Using weapons during the commission of a crime can result in enhanced sentences. This enhancement is typically referred to as "aggravated." So it could become "aggravated assault" or "aggravated robbery." When a crime is aggravated, it means that you face stiffer penalties should you be found guilty. You may also face additional charges if the weapon you are using is not registered or is not legal. This article will go over how a charge can be "aggravated" and what that means for you.
Former U.S. citizen pleads guilty to tax fraud
No one, not even U.S. citizens who renounce their citizenship can avoid the long arm of the Justice Department when they are hunting for concealed tax dollars. Earlier this week, one such person pleaded guilty to one count of filing a false tax return.
Is the right to counsel automatic?
If you are stopped by police, it is important to consider if the situation is serious enough to seek the assistance of an attorney. The right to counsel is enshrined in the Constitution, so the protection should be robust. It is a powerful shield. However, it is a shield that you must specifically invoke.