As the internet continues to become a bigger part of everyone’s lives, it’s important for people to understand how technology and the law intersect. It is true that tech laws tend to be rather behind the times, since technology itself evolves so quickly. But there are...
Protecting Your Rights. Defending Your Freedom.
Criminal Defense
What happens to out-of-state riders arrested at the Sturgis rally?
Motorcycle riders from all over the country come to Sturgis each year for one of the largest rallies in the nation. It is an exciting social event and often the center point of someone's summer vacation plans if they intend to participate. People network, meet up with...
Need to know: drug and alcohol use at the Sturgis rally
Social attitudes about drug and alcohol use do not inherently align with legal restrictions. Especially when people travel, they need to acknowledge the possibility that local laws related to drug and alcohol possession and use might lead to their arrest. South Dakota...
What you should know about theft, embezzlement and larceny
In South Dakota, embezzlement, larceny, and theft are all classified broadly as property crimes. They differ in terms of their specific elements and contexts. Anyone who’s charged with any type of theft crime should ensure they understand the elements of the charge,...
Evidence suppression may impact the outcome of your criminal case
You may think your case is done and dusted, given the prosecution’s evidence against you. However, it may not be the case. Not all evidence makes it to the courtroom. A judge can exclude some of the prosecution’s evidence from the trial, which can significantly affect...
Do witnesses always tell the truth to the police?
If you are facing criminal charges and the police tell you they have a witness, you would be right to worry. Witness accounts have helped secure prosecutions for many crimes. The problem is that people can place too much faith in them and forget that not all witnesses...
Are personal breathalyzers worth it?
If you visit family this Christmas, you might be worried about drinking and driving. You want to enjoy your time and share some alcoholic drinks. Yet you also know you’ll need to drive home at some point. Hence you may consider buying a personal breathalyzer so you...
Reasons a breath test may be inaccurate
A breath test can be administered by the police to see if someone’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is over the legal limit. For the majority of drivers, this legal limit is 0.08% BAC. Officers can sometimes use portable breath test devices or a Breathalyzer at the...
Understanding minor in possession (MIP) charges
In South Dakota, when a minor is found in possession of alcohol or drugs, they may face a “minor in possession” charge. Also referred to as MIP laws, these outline what happens if minors are found in this situation. Learning more about MIP laws and the potential...
Can you be arrested for mouthing off to a police officer?
No one is happy about being pulled over in their car by a police officer or being stopped on the street. However, it’s always wise to be careful about what you say to them. You could find yourself facing charges that have nothing to do with the alleged offense they...