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Gun Ownership Eligibility in Utah
Can you legally own a gun in Utah? This guide explains the key regulations, who is restricted, and how to check your eligibility.
December 6, 2024
The Double-Edged Sword of Plea Bargains in Utah’s Justice System
Plea bargains are the backbone of Utah’s criminal justice system. In a world where courtrooms are perpetually overcrowded, prosecutors are...
December 6, 2024
Good attorneys ignore this statute. Great attorneys understand why.
Utah’s Affirmative Defense Statute and the Burden of Proof Utah Code section 76-1-502 states that evidence of an affirmative defense (such as...
December 6, 2024
Burglary & Self Defense in Utah
Local news outlets reported a recent burglary attempt in Davis County involving a home occupied by a young family. No one was injured. But burglary...
December 6, 2024
Using Disorderly Conduct as a Negotiations Tool
Prosecutors are sometimes reluctant to let go of a case (dismiss a case entirely) even when it becomes apparent that there are evidentiary or legal...
December 5, 2024
Aggravated Burglary Defense in Utah
Aggravated burglary is a first-degree felony consisting of an ordinary burglary of a building (either commercial or residential) along with at least...
December 2, 2024
Defending Burglary Charges in Utah
Burglary is generally classified as a “property crime” under the Utah criminal code, although it can also involve injury or threats of...
November 29, 2024
Are Police Officers Human Lie Detectors?
Science shows police officers are no better at detecting lies than the average person. Their judgments often rely on biases rather than facts, which...
November 29, 2024
Failure to Disclose Identity
We've all seen old World War II movies where German officers stop citizens and ask, "Your papers, please." But did you know "papers" referred to a...
November 26, 2024
What is a “Crime of Domestic Violence?”
The term “domestic violence” can mean different things depending on where you live. Each state defines it differently, and the federal...
November 22, 2024
Distinguishing Murder and Aggravated Murder
Not all murders in Utah can be punished with the death penalty. Only the most serious cases involving "aggravated murder"In Utah, not all murders...
November 22, 2024
Rule 16 Request/Demand for Discovery
Formal discovery requests are filed by the defense in criminal cases even though constitutional principles of due process should require prosecutors...
November 22, 2024
Sex Crime Defense in Utah
Sex crimes carry serious penalties and life-changing consequences. If you're facing these allegations, it can feel overwhelming. But you don't have...
November 22, 2024