The attorney-client privilege in The Justice System, which ensures that a client can honestly communicate with an attorney in seeking advice and aid, is a cornerstone of the U.S. legal system. The privilege generally prevents an attorney from being compelled or even voluntarily disclosing information conveyed in confidence by a client for the purpose of seeking legal counsel.
Police & You: No You May NOT Search
When it comes to the Police & You, one of the most important of all rights guaranteed in the Constitution's Bill of Rights is the Fourth Amendment's prohibition on unreasonable searches and seizures. But what exactly is the scope of your rights under the Fourth Amendment, and how much authority does it leave police officers to perform their jobs?
Animal Cruelty in The Justice System
In The Justice System, often Animal Cruelty cases evoke more outrage among the general public than a child abuse case. And, for anyone that has owned a pet, it's not difficult to understand why. Not only are pets seen as part of the family, but some pet owners even go as far as to give pets birthday and Christmas presents. Annually, owners spend more than $50 billion on pet care, presents, and even professional photos. Today, more than two thirds of American households own pets, and that number is on the rise.
Teenage and Juvenile Crime: CHANGES IN THE MIP LAW
When it comes to Teenage and Juvenile Crime, the list has gotten shorter. Michigan minors who occasionally sneak an alcoholic drink have caught a break. I previously posted about the new legislation that was, at the time, sent to Gov. Snyder's desk that would reduce a first MIP down to a civil infraction. As a civil infraction, the penalty for a first MIP would be a $100 fine. Gov. Snyder signed bills 332 and 333 at the end of 2017 and they take effect this year.
2017 Deer Opener & The Justice System
Don't forget about The Justice System with the firearms opener of 2017's deer season just days away. Remember that the laws governing hunting will be vigorously enforced. Year after year, I take on clients who are charged with a variety of offenses by Department of Natural Resources Conservation Officers. These officers, who possess wide-ranging authority, have power to investigate and arrest for not only wildlife and hunting offenses, but also for all violations of law. Some say their authority exceeds that of a Michigan State Police Trooper.
Self Defense & Guns: Constitutional Carry Hold-Up
When it comes to Self Defense & Guns, I support the Michigan Coalition of Responsible Gun Owners, MCRGO. The text below comes from their latest e-news. I encourage all of you that are interested in Self Defense & Guns to visit their website.
DRUNK DRIVING INCLUDES DRUGS
It seems that drunk driving is a problem for any place with alcohol and roads, which means most of America. After years of a concerted effort by local, state, and even federal law enforcement agencies, community groups, educational organizations and ad agencies, drunk driving is currently on the decline in Michigan. As a result, drunk driving deaths are also on the decline. However, there is a new epidemic rearing its head on Michigan roads: drugged driving.
Self-Defense & Guns: Constitutional Carry in Michigan
Recent Self Defense & Guns developments include the fact that last month, the Michigan House of Representatives passed a four-bill package allowing legal firearm owners to carry concealed handguns without a license or mandatory training. As reported in The Detroit News and Detroit Free Press, if the bills eventually become law, there will be major repercussions for gun owners across Michigan. The bills now head to the senate for debate and a vote. If the bills pass there, they will go to the governor to be vetoed or signed into law. Strong arguments have been presented on both sides with support and opposition seeming to cut along party lines.
The Justice System: Attorney- Client Conversations - Who is Listening?
In the justice system, when people are incarcerated, they should not expect much privacy. It is understood that law enforcement needs to be able to observe inmates, even listening in on their phone calls and reading their mail. However, law enforcement officials from prison guards to prosecutors know that there are certain privileges that even incarcerated individuals have, especially the attorney-client privilege.
The Justice System: Sessions Memo Equals Tougher Charges and Sentences
The Justice System is changing. Attorney General Jeff Sessions issued a memo to federal prosecutors last month implementing a new approach as they evaluate what crimes to charge and sentences to pursue. Although ultimate sentencing discretion remains with the Court, the government's position has an impact.
