Consuming marijuana for recreational purposes is now permitted in Massachusetts, but other drugs remain firmly illegal. Cocaine has been extremely popular in the Bay State for many years, but individuals who use, distribute or traffic the drug face harsh penalties if...
Why is eyewitness testimony sometimes unreliable?
When police in Massachusetts make an arrest, they often rely on eyewitnesses to pick out the suspect involved in the crime. Unfortunately, many factors can render their testimony flawed; these are the main problems with it. Factors that affect witness reliability...
Possible defenses to a drunk driving charge
A Massachusetts police officer who observes signs of impaired driving will often initiate a traffic stop. It's also possible that an officer will initiate a traffic stop after receiving reports of a vehicle being operated erratically. There are a number of defenses...
Defenses to consider when you’re charged with drug possession
If you have been arrested and charged with drug possession in Massachusetts, chances are you are feeling scared and alone. The good news is that there are defenses available to you that can help you beat the charges. The drugs belonged to someone else If the drugs did...
The Supreme Court’s drug offense decision
Someone who faces sentencing after a criminal conviction will likely worry about the harshness of the penalty. Defendants convicted of offenses related to crack cocaine often dealt with tougher sentencings than those arrested and convicted of powdered cocaine...
Possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia in Massachusetts
One of the most severely punished criminal offenses in Massachusetts is getting caught with drugs. Depending on the type and amount of drugs in your possession, you could be looking at jail time, fines, and a criminal record. Actual versus constructive possessive Drug...
How can a DUI charge hurt your career?
Being convicted of a DUI in Massachusetts can have long-ranging effects on your career. If you are employed in a professional position, such a conviction can result in your immediate dismissal. You may then find it very hard to even get a job interview. Your DUI will...
Challenging the reliability of a breath test in Massachusetts
If you have been charged with an OUI in Massachusetts, you may wonder how to challenge the breath test administered at the time of your arrest. Therefore, let's discuss some of the most common ways you can use to build a defense. The test kit was not reliable You can...
Interrogation methods to be aware of in Massachusetts
If you are arrested, the police officers may interrogate you in hopes of getting a confession. It is important to be aware of the different types of interrogation techniques so that you can protect your rights. The good cop/bad cop technique This technique involves...
Mistakes police make during DUI stops
All states have laws to combat drunk driving with various penalties, such as jail, loss of license and fines. However, police in Massachusetts and around the country can make mistakes when they conduct traffic stops, which may get a case dismissed. Unlawful traffic...