by Megan Fowles | Nov 21, 2025 | Criminal Defense
Under Utah Code §76-5-418, sexual battery is defined as intentional, non-consensual sexual touching of another person. It can occur in a wide range of settings — from a crowded party to a workplace or even between acquaintances — and doesn’t require force or...
by Megan Fowles | Nov 21, 2025 | Appeals Attorney, Criminal Defense
Why the Trial Court Step Matters In Utah, the statute of limitations is treated as a defense that must be asserted — it isn’t something an appellate court usually corrects on its own if it was not addressed earlier. The trial court must have the opportunity to hear...
by Megan Fowles | Nov 17, 2025 | Criminal Defense
In State v. James, 2025 UT 53, the Utah Supreme Court took a close look at that question. What Happened in State v. James Franklin James entered a plea agreement on several felony charges. As part of the deal, both the prosecution and the defense recommended probation...
by Megan Fowles | Nov 14, 2025 | Criminal Defense
Under Utah Code §76-5-417, it is a crime to use any form of communication to invite, persuade, or attempt to lure a minor into engaging in sexual activity. Even if the meeting never happens — or even if there was never a real minor involved — the law still applies....
by Megan Fowles | Nov 9, 2025 | Criminal Defense
What Happened in Bridgewaters Joshua Bridgewaters was charged with murder. He told the trial court multiple times that he wanted to represent himself. Not only did he clearly assert his right to self-representation, he also confirmed that he was waiving his right to...
by Megan Fowles | Nov 8, 2025 | Criminal Defense
These cases didn’t focus on guilt or innocence. They turned on whether the defendants were truly prepared to handle the legal system alone. The answer? They weren’t. And their trials unraveled because of it. What Happens Without a Lawyer In both cases, the defendants...
