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
• The Pros and Cons of Plea Bargaining
  When faced with criminal charges, a defendant often has one simple goal.  That is, to minimize the potential penalty.  Of course, being found innocent at trial, and being aquitted, is the best way to avoid jail time and other penalties.  However, going to trial can be risky because it is impossible to predict what a jury will decide.  Therefore, many defendants choose to … more