Should Courts Use Artificial Intelligence to Predict Future Criminal Behavior?
It may sound like something out of a science fiction movie, but cities across the country are already using artificial intelligence (AI) to assess whether someone accused of a crime should be released on bond prior to their trial. The problem with using AI for this purpose, according to computer experts, is that algorithms sometimes...Read More
Is it a Crime to be Homeless in Texas?
A standoff between Texas Governor Gregg Abbott and the City of Austin over the state capital’s liberal homelessness laws has led to a debate over the criminalization of people without a roof over their heads. Although it’s not necessarily a crime to be homeless in Texas many cities and counties make it an offense to...Read More
Cyberbullying – 6 Tips for Handling Harassing Text Messages
Texting is a great way to quickly get in touch with someone and stay in touch. However, the convenience it offers can also make it a tool for harm in the wrong hands. Unfortunately, some people use texting as a way to harass or stalk another person. According to one survey, 50 percent of people...Read More
Study Finds Thousands are Imprisoned on the Testimony of Discredited Police Officers
In cases that come down to the word of a police officer against that of a defendant, juries often believe the police officer. However, thousands of defendants in the United States ended up behind bars on the uncorroborated evidence of discredited officers, according to a new survey. A USA TODAY Network investigation highlighted the “widespread failure...Read More
What Do I Need to Know About Filing a Criminal Appeal?
If you have been convicted of a criminal offense, you might have the right to appeal your case. When you file an appeal, you are asking a higher court to review the lower court’s decision. Contrary to what people believe, an appeal isn’t an opportunity to ask for a redo simply because you are not...Read More
Murder Suspect in Texas was Left Unchecked for Two Weeks After GPS Company Repossessed His Ankle Bracelet
Electronic monitoring systems are widely used in Texas as an alternative to incarceration and for defendants on bond who are awaiting a trial. However, a recent case in which a private company removed an ankle bracelet from a capital murder suspect due to non-payment, points to a possible flaw in the system. Clint Walker was...Read More
What Factors Matter Most to Appellate Justices When Reviewing a Notice of Appeal?
When a verdict is delivered in a criminal case, it isn’t always what the defendant envisioned as the outcome. An unfavorable verdict is difficult enough to process, and in some cases, the sentence ordered by the judge may not seem justified or fair. When a defendant finds themselves in this situation, their trial lawyer will...Read More
Can Text Messages Be Used Against You In White-Collar Litigation?
Texting has become one of the most frequently used methods of communication. We tend to send texts back and forth without thinking much at all about the contents of the message. From a purely practical standpoint, texting enables people to stay in touch and more easily communicate. Because text messages are electronic communications that can...Read More
Homicides Spike in Dallas as Killings Fall Elsewhere In Texas
Murder rates are falling in most Texas cities. However, Dallas is a glaring exception to the rule as the homicide rate heads for a 10-year high. Last month, the city’s year-to-date homicide rate exceeded 135 deaths. The city is on course for the highest number of killings in a decriminalcade – over 220 – but...Read More
Key Texas Ruling Requires Defense Lawyers at Bail Hearings
Texas’ controversial cash bail system has been undermined by a series of recent court rulings. This month, Galveston was ordered to change its rules when a federal judge said defense lawyers should be at bail hearings for poor defendants. A federal district judge issued a temporary injunction in the latest phase of a 2018 lawsuit....Read More