The Innocence Project released a study on how prosecutors are held accountable for their misconduct. What they found is that they are largely not held accountable at all. With a growing number of people being exonerated by DNA evidence and numerous cases of wrongful convictions coming to light, the number of prosecutors being charged with misconduct is growing, but why isn’t the number being disciplined? [Read more…]
Prosecutor Investigated By Defense in Murder Case
Michael Morton was sent to prison for a murder he didn’t commit. He was charged with killing his wife and served 25 years before being exonerated and released. Morton’s defense attorneys have reason to believe the prosecutor in the case had knowledge of Morton’s innocence, knowledge he didn’t disclose. Now, the prosecutor, Ken Anderson, is under a microscope as the defense lawyers dig into court records and files in an effort to uncover the truth. [Read more…]
Occupational Licenses in Texas DWI Cases – Too Easy to Get?
The American Statesman in conjunction with KVUE published a story this week on the practice of giving occupational licenses to people accused of drunk driving. This, they seem to suggest, is a mockery of crime and punishment. While they stop short of making an editorial about it or suggesting the procedures change, their wording conveys a sense of displeasure about the system that allows for accused drunk drivers to get behind the wheel. [Read more…]
Texas City Jails Provide Inadequate Functionality
City jails across Texas have been criticized for years for falling short in areas of basic requirements and functionality. Issues like lack of quality food, medical care, lack of showering facilities, and at least one report of leaving detainees alone in the jail with a cell phone in case of emergency have all made the headlines. [Read more…]
Cleared Former Convict Works To Help Others
When someone is released from prison, it typically takes them a while to find a good job. Some never find what they would consider a “good job” and instead find employment that barely covers the bills. Such is the life of a convicted felon—struggling to rejoin a society that too often turns its back.
One man, wrongfully convicted of rape and recently freed by DNA evidence isn’t having such problems. No, he’ll be writing legal briefs and working for the attorney who helped free him. Michael Green wrote the 13 page letter that ultimately earned him his freedom and he hopes to be able to help other wrongfully convicted Texans do the same. [Read more…]
Consequences of a Criminal Conviction in Texas
Any criminal conviction can affect your life for years to come, in ways you might not consider. That’s why it is always makes sense to speak to a criminal defense attorney about your legal options, even for minor offenses like drug possession or shoplifting. If you have a reasonable chance to beat a criminal charge in court, the lawyers fees may be the best money you ever spent. [Read more…]
