Introduction: Your Rights vs. Police Powers It’s one of the most common questions people ask after a traffic stop or arrest: “Do police need a warrant to search my car?” In Connecticut, the answer is not simple. While the Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures, courts have long…
Articles Posted in Criminal Defense
Larceny in the 6th Degree for “Failure to Scan” at Self-Checkout in Connecticut: What Defendants Need to Know
Summary Charge: Larceny in the 6th Degree (Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-125b) applies when the value is $500 or less and the State claims you intended not to pay for the merchandise. Self-checkout cases often start as “failure to scan” or “skip-scan” incidents flagged by store systems or loss-prevention (LP).…
Why Organized Retail Theft and Financial Crimes in Greenwich Are Treated So Seriously in Stamford Court
Organized retail theft and financial crimes are increasingly in the spotlight across Connecticut, particularly in wealthier communities such as Greenwich. While some people mistakenly believe these crimes are “minor” or simply involve shoplifting or creative accounting, the Stamford Superior Court treats them with the utmost seriousness. This article explores why…
Why You Should Never Submit to a Field Sobriety Test in Connecticut DUI Cases – And Why You Should Almost Always Consent to a Breathalyzer Test
Introduction: Protecting Your Rights After a DUI Arrest Getting pulled over on suspicion of drunk driving in Connecticut can be one of the most intimidating experiences of your life. The flashing lights, the officer’s questions, and the immediate pressure to comply with every request can leave you feeling powerless. However,…
How Connecticut’s Pretrial Diversion Programs Can Help First-Time Offenders Avoid a Criminal Record
Introduction: A Second Chance in the Criminal Justice System One of the most common concerns for first-time offenders in Connecticut is the long-term impact of a criminal conviction. A single mistake—whether it’s a bar fight, shoplifting, possession of a small amount of drugs, or a lapse in judgment behind the…
10 Costly Mistakes People Make After a DUI Arrest in Connecticut
If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Connecticut, your next steps can mean the difference between protecting your future and making matters worse. As an experienced Connecticut criminal defense attorney, I’ve seen how even well-meaning people make critical errors that damage their cases. This expanded guide not only breaks down…
The 10 Most Commonly Asked Questions About Arrest Warrants in Connecticut
If you’ve been told there’s a warrant out for your arrest—or even if you just suspect it—it’s natural to feel anxious, overwhelmed, and unsure of your next move. Arrest warrants in Connecticut can result from missed court dates, criminal investigations, or violations of probation. As a Stamford-based criminal defense lawyer,…
Know Your Rights During a Connecticut Police Stop or Arrest
Being stopped or arrested by police in Connecticut can be intimidating. Whether you are in Stamford, Bridgeport, or anywhere else in the state, understanding your rights during a police encounter can make a significant difference in protecting your freedom and strengthening your defense. This guide explains your rights, how to…
Defending First-Time DUI Charges in Connecticut: A Criminal Defense Lawyer’s Guide
As a Connecticut criminal defense attorney, I often work with individuals who’ve been arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) for the first time. A first-time DUI in Connecticut can be intimidating, especially if you’ve never been in trouble with the law before. The good news? A skilled Connecticut DUI…
First Time Offender DUI Penalties and Defenses in Connecticut
Getting a DUI is terrifying, and if you have never gotten one before, you probably have many questions on your mind. If you have gotten a first-time DUI charge, it is important to understand what this means by Connecticut law. The good news is that a first-time DUI is not…