Rebecca Pirius

Attorney · Mitchell Hamline School of Law

More Articles by Rebecca Pirius

Articles 71-80 out of 751

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.
How to Spot a Grifter: Warning Signs, Common Scams, and What to Do
Grifters, scammers, con artists, and swindlers don't look like criminals, but they're thieves and fraudsters who use a common playbook. Learn to spot grifting tactics and protect yourself.
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.
Crime Victims' Rights in the Criminal Justice Process
Crime victims have the right to be treated with dignity, fairness, and respect. Learn how state laws seek to protect and assist crime victims throughout the criminal justice process.
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.
Can Alexa Be Used Against You in a Criminal Case?
Smart home devices don't just make life easier—they generate logs of your movements, habits, and conversations. Learn how law enforcement accesses that data, and what legal rights you actually have