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We see it all of the time. Television and movies dramatize everything. From love, to family, to being in high school, television and movies make everything seem more intense and emotional. This rule applies to crime and the criminal system as well. You might be wondering if the criminal justice system is really replicated by Law and Order, Breaking Bad, and The Wire. Or, are these shows just fabrications? It’s safe to say that some elements of law are accurately portrayed...

In previous articles, I’ve touched upon the fact that police officers on the road increase around the holidays. While holidays such as New Year’s Eve, the 4th of July, and Thanksgiving top the list when it comes to DUI arrests, any big holiday will see an increase in arrests. Valentine’s Day is no different. All of that champagne and red wine can lead to dire consequences down the line. For this reason, I’ve compiled a list of six fun, romantic...

I’m finishing up my New Year’s Resolution series this week with an article about starting over after getting a criminal conviction. We all make mistakes, and unfortunately, for some those mistakes seem to linger more than for others. So, if recently released from jail or prison and want to make 2015 your best year yet, you have to put your conviction in your past. I know that this is easier said than done, but it is possible. Here, learn about...

New Year’s Eve is one of the best nights of the year to relax with friends and family. You can reminisce on the memories from the past year, and make goals for the year to come. However, despite the fun, New Year’s Eve is also a night with some of the most DUI arrests. This happens due to those who toast to the New Year and then drive home. Even if you only had a few drinks or a glass...

The Gathering of the Vibes The Gathering of the Vibes is a fun, vibrant music festival. However, your good time can quickly turn sour if you're stopped by the police. Do yourself a favor and do not talk to the police unless you've been arrested. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEOUTtVACiA&feature=emb_title

Your Rights Learn about your 4th Amendment rights before attending the Gathering of the Vibes. If you're stopped by a police officer, contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately in order to make sure that your rights are protected. Remember that you do not have to talk to the police unless you are under arrest. In addition, you do not have to submit to illegal searches of your backpack, tent, purse, wallet, or person. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zxkXcFYoNiQ&feature=youtu.be

In our last post we talked generally about what to do if the police try to search you. Also, we discussed how you should “take the fourth” at the Gathering of the Vibes and decline a search. Today, we will address certain situations you might find yourself in at the festival. What to Do If Searched If a police officer places you under arrest, they believe that you engaged in criminal activity. This means they have probable cause. They have...

As many of you already know, the 19th year of Gathering of the Vibes is quickly approaching. This year’s music festival is taking place July 31st-August 3rd. It will happen at Seaside Park in Bridgeport, Connecticut. The lineup features a whopping 51 artists. This including John Fogerty, Dispatch, the Disco Biscuits, Widespread Panic, Ziggy Marley and more. If you want to attend the festival, all of us at Ruane Attorneys hope you that have a great time! It really seems like this...

Establishing a consistent way to deal with elderly offenders is not easy. Factors such as age, health, crimes committed, and character of the defendant affect the situation. Certainly, every case is different. Also, the court determines how to proceed given the individual circumstances of each case. However, when senior citizens get involved in crime, issuing prison sentences and other punishments can become difficult. The fact that judges, lawyers, and jury members bring their own biases and opinions to each case only adds...

Facing a court hearing when you are on trial for a criminal offense can be difficult. However, if you are an elderly offender, the experience can be especially trying. In order to prepare yourself for the court hearing, you need to know what the process will be like. In addition, you should understand the special accommodations that can happen for you. These accommodations happen given your age and any disabilities or impairments that you have. Appearing in Court If charged with...