Regardless of the nature of the crime alleged, or the public’s negative or positive opinion about the accused, the government must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. If jurors are left with a reasonable doubt, then they must find the accused “not guilty.”
OpenCourt: Quincy District Court Goes Live
A new online project provides live web streaming of court proceedings held at Quincy District Court. OpenCourt.us, run by Boston’s WBUR station, allows anyone with an internet connection to watch arraignments, plea hearings and trials in real-time.
Burnt Marijuana Odor Not Enough for Police Exit Order
The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court says the odor of burnt marijuana is not enough for police to order a person out of a car. Read the facts that lead to the court’s decision.
Is it a crime to possess a small amount of marijuana in Massachusetts?
Possession of one ounce or less of marijuana is a civil offense in Massachusetts. However, marijuana trafficking and marijuana possession with the intent to manufacture, distribute or dispense the drug is a serious crime, regardless of the amount of marijuana involved.
How to Clear an Arrest Warrant
If a Massachusetts arrest warrant is issued against you the police can arrest you at any time. Claxton Legal’s Crime and Defense Blog offers tips on how to clear an arrest warrant without risking arrest, drivers license suspension, public assistance suspension and more . . .
Massachusetts Reforms CORI System and Expands Sentencing Laws
After changes in CORI and sentencing laws, Massachusetts employers now have access to criminal records through an internet-based system, most job applications cannot contain questions about criminal history and inmates get new opportunities for rehabilitation.
What does it mean to “possess” illegal drugs?
Let’s say, hypothetically speaking, that you share drugs with a friend who agrees to keep the stash at his house for both of you to use. Who is in possession of the drugs? What if you keep illegal drugs locked away in a safe on the other side of town? Read the article to learn what a prosecutor must prove in a Massachusetts drug possession case.
Arrest Tips, Part 2: Control your words and actions.
Getting arrested can be a very humiliating and frustrating experience. However, if you get arrested you must control your words and actions. Here is Part 2 of Attorney Claxton’s Arrest Tips.
Arrest Tips, Part 1: Ask for a lawyer and then remain silent.
One of the most important things you can do to protect yourself during and after an arrest is to keep quiet. Most people do not have their lawyers present to shield them from an arrest interrogation. There are 6 rules about keeping quiet that you must know.
Making a False Report of a Crime
Knowingly providing Massachusetts police officers with false information about an alleged crime is a criminal offense and carries serious consequences. A judge may sentence you to jail, or order you to pay a fine, or both.
