Legal Information Center

Arson is a serious criminal offense in New York, defined as the intentional act of setting fire to property, buildings, or vehicles. The New York Penal Law outlines multiple degrees of arson, each varying in severity based on intent, damage, and whether individuals were endangered. Those convicted of arson can face significant penalties, including long-term…

In New York City, a Desk Appearance Ticket (DAT) serves as a directive for an individual to appear in Criminal Court following an arrest. Specifically, under Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) § 511, which addresses offenses related to operating a vehicle with a suspended or revoked license, a DAT may be issued. This article delves…

Running an illegal money transfer business in the United States is typically prosecuted under 18 U.S. Code § 1960, which covers “Prohibition of unlicensed money transmitting businesses.” Here’s a breakdown of the key elements and possible penalties: Elements of the Offense (18 U.S.C. § 1960) To secure a conviction under this statute, the government must…

In the state of New York, grand larceny is a serious criminal offense involving the unlawful taking of property with a value above a certain threshold. Classified as a felony, grand larceny can carry significant legal consequences, including imprisonment and hefty fines. This article outlines the legal definition, statutory elements, classifications, and penalties associated with…

What Happens at a New York City Criminal Court Arraignment? An arraignment is often the first court appearance for someone charged with a crime in New York City. It’s a critical moment in the criminal justice process, setting the stage for how the case will proceed. Here’s what you can expect to happen during a…

Understanding Federal Criminal Charges Under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) is a cornerstone of U.S. anti-corruption enforcement, aimed at preventing American companies and individuals from engaging in bribery and unethical conduct overseas. Enacted in 1977 and enforced by both the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Securities…

Federal Terrorism Charges and the Arrest of Tren de Aragua Members In a significant development in U.S. law enforcement, the Department of Justice has filed its first terrorism-related charges against a member of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. This move underscores the U.S. government’s evolving strategy to combat transnational criminal organizations by applying anti-terrorism…

In New York City, when someone is arrested for a misdemeanor offense like Assault in the Third Degree, they may not always be held in custody until their arraignment. Instead, they can be issued a Desk Appearance Ticket (DAT) — a legal notice requiring the individual to appear in court at a later date to…

If you’ve been issued a Desk Appearance Ticket (DAT) in New York for shoplifting under Penal Law § 155.25, you’re likely dealing with your first encounter with the criminal justice system — and it can feel overwhelming. Here’s a breakdown of what it means, what you should expect, and what you can do next. What…

Federal criminal charges for robbery What Is the Hobbs Act? The Hobbs Act, codified at 18 U.S. Code § 1951, is a federal law enacted in 1946 to combat robbery and extortion affecting interstate commerce. While originally intended to curb organized crime and labor union corruption, the statute has become a powerful tool for federal…