Whether you entered into a plea bargain or New York prosecutors secured a conviction against you, you may think that this is the end of your case. Nevertheless, you may suspect that something was amiss and that mistakes were made that may have affected the outcome. It may be beneficial to find out if filing a criminal appeal would be the appropriate course of action.
Arrests made in alleged drug trafficking ring
Officials in New York have recently reported the arrests of several people for a variety of alleged drug charges. The charges stem from an investigation of a reported overdose death nine months ago. According to authorities, the probe resulted in the discovery of a supposed trafficking ring involving several narcotics.
Can your criminal record be expunged?
Having a criminal conviction in your past can have a dramatic impact on the rest of your life (even after you have served your debt to society). It can deter you from getting a job and even housing, not to mention the damage it may do to your reputation. Often, people in your situation may seek to have their records expunged. Is that an option for you?
Do you know if your pocket knife is illegal in New York?
Intent matters in some criminal charges, but not always in cases of possession of illegal weapons. You may believe that the knife in your pocket complies with state law, but the courts may not agree with your interpretation of state laws.
Is pepper spray considered a weapon?
If you feel unsafe walking the streets of Queens unprotected, having a tool like pepper spray at your disposal may grant you a needed sense of security. It is portable, easily accessible and simple to use. Yet is it dangerous? Pepper spray works by irritating the skin, eyes, mouth and throat of a would-be assailant. Yet while its exposure is not known to have lasting effects, the debilitating potential it presents requires that it be used responsibly. Thus, the state of New York has enacted laws regulating its use.
A passenger's rights when confronted with airport security
A trip to the airport in New York can be a harrowing experience at the best of times. It is even more unpleasant for passengers who are stopped or detained. Airport security officers can be domineering and unpleasant, but that does not mean they have the right to all of the information they are requesting.
