May 21, 2012

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White Collar Crimes: An Overview

May 15, 2012 By Leave a Comment

By Nicolas DAlleva -

There are many different crimes in the world today. Some of the overlooked crimes fall into the white collar crime category. This category is made up of crimes that do not necessarily “hurt” someone. They often happen in professional settings and include things such as embezzlement, pyramid schemes, and fraud. Many times when people see some sort of corporate scandal on the news, it is about a white collar crime. It has been found that the public as a whole is more willing to forgive people who commit these crimes. It is important to remember that they can result in just as much jail time as any other type of illegal activity.

White collar crimes are frequently committed by people in government or business positions. Many of them are felonies and typically involve some sort of fraudulent activity. There is a long list of crimes including:

  • Forgery
  • Money laundering
  • Insider trading
  • Bribery
  • Copyright infringement
  • Identity theft
  • Commodities and securities fraud
  • Embezzlement
  • Any and every type of fraud such as bankruptcy fraud and insurance fraud

The biggest difference between blue collar crimes and white collar crimes is that violence is normally not a factor in white collar offenses. The perpetrators are normally financially privileged, especially in comparison to blue collar offenders. Money is often the main motivation of these crimes and while it causes no physical harm to others, businesses and individuals can lose hundreds of thousands of dollars. Any office where financial transactions take place and sensitive information is accessed on a daily basis is at risk for crime. Whether it is a corporate, business, or government office, no environment is immune.

The news is often full of corruption and large corporation scandals. These are perfect examples of the magnitude that white collar crimes can reach. One positive side of handling white collar crimes is that the offense can be committed by an entire agency and not just a single person. Civil law suits against companies can occur because of this type of crime. Common crimes that can be committed by the institute and not the individual include price fixing, false advertising, and company overcharges.

While it would stand to reason that technology improvements would provide better security for businesses, technology is actually making it easier for money to be stolen especially by a savvy person. The crimes are facilitated with computers, paperwork, and any other type of electronic device. These crimes result in some sort of benefit from the company or employee. The goal is normally to make money whether it is through stealing or insider trading.

Unlike other crimes, people are not arrested and charged. An extensive investigation normally takes place so that the right people are accused and charged. If you have been indicted, contacted by an investigator, or fear for your freedom in any way, shape, or form, you need to get in touch with a reliable criminal defense attorney. A lawyer will be at your side through every step of the proceedings. The facts will be evaluated so that you can get a good deal.

Nicolas DAlleva is an experienced Philadelphia criminal lawyer specializing in crimes such as forgery, identity theft, fraud, and embezzlement. If you need an white collar crime attorney, call the law offices of Nicolas DAlleva at 215-546-5650.

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Filed Under: Criminal Court Tagged With: ,

A Prison’s Vacancy Neon Sign

March 5, 2012 By Leave a Comment

By Samantha Cruz -

I watched some television lately and there is this one interesting place that uses neon signs in such an extraordinary way. It utilizes a vacancy neon sign but it certainly is not an apartment or motel. The place is, in fact, a prison and it promotes vacancy to its facility for all criminals and lawbreakers. The prison facility is located in the desert of Phoenix, Arizona. It has a bright pink neon sign that flashes the word “vacancy” 24/7. Surrounded by very tall 25-foot barbed wire fences, the sign proudly hangs high above the security watch tower manned by powerfully-armed guards. This is the greeting that welcomes criminals and lawbreakers as they enter and get locked up in America’s toughest jail – the Tent City.

Inside the Tent City, there are well over a thousand prisoners. It is aptly called Tent City because inside the facility the prisoners live in army surplus tents. They are left to weather the scorching heat of Arizona summer with temperatures reaching 50�C and the cold, freezing temperature during winter. There are no air conditioning units. There are no heaters. The prisoners are provided vile food for their diet. This tough life inside can make most inmates thinking and swearing never to go back in.

The jail has a reputation that no matter how many criminals are locked up there, the vacancy sign never goes off. We know how most prison facilities easily get filled with criminals and law offenders. Sometimes such prison facilities put no vacancy signs and turn away other prisoners. Not in Tent City. The jail warden has a different approach on all criminals. Instead of turning them away, he builds more tents to house them in. Building a concrete facility takes a lot of budget money. It can even cost millions. This ingenious idea of using tents can only cost Arizona taxpayers little money not even reaching a hundred grand. Such a small price to pay to keep their citizens safe.

Visit these site to buy some beautiful neon signs.

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Filed Under: Criminal Court, Going to Jail Tagged With: ,

How to Find Out If a Court Arrest Warrant Has Been Issued, and What to Do Next

February 27, 2012 By Leave a Comment

By Patricia Stevens -

If you fail to show up for court after you have agreed or been ordered to do so, a court arrest warrant will likely be issued for you. What exactly does this mean to you? Will the SWAT Team be kicking down your door to arrest you? Is it safe to leave the house? Should you turn yourself in? First you will need to find out if a court arrest warrant has even been issued. If so, what happens next depends on a lot of things.

Finding out if a court arrest warrant has been issued is as easy as picking up the telephone and calling the clerk of courts office. They will be able to inform you exactly what measures have been taken by the court, and they should be able to tell you who holds the court arrest warrant, too. The arrest warrant may have been passed on to the city police or the county sheriff. Maybe both authorities hold your warrant, as well as the state patrol, the FBI, the Federal Marshall’s office. The list of law enforcement authorities who can arrest you on a court arrest warrant is quite exhaustive. Who holds your warrant depends largely on what your crime was and how badly the court wants you arrested.

If you failed to appear in court for a minor traffic ticket and a court arrest warrant was filed, then it is possible that the police will knock on your door looking for you. It is more likely, however that they will simply wait for you to make a mistake, like not using your turn signal, and arrest you when they pull you over. If you are a suspected terrorist, however, then you can expect heavily armored men in black masks and big guns serving the court arrest warrant.

Once you have found out that a court arrest warrant has been issued, it is always best to turn yourself in immediately to the authorities that hold the warrant. The first reason for turning yourself in is that you won’t have to constantly be looking over your shoulder to see if someone is there ready to slap on the cuffs. You will also be treated much better when you cooperate, both by the arresting authorities as well as when you show up for court. Many times when you turn yourself in for a court arrest warrant, your sentence will be much lighter than if you evaded the warrant and the authorities had to hunt you down.

Often court arrest warrants and records are available online. Try looking up the court you were supposed to appear in and see if they have an online records search. Simply type in the information it asks for, usually your name, address, social security number, etc. Any records of court arrest warrants, as well as other records about you, will come up. This information might include the date that the court arrest warrant was issued, if and when it expires, and who is authorized to serve the court arrest warrant.

Patricia Stevens owns and operates http://www.courtarrestrecords.com

Court Arrest Records

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Filed Under: Criminal Court, Going to Jail Tagged With: , ,

Why Do You Need A Criminal Attorney?

February 16, 2012 By Leave a Comment

By Alice Shown -

Criminal law is the branch of law that deals with people who commit crime. Crime is anything that involves aberrant behavior and violation of social rules and regulations. Crimes and criminals have been there since a very long time. Convictions and punishments are carried out through criminal law.

Crimes can be of broadly divided into two types – misdemeanors and felonies. Misdemeanors are minor crimes (petty theft) that involve light punishments. Felonies are serious crimes (murder, robbery) that involve severe punishments.

People accused of crimes are given certain rights so that they are not treated unjustly. The have the right:

* To get an attorney

* Not to incriminate oneself.

* To a public trial.

* To an appeal.

The punishments and convictions usually have the power to change one’s life completely. It is always advised to get a criminal lawyer who is skilled in this field and can handle complex cases. He is the person who can help you as he knows your rights and has expert knowledge in the field.

A skilled criminal attorney can be very helpful for the following reasons.

Comprehensions of legal proceedings – Criminal cases are considered as severe cases and involve serious complications. Hiring an experienced lawyer can ease out the legal procedures. He can help you to understand the twists and turns of your case and simplify things for you.

Extra assistance whenever you need – Severe criminal convicts are imposed with severe penalties. The involved proceedings can be pretty complex and tedious to understand and keep a track of. Your criminal attorney can keep you updated with the progress in your case. Lawyers are always in touch with the court personnel. Such contacts can help in strengthening your case and you will be able to defend yourself properly.

Court representation – Your criminal attorney will be representing you in the court and will do the needful to defend you and minimize the penalty. He is a person who has professional knowledge in this field and knows how to present a case in front of the judge with the help of available witnesses and documents.

Being convicted of a severe criminal charge can leave a black mark in your life and you may not be able to put up with it. It is not desirable to take your future so lightly. If you have been charged with any serious crime, hire a criminal attorney. Phoenix, Arizona citizens can get professional legal assistance at Breger Law.

DUI Attorney Phoenix – The Law Offices of Kevin Breger are committed to providing the highest caliber criminal defense services including DUI charges in Phoenix, Scottsdale and surrounding areas.

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Filed Under: Criminal Court Tagged With: , ,

Legalization of Medical Marijuana in Arizona

January 16, 2012 By Leave a Comment

By Jasmin Z -

We all know that 14 states in the United States as well as countries such as Canada, Austria, the Netherlands, Germany, Portugal, Spain, Finland, Israel, and Italy have legalized the use of medicinal marijuana. Just last November 2010, a law legalizing the use and possession of marijuana in Arizona solely for medical purposes have been passed making it the fifteenth state to do so.

Just like the other 14 states, patients must apply for a medical marijuana identification card. To do this he or she must be a “qualified patient” meaning that he or she should have a chronic or debilitating disease. Patients must acquire a written recommendation from a doctor, homeopaths, osteopaths, or naturopaths specializing and licensed to recommend medical marijuana treatment. This doctor should also provide a written documentation about the said recommendation, his reasons to give such, and his signature affixed. Once they have the two documents, they can apply for a card. However, not all consultations end up in medical marijuana recommendation.

However, laws covering medical marijuana in Arizona still need further amendment as there are overlapping laws regarding the legality of the drug particularly in cases of driving under the influence of marijuana. Medicinal marijuana card holders may still violate the law notwithstanding legality. This is just one of the ambivalence that law-makers in Arizona should clarify. Moreover, if you reside in Arizona and plan to drive without repercussion even with a card, you should at least hire an accident lawyer.

As for medical marijuana dispensaries, they should be registered as non-profit. They must have documents that prove their legal operation. They should distribute medicinal marijuana solely to qualified patients who have a valid card as well as to their eligible primary caregivers. Acquiring, cultivating, processing, manufacturing, or delivering them for other purposes makes them answerable to the law.

Find out more information about medical marijuana and how you can benefit from it.

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http://EzineArticles.com/?Legalization-of-Medical-Marijuana-in-Arizona&id=5766531

 

 

Filed Under: Criminal Court Tagged With: , ,

Assault Laws in Arizona

January 3, 2012 By Leave a Comment

By Cias Hart -

Assault is generally considered, in conversational speaking, to mean to lay hands on another person for the purpose of doing them bodily harm. Commonly understood, this means to punch, hit, slap, or perhaps push another person. We most likely think of a school-yard fight or a bar room brawl as examples of assault, outside of the more complex area of domestic violence. I would like to take the next few paragraphs to explain that assault can actually refer to far less aggressive acts, and at the same time have serious consequences for the accused. I will also discuss what to do if you have been arrested or charged with assault.

First, let’s go over the Arizona Revised Statute Title 13, Chapter 12. Specifically, Section 3 which deals with the crime commonly known as assault.

ARS 13-1203
A. A person commits assault by:
1. Intentionally, knowingly or recklessly causing any physical injury to another person; or
2. Intentionally placing another person in reasonable apprehension of imminent physical injury; or
3. Knowingly touching another person with the intent to injure, insult or provoke such person.
B. Assault committed intentionally or knowingly pursuant to subsection A, paragraph 1 is a class 1 misdemeanor. Assault committed recklessly pursuant to subsection A, paragraph 1 or assault pursuant to subsection A, paragraph 2 is a class 2 misdemeanor. Assault committed pursuant to subsection A, paragraph 3 is a class 3 misdemeanor.

In case you have a hard time with legal jargon, let me break that down in layman’s terms. You commit assault (a misdemeanor) if you:

(1) Injure another person
(2) Place a person in fear of being injured
(3) Touch another person, specifically trying to hurt, insult, or provoke them (such as pushing someone to start a fight).

This is a far different understanding than most people have, and it has serious implications for those who don’t understand it. While most of us will go the majority of our adult lives never having a confrontation with another grown-up, sometimes we are placed into situations not of our own choosing. Should you have to escape from such a situation, or protect your family in one, you should be aware that of this statute. If you so much as lay a finger on a person who has not, as of yet, caused you injury then you may be charged with assault.

Suppose you are in the grocery store, and have a run-in with an “upset” homeless person. Regardless of whether or not they are attempting to take something from you, or are scaring your family, if you touch them you may find yourself placed under arrest for assaulting them. Self-defense exceptions, highlighted in another of my articles, specifically refer to times when you are in immediate fear of being injured or a third party being injured.

Simply put, consider yourself warned. In today’s society, you are almost never allowed to lay your hands on another person forcefully. Should you do so, you may find yourself in the custody of the authorities, and potentially charged with a crime.

If you have been charged with a crime, your first step should be to contact a criminal defense lawyer. Criminal defense attorneys are aware of all of the exceptions and complexities surrounding ARS 13, and may be able to negotiate with the State on your behalf if you find yourself in trouble.

Cias Hart is a veteran and lifelong resident of Arizona. It is important in today’s society that you understand the complexities of the legal system. If you live in the greater metro area, it is in your best interest to contact a reputable criminal defense attorney in Phoenix before you are charged with a crime so you are not fumbling at the last minute to find a good legal defender. If you have been arrested or charged with a crime, contact a Phoenix criminal defense lawyer immediately; your freedom may be at stake!

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http://EzineArticles.com/?Assault-Laws-in-Arizona&id=5193516

 

 

Filed Under: Criminal Court Tagged With: , , ,

What Is the Criminal Court Procedure?

December 27, 2011 By Leave a Comment

By Peter David Wendt

Investigation & Arrest

In United States criminal trials, there is a very specific procedure that follows the arrest of an individual for committing a crime. The judicatory process generally involves prosecution, defense, and sentencing. An arrest typically follows a criminal investigation. When a suspect is arrested, he or she is read their rights. Their rights include the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. The suspect goes to booking where they are identified, charged with the crime, and photographed. This must take place in less than 72 hours after the suspect is arrested.

Pretrial

The pretrial procedure includes the arraignment. The charges are read to the suspect and the suspects can enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Most misdemeanor trials end here, but a felony trial is more complex. The judge will set a bail that the accused can pay to be released until trial. The next step in pretrial is the preliminary hearing, which is where the judge or grand jury determines whether or not there is sufficient evidence for the trial to move forward. If there is not enough evidence to suggest that the accused has committed the crime, the trial may be dismissed.

Trial

The first step of the trial is jury selection. The jury is selected with careful consideration and given directions on how to move forward. During the trial, the opening statements are made. The prosecution and the defense both bring their witnesses to the stand, and present evidence. The witnesses are cross-examined and closing statements are made.

Verdict

The jury must deliberate in order to determine if the accused suspect is guilty or not guilty. If the jury decides that the suspect is not guilty of the crime the accused is charged with, they may determine that he or she is guilty of a related crime. The jury delivers the verdict in the courtroom after reaching an agreement. In some cases, the jury may actually be unable to make a decision and the judge may deem the case a mistrial.

Sentencing

If the defendant has been found guilty by the jury then a judge will take some time to determine what the sentence should be for committing the crime. At the hearing for sentencing the judge will order that a fine be paid, probation be set, or jail/prison time be served. After given a sentence, it must be adhered to unless the defendant decides to appeal the decision and set a new trial.

Peter Wendt is a writer and researcher specializing in Austin criminal lawyer. For readers who are interested in learning more about this subject, Peter recommends they check out Robertmphillips.com.

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Filed Under: Criminal Court Tagged With: ,

Understanding Stalking and Its Legal Ramifications

December 20, 2011 By Leave a Comment

By Richard Suzuki -

When a person follows, harasses or makes repeated attempts to contact another person in such a manner that puts that person in fear of their safety or the safety of their immediate family members, they could be guilty of stalking.

Behaviors that may be perfectly legal when performed alone can become criminalized when they are committed in a series of repeated actions. When these behaviors or actions are targeted at another individual and they carry a credible threat of bodily injury or other intentional harm they are in violation of the law.

The passage of the Violence Against Women Act, Title IV of the Violent Crime Control and Enforcement Act of 1994, marked a major change in America’s history. Since the new law was passed, crimes such as domestic violence, sexual assault and staking grew national attention as well as increased awareness of the problem of stalking. Stalking has received great public attention in the last fifteen years and it is known to affect people in all racial, social, religious, ethnic and economic areas.

Stalking can occur in any number of situations; however, the relationship between the victim and the stalker typically falls under one of the three following categories:

  1. The parties involved either have a current or previous sexual relationship. This would include married, separated, divorced or people who were once in a relationship but have broken up.
  2. The stalker and the victim are acquaintances and somehow know one another either from work; friends, school or by living in the same neighborhood.
  3. The victim is a public figure or celebrity and never met their stalker.

Where it may be perfectly okay to call somebody at home once or twice, making 30 phone calls in a given day would be considered harassment. The same is true when it comes to sending text messages, e-mails or Facebook messages. While a few may be acceptable, too many calls or messages could be construed as stalking, and understandably so. Unfortunately, despite the “innocence” of your intentions, repeated contact with an individual that is unwelcomed could land you in a lot of legal trouble.

In Arizona, a person is guilty of stalking if they intentionally or knowingly engage in a course of conduct that is directed towards another person, especially if it causes that person to fear for their safety or the safety of their immediate family members.

What types of behaviors would comprise stalking? Any type of willful and repeated following, watching or harassing of a person would be classified as stalking. In many cases, stalking behaviors are an attempt to coerce a relationship with another person that is unavailable or uninterested in having a relationship. It is not uncommon for stalkers to be ex-boyfriends or girlfriends or even ex-spouses.

Stalking behaviors are not single, isolated events. It entails many repeated attempts to follow or contact an unwilling recipient. Unwillingness on behalf of the victim is the key element to stalking; the lack of reciprocation in wanting to have a relationship or wanting contact with a stalker is what classifies the behavior as such.

If the stalking behavior would make any reasonable person fear for their physical safety or make them afraid that they could suffer serious injuries or death, then there is a problem. In Arizona, stalking is classified as either a Class 3 or Class 5 felony offense.

If you have been accused of this type of harassment, it would be a grave mistake to not take these allegations seriously. If you are convicted, you could be facing felony consequences as well as a permanent and damming criminal record. It will be absolutely crucial to have a highly experienced criminal defense attorney fighting for your legal rights. At the very least you could wind up with a restraining order taken out against you. This would prohibit you from contacting the victim or coming within a certain distance of their home, place of employment etc. To challenge the allegations against you, contact a seasoned criminal defense attorney today.

Suzuki Law Offices, LLC proudly represents the residents of Phoenix that are faced with criminal charges. Their founding attorney Richard J. Suzuki is a former Assistant United States Attorney and Deputy Maricopa County Attorney; therefore, he knows how the prosecution operates and he uses that knowledge to benefit his clients. Their firm has extensive experience in both the state and federal courts; they will use their vast knowledge of the criminal justice system to help you secure a more favorable outcome in the charges against you. They are not here to judge you, no matter what you are charged with, they will provide you with the unwavering dedication and respect that your case deserves. Their support staff is focused on helping you achieve the best possible outcome available in your unique case. So take action now; contact a Phoenix criminal defense attorney from the firm at (888) 674-2283.

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http://EzineArticles.com/?Understanding-Stalking-and-Its-Legal-Ramifications&id=6609446

 

 

Filed Under: Criminal Court Tagged With: , ,

Crime in America on the Rise

December 7, 2011 By Leave a Comment

By Lance Winslow -

Perhaps you have noticed yourself but crime is on the rise and there are so many reasons why this is so. Consider if you will that the MS-13 Gang has grown and doubled in size in the last year alone. Realize too that many soldiers will be coming back from Iraq soon and they are young, aggressive and full of piss and vinegar still.

Perhaps you are not so surprised to learn that many crimes are committed by illegal aliens in the United States of America; did you know that 42% of all criminals in the Arizona Prison System are indeed illegal aliens? It is true. Also true is that 33% of all violent criminals in the Federal Prison System are illegal aliens? What is the draw for criminals to come to America?

Well, it is pretty easy pickings here if you consider that most folks leave their cars unlocked in rural neighborhoods, their garage doors open in suburbs and carry purses with them in the cities. One of the biggest issues is that, we also have a huge increase in drug use with young adults and this is causing more theft and lesser crimes. In fact crime is up in nearly every category. Some say it is the hot weather and perhaps that does play some affect to the over all stats, but it appears that the increase and crime issues in the United States are for a multitude of reasons. Please consider all this in 2006.

“Lance Winslow” – Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.WorldThinkTank.net/. Lance is an online writer in retirement.

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Filed Under: Criminal Court Tagged With: , , ,

Penalties for Simple Assault in Arizona

November 28, 2011 By Leave a Comment

By T. Jacobs -

So, you’ve just finished a nice dinner out with your family and while walking to your car a stranger approaches you and asks for change. You reply that you are empty-handed, but the person insists you must have some money. Feeling tired and annoyed, you engage in a verbal confrontation, pushing the stranger so he will leave you alone. As a result of your push, the stranger stumbled, fell to the ground, and cuts his arm. Now what?

It’s important to know that simple assault charges in Arizona are taken very seriously and the punishment increases with the severity of the assault, as well as the number of convictions you’ve had.

A misdemeanor assault (as described in the story above) is punishable by up to one year in prison, along with a $2,500 fine. This level of assault is specifically defined as:

  • Intentionally, knowingly or recklessly causing any physical injury to another person; or
  • Intentionally placing another person in reasonable apprehension of imminent physical injury; or
  • Knowingly touching another person with the intent to injure, insult or provoke such person.

Additionally, endangerment can also be classified as a misdemeanor in Arizona. This includes a situation where a person’s actions recklessly endangering another person with a substantial risk of physical injury.

It’s important to know how Arizona law enforcement may react to your actions. Instead of taking physical action against a stranger or anyone, call 911 immediately and get you and your family to a safe location until help arrives.

If you find yourself in the unfortunate circumstance of having committed an assault, contact a criminal defense lawyer right away.

If you got arrested for assault in Arizona, you need to get legal representation fast! Call a criminal defense attorney at Phoenix law firm Petersen Johnson and make sure your rights are protected.

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http://EzineArticles.com/?Penalties-for-Simple-Assault-in-Arizona&id=5442277

 

 

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