The governor of Louisiana recently signed a new bill into law. Dubbed the “Blue Lives Matter” bill, this bill makes it a felony hate crime to commit a criminal offense against a police officer. It also extends to resisting arrest or assaulting a police officer, meaning that this new felony charge could be applied in…
Any case that goes to trial in front of a jury carries the possibility of a mistrial. A judge must declare a mistrial when the jury for a criminal trial cannot agree to a verdict. Such an occurrence can have benefits for the defendant, although there is always the chance that the case will be…
Those with diabetes could produce a false positive blood alcohol content (BAC) if they are given a breathalyzer test while experiencing low blood sugar. The symptoms of low blood sugar levels are very similar to being under the influence of alcohol. In many instances, police officers will not take the time to investigate if the…
DNA evidence is one of the most influential modern technologies in the criminal justice system. In the face of advanced technological scrutiny, DNA evidence has continued to be a dependable source of evidence for resolving criminal cases. Although it is difficult to argue with DNA evidence, new research suggests it is not as invincible as…
Louisiana is typically considered a gun-friendly state with some of the most lenient regulations on gun ownership. Gun owners in Louisiana are not required to obtain a permit to buy firearms, nor are buyers required to register or license their guns. A concealed carry permit is necessary for handguns, but not shotguns or rifles. Despite…
Being pulled over for a DWI or DUI in Louisiana is no fun and games, yet police stop and arrest many who have not even touched a drop of alcohol and gotten behind the wheel when the only thing they are guilty of is having a medical condition. Some may find themselves facing DWI charges…
Felony charges are the most severe criminal charges possible. Depending on the specific offense, felony charges may lead to a lifetime of imprisonment or even capital punishment if one is convicted. If you face felony charges, you likely feel a bit lost about what to do next. It wouldn’t be surprising if you’re feeling a…
Sex offenders face several restrictions in Louisiana. Often, these harsh restrictions bar offenders who have served their time from reintegrating into society in such a way that it is akin to them receiving another sentence. The justification for many of these restrictions is questionable as far as how effective they are in protecting society at…
Law enforcement officers in Louisiana are actively searching for signals that a driver may be intoxicated behind the wheel. While legitimately intoxicated drivers are a threat to fellow motorists, police officers may pick up on negligible indications that a driver may be impaired, as it is usually a lucrative pursuit for them to file DWI…
Despite the significant impact a DWI can have on one’s future, it is the top criminal offense committed in the U.S. In Louisiana, over 7,800 were arrested for drunk driving in 2015. There are many immediate consequences of a DUI conviction in the state, such as losing your driver’s license and spending a mandatory minimum…