options

If a teen runs away from home, state law determines what happens next. Learn about status offenses, harboring laws, legal options, and getting help.

Sex Trafficking Laws and Penalties

Sex trafficking is a felony under federal law and in all 50 states. Learn how the law defines it, what penalties traffickers face, and how child sex trafficking is treated differently.

Criminal Laws and Procedures

In Your State

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Talk to a criminal defense attorney who can explain the law, investigate the facts, and protect your rights. Fill out the form to be connected with attorneys in your area.

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