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What Are Felonies, Misdemeanors, and Infractions?
Crimes are classified according to the seriousness of the offense, and penalties are set accordingly.
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Misdemeanor Crimes: Classes and Penalties
Most states and the federal criminal code have classified their misdemeanors into classes or levels.
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Felony Crimes: Classes and Penalties
Most states divide felony crimes into various classes or levels, while others set the penalty on a crime-by-crime basis. Learn how these classifications work and how to find the penalty for a felony charge.
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State Crimes vs. Federal Crimes
Just as state legislators pass laws that define and penalize crimes under state law, Congress also defines and penalizes acts that constitute federal crimes.
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Your Rights When Dealing With the Police
Should you speak with the police officer? Should you let the officer search your home or car? And what happens if you don’t?
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There’s more to an arrest than taking a suspect into custody. Arrests trigger legal (and emotional) after-effects that include detailed and specific police responsibilities
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What Is the Witness Protection Program?
Acting as a witness in a case can sometimes be a dangerous activity, especially when there are people who don't want you to talk.
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When Can the Police Search My Car?
The constitution says that you have a right to be free from unreasonable searches of your home, your person, and your car. Car searches rarely involve a search warrant issued.
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What's the Difference Between an Arraignment and a Trial?
An arraignment is a court hearing in which defendants are told of the charges against them. At a trial before a jury or a judge, the prosecutor must prove that the defendant committed the crime.
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What Is the Difference Between Civil and Criminal Court?
Civil courts resolve private differences between individuals, businesses, and the government. A criminal case involves the government accusing a person of committing an offense against society.
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What Is the Bench Trial Process?
A bench trial is tried to a judge only—there's no jury. Learn how bench trials work in criminal cases and why a defendant might choose to go that route over a jury trial.
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A prima facie case is an early screen for a court to determine whether the prosecution can go forward to try the defendant fully for the crime.
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What Are Mitigating or Extenuating Circumstances?
Mitigating circumstances (such as a defendant's young age or lack of a criminal record) could convince the prosecutor or judge to cut the defendant a break.
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Expunging or Sealing an Adult Criminal Record
Even years after a criminal conviction, a criminal record can interfere with your ability to obtain employment, housing, and professional licenses. Is it possible to clear a criminal record after an arrest or conviction?
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Sealing a Federal Adult Criminal Record
If you were convicted in federal district court of a federal offense, in theory, you can request an expungement of your record. Federal judges have the power to expunge any record of conviction, but they rarely exercise it.
Getting Legal Representation When Charged With a Crime
Getting Legal Representation When Charged With a Crime
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Getting an Attorney to Handle Your Criminal Case
Within the criminal justice system, a defense attorney serves as the defendant’s guide, protector, and confidant. Learn what criminal defense lawyers do and what they cost.
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Getting a Free Public Defender in Criminal Cases
Learn about public defenders, who qualifies for free representation in criminal cases, and what to expect.
