Encounters with police can be stressful and confusing, especially if you’re unsure about what the law requires you to do. In Texas, your obligation to present identification isn’t universal—it depends entirely on why the officer has stopped you and what legal authority they have during the encounter. Understanding the difference
Extradition in Texas: A Deep Dive into Code of Criminal Procedure Articles 51.01–51.13 Extradition is one of the foundational mechanisms of interstate cooperation in the U.S. criminal justice system. Whether an individual has fled Texas to avoid prosecution or Texas is being asked to surrender someone to another state, the
Know Your Rights: The Legal Landscape of Protesting in the United States Protesting is a fundamental right protected by the U.S. Constitution, and understanding the legal boundaries is essential for anyone participating in a demonstration. Whether advocating for social justice, climate reform, or political accountability, knowing your legal rights can
Understanding the Range of Punishments in Texas Criminal Cases When someone is charged with a crime in Texas, one of the most important aspects of their case is the potential punishment if convicted. The Texas Penal Code outlines a structured system of penalties that correspond to the severity of the
Understanding Texas Penal Code § 1.07(a)(39): “Possession” in Texas Criminal Law In Texas criminal law, the concept of “possession” plays a vital role in prosecuting a range of offenses, from drug crimes to weapons charges. Defined under Texas Penal Code § 1.07(a)(39), “possession” means the actual care, custody, control, or
Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May, is one of the most solemn and meaningful holidays in the United States. It is a day of remembrance, dedicated to honoring the men and women of the armed forces who lost their lives in service to the country. While it
Understanding the Burdens of Proof in Texas Law In the legal world, the term burden of proof refers to the obligation of a party to prove its assertions during a trial. In Texas, as in other states, different legal settings require different levels of proof, depending on the nature of
Law Day: Celebrating the Rule of Law and Civic Engagement Every year on May 1st, Americans observe Law Day, a special occasion dedicated to reflecting on the foundational role law plays in our society. While not a public holiday, Law Day serves as an important reminder of the significance of
Understanding Challenges for Cause in Texas Jury Selection Jury selection is a critical phase in the trial process, ensuring that defendants receive a fair trial by an impartial jury. In Texas, the legal framework governing this process is outlined in the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, specifically Article 35.16. This
A lot of people that I talk to interchange the terms jail and prison. But these are two distinct places. So, what is the difference? Jail Jail is used for three main purposes. First, jail is a holding facility for a person who is awaiting resolution to their pending criminal
One question that I get a lot is what is the difference between probation and parole. Sometimes people will use these terms interchangeably. While there are similarities between the two, they are two separate things.[1] Probation In Texas, we technically do not even have probation. We have what is called
