What Is The Purpose Of A Plea Deal?
The purpose of a plea deal is simple: certainty. It's the only way for you to guarantee the outcome of your trial and your sentence.
Category: I’ve Been Arrested
I’ve Been Arrested
If you’ve been arrested, lots of thoughts are likely racing through your mind. Police should have read you your Miranda rights. Now you’re wondering whether you should answer their questions. You’re also wondering whether you need a lawyer. And you’re wondering what’s going to come next. How to Justice works with experts and justice-impacted people like you to help answer those questions.
What Is Bail? How Does Bail Work?
Bail is an amount of money you give the court to be released from jail before trial. If you don't follow the rules, you can lose that money.
How Do You Present Newly Discovered Evidence to a Court?
Sometimes, new evidence comes to light after a trial that can prove your innocence. Maybe a key witness recants their story. Perhaps new scientific evidence rules you out as a suspect. Whatever it is, if newly discovered evidence shows your innocence, you want to present it to a court as soon as possible. But how do you do this?
What Rights Do Prisoners Have Under the 8th Amendment?
The Eighth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution prohibits “cruel and unusual punishment.” But what does that mean for you while you’re in prison? Do prisoners have Eighth Amendment rights?
How Do You Request a Pardon or Commutation?
A pardon frees someone from their legal consequences. But how do you request a pardon or clemency?
When and How You Can Sue the Government
The Federal Tort Claims Act allows you to sue the US government. But what does it do and how can you use it to help yourself? Let's find out.
What Is the Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act of 1980?
The Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act of 1980 (CRIPA) became law more than 40 years ago. It protects people's civil rights inside state-run institutions.
I’ve Been In Your Shoes: Will Asking For a Lawyer Make You Seem Guilty?
If you're wondering if asking for a lawyer makes you look guilty, take time to read this perspective from someone who has been in your shoes.
I’ve Been In Your Shoes: What To Do If You’ve Been Arrested
If you've been arrested, you probably have a lot of questions. This is your chance to hear someone's perspective who has been in your shoes.
What Does Beyond A Reasonable Doubt Actually Mean?
In a criminal case, the prosecution must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. What does the term "beyond a reasonable doubt" mean?