Operating While Intoxicated (OWI), Driving Under the Influence (DUI), and Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) are varying terms used to describe the same legal offense of operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or other substances. The legal implications and consequences of such charges can be severe, often resulting in fines, license revocation, mandatory educational …
Category: Criminal Defense
Criminal Fines, Fees and Surcharge Updates as of June 25, 2020
Over the past 10+ years, legal fines have stayed fairly consistent when it came to criminal and juvenile justice systems. On June 25, 2020, Governor Kim Reynolds signed into law Senate File 457 (SF457) which alters criminal fines and fees, modifies some funds and revenue allocations, and includes sections related to restitution ordered in criminal cases. The …
University of Iowa Student Government Lobbying Helps Pass New Immunity Bill
University of Iowa Student Government had been advocating for a medical amnesty bill at Capitol Hill for several years and their efforts for limited immunity finally have paid off. On Thursday, June 25, 2020, Governor Kim Reynolds signed a medical amnesty bill into law that potentially could save many lives, some right here in Iowa City. …
How OWI Programs Have Been Modified due to COVID-19
In light of the COVID-19 public health emergency, which has caused an indefinite suspension of all 48-hour OWI programs, and pursuant to an agreement between the Johnson County Attorney, the Department of Correctional Services, and the Johnson County District Associate Court, for OWI cases in which a deferred judgment order was granted and in which the …
Can I Be Arrested Without Physical Evidence of Guilt?
Unfortunately, the answer is yes, you can be arrested without physical evidence of guilt. However, the police must have probable cause before they can legally arrest you. Definition of Probable Cause The 4th Amendment requires probable cause before officers can receive a warrant, conduct a search of private property, or make an arrest. Though there is no …
Understanding Iowa PAULA Laws
Possession of Alcohol Under the Legal Age (PAULA) is a simple misdemeanor in the state of Iowa. Here is what you need to know about Iowa PAULA laws. Who Can Be Charged with PAULA Anyone under the age of 21 who is found to be in possession of alcohol can be charged with possession of alcohol under …
Understanding the Difference: Criminal Law vs. Civil Law
If you find yourself involved in a lawsuit, the first thing you need to do is figure out whether it is a criminal case or a civil case. Understanding the difference between criminal law vs. civil law is essential to choosing the best defense for your case. Who’s Involved in Criminal Law vs. Civil Law Cases The …
Assault Charges in Iowa
Assault charges in Iowa can be confusing if you’re unfamiliar with the law. In Iowa, there are a number of different assault charges that can be brought against you, including but not limited to: Simple assault Assault causing injury Domestic assault Willful injury Assault as a Misdemeanor The degree of assault depends on the severity of the …
3 Things About Assault Charges You Probably Didn’t Know
There are many misconceptions about what constitutes assault. The greatest of these is the importance of intent. However there are many aspects of assault that can be confusing or misinterpreted. Here are three things about assault charges you probably didn’t know. Intent A person commits an assault when, without justification, the person does any of …
What is Accessory?
You don’t always have to be the one who commits a crime to be charged with a criminal offense. Just assisting someone who you know will commit or who has already committed a crime is grounds for arrest and imprisonment. An accessory is someone who assists or encourages or facilitates a crime, or knowingly helps …
What to Expect at Your Arraignment
If you are arrested and formal charges are filed, the first court appearance you make is at your arraignment (and/or case management conference). This is the time you will enter your plea to the charge(s) against you, declaring if you plead guilty or not guilty. Typically you will be advised of the charges in writing …
3 Reasons You Never Should Represent Yourself in a Criminal Case
The idea of representing yourself in a criminal case can be tempting. You may thinking you’ll be able to save money or that you’re innocent and have nothing to hide, so why would you need a lawyer? There are many reasons why you should always ask for a criminal defense lawyer if you are being …