Last year, Microsoft sued the federal government over its practice of routinely issuing gag orders when it presented warrants for emails. According to an 18-month analysis by Microsoft, the Department of Justice issued indefinite gag orders under the Electronic...
Study: Hiring an OUI defense lawyer could actually pay for itself
Being convicted of OUI in Massachusetts can really cost you. Even a first-time OUI can mean jail time, a minimum fine of $500, the loss of your driver's license for a year, a permanent police record and more. The penalties are higher for those under 21, if you refuse...
Spanish-speaking OUI arrestee fights inaccurate rights translation
Even after the City of Methuen's Spanish translation of a rights notice was thrown out by a judge, a Spanish-speaking woman claims it is still being used to coerce arrestees. She has filed a federal class action to compel Methuen to correct its form, as it has...
Is it fair to suspend your license for failure to pay a fine?
A new report by the nonprofit Legal Aid Justice Center asks whether state policies that suspend driver's licenses for inability to pay fines are a good idea. Are these "license-for-payment" policies fair, or are they counterproductive and costly? The report concludes...
Seeking guidance before a hearing for a chemical test refusal
Staring down accusations for driving under the influence of alcohol can be a stressful and daunting experience. If recently involved in a traffic stop, which led to accusations of intoxication, you might have felt somewhat intimidated by the process and uncertain of...