Year: 2021

  • Can you get in trouble for picking up a friend’s prescription?

    Your friend may be feeling awful at home, but if they want you to pick up their prescription for them, then they need to take action to protect you when you do. Possessing a prescription that doesn’t belong to you could lead to accusations of a drug crime, and you could face serious penalties as…

  • What if your neighbor calls the police during an argument? 

    You and your spouse got into an argument. Voices were raised. You fully admit that the two of you weren’t getting along and that your temper got the better of you.  Here’s the problem: You live in an apartment. Your neighbors could hear everything, but they thought the situation was more serious than it was.…

  • Making your own drugs can have serious consequences

    Some people who would never consider making meth in their home or other property try their hand at making other drugs. They may put a twist on an illegal drug to make it more potent or have a different effect. They may even find a way to make a hallucinogenic drug of some sort using…

  • New York just legalized marijuana: What does that mean?

    On March 31, New York became the most recent state to legalize recreational marijuana. But what exactly does that mean? Because marijuana laws are changing state-by-state, you need to have a careful understanding of the rules to avoid legal problems. What’s legal and what’s not when it comes to cannabis in New York Senate Bill…

  • Why would someone lie about domestic violence?

    Your partner accuses you of domestic violence. You’re stunned. Not only do you know that you never did anything wrong, but you just cannot understand why they would lie about it in the first place. There are many potential reasons. Maybe your perspectives on what happened are simply different. Maybe they are doing it out…

  • Myths about your rights during an interaction with the police

    Many New York citizens believe various myths regarding talking to the police. A variety of criminal justice television shows have stretched the truth, and, in some cases, have portrayed the exact opposite of it. The reality is that it’s your responsibility to understand just what your rights are so that you can determine your actions…

  • Despite your intent, sharing prescriptions is illegal

    Medicine is intended to help. Prescription medications are controlled, but you still see them the same way: They’re here to help people. So what if you have prescription medications that you no longer need or use, and you know someone who says that they do need them? This may be a friend or a family…

  • What rights do drivers have at checkpoints?

    Drunk driving accidents injured and killed a significant number of people on New York roads. Police now set up DUI checkpoints at locations in the state to reduce collisions and potential fatalities. Drivers stopped at checkpoints still have rights, and the police cannot legally violate due process or perform an illegal search. Not all drivers…

  • Should you take a field sobriety test?

    In exchange for the privilege of driving in New York, you agreed to submit to a chemical test if you were ever asked to take one. However, it’s unclear whether you have a legal obligation to submit to a standard field sobriety test. These tests are generally used by officers to determine if there is…

  • How a criminal record might impact a job search

    If you have a criminal record, it could impact your ability to find employment. However, many cities throughout the state of New York limit an employer’s ability to learn about your criminal history. Furthermore, federal laws may provide additional protections that might increase your chances of obtaining a job despite being involved in a criminal…