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All You Need to Know About Hit & Run Criminal Cases

All You Need to Know About Hit Run Criminal Cases

What Is a “Hit & Run”? Hit and run cases involve leaving the scene of an accident without stopping or providing the necessary information to the other involved party. In St. Louis, hit and run is a criminal offense under Missouri law. The severity of the charges you may face depends on the specific circumstances of the incident. Leaving the scene of an accident has severe consequences. If convicted, you could face fines, probation, license suspension, and even jail time. Additionally, a hit and run conviction can have long-lasting effects on your reputation and future opportunities.   Missouri Hit & Run Accident FAQs As knowledgeable...

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What to Do When Charged with a Theft Crime in Missouri?

What to Do When Charged with a Theft Crime in Missouri

Being charged with a theft crime in Missouri can have serious consequences, including fines, probation, and even jail time. To navigate through this challenging situation, you will need the guidance and experience of a St. Louis criminal defense attorney. At Bruntrager & Billings, we are committed to providing strong legal representation and helping you build a solid defense strategy.    Choose the Best Criminal Defense Attorney in St. Louis What do you do if you’ve been accused of one of the theft crimes listed below? Hire the best criminal defense lawyer in St. Louis! Find a Missouri criminal lawyer who is experienced, knowledgeable,...

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Pre-arrest criminal investigation: seven ways a lawyer can help

A mad with his hands handcuffed behind his back

If you are under investigation by the police, it is important to have a criminal investigation lawyer represent you as soon as possible. Here are seven benefits of having a lawyer during the pre-arrest criminal investigation stage:   1. Your lawyer will have an in-depth conversation with you to find out what you know and why the police are investigating you. This will help your lawyer start developing a defense strategy early on.   2. Your lawyer will conduct a thorough, independent investigation to gather evidence that could help your case. This could include obtaining cell phone records, interviewing witnesses, or hiring a private...

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Missouri Marijuana Law Updates: 2023 Edition

Missouri Marijuana Law Updates: 2023 Edition

Amendment 3 this past November narrowly passed 53.09 percent to 46.91 percent, but in the end, Missouri voted to legalize recreational marijuana use. Missouri joined Maryland to become the 20th and 21st states in the country to allow adults to use marijuana for nonmedical purposes.   The amendment will go into effect on December 8, which is when the agency that manages the program, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS), will transition medical license holders already operating to simple recreational licenses. DHSS has already published the first draft of program rules for adult use of cannabis for those ages...

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Breaking Down Attorney-Client Privilege: What it Means and How it Can Affect Your Case

Breaking Down Attorney-Client Privilege

Lawyers provide legal advice regarding legal matters. Clients want assurances that what they discuss with the lawyer will remain private. The attorney-client privilege protects these clients from having their information used against them if they discuss their situation openly.   Privileged Information: What Is It?   Privacy and confidentiality are legal rights. During discovery or a court hearing or trial, the court cannot force a person to disclose privileged information. With very limited exceptions, what you tell your lawyers in St. Louis is protected by the attorney-client privilege. The attorney-client privilege protects any information you share with lawyers in St. Louis. You cannot compel your...

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What Are Your Rights After an Arrest?

What Are Your Rights After an Arrest?

If you have been arrested by a police officer, it can be an extremely overwhelming experience. In addition, you may be completely uncertain about what your legal rights are in this situation. If you have been arrested, it is important to ensure that a St. Louis criminal defense attorney is by your side. Call us today to schedule a free case evaluation.   The Basics of a Legal Arrest An arrest occurs when you are being held under police custody without the freedom to move or leave. Specifically, the police take charge and control over your movements. An arrest typically continues to the point...

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How to Prepare for Your Defense Attorney Consultation

How to Prepare for Your Defense Attorney Consultation

If you are facing allegations of criminal misconduct in the St. Louis area, you should retain an experienced lawyer to represent you as soon as you can. There are literally thousands of lawyers in the state that will take your case – so how do you choose the right one? Fortunately, many criminal defense lawyers offer free case evaluations so that both you and the attorney can determine whether you will be a good fit. To schedule a consultation with a highly experienced St. Louis criminal defense attorney, call our office today.   Schedule Your Consultation.   One of the most important things you...

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3 Tips for Choosing the Right Criminal Defense Attorney

3 Tips for Choosing the Right Criminal Defense Attorney

If you have been charged with a crime, it is your constitutional right as a criminal defendant to choose your own attorney. It is important to take the time to find the right St. Louis criminal defense attorney that meets your legal needs, as the assistance of a lawyer can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case.   Below are three tips to consider when seeking a criminal defense attorney:   1. Find an Attorney Focused on Criminal Law The attorney you select should have a strong understanding of how the law affects your case. Specifically, if you are being charged for...

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Should You Plead Guilty to Avoid a Trial?

Should You Plead Guilty to Avoid a Trial?

If you are facing criminal charges and a jail sentence, then you are likely concerned about your legal options and whether you can lower your sentence.  A plea is a criminal defendant’s formal response to the court to the charge they are accused of committing. By entering a plea of guilty, you are telling the court they do not contest a criminal charge. On the other hand, by answering not guilty, you completely deny guilt for the crime, and you agree to a trial.  The plea bargaining process often allows criminal defendants to reduce their sentences and avoid going to trial by...

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The Crucial Role of Criminal Defense Attorneys

The Crucial Role of Criminal Defense Attorneys

Criminal defense attorneys play a crucial role in U.S. criminal justice system by ensuring their clients facing criminal charges have their legal rights protected. In fact, criminal defense attorneys owe a legal duty to their clients to advocate on their behalf in an effective and zealous manner. The American Bar Association provides that this ethical duty extends in all cases where a criminal prosecution may reasonably result. For example, this duty applies if a person is under investigation or being prosecuted for an alleged criminal act or simply needing legal advice regarding a potential, current or previous criminal matter or...

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