Recidivism and Rising Rearrest Rates
Government officials and public speakers for privatized U.S. prisons frequently parrot the sentiment that jail time is rehabilitative. Although, the masses that are serving years in poor conditions for low-level crimes would likely just call it punishment. Spending an extended period of time in jail can permanently damage the trajectory of someone’s life. What’s worse? Oftentimes, the sentence isn’t even rehabilitative and actually exposes inmates to more serious offenders and dangerous situations. Typically, the punishments…
The Texas Indictment Process
In Texas, an indictment is a critical step in the legal process for felony charges. It serves as a formal accusation against an individual, issued by a grand jury after reviewing evidence presented by the prosecution. Unlike misdemeanor cases, which may proceed based on a complaint or information, felony cases require an indictment before they can move forward in court. Understanding how this process works is essential for anyone facing criminal charges, as it determines…
How To Prepare For Your Bail Hearing
The purpose of bail is to ensure that you attend all of your hearings, throughout the duration of your trial. Bail provides a defendant with conditional liberties under the assumption that they aren’t a threat to anyone. The judge presiding over your hearing uses the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure to determine if you qualify for bail. The code limits which kinds of indicted felonies qualify for bail releases. The Texas Criminal code grants the…
Bail Bonds: Items You Can Use for Collateral
Sometimes you need to post bail at a moment’s notice. It’s possible that you won’t have sufficient funds to pay the entirety of your bail. At times like these, you can turn to a bond company. If you can’t come up with the 10% fee a bondsman can accept different forms of collateral. Vehicle Most people have some form of transportation to get around. Even if it’s just for work. You can use your main…
How to Avoid Arrest on New Year’s Eve
New Year’s Eve is a time to celebrate the good things of the past year and the possibilities of the year to come. Enjoy the festivities, but also be aware of your surroundings and take a few precautionary measures to avoid ringing in the new year in one of the most costly ways possible: getting arrested. Most Common New Year’s Eve Crimes Driving Under the Influence – There are more alcohol-related accidents on New Year’s…
What To Do When Your Spouse Is Arrested
Receiving that phone call from someone who has been arrested and in jail can be quite alarming, especially if the person calling is your spouse. Depending on the charges, an arrest can be just the beginning of months of court dates and legal proceedings. If you have learned that your spouse has been arrested and is being held in jail, use the following tips: Have a brief phone call When your spouse calls and tells…
Practicing Gratitude When Out on Bail
Posting bail for someone is a huge favor that warrants a huge amount of gratitude. If you were recently arrested and a friend or loved one bailed you out, you can show appreciation by staying out of trouble upon your release. Appreciation is not always an easy thing to do, but it can be learned. Showing appreciation is not as easy as saying “thank you,” they just bailed you out of jail. Being appreciative that…
Navigating Domestic Violence Charges in Texas
There are three types of domestic violence that are recognized under Texas law. We will briefly explain each law and the associated penalties. Texas does not take domestic violence lightly. Even having a protective order because of domestic violence can have long lasting effects on your record. DOMESTIC ASSAULT Domestic assault is defined as a threat or an act of violence against a person with whom the defendant has an intimate relationship. An act of…
Contempt of Court and How to Avoid It
“Contempt of court” is used in both criminal and civil cases, and it is something you could end up facing if you do not follow through with everything you must do when out on bail. If you are out on bail, you should understand what contempt of court is and how to avoid it if you want to avoid further legal troubles. What is Contempt of Court? If you have never been involved in a…
You Missed Your Court Date: Now What?
When a person is given a summons to appear in court in the state of Texas, they are entering into a type of obligation with their county and state. According to this obligation, that person is expected to appear in court at the appointed date and time. They are also expected to appear at court in a certain manner. For example, they are expected to be sober, dressed appropriately and cooperate with the rules of…