Criminal Law

Criminal Law is the name given to the branch of law that governs an individual's relationship to the state. It includes the definitions of criminal offenses, which are usually established by Congress or state legislatures. The term "criminal law" also encompasses the rights of an accused and the criminal process, including arrest, arraignment, grand juries, pleas, discovery, pretrial hearings, trials, jury selection, evidence, motions, and posttrial remedies. The main purpose of the criminal law is to set forth the punishment for criminal offenses. In order to prove any crime, no matter how serious, the prosecutor must prove that the accused committed a guilty act with a guilty mind beyond a reasonable doubt. Please read on to find a criminal defense attorney, criminal lawyer, criminal attorney or to learn more about criminal law.

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      Legal articles focusing on Criminal Law
      Public Defenders
      If you have been accused of a crime and cannot afford an attorney, you may need a public defender. Get the facts about getting a public defender appointed and how he or she can help you.
      Defending a Speeding Ticket
      If you decide to defend your speeding ticket, you should prepare for trial by requesting copies of the prosecutor's evidence and by gathering your own evidence. Although speeding is a strict liability offense, there are several defenses which you can pursue.
      Punishment of Crime
      How does a judge determine how a crime will be punished? Find out about sentencing theories and guidelines as well as what factors are considered when a sentence is decided.
      Castigo de Delitos Penales
      El castigo por un delito penal puede incluir una multa, encarcelamiento, libertad condicional, restitución o la pena de muerte. En el sistema federal, el castigo puede ser basado en pautas de sentencia. Acuerdos de reducción de pena son importantes en un sistema estatal de justicia penal.
      Ask a Lawyer - Criminal Law questions answered by leading lawyers
      What Is Grand Theft Auto?
      I am trying to find out the legal explanation of "Grand Theft Auto" in Colorado. I have heard two different things, that it is when you steal a car and take it across state lines and that it is charged when the stolen vehicle is more than a certain dollar amount.
      Does an 8 Month Sentence Qualify for Early Release Under the Second Chance Act?
      My ex-wife was convicted of mail fraud and sentenced to 8 months in a federal prison FCI Dublin, Ca. My question is does she qualify for the Second Chance Act for early release?
      Can Charges Be Added After My Advisement or Arraignment?
      Can the Judge or arresting officer put more charges on me after I have been arraigned?
      What If I Don't Show Up On Time to Start My Jail Sentence?
      What would happen if I don't present myself to do jail time because I need to leave the state for an emergency?
      How Do I Get a Bench Warrant Vacated?
      How can I get a bench warrant vacated?

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