The actors on TV police dramas say words like murder, homicide and manslaughter all the time. You figure those terms all describe one individual taking the life of another, so they must mean the same thing, right? Actually, they do not. Each is unique in key ways....
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Insanity defense. Some mental disorders can lead to violent crime
The film and television industry misrepresents the insanity defense, making it seem easy to beat charges for committing a violent offense. In real life, it is extremely hard to win a trial based on the insanity of a defendant. However, some people need an insanity...
Avoiding jail time is not the only focus for defense tactics
When people are accused of serious crimes and they begin looking into their criminal defense options, they often have some expectations about trying to stay out of jail. They believe that they need to get the charges dropped and that they can avoid any serious...
Can you use physical force to defend yourself in New Jersey?
You’ve lived your whole life without ever using physical violence. Violence is alien to most people, and the mere thought of it can be extremely upsetting. One day, you’re having a look around Atlantic city with your family. You were minding your own business when...
Parole violations aren’t always deliberate
If a person is convicted of a severe criminal offense, or they are facing prosecution having been convicted in the past, then the court may impose a sentence that includes jail time. During their time in jail, the behavior of an inmate will be monitored. Negative...
A plea deal is not always the better option
You might be thinking that a plea deal is heaven-sent. After all, you will likely face a reduced sentence depending on the terms of the agreement with the prosecution. However, everything is not as it seems. Rushing into accepting a plea deal is a mistake many people...
How New Jersey is controlling the use of no-knock warrants
No-knock warrants have been the subject of widespread public outrage and protests since the killing of Breonna Taylor in March 2020 by officers who burst into her home looking for someone who didn’t even live there. She wasn’t the first – or the last – innocent person...
What are the different degrees of murder?
Not all murder charges are the same. They vary in seriousness and carry different sentences. If you are charged with murder, you are probably aware of the level of the charges you face. This is a crucial part of your case, and it will influence the final sentence if...
One instance where murder doesn’t need to be premeditated
In most cases, one of the facts that determine if something constitutes murder is whether or not it was premeditated. To qualify as murder, the person usually has to have intent to take a life, meaning they at least gave it some amount of thought beforehand and then...
Know the risks of facing a theft charge
The holidays are approaching, which is why it’s a good time to talk to your friends and family about the dangers of shoplifting and theft. This time of year creates a kind of perfect storm where people may feel financially stretched while wanting to purchase items for...