Law enforcement agents will often use different methods to target offenders who are trying to engage in prostitution in Texas. Under the law, police and other agents will pretend to be prostitutes or pimps involved in the illicit activity. These operations, called stings, often result in criminal charges. But are these legal maneuvers, or is […]
In criminal cases, victims are essentially witnesses. The state presses charges on behalf of victims, usually using their testimony as evidence of a crime. Despite their practical role, crime victims also have rights throughout the criminal justice process. Sex crime victims deservedly get special treatment because of the traumatic nature of their experiences. Nonetheless, there […]
When you are facing criminal charges in Texas, it is important to know that you have a variety of legal options. One option is to negotiate a plea bargain, agreeing to plead guilty in exchange for an acceptable punishment. This might include avoiding jail time in exchange for community supervision, also known as probation. A […]
The number of inappropriate sexual relationships between students and teachers has increased within Texas in recent years. In 2016, the Texas Education Agency opened 222 investigations into these inappropriate relationships. Frustrated with battling this form of educator misconduct, Texas legislators decided to take a decisive step. Senate Bill 7, which was signed into law in […]
Rape, also called sexual assault, is a heinous crime. It can severely harm the victims physically and psychologically, and often leads to life-long effects. Perpetrators of this violent crime face harsh consequences and should be brought to justice. Unfortunately, rape accusations are often inappropriately leveled at innocent individuals. Some men and women use rape allegations […]
When a police officer suspects that a driver may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they may attempt to administer a number of field sobriety tests. These tests assess a driver’s motor skills; whether they can walk properly, speak properly, etc. While these tests are often good indicators of whether or not a […]
Stand your ground laws expand traditional self-defense principles by removing the duty to retreat before using deadly force. Following the death of Trayvon Martin and trial of George Zimmerman, stand your ground laws have become the subject of national attention and debate. There are approximately 27 states with stand your ground laws across the country, […]
Traffic stops are considered temporary detentions under the law, which implicates Fourth Amendment protections against unreasonable searches and seizures. In order for law enforcement officers to pull someone over, they must have a reasonable suspicion of criminal activity or a traffic violation. If an officer lacks a reasonable suspicion to pull you over, any evidence […]
When you apply for a new job, the potential of something new is exciting. However, enduring a series of interviews can be tough. If you have been arrested or convicted of theft, you may be nervous about whether you should be up front about what may show up on a background check. The requirement to […]
When you’ve been charged with a DWI, you might imagine the worst possible consequences. Your fear may have you picturing a long jail sentence and being released only to have your driver’s license suspended. Houston DWI defense lawyer Ned Barnett can help if you’ve been arrested for or charged with a DWI in Texas. Call […]
Under Texas law, there are legal limits on photography and recordings based on the right to privacy. When you violate someone’s privacy with improper photography or invasive recording, you could go to prison, pay a fine, and have a permanent criminal record. Many people use photography and phone cameras in their everyday lives, and it’s […]