Category: Criminal Defense
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What is my job as a juror during a trial?
Your role involves listening carefully to all the evidence, keeping an open mind, and discussing the case with fellow jurors to reach a fair verdict. Learn how your decisions shape…
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Rebuilding Your Life After Criminal Charges: A Fresh Start Awaits
If you or a loved one has faced criminal charges, moving forward can feel overwhelming. A criminal record can impact jobs, housing, and relationships. But your past doesn’t have to…
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Protecting Your Career: Why the Right Legal Defense Matters
The stakes are high when you’re charged with a crime in Utah. It’s not just about the accusation but the serious consequences that could follow. To protect your future, you…
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Protecting Your Family During Tough Times: Why You Need the Right Legal Team
Facing criminal charges, whether for yourself or a loved one, can be overwhelming. At Stone River Law, we understand your priorities—keeping your loved ones safe, protecting your rights, and securing…
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Navigating the 402 Reduction Process in Utah (2024)
Utah Code 76-3-402 outlines the legal framework for obtaining a reduction in the severity of a criminal conviction, commonly referred to as a “402 reduction.” Effective July 1, 2024, significant…
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Reclaim Your Future with a 402 Reduction
A criminal conviction can have a lasting impact on your life, but it doesn’t have to define your future. Fortunately, Utah law provides a path to reduce the severity of…
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State v Salazar-Lopez, 2024 UT App 61
Facts Mr. Salazar-Lopez “pled guilty to multiple sexual offenses against a child” that were committed while he was also a minor. At the time these offenses occurred Utah Code 76-3-209…
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The Realities of Pleading Guilty: What You Need to Know
Most criminal cases in the U.S. never go to trial. In fact, almost 98% of cases across the country are settled with plea bargains. In Utah, over 91% of cases…
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How do I qualify for jury service?
Serving on a jury fulfills a critical role in the American justice system. Jurors ensure that in both criminal and civil cases a fair trial is conducted, and citizens’ due…
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How are jurors selected during jury voir dire?
Potential jurors will meet as instructed at the courthouse in a jury assembly room. Some potential jurors may be excused for the day if a case is settled out of…
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Representing Yourself in a Utah Justice Court Case?
Trying to represent yourself can end up costing more than you save. When facing misdemeanor criminal charges in Utah Justice Courts, one question often comes up: Do I really need…
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State v Sparling, 2024 UT App 59
Facts During a lawful traffic stop for various vehicle infractions (a missing license plate, broken brake light, etc.) and “suspicious” driving behavior, officers discovered that the driver, Mr. True Sparling,…