While protests are often peaceful, they could turn ugly when violence is involved. At that point they become riots, and their chaotic nature could lead to property damage and injuries. North Dakota has laws prohibiting rioting; anyone caught participating or directing...

To You Straight
Criminal Defense
When does shoplifting become a felony crime?
As defined by North Dakota law, shoplifting is the willful taking of unpaid merchandise with the intent to deprive a store. It’s a broad term that can refer to various actions that are related to the offense, such as concealing unpaid goods, altering price tags and...
Is it a crime to “borrow” a vehicle without permission?
There’s a good reason automobiles like cars and trucks need keys to start their engines. It’s to deter strangers and thieves from using and taking away your vehicle. Unless you explicitly trust someone to use your automobile, you shouldn’t let just anyone take your...
Self-defense: when is the use of force justified?
Picture this: you are out at your favorite bar catching up with a long-time friend over a drink when someone suddenly attacks you. First, they go on a tirade, which you ignore. But their aggression doesn’t stop. They physically attack you. And before you know it, you...
Start the new year out with sealing your criminal history
As you begin the new year, you're trying to get a fresh start. People do this in a variety of ways, but, if you have a criminal conviction on your record, you may be considering sealing that criminal history from the public. To do this, you must submit a petition to...
What to know about federal conspiracy charges
You’ve been indicted on federal conspiracy charges -- and you’re not even sure what that means. It may seem overwhelming thinking of the prospect of proving your case when you don't even understand how you ended up charged with such an offense. Making sense of these...
Make sure you understand North Dakota’s complicated assault laws
Each state has laws governing how it deals with crime. Assault, for example, can occur in more than one way in North Dakota. The possible penalties of an assault conviction also vary, depending upon the nature of the alleged crime. If you are facing a possible assault...
DUI: “Actual Physical Control” Explained
When talking about DUI cases, most people think about someone getting behind the wheel and driving a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. I recently wrote a blog about some DUI scenarios that have occurred in North Dakota and around the country....
Different Ways to Get a DUI
When people think of someone getting a DUI, they often think about someone in a car getting pulled over on the side of the road. But there are so many more interesting ways someone can get charged with a DUI. Let’s start with what the actual law in North Dakota says....
Has COVID-19 Infringed on Your Right to a Speedy Trial?
Courthouse work is at a halt The COVID-19 pandemic has essentially put all work in the courthouse to a halt for the time being. Hearings are suspended in some locations indefinitely. But what about your constitutionally guaranteed right to a speedy trial; is that on...