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No statutory definition of crimes involving moral turpitude (CIMTs) exists. Instead, the legal community has relied on case law and court decisions to characterize and identify CIMTs. Generally, they are considered offenses that shock the conscience of the community because they are so depraved and unethical. Various acts fall into this classification, including misdemeanors and felonies. Interestingly, the phrase “crimes involving moral turpitude” is not clearly defined, yet a conviction for such an offense can…

You have the constitutional right to a trial in a criminal case. A trial allows you, the defendant, to challenge the evidence against you and cross-examine witnesses. It protects the assumption that you are innocent until proven guilty. However, not all cases go this route. Most are settled through plea deals. This is where the defendant strikes a bargain with the prosecutor, agreeing to plead guilty in exchange for more lenient charges and/or sentencing. Going…

Being arrested can be a frightening experience. When emotions are high, it can be difficult to fully understand what’s happening. In some cases, it can cause a person to act out of character, which could lead to additional legal problems. It is important for individuals to be aware of things they should or shouldn’t do after an arrest. Understanding proper and improper actions can help avoid missteps that could hurt the criminal case later. If…

Under federal law, an armed career criminal is a person who possesses a firearm or ammunition when prohibited and has three or more prior convictions for a violent crime or serious drug offense. As a result of their designation as an armed career criminal, a judge shall impose a minimum term of imprisonment. Additionally, the sentencing range the judge must refer to when determining the term of imprisonment is increased because both the offense level…