Sheriff's Office says race plays no role in who gets pulled over Oct 5, 2008
Police rarely arrest anyone for only an open container offense, but instead usually ticket and release them, said Joey Hamby, a Phoenix defense attorney who has practiced for 14 years. Romero, the driver, said he believes the deputy stopped them because he was out looking for illegal immigrants. (AZCentral -- News)
Kenosha woman convicted of prostituting daughter (138) Oct 5, 2008
Defense attorney Douglas Bihler told jurors the woman was a prostitute but didn t sell her daughters. He says the girls copied their mother s behavior on their own. (Racine Journal Times, WI)
O.J. Simpson Found Guilty, 13 Years After L.A. Oct 5, 2008
In closing arguments, defense attorney Yale Galanter acknowledged that what Simpson did to recover his memorabilia was not right. "But being stupid, and being frustrated is not being a criminal," he said. (Time.com)
Judge: Defendant attacks prosecutor in court Oct 4, 2008
A bailiff, a police officer and Jackson's defense attorney restrained Jackson. Jackson was being sentenced on misdemeanor convictions for trespassing and false informing stemming from a 2006 arrest at a dance studio. (Rensselaer Republican, IN)
Judge upholds conviction in Amish outhouse dispute Oct 4, 2008
Cambria County Judge Norman Krumenacker ordered Andy Swartzentruber to make the privies, which are used by schoolchildren, compliant and pay a 500 fine within 30 days (Somerset Daily American, PA)
Former Cedar Cliff teacher to stand trial on sex charges Oct 4, 2008
Prosecutor Geoffrey McInroy, Cumberland County senior assistant district attorney, objected several times to defense attorney Heidi Eakins questioning of the witness, but Eakin cited the vague testimony as an argument against the prosecutions case. Thats what I want to know, Eakin said, pressing for details. (Carlisle Sentinel, PA)
Judge refuses to block state investigation Oct 4, 2008
Joe Biden faced off in a debate in St. Louis, Michalski agreed with defense attorney Peter Maassen, who argued that the Legislature has the authority to investigate the governor as it sees fit. "He agreed with us on pretty much everything," Maassen said of the judge's ruling. (Juneau Empire)
Judge denies a vigorous mistrial bid in Stevens case Oct 4, 2008
Sullivan had suggested at a hearing before his decision that he might take the unusual step of allowing defense attorneys to amend their opening statement using the new information ... But defense attorney Robert Carey refused the offer, saying the damage was done ... Another defense attorney, Brendan Sullivan, argued Thursday that the newly disclosed FBI reports showed that Allen believed Stevens was willing to pay for the renovations - a point he would have made in his opening statement if he... (Juneau Empire)
AP: Palin Troopergate Probe Goes on After Suit Tossed Oct 4, 2008
But Michalski agreed with defense attorney Peter Maassen, who argued that the Legislature has broad authority to investigate the governor. The mere appearance of impropriety does not mean any individual's right to fairness was violated, Michalski wrote in his decision. (Missourian Publishing, MO)
Shooter set free in retrial Stafford man convicted again of shooting neighbor in wood-cutting dispute, but gets no jail time this time. Oct 4, 2008
Defense attorney Mark Gardner, speaking to the jury, scoffed at what he described as Olsen's notion that "the whole nation is going to crumble if you don't send this 70-year-old man to jail.". After the jury's sentence was read, Jones' son stood and began clapping loudly. (Fredericksburg.com, VA)
Mistrial declared in freeway assault case in which woman lost arm Oct 4, 2008
Defense attorney Marcus Landsberg said the case is a tragic one that did not involve domestic violence. In your voice. (Honolulu Advertiser)
TERRY SCAMBRAY: Truth about America can be twisted Oct 4, 2008
A publicity stuntRealizing what a lame case he had, Fred Moore, the defense attorney for Sacco and Vanzetti, framed it as a morality play, pitting the provincial descendents of New England Puritans against two poor immigrants with unpopular anarchist ideas. Moore thus pioneered the use of the Oprah factor, now relentlessly exploited to gain sympathy for a variety of miscreants, including Guantnamo detainees. (Fresno Bee -- Opinion)
Suspects in home invasion spree turn on leader Oct 4, 2008
Defense attorney Norman Cuadra argued that Silverio was a hard-working roofer who cut ties with his former gang, Pachucos Locos 14, when his son was born in 2003. Jewelry and valuables taken from home invasion victims were found in Silverio s apartment because he agreed to pawn them as a favor to old gang pals, Cuadra said. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution -- Metro)
Damm's ex-wife testifies her family was harassed Oct 4, 2008
"That's when I realized what was going on. ... Our lives were being threatened," Cathy Damm said under cross-examination by defense attorney Stephen Richards ... Defense attorneys pointed out that most of the calls on Burt's phone lasted less than two minutes, and none were anywhere near 15 minutes. (Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier)
O.J. could spend rest of his life behind bars after guilty verdict Oct 4, 2008
I dont like to use the word payback, defense attorney Yale Galanter said. I can tell you from the beginning my biggest concern. (The Pantagraph newspaper)
Day care provider gets 6 years in infant's scalding Oct 4, 2008
During Bigelow's trial, defense attorney Kami White argued the baby got burned by accident. In a videotape, Bigelow re-enacted what she said must have happened. (OregonLive, OR -- News)
Judge tosses sentence for child molester (23) Oct 4, 2008
Superior Court Judge Rene Chouteau ruled last week that criminal defense attorney Chris Andrian provided Johnson constitutionally inadequate representation during plea negotiations before trial in 2003. Passalacqua has 30 days to decide whether to retry Johnson, negotiate a plea agreement or reinstate a previous plea offer. (Sonoma Index-Tribune, CA)
Man gets four to eight for beating up girlfriend Oct 4, 2008
Gabe was acquitted of other charges, including rape and involuntary deviate sexual intercourse on the woman, who midway through the trial telephoned defense attorney John List seeking to bring the case to a close. At that time, Deputy District Attorney Michael Galantino said the victim was afraid of Gabe, but remained adamant he had beaten her. (The Delaware County Times, PA)
4 convicted in sweeping fraud trial Oct 4, 2008
A defense attorney for John Vincent Artuso said outside court that the guilty verdicts stunned all those on the defense team. Miami attorney Mike Pasano said he told jurors the notion that there is a branch of the Gambino family operating in South Florida is "ludicrous.". (The Palm Beach Post)
Man charged with sexual indecency near school gets 10 years' probation Oct 4, 2008
Defense attorney Vicki A.R. Lopez said Zuchowski has already begun at counseling at Mountain Valley Counseling. Lopez said Zuchowski was shocked that children were present on a Saturday, and left in his vehicle as soon as he realized they were there. (AZCentral -- News)
Alaska Supreme Court to hear trooper case appeal Oct 4, 2008
Defense attorney Peter Maassen said that the Legislature is free to conduct an investigation as it sees fit and that Michalski's ruling confirmed the separation-of-power principles. An emergency appeal is unwarranted, he said, because by Thursday the investigation will have been completed; all that will remain will be to make the findings public. (Los Angeles Times)
Simpson guilty on all counts Oct 4, 2008
"I dare say it's probably going to be on the high end," defense attorney Yale Galanter said of the likely prison term after the verdict was announced. Co-defendant Clarence "C.J." Stewart, 54, was also convicted of the same charges and was also taken into custody. (USA Today)
Man Sentenced To 28 Years For 2004 Murder Oct 4, 2008
"He will have to finish that sentence of 10 years before he can begin his sentence of 28 years," said Leonard Morales defense attorney. Morales said there are no definite plans to appeal the sentence. (KFOXTV.com, TX)
Sleeping beauty's accused sex assault gets bail slash Oct 4, 2008
Defense attorney Nicole Carlo said Francis is the father of four children and worked for Toll Brothers building houses until he was laid off in 2007. "The victim's body language told the defendant (the act) was OK. Mr. Francis is deeply distraught over this," Carlo said. (The Trentonian, NJ)
Final hearing before start of Fort Dix plot case Oct 4, 2008
Also during Friday's hearing, defense attorneys lost their last pretrial motions ... Suspects awaiting trial could be sentenced to prison terms "that seem like life when you're in your mid-20s," said Michael Riley, defense attorney for Shain Duka. (The Trentonian, NJ)
Ex-gang boss: Truce based on the sacrificing of Ñetas traitor Oct 4, 2008
Defense attorney Mark Fury insists his client never ordered the hits and was much too small to intimidate other gang members to kill. The trial continues Monday in Mercer County Superior Court Judge Darlene Pereksta's court. (The Trentonian, NJ)
Judge denies new trial for teacher Oct 3, 2008
Bucks County Court Judge Rea Boylan recently issued two rulings denying defense attorney Sara Webster's request for a new trial for Romanyszyn. Sentencing is now set for Nov. 2. (Springfield Sun, PA)
Judge Rejects Stevens Mistrial Motion Oct 3, 2008
Defense attorney Brendan Sullivan argued Thursday that prosecutors violated evidence rules by not turning over the heavily censored FBI reports well before Allen took the witness stand. The reports, he said, showed that Allen believed Stevens was willing to pay for the renovations - a point he would have made in his opening statement if he had known. (CBS News)
District H Judge's Election Oct 3, 2008
Burton is a question mark, and criminal defense attorney. Is that who we really want. (New Iberia, LA)
Oakland warrant errors may damage drug cases Oct 3, 2008
Orloff said he was required to provide evidence to defense attorneys that could clear a suspect, including evidence that would impeach the credibility of witnesses such as police officers ... Defense attorneys said the investigation could lead to successful bids in court to throw out evidence seized during searches ... "I don't think there is any valid excuse to misrepresent to the court," defense attorney Anne Beles said. (San Francisco Chronicle -- Crime)
Judge upholds conviction in Amish outhouse dispute Oct 3, 2008
Cambria County Judge Norman Krumenacker ordered Andy Swartzentruber to make the privies, which are used by schoolchildren, compliant and pay a 500 fine within 30 days (Somerset Daily American, PA)
OUT THERE: Gas Thief Gets Burned — Literally Oct 3, 2008
When the woman identified only as Gabriella was called to be a substitute judge, she dispatched her twin sister, who is not a lawyer, to a prior legal engagement as a defense attorney. The clients figured out the sister was not Gabriella, and are now suing both sisters for damages. (Fox News)
Public defenders cutting services Oct 3, 2008
Walther's law-firm partner, Rusty Antell, is the best criminal defense attorney in Columbia, so that could help Walther if he were tapped to represent a criminal defendant. But some lawyers drafted to help defendants may, and some may not, be competent to provide adequate representation, he said. (Jefferson City News Tribune, MO)
Jurors Convict Man for Aggravated Murder Oct 3, 2008
Our partners at the Hamilton Journal News report the defense attorney argued for his client to be found guilty of murder, but not aggravated murder as he's charged. 35 year-old Daniel Estrada-Lopez is accused of killing 32-year-old Gloria Applegate in June. (WKRC.com, OH)
Teacher in Texas after teen lover slain Oct 3, 2008
Eric McLeans criminal defense attorney, Bruce Poston, testified that Erin McLean fled the state after she was fired from a Nashville school amid allegations of improper contact with students there. No attorney represented her at the hearing, held via conference call by a judge in Austin. (MSNBC -- Crime)
County Attorney LaWall faces challenger Roach in forum Saturday Oct 3, 2008
Roach resigned and became a defense attorney. The campaign is sometime acrimonious. (Green Valley News & Sun, AZ)
Ex-Laney star pleads guilty to reduced charge Oct 3, 2008
"This is a good kid," defense attorney Jacque Hawk said of Mr. Wright. The student played football, worked 40 hours a week and gave part of his earnings to his mother, according to trial testimony. (The Augusta Chronicle)
Jury to begin deliberations in O.J. trial Oct 3, 2008
But a defense attorney said Simpson, a victim of his own notoriety, was was targeted by police out to get him and cohorts eager to make "big bucks" off him ... Defense attorney Galanter said he intent all along was to cash in on Simpson's fame. (SportsIllustrated.CNN -- More)
Prosecutor: Child molester like 'kid in a candy store' at sleepover Oct 3, 2008
Defense attorney Mark Johnson argued for probation and a stayed jail term for Janes. The state has made an overzealous recommendation, Johnston said. (The Pantagraph newspaper)
Statement From Knox's Supporters Raises Questions About Case Oct 3, 2008
Anne Bremner, a defense attorney and former prosecutor is speaking on their behalf ... The judge and the defense attorneys tore him to shreds. (KIRO TV, WA)
Nichols trial update Oct 3, 2008
Adan told Robert McGlasson, a defense attorney, that he was the first investigator to inquire about Nichols war comment. I didn t understand what he meant about a war, she said. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution)
Hurt man convicted of domestic assault Oct 3, 2008
Defense attorney William C. Meyer II, claimed Safewright was acting in self-defense. Although Healy did agree she bit Safewright, she said it was after he hit her. (Chatham Star Tribune, VA)
Chatham man pleads guilty to malicious bodily injury Oct 3, 2008
The defense attorney, Richard McGarry, claimed Mattox started the fight, and Alston only acted in self defense after Mattox charged towards him. Comments. (Chatham Star Tribune, VA)
Stout gets life for husband's murder (2167) Oct 3, 2008
Stout's defense attorney argued the conviction was based on circumstantial evidence and said there is no one who can testify that Stout shot her husband. The gun was found in the saddle bag of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle in the garage. (Missoulian, MT)
Hayden’s bail at $350,000 Oct 3, 2008
According to Maultsby, Hayden s defense attorneyrepresented that Hayden s ex-wife and son were present at the bail hearing ... The defense attorney represented that (Hayden s) ex-wife would allow the house to be encumbered, said Maultsby. (Washington Daily News, NC)
Brookline white-collar attorney to lead Boston Bar Association Oct 3, 2008
I feel like defense attorneys play an important role in our society, she said. The federal government has incredible power, and it s important to have a defense attorneys to balance out that power ... As somebody who is a criminal defense attorney, I think I m interested in a criminal justice system that does the best job possible, she said. (Brookline TAB, MA)
Lawyer in Oregon butt-swatting case fights sanction Oct 3, 2008
A McMinnville defense attorney who represented one of two seventh-grade boys charged with felony sex abuse two years ago for swatting the buttocks of girls at their middle school is under fire from the Oregon State Bar. J. Mark Lawrence, an outspoken critic of the prosecution who helped bring the case national attention and prompted widespread criticism of the Yamhill County district attorney's office, faces a sanction from the state bar for releasing a juvenile court transcript to a television... (OregonLive, OR -- News)
Defense: People With Ulterior Motives Targeted Simpson Oct 3, 2008
In the final moments before legal instructions were read, defense attorney objected to the wording of several instructions including one that says, "Every conspirator is legally responsible for an act of a co-conspirator ... even if it was not intended as part of the original plan.". The defense also objected to an instruction that undermines Simpson's claim of wanting to take back his possessions. (NBC4.tv, CA)
Judge tosses sentence for child molester Oct 3, 2008
Superior Court Judge Rene Chouteau ruled last week that criminal defense attorney Chris Andrian provided Johnson constitutionally inadequate representation during plea negotiations before trial in 2003. Passalacqua has 30 days to decide whether to retry Johnson, negotiate a plea agreement or reinstate a previous plea offer. (Sonoma Index-Tribune, CA)
Logan woman pleads guilty of manslaughter Oct 3, 2008
Harper s defense attorney, David M. Perry, was fully cooperative with the plea arrangement, Ward said. Perry could not be reached for comment. (Logan Herald Journal, UT)
Fate of O.J. Simpson rests with Las Vegas jury Oct 3, 2008
Jae C. Hong, Pool Defense attorney Brent Bryson displays a gun previously entered into evidence as he speaks on behalf of client Clarence "C.J." Stewart during closing arguments in his trial at the Clark County Regional Justice Center on Thursday Oct. 2, 2008 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Stewart and co-defendant O.J. Simpson are standing trial on 12 charges, including felony kidnapping, armed robbery and conspiracy related to a 2007 confrontation with sports memorabilia dealers in a Las Vegas hotel. (Fresno Bee -- Local)
Corbett re-trial Oct 3, 2008
Defense attorney Sean Chapman told the judge he felt any testimony from the father regarding his son s good character would allow him to inquire if the victim was affiliated with a gang. Judge Bury said the father s testimony would need to be relevant to the charges against Corbett. (Douglas Daily Dispatch, AZ)
Driver in chase, crash to spend almost 9 years in prison Oct 3, 2008
"This was a tragic incident, caused by my client's foolishness and lack of judgment," Defense Attorney Eddie Ruiz said. "But, he came here today knowing he was going to take full responsibility for what he has done. He wants to say he is sorry to Officer (Jeff) Davis and to his girlfriend, Selia Quair.". (Hanford Sentinal, CA)
Judge denies vigorous mistrial bid in Stevens case Oct 3, 2008
Defense attorney Brendan Sullivan, center holding case, Beth Stevens and Sen ... Sullivan had suggested at a hearing before his decision that he might take the unusual step of allowing defense attorneys to amend their opening statement using the new information ... But defense attorney Robert Carey refused the offer, saying the damage was done. (Muscatine Journal, IO)
Rolle's son begs for father's life (1036) Oct 3, 2008
Defense attorney Vaughn Neubauer asked the younger Rolle how his mother would be affected if Rolle, 47, was given a death sentence. "My mom is very sick," he said, then paused for a moment. (Casper Star-Tribune, WY)
Judge: Stevens Trial to Continue Oct 3, 2008
Defense attorney Brendan Sullivan took to the podium as court came to order Thursday morning to demand that the judge declare a mistrial, pointing to an FBI summary that he received late Wednesday of an interview in which star prosecution witness Bill Allen suggested that if he had sent bills to Stevens for the renovations of his home, Stevens would have paid them. Stevens is charged with seven counts of filing false statements over an eight-year period to conceal the receipt of more than... (Roll Call)
Defendant's Friend Testifies About Weapon Used To Kill Man Oct 3, 2008
However, defense attorneys said Brothers only recently admitted to getting rid of the weapon, and they used that to question whether the witness could be trusted ... "Why should be believe a word you're saying here today?" the defense attorney said. (News4Jax.com, FL)
Plano: Who is Ashley Estell’s killer? Oct 3, 2008
All the work we have done on this case since 1998 has paid off, said Phillip Wischkaemper, a Lubbock defense attorney who worked on Blair s appeal. Our one goal was to get him off the row. (McKinney Courier-Gazette, TX)
Simpson robbery case goes to jury Oct 3, 2008
Defense attorney Yale Galanter told jurors that Simpson never intended to commit a robbery but was reclaiming "sacred" mementos of his career and life. "The only thing on Mr. Simpson's mind when he went in that room at the Palace Station was to recover his family heirlooms," Galanter said. (USA Today)
Killer avoids trial, pleads to 15 years Oct 3, 2008
Ferguson, 32, of the 800 block of Carteret Avenue, admitted he shot and killed Ty Brown, 34, on Aug. 9, 2006, after fighting over the location of the defendant's drugs, defense attorney Christopher Garrenger said. The defendant was having a party at his apartment, and Brown was at the party, Ferguson said. (The Trentonian, NJ)
Plymouth mother pleads guilty Sep 25, 2008
Defense attorney Timothy Woodward said he is hoping to keep his client out of jail. He added that there is an "enormous amount of material" in Cossey's recent psychiatric evaluation that he believes will mitigate the length of the sentence, although he declined to detail that material. (Springfield Sun, PA)
OJ Wanted Guns, Pal Says; Goldman Lawyer Can't Testify Sep 25, 2008
Defense attorney Yale Galanter charged that Alexander was mad at Simpson because the erstwhile murder suspect had refused to pay for his father's funeral, and that he offered to keep his mouth shut for the right price. "I wasn't pissed at him. I was disappointed," Alexander said. (E! Online)
Teen asks appeals court to let him retract plea Sep 25, 2008
Defense attorney Bruce Poston told the appellate judges the state had scant evidence that Bartley planned the shooting. He had been summoned to the principal's office after another student reported Bartley had a gun at school. (WREG.com, TN)
Afghan Tribal Leader Guilty of Drug Trafficking Sep 25, 2008
The verdict came despite the attempt of defense attorney to portray the government's case as shaky for resting on the testimony of three convicted drug dealers and statements Noorzai allegedly made to federal agents during 11 days of questioning at an Embassy Suites hotel in lower Manhattan in 2005. Fisher claimed that Noorzai, head of the influential , came to New York to make a deal with the U.S. government, a deal that he would stop cultivation of opium on his large landholdings in Kandahar... (Law.com)
Teen faces 9 felonies in shooting Sep 25, 2008
Defense attorney Melanie Knoepfle asked Strecker if the defendant s confession was the only evidence the prosecution had that her client was the one who pulled the trigger the night of the shooting. Yes, Strecker said, adding that the shooting probe is continuing and we certainly would like to know who else was in the vehicle. (Beatrice Daily Sun, NE)