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What Happens if I Violate My Probation?

What Happens if I Violate My Probation?

In some situations, a judge may choose to sentence a person who has been convicted of a crime to probation instead of jail time. Probation allows a person to live in the community, work, and engage in other "normal" activities, albeit with certain conditions. In the event that a person who is on probation violates the terms of his or her probation, it can result in serious legal consequences. Fortunately, allegations of violating your probation are just that – allegations – and the state is required to prove probation violations by a preponderance of the evidence, and you have the...

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Is Legal Weed in other States Resulting in More Stoned Commercial Truck Drivers in Missouri?

Is Legal Weed in other States Resulting in More Stoned Commercial Truck Drivers in Missouri?

In recent years, attitudes towards the use of marijuana have become significantly more permissive, and many state legislatures have responded by decriminalizing the possession and use of the drug. In fact, at the time of this writing, 11 states have legalized the recreational use of marijuana, and many observers anticipate more states will follow. Right now, Missouri does not allow the use of recreational marijuana, but many people in the state wonder whether the fact that many nearby states – including neighboring Illinois – have legalized weed will result in more stoned truck drivers on the road. After all, what’s to...

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What is an SIS in Missouri?

What is an SIS in Missouri?

In Missouri criminal courts, you may hear several different legal terms that you may not understand. One common term that might be the source of confusion is “SIS,” which stands for “suspended imposition of sentence.” In short, a SIS is a common type of probation and disposition of criminal cases in Missouri, generally after a guilty plea. A SIS is different from a suspended execution of sentence (SES), which is a type of probation for more serious felony offenses. The Basics of an SIS When a judge agrees to a SIS, they are suspending the issuance of a specific sentence for an...

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Who is at Fault for a Rear-End Collision in Missouri?

Who is at Fault for a Rear-End Collision in Missouri?

You may have heard that the driver of the trailing vehicle is always at fault for rear-end accidents. While it's certainly true that the rear driver is often at fault for these kinds of crashes, there are cases where the driver of the front vehicle can be held liable. As a result, you should always speak to an experienced lawyer after a rear-end accident, regardless of whether you were in the front or the rear vehicle. Missouri Law on Rear-End Collisions Under Missouri case law, there is a presumption that the driver of the rear vehicle is at fault for a rear end accident. This rule is known as the...

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4 Insurance Tricks Insurance Companies Use to Minimize Settlement Payments

4 Insurance Tricks Insurance Companies Use to Minimize Settlement Payments

When a driver causes a car accident or you fall in a store, the responsible party’s insurance company should pay for all of your losses, right? Unfortunately, it is not always that easy, since insurance companies regularly challenge injury claims. These companies are businesses first, and to maximize profits, they try to minimize settlement payments as much as possible. The following are four tricks that insurers may use to reduce your settlement. 1. Challenge Liability If an injured accident victim was also partially at fault for a collision, their recovery will be reduced by their percentage of fault. Therefore, insurance companies will...

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The Collateral Consequences of a 1st-Time DWI in Missouri

The Collateral Consequences of a 1st-Time DWI in Missouri

Many people fail to take a first-time charge of driving while intoxicated (DWI) as seriously as they should. This is often because a first DWI charge is generally a Class B misdemeanor, and defendants believe they will just get probation and move on with their lives. In reality, even a first DWI conviction can have lasting consequences that go far beyond court-ordered penalties. It is never a good idea to try to handle a DWI case on your own, as it can mean unnecessary convictions and consequences. Contact a St. Louis DWI defense attorney at Bruntrager & Billings, P.C. for...

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Missouri Marijuana Law Update

Canva-Shallow-Focus-Photography-of-Cannabis-Plant

Marijuana-related laws are constantly changing in the United States and they vary, from state to state. This can make it confusing for people to know what is legal and what could lead to an arrest and criminal charges. The following are some updates on the state of marijuana laws in Missouri. Always remember that the laws in neighboring states are different, so you can never just assume that what is lawful or unlawful in Missouri will be the same just across the river in Illinois. Medical Marijuana Laws Last November, voters decided that Missouri should legalize marijuana use for medical purposes, and...

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