In the age of smartphones and social media, the ways people connect and communicate have transformed, for better or worse. Revenge pornography is more than just a scandalous headline or a “private matter.” It’s a crime. In Texas, sending, posting, or even threatening to share intimate images without consent lands you in serious legal trouble, which goes beyond vindictive exes or scorned lovers. With the rise of Read More
When the Line Between Possession and Ownership Messes with Your Life
Living with roommates is unpredictable even if you’re living with your closest friends. Most issues require a house meeting to get the dishes done, but what are you supposed to do if your roommate decides to sell drugs out of your home? Even if you have no idea about their illegal side hustle, the law doesn’t care about your ignorance. You’re still on the hook. Why the Law Doesn’t Care Who Bought the Drugs One of Read More
Public Intoxication in Texas: When Having Fun Gets Out of Hand
If you’ve had a lot to drink while out with friends and barhopping, being a little rambunctious is all fun and games until someone steps over the line. Where’s the line? When the government decides whether your behavior is a threat to yourself or others. Sounds vague? That's because it is. The police have broad interpretations when it comes to issuing citations or making arrests for public intoxication. But just Read More
Resisting Arrest in Texas
Imagine this: You’re having a tense exchange with a police officer, and before you know it, things escalate. You get frustrated, maybe you pull your arm away or shove the officer’s hand off you. Now, you’re risking a resisting arrest charge. Many people think you have to go full "action movie" to be hit with this, but Texas law is quick to punish anything that looks like resistance. In this state, you don’t have to Read More
Amarillo LGBTQ+ Advocacy Group Files Lawsuit Against City of Canyon
The Amarillo Area Transgender Advocacy Group (AATAG) has launched a legal battle against the City of Canyon after their permit for the annual Transgender Day of Visibility was denied. The city cited "public safety concerns" and alleged "lewd behavior" at past events, but AATAG refutes these claims, emphasizing that their events are family-friendly and peaceful. The group is now seeking a jury trial, asserting the Read More
Is There Ever a Good Time to Plea Bargain?
Getting arrested is one of the most vulnerable times in someone’s life. Most people are terrified, so the government might throw you a bone—a plea bargain. Sounds easy, right? Take the deal, avoid trial, move on. But hold up. The real question isn’t whether you’re guilty; it’s whether they can prove it. Can the government really back up what they’re accusing you of, or are they bluffing? That’s where the decision Read More
Is it Illegal to Possess Drug Paraphernalia?
Texas isn’t shy about cracking down on drug-related offenses, but what might catch some folks off guard is how something as small as a pipe or syringe can land you in hot water. The state’s broad definition of drug paraphernalia sometimes turns everyday items into legal liabilities. It’s inconvenient at best or leads to an arrest and/or a hefty fine at worst. If you’re not careful, a small item with residue can lead Read More
A Closer Look at Mandatory Minimum Sentences
It’s easy to think that the law is black and white, but when it comes to mandatory minimum sentences, there are shades of gray that often go unnoticed. These laws, which set fixed penalties for certain crimes, are meant to keep things fair. But do they? Or do they toss fairness out the window? Let’s dig into what mandatory minimum sentences really mean for Texans and what's at stake. Nationwide Trends and Read More
First-Time Offenders and Protecting Your Future
So, you’ve landed yourself in a bit of a legal bind? Welcome to the club nobody wants to join. If you’re facing a misdemeanor charge for the first time, you might think, "It's just a misdemeanor; how bad can it be?" But don’t let the "first-time" label fool you. Even minor charges can have serious, long-term impacts on your life and career. This isn’t just about remembering and getting through a court date. You have Read More
The Stark Reality of Methamphetamine and Fentanyl in Drug Laws
When it comes to drugs like methamphetamine and fentanyl, the legal system doesn't pull any punches. These substances aren't just bad news for public health; they come with some of the harshest penalties under both Texas and federal laws. This tough stance reflects the severe risks these drugs pose, from addiction to overdose. But why are these drugs, along with cocaine and heroin, treated so harshly? Let's break it Read More