Rebecca Pirius
Attorney · Mitchell Hamline School of Law
After an Animal Bite: Rabies Vaccinations and Quarantines
Whether you’ve been bitten by an animal or your pet is the culprit, learn when vaccines are required for humans and animals, when pets can be quarantined, and when their owners are legally liable. ... READ MORE
Criminal Fines, Fees, and Restitution
Incarceration isn't the only sentencing option available. Often, judges will order a convicted defendant to pay criminal fines, fees, and victim restitution. ... READ MORE
What Happens If You Fail to Register as a Sex Offender?
Sex offenders who don’t register or fail to abide by registration requirements can be prosecuted for “failure to register.” Failure to register is a crime in every state. And, under certain circumstances, failure to register can lead to federal charges. ... READ MORE
What Is Vandalism?
Vandalism covers a broad variety of unlawful acts relating to the destruction or defacement of property—both public and private. In some states, vandalism falls under the crimes of graffiti, criminal or malicious mischief, or damage to property. ... READ MORE
Selecting a Criminal Defense Attorney
Hiring a criminal defense attorney is an important decision and there are lots of attorneys who handle criminal cases. Get tips on how to find the best criminal defense lawyer for you. ... READ MORE
Is an Alford Plea the Same as a No Contest Plea?
Understand the differences between no contest and Alford pleas, when they're allowed, and why they're used. ... READ MORE
What Happens at an Initial Appearance?
When people are arrested for allegedly committing crimes, the police can't let them languish in jail indefinitely. They must take jailed suspects before a judge relatively quickly to learn about the charges, their constitutional rights, and bail options. Just how quickly can an arrestee get from jail to a judge? ... READ MORE
Parents' Responsibility for Underage Drinking
Some states permit underage drinking with parental supervision. But even in those that do, parents can still face criminal charges or civil liability for the acts of their child. ... READ MORE
Steps in the Criminal Justice Process
The criminal justice process varies from state to state, and the federal criminal justice system has its own rules, procedures, and terms to describe the stages of the proceedings. Generally speaking, however, the criminal justice process follows the same playbook. ... READ MORE
What Is a Criminal Offense?
Criminal defendants can be incarcerated if they lose, but not civil defendants. Why not? ... READ MORE