Your child worked hard to get into college, and financial aid may have helped make it possible. What happens, though, if your son or daughter does what many other college students do when they get to school and starts experimenting with drugs? If authorities catch...
Chatham Law Blog
Is there any defense for not wearing a seat belt in New York?
As a New York motorist, there are many different types of traffic violations you might face, but is there any criminal defense for not wearing a seat belt while driving? The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety notes that the rate of seat belt use is higher for...
Do you have to pay a ticket issued by a speed camera?
You may have heard, among other rumors, that you do not have to pay a speeding ticket fine if it was a speed camera that detected and cited the violation. The theory behind this rumor is that because an actual officer was not present at the time of the incident, the...
New process available to destroy records of some marijuana convictions
In the summer of 2019, the state of New York passed legislation that effectively decriminalized possession of small amounts of marijuana. The law also mandated automatic expungement of past criminal convictions for possession of 25 grams or less. In September 2020,...
The best approach to an aggravated DWI charge
Prosecutors are incredibly aggressive when it comes to aggravated DWI charges. At James Kleinbaum Attorney at Law P.C., we understand what you are up against and know that you need to mount a proper defense to protect yourself from harsh punishment. You will want to...
Are you eligible for drug court in Albany County?
Many people engage in criminal behavior in New York not because they are bad people, but because they have substance dependencies that lead them to act in ways they otherwise would not. If you are facing a drug charge and you feel your charge was a result of your...
What is the proper way to stop at a light or sign to avoid a ticket?
Stopping is one of the basic maneuvers that you make when driving, but many people get it wrong. If an officer sees you not complete a full stop at a stop sign or red light, you could face a traffic ticket. Now is a good time to refresh yourself about the rules for...
How do you fight against a drunk driving charge?
You received a DUI recently from a New York police officer. With the evidence mounted against you, maybe you think you cannot fight against your charge. Is there hope? American Addiction Centers explores the matter. Determine if you must mount a legal defense to at...
Are eyewitnesses reliable forms of evidence?
In New York and across the nation, the justice system uses eyewitnesses as forms of evidence in criminal cases. Eyewitness evidence holds power in a criminal trial, as more jurors are likely to find a person guilty if eyewitness testimony is present. Yet, studies show...
Is a plea bargain a good option?
When you face a criminal charge in New York, it is important to understand your options. Your approach could differ depending on what charge you are up against and what your criminal record looks like. One potential way to handle a charge is by accepting a plea...