Reliable and easy-to-understand legal guidance from experts, plus connections to defense attorneys.
Learn about your rights—and how to protect them—when dealing with the police and facing criminal charges.
Police can–and often do–lie to people when questioning them. It’s a tactic they use to get incriminating information out of suspects.
Police can–and often do–lie to people when questioning them. It’s a tactic they use to get incriminating information out of suspects.
No matter where you are in the process, we’ll break down what you can expect.
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.
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.
From the least serious to the most, we cover the particulars of all kinds of criminal charges.
Criminal convictions rarely result from jury verdicts. Over 90% come from guilty pleas and plea bargaining.
Criminal convictions rarely result from jury verdicts. Over 90% come from guilty pleas and plea bargaining.
Get answers to key questions like how to find a lawyer and what to expect from one.
One study found that defendants were 75% less likely to be convicted if they met with a lawyer within 48 hours of their arrest.
One study found that defendants were 75% less likely to be convicted if they met with a lawyer within 48 hours of their arrest.
Find answers to a variety of questions about the criminal justice system.
Most people don't know they could face federal charges for staying silent about a crime. Misprision of felony has been U.S. law since 1789—and it still applies today, although it's rarely prosecuted.
Not all crimes are treated equally—and for good reason. Mitigating circumstances allow courts to consider a defendant's background, mental state, and role in a crime before deciding punishment.
Facing criminal charges? From mens rea to strict liability crimes, understanding what makes someone criminally liable—and what doesn't—can help you make sense of the criminal system.
Court-ordered community service is more than picking up litter—it's a formal legal sentence with strict rules, time limits, and real consequences if you fail to comply. Here's what defendants need to know before agreeing to it.
Time behind bars isn't the only sentencing option available. Learn about alternatives, such as probation, restitution, community service, house arrest, and treatment.
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.