A new order from Police Chief Charles McClelland has Houston police officers ignoring subpoena times and leaving citizens hanging. The order is said to have been issued to save the department from paying overtime—suggesting officers not show up at court until after 1pm regardless of the time on their subpoenas. [Read more…]
Man Charged DWI Manslaughter On the Run
A 25 year old resident of Nepal is now a wanted man after police released him following a wreck that killed 3 Houston teens. This isn’t just a story about the danger of drunk driving but how law enforcement determines if someone is a “flight risk”. The college student is now facing three charges of intoxicated manslaughter and is nowhere to be found. [Read more…]
Houston Police Barred From Speaking to Defense Lawyers
A new rule in the Houston Police Department bars officers from speaking with defense lawyers without permission from the prosecution. According to the Houston Chronicle, the new rule came down via memo from Chief Charles McClelland on July 1. Defense attorneys are questioning the legality of the rule and certainly the impact it may have. [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…]
Dallas to Unveil New Property Crimes Court
In an effort to speed the process, Dallas officials have decided to start a specialty court just for property crimes. A stretched-thin system has many being held in jail for long periods awaiting trial and some feel this is working to the benefit of the defendants and the demise of the public.
Property crimes like this include thefts, burglaries, as opposed to crimes against other persons. [Read more…]
Supreme Court Ruling Affects Texas Corruption Case
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled last week that judges must do everything possible to keep criminal trials open to the public; this includes during voire dire, or jury selection. A case underway in Dallas at the time of the high court’s ruling was ruled a mistrial because the judge had previously held voire dire behind closed doors. [Read more…]