Criminal Justice Attorney – The Difference Between Criminal And Civil Cases

The purpose of both criminal and civil law is to protect people’s rights. They vary, however, in terms of organization, demands of evidence, and penalties.

In a civil case, the plaintiff is the one filing the suit, while the recipient is the defendant. The lawsuit starts when the plaintiff alleges that the defendant has breached a due legal obligation. The plaintiff may seek the court to order the defendant to perform the duty, compensate for the damage done, or both.

However, only the state may file charges against the defendant in a criminal case. The court works hand-in-hand with law enforcement agencies to prosecute people who have criminal law violations. For each case, prosecutors must assess the evidence and circumstances to decide which crime are most suitable and likely to result in a defendant’s conviction.

Differences Between Civil Law & Criminal Law

1. Gravity Of Punishment

Punishment is another significant contrast between civil and criminal law. In criminal law, losing a case will likely result in incarceration or probation. In comparison, civil cases are resolvable through payment for the damages or a court-mandated action.

2. Burden Of Proof

Another critical contrast between civil and criminal proceedings is the winning criteria. The accuser must fulfill a burden of proof for both approaches. This means that they have to prove or back up their allegations.

• For a criminal case, the accused must be proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Taking away or disproving even one element of the crime can lead to the dismissal of the case. Also, criminal defense lawyers can undermine the credibility of the evidence and witnesses to raise reasonable doubt among jurors.
• For a civil case, the verdict will be based on the preponderance of the evidence. To achieve this, a person must submit more credible and compelling proof than the evidence given by the opposing side. In addition, they could also prove that the evidence presented by the other party is not credible.

3. Negotiation And Settlement

Civil lawsuits have a lot more leeway in how they are resolved. Settlement of civil cases is also often outside the courts’ reach. This implies that the parties concerned have a lot more space in coming up with a workable solution.

On the contrary, criminal law negotiations are mostly just in the form of a plea bargain. However, doing such is still a massive gamble since it might still involve potential incarceration. Additionally, a plea bargain’s approval is still up to the judge. Regardless of the criminal case result, a person can file a separate civil case against the same person.

Can Criminal Law & Civil Law Overlap?

There can be a connection between criminal and civil lawsuits, even though they have a lot of differences. It is also possible to file both criminal and civil charges. A person’s guilty plea in a criminal case may even affect civil claims having a comparable factual foundation.

However, simultaneously filing both criminal and civil cases can cause many problems for both sides. This could incur confusion and divided attention towards both approaches. It is wise to file the civil cases after settling the criminal case. In most situations, filing a follow-up civil case requests compensation for damaged property, injury treatment, etc.

Assault cases are a prime example of criminal and civil law overlapping. It’s a criminal case because it violates the Texas Penal Code to threaten or inflict harm to another person. However, it’s also possible to sue the same person in a civil court for damages if the plaintiff is hurt in a crime and had to pay for medical bills.

Criminal Defense Lawyers – Protecting Your Legal Rights In Court

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Lawyer – DWI Conviction & Corresponding Administrative Penalties

In Texas, driving while intoxicated (DWI) can be classified as a misdemeanor or felony offense, depending on the nature. This is determinable if the driver’s blood-alcohol content (BAC) is more than 0.08 or if it impairs their driving ability. Alcohol intoxication may make driving safely difficult or impossible, and it can lead to severe road accidents in which people are hurt or killed. Additionally, the sanctions imposed for DWI are different from those set for other connected crimes. If the driver also caused child endangerment, property damage, or homicide, it will be separately charged.

Apart from that, a DWI offender might also face administrative penalties. The administrative hearing focuses on whether the driver refused or failed a test that resulted in a DWI arrest. Since administrative and criminal charges are separate proceedings, it is conceivable for contradictory outcomes to occur. There might be instances when someone wins their administrative case while losing the criminal case or the other way around.

Administrative Side Of A DWI Charge

The administrative procedure addresses the practical consequences of drinking and driving. It determines what will happen to the driver’s license after committing an offense. By controlling the term of the license suspension, they aim to keep irresponsible people off the road.

The driver’s refusal to do chemical tests is sometimes caused by panic. That is why the police must first educate the suspected DWI offender about the Implied Consent Law. If the person still refuses to take the tests, they could face automatic license suspension and additional consequences.

Administrative Penalties

Aside from the criminal punishments, there are also administrative penalties that you have to face. Excessive fines and forced license suspensions are instances of administrative penalties. Furthermore, penalties increase with each previous DWI offense.

Penalties For The Refusal Of Chemical Tests

In Texas, drivers have granted their implicit agreement to chemical testing by driving a motor vehicle in public. Refusing to submit to a blood, breath, or urine test in Texas carries significant repercussions.

If a DWI suspect refuses to submit a test, the police may proceed to confiscate their license. The terms for license suspension in refusing a chemical test are 180 days for the first offense. However, second-time offenders may have their license suspended for up to two years.

The driver has 15 days to request a hearing after the arrest. At this hearing, the court will assess whether the officer was right in suspending their license. Even if the person is not guilty of DWI, their license is still revocable if the court determines reasonable grounds.

Other Administrative Penalties

A DWI offender may have to pay a licensing surcharge of $2000 every year for three years to keep their license. In addition, repeat DWI offenders are also subject to a court-ordered program. It is also conceivable that there will be an evaluation for alcohol abuse and have them enter a rehabilitation facility if necessary.

An ignition interlock device may be necessary if a DWI repeat offender gets behind the wheel again. It’s also conceivable that they’ll have to pay a monthly probation charge and be subject to random drug or alcohol tests.

Reinstating A Driver’s License

Restoring a Texas driving license after a DWI conviction is a streamlined process. However, the driver must wait through the suspension or revocation period. Additionally, they must adhere to their legal penalties, including jail time, community service, and fines.

Furthermore, participation in a DWI Education Program or a DWI Intervention Program is mandatory. Lastly, they must pay any reinstatement and maintenance costs associated with their license.

DWI – Avoid Getting A Driver’s License Suspension With The Help Of An Experienced Attorney

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Law Firm – DUI & The Texas Zero Tolerance Policy

In Highland, TX, a minor operating a motor vehicle in a public location while having a detectable level of alcohol in their system can be charged with driving under the influence (DUI). The zero-tolerance policy for minors disregards the legally mandated 0.08 below blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level.

These are the penalties that minors might face if they are charged with DUI:

• First offense:
  1. Suspension of the driver’s license for 60-80days.
  2. A fine of up to $500 may be imposed.
  3. 20–40 hours of community service.
• Second offense:
  1. Suspension of the driver’s license for 120 days to 2 years.
  2. A fine of up to $500 may be imposed.
  3. 40–60 hours of community service.
• Third offense:
  1. Suspension of the driver’s license for 120 days to 2 years.
  2. A fine of up to $500 may be imposed.
  3. 40–60 hours of community service.

Aside from being charged with DUI, a minor might also face administrative penalties if they refuse or failed in the chemical test. For the first offense, they will lose their driver’s license for 60 days if they don’t give a breath or blood sample. However, each time they repeat the same offense, their license suspension will also be extended. If the minor does not have a valid driver’s license, they won’t be able to apply for one during the suspension period.

What Is Zero Tolerance Policy?

Texas’s zero tolerance policy focuses explicitly on minors who commit alcohol-related crimes. The policy states that it is against the law for someone under 21 to buy, attempt to buy, drink, or own alcohol. It also says that minors can’t drive any kind of vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.

The zero tolerance policy says that a minor should never have more than 0% BAC when driving. However, in a minor’s case, it is up to the officer which approach is best for detecting the presence of alcohol. A police officer’s belief or the mere scent of alcohol in the driver or the car is already grounds for arrest. On the other hand, a breath or blood sample may be necessary if other crimes are committed aside from DUI.

An adult making alcohol available and tolerating drunk driving minors is also an offense. It is punishable by a fine of up to $4,000 and a year of jail time. If they are accompanying a minor arrested for DUI, their driver’s license will be suspended for 180 days as well.

Can A Minor Be Tried As An Adult?

If the minor had high BAC or was under the influence of any illegal drugs, like marijuana, the DUI charge can be upgraded to a more severe DWI charge. Prior DUI convictions may significantly increase the severity of a DUI prosecution, especially if the defendant is over 18 but below 21. In these cases, the same punishments imposed on the adults will apply.

Conclusion

While the legal penalties are severe enough, being charged with DWI or DUI also has long-term consequences. These are other effects of having a these on a person’s record aside from legal and administrative penalties:

• A five-year rise in their car insurance rates.
• Being kicked out of their present school.
• Being turned down for an admission to a school.
• Having a job application denied.

Remember that the penalties shown above are just for the best-case scenario. If you cause physical injury or property damage, the fines, prison sentences, and license suspension will all be raised.

Consulting a DUI lawyer is the best thing to do if charged with a DUI or DWI. Depending on the evidence and supporting facts available, they may be able to dismiss or reduce your sentence.

DUI – Dismiss A High BAC DUI Case With The Right Legal Counsel

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Trial Attorney – Drug Crimes Convictions Can Affect Your Loved Ones Too

Highland TX, treats drug charges seriously, enforcing high fines and lengthy prison sentences for those convicted. Numerous variables will determine your sentence, including:

• If you’re a repeat offender.
• The kind and amount of drug you had in your possession.
• There is an intent to sell the substance.
• Selling it near a school or a church.
• Dealing drugs to a minor.

These factors will determine the charges and penalties you face for a drug crime in Highland, TX. Felony drug charges may result in decades in prison and up to $10,000 in fines. On the other hand, misdemeanor drug convictions can result in up to one year of jail time and $4,000 in fines.

Effects Of Drug Crimes On Your:

1. Personal Life And Career

In Highland, TX, a drug crime on your record may affect your career and personal life. It’s difficult for those with a criminal record to progress and become productive citizens even if they want to. Most of the time, people would try to avoid associating with you and create barriers. With a drug crime background, you might face the following consequences:

• Difficulty in finding a job. Before hiring someone, many businesses do background checks and inquire about any criminal offenses. Your employers might focus more on your drug crime background than your credentials. While this does not guarantee rejection, it does imply that you may not be their top priority.
• Anyone can check public criminal records. The idea that the public can access it causes more problems than just personal anxiety. This can make it hard for you to move on because future clients, institutions, neighbors, and even random people may be aware of your drug crime.
• A drug crime conviction comes with long-term implications. These charges may impact your prospects of getting into college. Processing of your clearance, license, and even immigration application can be more intricate due to your drug crime record.

However, background checks will only go back a certain amount of time in some cases. People in Highland, TX have this “seven-year rule” when they do background checks. This rule means that companies, housing, and other institutions can only look at a candidate’s criminal record for up to the last seven years. Nevertheless, there are some exceptions to this rule.

2. Relationship With Family Or Other People

Although legally innocent and often uninvolved in the crime, your family can also be an easy target of hostility from other people. This is often referred to as the stigma by association. This branding makes your drug crime involvement more difficult for family members and may result in poor treatment from classmates, coworkers, the media, and even friends and relatives.

Even more importantly, if you are a parent affiliated with a drug crime, it can greatly impact your children. People who have a criminal record may not be able to get as many opportunities. Thus, they are more likely to be at a disadvantage in terms of money, savings, assets, education, housing, and stability in their families. As a result, these challenges may impact a child’s long-term well-being.

Your drug crime conviction may also affect your future legal battles. Questions regarding your character and credibility will be inevitable. For example, having a drug crime conviction on your record could be your downfall in a child custody case.

Conclusion

In the end, even though your drug crime case doesn’t show up in your family member’s records, they might still feel the repercussions caused by your actions. It will stain your family’s reputation. As a result, you and your family might be subject to other people’s prejudices and barriers. They will also bear these consequences, whether they like it or not.

Drug Crimes – Keep Your Criminal Record Away From Drug Charges

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Legal Services – What Are The Acts That Constitute Simple Assault?

In Highland, TX, simple assault is an assaultive offense under misdemeanor crime. The prosecution must establish beyond reasonable doubt that you inflicted or threatened harm to the person intentionally or knowingly.

If the victim suffered slight injuries due to the attack, the offender might only be prosecuted with simple assault. This minor injury includes a cut, scratch, or bruise backed with a medical certificate. Convictions on these counts may result in fines ranging from $500 to $4,000 and jail time ranging from six months to a year.

Engaging in heated arguments or having a personal grudge against a person might lead you to do assaultive acts. May it be due to unpaid debts, spreading bad rumors, or simple misunderstanding. Simple assaults usually happen in road rages, bar fights, or even household quarrels.

When Can An Act Be Considered A Simple Assault

Attending the court trial will be unavoidable if you face assault charges. During the process, the prosecutor will then establish the elements of the crime for the judge to decide a person’s acquittal, conviction, or sentence reduction. These elements are:

Intent

The perpetrator may impose their intent through words, gestures, and acts. They do this to scare or intimidate someone into thinking they would be hurt. If there is evidence that the offender is aware of the risk they pose to others yet continues to do so, the intent will be proven. The charge will push through regardless if they did not proceed to perform their threat.

Apprehension Of Imminent Harm

A feeling of apprehension indicates that an injury or offensive contact is impending. This means that the target of the assault knows that the perpetrator can carry out their threat.

For example, if someone says, “I will stab you!” while they are holding a knife. Even though they did not do it, this still means that they can do so if they wish. Therefore, the victim’s apprehension is reasonable.

Harm

The perpetrator must physically or psychologically harm a person before they can be charged with an assault. Examples of acts that harm someone are slapping, pushing, punching, spitting, or tripping. However, harm can also be caused by threats and intimidation that result in the victim’s depression, anxiety, fear,

Factors That Affect An Assault

Many factors affect an assault charge. These factors may hold the power to decrease or increase someone’s sentence. There are even cases where a simple assault can become an aggravated assault. Here are some of these examples:

Provocation

Provocation is not a defense in assault cases, although it may help reduce the sentence. Provocation is a partial mitigating excuse based on the assumption that some provoking occurrences are so severe that an average person may lose self-control and assault the provoker.

Victim’s Identity

The perpetrator is likely to spend a higher sentence if the simple assault is committed against a:

• Persons in authority.
• Service providers on duty.
• Security officers on duty.
• Emergency service personnel on duty.
• Against a family member.

Targeting people that are lawfully doing their job is particularly cruel in the eyes of the law. Additionally, a simple assault can become a third-degree felony when committed against them.

Repeat Offender

Not showing remorse and maturity by being brought to court for the same charge may impact your sentence. Because of these problems, the court might want to take the person out of society. This must be done so that they won’t hurt anyone else in the future. Hence, the perpetrator might face a felony charge if they are already a repeat offender.

Assault – Experienced Law Firm Dedicated To Keep Your Record Clean

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General Practice Attorney –Felony Charges & What To Do If You Are Innocent

Felony crimes are the most severe and violent offenses under the law. This includes murder, rape, aggravated assault, robbery, burglary, and arson, among other things. However, felony laws are different in each state. In Highland, TX, the punishments and charges for a felony case can vary based on the nature of the crime, the defendant’s history, and other vital factors. Penalties could range from 180 days in jail to life imprisonment. Even worse, some individuals may face the death penalty.

What To Do If You Are Innocent

There are cases where people mistakenly charge someone with a felony. And, no matter what legal options are available, no court decision can change or restore someone’s reputation. What should a person charged with a felony do if they are innocent?

• Know About The Charges

Knowing the type of felony charged to a suspect is vital in getting the best possible defense. In Highland, TX, there are five types of a felony — capital, first degree, second degree, third degree, or state jail. In addition, the defendant also needs to know how sentencing guidelines work for each type of felony.

• Verify Intricate Details

If charged with a crime, they must start taking the steps that will keep them from getting harsh punishments. The defendant should check the facts and look for evidence or witnesses that disprove their involvement in the crime.

• Exercise Your Fifth Amendment Rights

In certain circumstances, the defendant’s own words make it difficult to record an occurrence accurately. By all means, a person should avoid self-incrimination. However, witnesses may also make up stories, or police personnel make errors or have personal biases. To prevent these, the defendant may refuse to testify without counsel. Every person can exercise their Fifth Amendment and Due Process right.

• Contact A Lawyer For Felony Case

As the due process proceeds, the defendant has to contact or be provided with a lawyer immediately. A felony lawyer in Highland, TX, will be familiar with all the legal nuances they may be unaware of. Having a competent lawyer allows them to avoid choosing what appears to be a good offer but is probably not to their greatest advantage. A felony lawyer will start collecting all the details about the case. That is why the defendant should provide as much reliable information as possible. It is also vital that they give accurate information, a list of potential eyewitnesses to the alleged crime, and a list of names and contact information for anyone who can vouch for the client’s good conduct.

• Attend Court Hearings

Additionally, it is important to attend all court proceedings. This way, the accused shows good faith and sincerity in proving their innocence. Additionally, In Highland, TX, a person is chargeable with bail jumping or failure to appear if they don’t attend hearings.

These steps should help you avoid making your situation worse than it already is. Being innocent should give a person an easier time with the criminal justice system, but that’s not always the case. The defendant might have difficulty proving their innocence, so they should equip themselves with the proper knowledge and approach. Having the assistance of a lawyer will increase the client’s chances of proving their innocence.

However, the truthfulness of one’s innocence always wins, one way or another. It is important to have faith in the criminal justice system to punish the guilty for their crimes and let the truth prevail.

Being a victim of false criminal accusations can be stressful and scary. However, the Medlin Law Firm is always ready to assist! They will ensure the protection of their client’s rights and hopefully clear their name. To set up your free and confidential consultation, contact them at (214) 888-4810 or visit our website.

Felony – Protecting You From False Accusations That Can Harm Your Reputation

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Barrister – Theft In Texas & What To Do When You Are Caught

In Highland, TX, theft charges are based on the value of the stolen property or services. In some situations, the type of property involved.

According to the Texas Penal Code 31.03 (2020), “A person commits an offense if he unlawfully appropriates property with intent to deprive the owner of property.” In other words, you commit a theft when you take something that does not belong to you without consent or legal authority.

Theft is a growing violation in Texas, and there can be substantial repercussions. You might face hefty penalties and perhaps significant jail time or prison. In Highland, TX, common theft legislation contains many illegal activities, such as fraud, kidnapping, scamming, and theft by deception. Private belongings, residential property, records, and commodities are all susceptible to theft.

How to Defend Yourself Against Theft Charges In Highland, TX,

It’s possible to use many different defenses if you have been charged with theft. In Highland, TX, theft charges come after a loss prevention worker has apprehended a suspect. While loss prevention agents may hold you until the police arrive, they cannot violate your rights. That is to say:

• The officers can’t force you to make a statement. You have to keep your mouth shut until your lawyer arrives. Making any claims without legal counsel can cause you more trouble. Do not respond to their questions or engage in debate with them.
• Authorities can touch you down, but they can’t make you take off your clothes. If the officers ask for permission to do a check, say no.
• They can’t make you sign a statement admitting to the crime. You must decline in signing any paper without legal counsel. Sometimes, it might contain clauses that are self-incriminatory.
• If they interrogate you, request a lawyer. They will usually ask you, “why would you want a lawyer if you haven’t done anything illegal?” Simply repeat your legal request. You are under no obligation to disclose why.

Being caught “red-handed” doesn’t automatically indicate you were trying to steal something. As your case and interrogation continue to court, you will have to work with your criminal defense lawyer. Your criminal defense lawyer should go over the specifics of your case with you. With their help, you will be able to face the allegations with the right approach. Below are some of the methods to oppose the theft charges:

• Disproving Witness Statements: An eyewitness may believe they witnessed you doing something. However, they should be able to establish the credibility of their statement. It might be possible that the person who saw you stealing was just speculating. You can also show or provide circumstantial evidence that you had no reason to steal.
• Reasonable Suspicion Isn’t Present: The dismissal of the lawsuit might be possible if you were held or interrogated without a reasonable cause.
• Someone Set You Up: The proper legal term for this is entrapment. For example, someone could steal something and give it to you to make it look like you’re the one who stole it. You can use entrapment as a defense if someone else sets you up to commit theft.
• No Evidence: If they don’t discover the stolen items from you, the charge is weak and may be bound for dismissal. Additionally, establishing theft is difficult if there is no substantial evidence or eyewitness to the crime.

The most significant aspect of most theft cases is intent. If the alleged victim or the person who filed the complaint cannot show your intent to steal, the charge is dismissible. Even if the evidence against you is substantial, a competent lawyer may be able to help you have the charges dropped.

Theft – Prove Yourself Innocent With The Right Attorney Next To You

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Family Law Attorney – Domestic Violence Can Tear Families Apart & Destroy Relationships

In Highland, TX, domestic violence is defined as violence perpetrated by a person in their immediate family. In Highland, TX, domestic violence can be considered a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the situation.

This abuse affects people of all ages and from all walks of life. However, women and children make up the majority of the victims. The reason for this is the obvious power imbalance between the victim and the perpetrator. It is also a factor when the victim is dependent on the perpetrator. Here are probable causes of domestic violence in Highland, TX:

• Growing up in a home where domestic abuse was tolerated.
• They believe they have the right to dominate their spouse.
• Problems with Anger Management.
• Personality disorder or mental illness?
• Alcohol and drug induced urges.
• Self-esteem issues.
• Feeling insecure.

Domestic violence has adverse effects on people’s lives in Highland, TX. A family requires a safe and inclusive environment to develop in. However, when there is family or domestic violence, victims are denied of this, and they continually fear for their safety.

Indicators Of Domestic Violence

Several things might indicate that an individual is a victim of domestic violence in Highland, TX.. Defensive injuries to the forearms and hands are sometimes visible. For instance, obvious scars, lacerations, fingernail scrapes, bruises, or cigarette scars. However, clothes may conceal injuries to the private parts, abdomen, and buttocks. However, these signs may also come in the form of observable changes in behavior, such as:

• They’ve either lost their self-assurance or have become abnormally silent.
• The victim shows signs of anxiety, sadness, and weariness.
• They appear to be terrified in the presence of the perpetrator.
• They frequently discuss their partner’s irritability or resentment
• They claim that their spouse pushes or threatens them to engage in sexual activity.

Effects Of Domestic Violence On Children

Children are usually firsthand witnesses and victims of domestic violence. If they see their parents fight, they are more likely to imitate it. They are also more likely to have post-traumatic stress disorder, aggressive behavior, anxiety, impaired development, difficulties interacting with peers, academic problems, and a higher possibility of using drugs. This might cause them to have a hard time with future relationships and parenting in the future. Aside from that, these are some of the long term effects of domestic violence on a child:

• Less empathy and concern for others.
• Have a difficult time building meaningful connections.
• Develop phobias and sleep disorders.
• Hostility towards friends and other people.
• Headaches and stomach pains.
• Emotional anguish.
• Trouble with attending school and doing schoolwork.
• Relentless anxiety and depression.
• Deploy bullying tactics or become a victim of bullying.
• Have difficulties focusing.

Effects Of Domestic Violence On A Spouse

Having an abusive spouse can result in a variety of mental and physical issues. To deal with the repercussions of the violence, some people begin to abuse alcohol or drugs or participate in dangerous activities such as unprotected sex. Sexual assault may also have an impact on a person’s perspective of their own body, leading to poor eating habits or eating disorders.

Victims of domestic violence may have feelings of guilt or humiliation as a result of the attack. Some individuals attempt to conceal or downplay abuse by hiding injuries and making explanations for the abuser. Other side effects include closing others off, not wanting to do activities they used to like, not being able to trust others, and having poor self-esteem.

Because of domestic violence, many people try to flee from their homes in search of protection. However, if they are dependent on the perpetrator, this option may be hard for them. Aside from that, if they have children, they may continue to live with an abusive spouse out of fear of losing custody or contact with them.

Domestic Violence – File For A Restrictive Order To Protect Your Integrity

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District Council – Misdemeanor Charges & How They Can Affect Your Career

There are three levels of misdemeanors in Highland, TX. Each has a different punishment range, including fines that range from $500 to $4,000 and 180 days to a year of jail time. When it comes to misdemeanor cases, incarcerations will either be spent in the county jail or under house arrest.However, many aspects can influence a misdemeanor case. This includes your criminal history, the location of the incident, and the involvement of drugs.

Particularly, criminal convictions could risk a person’s career. Finding jobs, providing services, and other personal endeavors wouldn’t be as easy. Besides, having a criminal record might subject a person to negative societal stigmas. As a result, people will avoid associating with them.

Though misdemeanor cases may sometimes be labeled as minor offenses, it is still a crime. A misdemeanor in Highland, TX, will stay on your record for the rest of your life unless you get it removed. If not, there are also proper approaches and methods in which a person could disclose their criminal record without risking their career.

Can You Get A Job With A Misdemeanor Record?

People who have experienced misdemeanor issues often desire to put such matters behind them. They may even want to pursue a profession or find decent work and live a normal life. Here are some approaches that you might consider:

1. Taking Full Responsibility

You may decide to disclose your misdemeanor records in necessary situations such as job applications. You must inform your employers about your criminal record if they inquire. It is illegal for someone with a criminal conviction to withhold this information. However, telling your employers about non-conviction arrests or expunged charges is up to you.

By being open about your criminal record, you show that you own your actions. It also lets you talk about how you learned and grew from the event. Trying to hide your criminal history, on the other hand, may hurt your chances of getting a job more than the record itself does.

2. Avoid Discussing About It

Don’t allow your revelation about your criminal history to dominate the conversation. Refocus the discussion on why you’re a good match for the job, the skills that you possess, and the trainings you’ve attended.

Even though you must disclose your criminal history to others, you need not go into detail regarding the offense. If you show that you’ve changed and progressed, it might leave you with a positive note.

3. Request For The Expunction Of A Misdemeanor Offense

Expunction is the legal term for wiping a crime from your criminal record. However, you have to meet certain conditions before qualifying for expunction. Fortunately, there is no established deadline for filing an expunction of a misdemeanor case in Highland, TX. Here are the situations in which a person arrested with a misdemeanor offense can qualify for expunction:

• After being arrested but not prosecuted, you must wait a specified time to petition for an expunction in Highland, TX. Specifically, a person charged with a Class C misdemeanor must wait 180 days, whereas those accused of a Class A or B misdemeanor have to wait one year. Imposing this waiting time allows the prosecution to develop a case if they choose to do so.
• You must be cleared, have your charges dropped, or get a pardon before requesting an expunction if you were found guilty. People who have been arrested and had one of these successful resolutions to their criminal proceedings can still start over their life. This will be helpful in cases like renting an apartment, getting a job, or getting a credit card.
• If you were still a minor during your arrest for misdemeanor offenses in Highland, TX, you can ask to have your record erased when you turn 18. You can proceed to file your expunction regardless of the verdict of the crime.

Summary

Your criminal past does not guarantee that you have run out of opportunities. However, it also helps to be realistic and not aim for particular careers that are difficult to pursue due to a prior criminal record.

Hiring a criminal lawyer would help you address this problem through a legal approach. They may be able to help you with your legal battles, criminal record expungement, and other services related to criminal law.

Misdemeanor – Expunge Your Misdemeanor Charges Off Your Criminal Record

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Council – Possession Of Marijuana & Why People Think It Is A Gateway Drug

In Highland Park, TX, the possession and sale of any quantity of marijuana are illegal. Marijuana has a high potential for abuse, and it has no widely recognized medical use. That is why it is a Schedule I drug.

State and federal laws criminalize marijuana possession, sale, and production. The penalties for these offenses vary based on the quantity seized during the arrest. Punishments for this offense could go from a class C misdemeanor to a first-degree felony case.

What Makes It A Gateway Drug?

There is no proven data to support the notion that smoking marijuana leads to the use of more dangerous drugs. Nevertheless, there are also pieces of evidence showing that marijuana use raises the likelihood of experimenting with other drugs. In Highland, TX, it is unclear how many well-known risk factors link marijuana usage to further dangerous drug use. Here are some of the reasons why people consider it a gateway drug:

1. It Introduces You To The Illegal Drug Market

Sometimes, the illegality of marijuana possession introduces a person to the illegal drug market. People who want to buy it have to get them from dealers who also sell other dangerous drugs. These drug dealers will then market drugs other than marijuana to their customers.

2. Effects In The Person’s Brain

When people use marijuana while their brains are still growing, it can alter their brains’ reward system. Other drugs may become more tempting as a result. That is why people who smoke marijuana in their early twenties tend to precede the use of dangerous drugs. But to be fair, alcohol and nicotine may also lead to further illegal drug usage, yet they are legal in Highland, TX.

3. Prone To More Interactions With Drug Users

It is crucial to highlight that subsequent social interactions with other drug users have a role in a person’s risk of using more dangerous drugs. People who begin with readily available substances like marijuana, tobacco, or alcohol are more likely to be with people who have used a more dangerous drug. Even just a drop of curiosity, pressure, and coercion can also lure a person into engaging with it.

What Influences The Usage Of Marijuana?

In Highland, TX, the basis for marijuana possession and usage may vary for each individual. Reasons could span from simple curiosity or a result of a traumatic event. However, some factors might cause marijuana usage, including:

• Peer Pressure And Environment

Peer pressure is the most common cause for young people to possess and use marijuana. A person’s social environment may significantly influence their choice to consume marijuana.

This peer network includes family members too. A family member’s addiction, consumption, or possession of marijuana might significantly influence a person. That is why constant exposure to marijuana normalizes its usage.

• Experimentation

Usually, people in Highland, TX, start using marijuana in their adolescence. This results from their curiosity about what it’s like to be “high.” However, sometimes it doesn’t just end with just that. Hence, they may even develop an addiction.

• Misinformation

People are usually unaware of the effects of marijuana. If they knew how smoking marijuana could harm their brain development, they might lose interest. Marijuana use may increase the risk of clinical depression or aggravate symptoms of existing mental illnesses. Especially in high dosages, it may cause paranoia or a loss of reality, causing hallucinations. Acute withdrawal symptoms may also impair one’s ability to concentrate, retain, and recall.

• Adapting From Traumatic Experiences

Trauma and long-term stress can mess with the body’s stress system, making people more likely to become hooked on marijuana usage and possession. For these people, marijuana somehow makes them happy and less stressed. People who have undergone traumatic experiences may use marijuana for drug-induced pleasure and mood management.

Possession Of Marijuana – Obtain Charges Dismissal For Personal Use Drug Crimes

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Highland Park, Texas

About Highland Park

The town was dubbed “Highland Park” due to its higher elevation in comparison to the surrounding region and the fact that 20% of developed land was set aside for park space. Highland Park borders a total area of 2.26 square miles.

The upscale suburb of Highland Park is located just five minutes north of downtown Dallas. It not only features luxury shops, but it’s also a site to several of Dallas’ most popular eateries such as Taverna, Nonna, and  Javier’s Gourmet Mexicano.

Highland Park, one of Dallas’ most elite communities, is indeed the place to be. Beautiful parks are among the most enticing characteristics of this upscale region. Y you can enjoy the beautifully landscaped outdoor settings, which include swan ponds, walking routes, tennis courts, and fountains.  Highland Park rose to prominence in the early 1980s when the popular television program “Dallas” was filmed on-site there.

Pecan Tree

The great old pecan tree along Armstrong Parkway near Preston Road was a genuine Highland Park’s jewel. This massive oak was almost 140 years old.

The Republic of Texas gave Dr. John Cole a headright of 410 acres of land in Dallas County in 1843, including the lot where the pecan tree was rooted. He began purchasing additional property, counting the landmass that became Highland Park and a portion of University Park.

Joseph Cole— John Cole’s son, spotted the pecan tree while sowing corn and unintentionally plowed over the then little pecan tree. After returning from the Civil War and witnessing so much damage and slaughter, Joseph Cole pegged the tree to preserve it and watered the pecan tree as a testimony to life. The Philadelphia Place Land Association then bought 294.9 acres of land from Joseph Cole on the condition that the buyer will continue to tend the tree. In 1908, it was John S. Armstrong who purchased the land upon which the pecan tree grows.

Years later, while the town was being developed,  Edgar Flippin and Hugh Prather, commissioned a renowned city architect named George E. Kessler to create a parkway to safeguard the tree as well as provide it with a prominent location at the town’s entry. Then it came to a point when the removal of the tree was essential for the safety of inhabitants and vehicles in the neighborhood due to its great size and unstable status. That is why on October 21, 2019, the great old tree was cut down.