The odds are good that you can't imagine yourself as being part of any "criminal conspiracy," but that doesn't mean that a prosecutor can't charge you with one -- especially in situations where money crimes or drug crimes are involved.
Immigration marriage fraud: How investigations get started
It's tough to immigrate to the United States these days. Even if you're trying to legally obtain your green card or citizenship as the foreign-born spouse of an American, you may find yourself under investigation for marriage fraud.
Immigrants: Think twice before you get a medical marijuana card
Marijuana use is increasingly accepted by both the American medical community and American society -- whether the use is purely for recreational purposes or has its roots in a medical need. The fact that medical and recreational marijuana are gaining legal ground in numerous states is proof of that.
How federal sentencing guidelines are forcing guilty pleas
If you've paid any attention to the university admission scandal that's been rocking academia and the entertainment industry lately, you've probably heard people ask why Lori Loughlin didn't accept a plea bargain.
Don't overlook the value of character letters to federal judges
You've been charged with a federal crime (or, more likely, several -- since the prosecutor will probably tack on as many as possible in hopes of gaining an easier conviction). Despite your best efforts and the efforts of your attorneys, you've been convicted and are now facing sentencing.
Could you be guilty of tax fraud?
Tax season is an annual headache for millions of Americans. Fraud or tax evasion can get you into serious trouble with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
DNA testing and the future of criminal investigations
Could the police obtain your DNA evidence without ever approaching you directly? They can. Although it's only been done a few times, DNA evidence obtained through agencies that provide consumers with at-home genetic testing kits has already been successfully used by investigators to crack some long-running criminal cases wide open.
Why did the Fyre Festival's founder go to jail?
If you've been online lately, you've probably heard the buzz surrounding the Fyre Festival -- the famous concert "experience" for wealthy, influential Millennials that wasn't. Two documentaries about what happened there have recently landed on Netflix and Hulu.
Tax evasion: What everyone should know
The instant the old year draws to a close and the new year begins, a lot of people start thinking about their tax returns. It's only natural. For many people, their anticipated tax refund represents a chance to get caught up on bills and maybe afford a few luxuries.
Lying to federal investigators: A quick ticket to prison
Let's be really clear about this: You cannot lie to a federal agent. If you do, you will most likely be caught, tried and convicted of making false statements, which is a crime under Title 18, United States Code Section 1001.
