Rebecca Pirius
Attorney · Mitchell Hamline School of Law
When You Buy a Sick Pet: Is the Seller Liable?
Learn about pet "lemon laws" and other ways you may be able to get a refund, exchange, or payment for some vet bills if you buy an unhealthy companion animal. ... READ MORE
Expungement and Sealing of Criminal Records
Get information on criminal record sealing and expungement, including how states define expungement, what crimes are eligible, and how to apply for expungement. ... READ MORE
Court-Ordered Community Service
A sentence of community service is a punishment just like jail. It's part of your criminal record and has serious consequences for not completing your hours. ... READ MORE
Legal Consequences of Making and Taking Meth
Meth is a highly dangerous and toxic drug. Federal and state laws carry severe penalties for illegally possessing, selling, and making meth and operating meth labs. ... READ MORE
Animal Cruelty Laws in Virginia
It’s a crime in Virginia to abuse or abandon any animal or not properly care for a pet. Animal cruelty can result in felony charges. ... READ MORE
Animal Cruelty Laws in Mississippi
Mississippi outlaws cruelty to all animals, but the state gives special protection to pet dogs and cats. ... READ MORE
Why Jurors May Be Removed During Trial
After a trial has started, a judge may dismiss a juror who’s disqualified or unable to continue serving on the jury. Learn about the valid reasons and procedures for removing and replacing jurors, and what happens when no alternate jurors are available. ... READ MORE
Probation and Parole: Conditions and Consequences of Violations
Probation and parole are both alternatives to incarceration, but they differ in timing and purpose. Learn about the similarities and differences between probation and parole. ... READ MORE
Can an Act Be Both a Crime and a Tort?
A single event can be both a criminal offense and the basis for a civil lawsuit. ... READ MORE
Entering a Plea to Criminal Charges
Learn about five different types of pleas in criminal cases and what they mean. ... READ MORE