Author: Stone River Law
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Preparing for an Attorney Consultation
Facing criminal charges is stressful. Your first meeting with a defense attorney can feel overwhelming, but preparation makes a big difference. Many initial consultations happen over the phone, so being…
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Utah Supreme Court Vacates Juvenile Life Sentence in State v. Mullins
The Utah Supreme Court recently vacated the life-without-parole (JLWOP) sentence of Morris Thomas Mullins, a juvenile offender who had spent over two decades in prison for a crime he committed…
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State v Smith, 2025 UT App 35 – Destroyed Evidence
Smith was convicted by a jury at trial on a felony charge of rape. He raised several issues on appeal, including multiple claims of ineffective assistance of counsel, and a…
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Power of Attorney vs. Guardianship in Utah: What’s the Difference?
In Utah, two legal tools allow someone to act on another’s behalf: Power of Attorney (POA) and Guardianship. Though they serve similar purposes, they operate differently. Understanding these differences can…
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How to Avoid Probate in Utah
Probate is the legal process of settling an estate after someone dies. In Utah, it can be slow, expensive, and stressful for heirs. But, you can take steps to avoid…
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Dismissed With Prejudice vs. Dismissed Without Prejudice in Utah Criminal Cases
When a criminal case in Utah is dismissed, it can be either with prejudice or without prejudice. The difference determines whether the charges can be refiled and what impact the…
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Expungement vs. Pardon
Options for completely clearing your criminal record in Utah can include standard expungements through the courts or obtaining a full pardon for state charges through the Utah Board of Pardons.
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Misdemeanor vs. Felony: What’s the Difference in Utah?
When facing criminal charges in Utah, understanding the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony is crucial. These classifications determine the severity of the offense, the potential penalties, and the…
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Understanding Step-Parent Adoption in Utah
Creating strong, legally recognized family bonds is important, especially for blended families. If you’re a step-parent hoping to formalize your role in your stepchild’s life, adoption can be a fulfilling…
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What to Do If You’re Arrested in Utah: A Guide to Protecting Your Rights
Getting arrested can be a stressful and confusing experience. However, understanding your rights and the steps to take during and after an arrest can make a significant difference in protecting…
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What to Do If You Have a Warrant for Your Arrest in Utah
Finding out that there’s a warrant for your arrest can be overwhelming. Whether it was issued for missing a court date, unpaid fines, or a criminal charge, it’s important to…
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Assault Charges in Utah
Assault is a criminal offense in Utah that involves attempting or threatening to cause bodily harm to another person. It is important to understand how the law defines assault, the…