Legal Articles

• Infraction, Misdemeanor or Felony: What is the Difference?
  Criminal charges and wrongs are typically classified as infractions, misdemeanors or felonies depending on the severity of the wrong.  The more serious the charges, the more serious the punishment usually is as well.  Infractions   Infractions are violations of law or ordinances that are typically pretty minor, including traffic infractions.  An infraction … more
• Sentencing Guidelines: Fair Sentences or a Denial of Trial by Jury?
  In the 1980s, it became apparent to those in the U.S. government that there were wide sentencing disparities in the United States federal court system.  Defendants who were convicted of very similar crimes were receiving wildly different sentences.  Accordingly, a movement began to develop federal sentencing guidelines.  In addition to providing equitable sentences around the … more