More Articles by Rebecca Pirius

Bribery Charges and Defenses

Bribery is a serious offense. Learn about bribery crimes under state and federal laws, their penalties, and possible defenses.

What Does "Breaking and Entering" Mean?

States define breaking and entering differently. In some states, breaking and entering is an element of burglary, but other states make it a separate crime.

Federal Embezzlement Laws

Federal embezzlement laws target theft from the federal government or its money. Learn how quickly embezzling can add up to a federal felony and possible prison time.

Felony "Menacing" Charges

Learn how state criminal codes define menacing, what penalties a menacing charge could mean, and what defenses are available in menacing cases.

Learn how states define and penalize identity theft crimes and gain insight into other common questions, such as: Will someone go to jail for an identity theft conviction? When is identity theft a felony?

New York Misdemeanor Crimes by Class and Sentences

Learn what kinds of crimes are considered misdemeanors in New York and the possible sentences for each category of misdemeanor.

Burglary and Criminal Trespass in New York

A person who commits burglary or criminal trespass in New York can face serious prison time and substantial financial penalties. Some burglaries, such as armed burglaries or burglaries of dwellings, can result in very severe penalties.

Forgery Laws in Texas

Even a first offense on forgery charges can result in a felony conviction in Texas. Learn how the Texas Penal Code defines and penalizes forgery offenses.

Is It a Crime to Enter a Home Under Construction?

Burglaries and thefts of construction sites are common. In many states, a person who burglarizes a house under construction can be convicted of residential burglary and face years in prison.

Can Police Question a Child Victim or Witness?

Learn when and how police may interview child victims and witnesses, what options parents have, and what laws protect the rights of child victims.