The next time you read a news report that says Officer XYZ from a police department found Person ABC in possession of illegal drugs, think of Deputy Zachary Wester and remember that things are not always what they appear to be. A few days ago, former Jackson County...
A piece of evidence presented at a criminal trial does one of two things: help establish the defendant's guilt or help create a reasonable doubt that the defendant is guilty. There are many types of evidence that the judge can allow the prosecutor or defense attorney...
People throughout Michigan, including here in Portage, rely on prescription medications to treat the symptoms of chronic health conditions. Without their medication, they could experience terrible pain or other debilitating symptoms. Their lives could be in danger. So...
When you get behind the wheel after a night out or a get together with friends, you might realize that those drinks you had are still in your system and impacting you much more than you think. So, you decide to sleep it off in your vehicle. But could you still be...
To host a special event at which you intend to allow consumption of marijuana products, the Michigan Marijuana Regulatory Agency requires that you obtain a temporary marijuana event license. Even if you already hold a marijuana event organizer license, the state...
There are different types of DUI charges in Michigan. In certain circumstances, a DUI charge will become a felony instead of a misdemeanor. Felony charges are subject to higher fines and longer jail times than misdemeanors. Keep reading for more information about the...
It was one mistake. You had a drink too many and made the decision to drive home when you shouldn’t have. You woke up the next morning with a headache and a DUI charge, and now you must go to court. Is this really going to be on your record forever? Maybe not. There...
Since the early 1990s, criminal convictions nationwide have been based in part on an "outlandish mindreading tool" that has never been proven to deliver accurate results. In fact, studies have revealed that the tool is as effective as "flipping a coin." That's the...
It is important for our readers understand the many differences that can exist in legal cases that result in the same criminal charges. For example, the circumstances surrounding two different DUI charges may be very different and may involve two very different...
Anyone who watches crime shows has probably heard television detectives discussing evidence, warrants and probable cause. While the sensational aspects of police dramas may overshadow these legal concepts, it is important for our readers in Michigan to know that rules...
