Legal Articles

• 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
• Some Misdemeanor Convictions Eligbile for Dismissal through Victim Compromise Programs
  Defendants charged in Arizona with a criminal misdemeanor or a traffic citation may be able to have the charges dismissed under the Arizona Criminal Misdemeanor Compromise program (Arizona Revised Statutes  § 13-3981).  The compromise program allows victims of certain crimes to compromise or settle the criminal case before it is set for a trial.  … more