When a person is in a position in which the public is relying on his or her authority, any allegations of misconduct can come as a shock. People may be quick to judge the person as guilty without knowing all of the circumstances in the case. When the allegations are for serious charges, like felonies, it is important for accused people to defend themselves. Public servant or not, everyone has the right to be treated as innocent until proven guilty.
Oregon man accused of bribing police faces felony charge
There are many different classifications of crimes. One of the main ways crimes are classified is the distinction between misdemeanors and felonies. Felonies are more serious charges that typically mean a person can be sentenced to more than one year in prison if found guilty, whereas misdemeanors carry penalties of under one year in jail. Many people may think only violent crimes or those involving lots of money fall into the felony category, but this is not true. In Oregon, felonies are varied and can include lesser criminal activity.
Oregon man sentenced after pleading guilty to sex crime
Some crimes, due to their shocking nature, get extra attention from the media. The media sometimes take these cases and sensationalize them for their own gain. In these types of cases, it can be hard for those accused of a crime to get fair criminal proceedings. Because people see the news version of the story and form their own opinions, even if the person is innocent, he or she can be unfairly judged.
Court changes charges to felonies for man accused of stabbing
Criminal proceedings can be confusing for those unfamiliar with the Oregon court system. Courts are set up with complex rules of evidence and procedure that often are not explained, either in movies and television or in real life. People must be sure that they have help to guide them through the proceedings so they can ensure their rights are protected and they receive a fair shake.
Oregon defendants have right to jury trial for violations
Every single person accused of a crime in Oregon has protections granted by the United States Constitution. Many of these constitutional rights protect against police misconduct during searches and seizures of people's personal property. However, some of these rights deal with the subsequent criminal proceedings. They define how people need to be treated during the proceedings. One constitutional right is the right to a jury trial.
Man hits pedestrians, charged with fourth DUII
Not all criminal activity is created equal. Depending on the circumstances in each case, the charges, and the punishments, for similar crimes can vary quite a bit. One example of this is in drunk driving cases. Depending on the facts, motorists who are accused of drunk driving can face a variety of different charges. In most situations, those accused of driving under the influence will face misdemeanor charges. First-time offenders in Oregon can expect a fine of at least $1,000, jail time or community service and probation. However, the more times a person is charged with a DUII, the more severe the punishments become. If someone in Oregon has multiple offenses they can even face felony DUII charges.
Portland doctor faces felony charge 2 years after patient's death
Certain criminal charges are obviously more serious than others. The most serious criminal charges are called felonies. A person usually faces a felony charge when they are eligible to receive penalties of more than one year in prison for a single offense.
Southern Oregon woman charged with Measure 11 felony, DUII
You don't have to be an attorney to understand that drunk-driving offenses can result in serious penalties. But seeking out a lawyer is crucial if you're accused of such an offense because there are so many variables in any given case. Not only are there various levels of drunk-driving charges, but you could be hit with additional charges that make your case more complicated and result in higher fines, more jail time and long-term restrictions against you.
Oregon Measure 11 suspect out on bail faces work restrictions
You don't have to be an attorney to know that in Oregon and everywhere else in the nation, criminal defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. But that doesn't mean that if you're charged with a crime, you won't face certain restrictions before you go to trial. You also may face premature conviction in the court of public opinion, which doesn't always play by the same rules.
Measure 11 felony defendant's release from jail long overdue
If you're accused of a crime and required to answer to the charges against you in court, a clause of the Sixth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution gives you the right to a speedy trial. In other words, you can't be held in custody indefinitely simply because prosecutors aren't prepared or your case is delayed for other reasons. Oregon and many other states also have statutes stating this right. Sometimes, however, it takes a push from a criminal defense attorney to exercise it.
