Lavine law firm criminal
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How Long Does a Misdemeanor Stay on Your Record in Texas?
Key Takeaways: In Texas, a misdemeanor can stay on your record permanently unless it is expunged, sealed through nondisclosure, or otherwise cleared under the law. The Bureau of Justice Statistics has reported that state repositories hold more than 110 million criminal history records nationwide, underscoring how [...]
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How Does Money Laundering Work?
Key Takeaways: In simple terms, money laundering works by moving proceeds of criminal activity through transactions, accounts, or assets to hide their source. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime has estimated that the amount of money laundered each year equals 2 to 5 percent of global GDP, which signals how [...]
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What to Do After Being Arrested in Houston, TX?
Key Takeaways If police arrest you in Houston, the first minutes and hours matter more than you think. What to do after being arrested in Houston comes down to three things: stay calm, say nothing, and ask for a lawyer. Do not argue, do not explain, and do not try to talk your way out [...]
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What Does "Dismissed Without Prejudice" Actually Mean?
Key Takeaways You just received a notice that your court case was dismissed. But what does dismissed without prejudice actually mean? In simple terms, it means the case is temporarily closed, not permanently ended. The prosecution or plaintiff can refile the same charges or claims later. This article explains how [...]
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What Is a Life Sentence and How Does it Work in Texas?
Key Takeaways Texas imposes a life sentence as one of its harshest punishments in the criminal justice system. A convicted person serves an indefinite period in a Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) facility. However, "life" does not always mean death in prison. Texas law draws a firm line between two distinct [...]
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Can Charges Be Dropped Before Court in Texas?
Key Takeaways: Yes, charges can be dropped before court in Texas, and this outcome is more common than many people realize. Many people ask: Can charges be dropped before court in Texas, especially when facing uncertainty early in a case? A prosecutor decides whether to proceed based on the strength of the evidence, [...]
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What Happens After an Arrest in Texas?
Key Takeaways: An arrest turns your world upside down, and for most people, it is an experience they have never faced before. What happens after an arrest in Texas follows a set legal process, but that process moves fast, and the decisions you make in the first few hours can shape the entire case. From [...]
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What To Do When You Have Been Falsely Accused of Domestic Violence in Texas
Key Takeaways: A false domestic violence accusation can turn your life upside down without warning. One allegation, even with little or no evidence, can trigger an arrest, a protective order, and lasting damage to your reputation. Texas law treats all domestic violence allegations seriously, and the legal system moves [...]
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What Is the Difference Between DUI and DWI?
Key Takeaways If you are facing impaired driving charges for the first time, the difference between DUI and DWI can feel confusing. People often use the two terms interchangeably, but their legal meanings vary by state law. That distinction can affect your penalties, your criminal record, and your long-term future. At [...]
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Is Domestic Violence a Felony or Misdemeanor in Texas?
Key Takeaways Domestic violence charges in Texas can fall under a misdemeanor or a felony. The answer depends on the facts of the case, the defendant’s criminal history, and the severity of the alleged conduct. The difference is enormous: a misdemeanor can mean up to one year in county jail, while a felony can mean [...]
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