If the police place you under arrest, it is important to make effective use of your right to a phone call. Once taken to the police station, you will likely be able to call a family member or friend to notify them of the arrest and location.  However, there are things to keep in mind when making this call that… The post What to know about making a phone call after an arrest first appeared on Johnston, Stannard, Klesner, | Burbidge & Fitzgerald, P.L.C ..read more

If you face accusations of committing assault at a college party or on campus, witnesses will play a role in determining the outcome of your case. Since college environments are typically crowded with students, there is a strong likelihood that multiple people saw what happened.  Understanding how witnesses affect an assault case and how to navigate their involvement can be… The post The role of witnesses in a college assault case first appeared on Johnston, Stannard, Klesner, | Burbidge & Fitzgerald, P.L.C ..read more

Underage drinking and using fake IDs are common issues among college students in Iowa. However, these actions can lead to severe legal consequences that affect a student’s future.  If you are facing accusations of using a fake ID to drink illegally, you need to understand the consequences so you can build an appropriate defense. Underage drinking laws in Iowa The… The post Consequences of underage drinking and fake IDs in Iowa first appeared on Johnston, Stannard, Klesner, | Burbidge & Fitzgerald, P.L.C ..read more

Getting pulled over for an OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) in Iowa can be a stressful experience. One of the common steps officers take is asking you to take a breath test.  Understanding implied consent In Iowa, by driving, you consent to chemical tests if suspected of OWI. Refusing a breath test can lead to an automatic license suspension. This suspension… The post Should I take a breath test? first appeared on Johnston, Stannard, Klesner, | Burbidge & Fitzgerald, P.L.C ..read more

Walking into a bar can be an exciting experience. However, knowing the rules can save you from a lot of trouble. In Iowa, there are specific laws about who can enter a bar and who cannot, and this includes age restrictions that everyone should be aware of.  Underage entry rules In Iowa, individuals under the age of 21 are generally… The post Age restrictions for entering bars in Iowa first appeared on Johnston, Stannard, Klesner, | Burbidge & Fitzgerald, P.L.C ..read more

Divorce can be a difficult and emotional process. People often make mistakes that can prolong the proceedings or lead to unfavorable outcomes. Understanding and avoiding these common pitfalls can help ensure a smoother and less stressful experience. Letting emotions take control During a divorce, avoid letting anger or sadness dictate your actions. Decisions made in the heat of the moment may not be in your best long-term interest. Stay calm and think rationally about each step in the process. Neglecting financial documentation In the 989,518 divorces in 2022, one of the biggest mistakes was f ..read more

Domestic violence in Iowa carries serious consequences for those found guilty. These penalties vary depending on the severity of the assault and whether the individual has prior convictions. Besides criminal penalties, offenders face significant personal and social repercussions. It is important to understand all of these consequences if you face accusations of domestic violence or abuse. Criminal penalties for domestic violence Iowa’s domestic abuse assault laws outline the penalties for domestic violence crimes of various severities: Simple misdemeanor: A first-time offense usually qualifies ..read more

If you are facing criminal accusations, it is understandable to worry about how off-campus charges might impact your university status. Universities have policies that address student conduct, both on and off campus. These policies often include disciplinary measures for students charged with crimes, even if the incidents occur away from university grounds. The importance of off-campus behavior Universities aim to maintain a safe and respectful environment for all students. Therefore, they take off-campus behavior seriously. If a student faces criminal charges, the university might conduct its ..read more

College can be a time of change and learning for students. Mistakes are inevitable. However, some mistakes take the form of acts that could be criminal. Can a college in Iowa suspend students convicted of crimes? The impact of criminal convictions Colleges in Iowa have the authority to establish rules and regulations. These rules often extend beyond the classroom to students’ conduct off-campus. A criminal conviction can have serious consequences in the eyes of the law and within the academic community. Colleges may view criminal behavior as a violation of their code of conduct, leading to dis ..read more

Cybercrime encompasses a range of illegal activities conducted through electronic means. It can pose significant risks for college students. Understanding legal implications and defense strategies helps safeguard students’ academic and professional futures. Knowing how to avoid cybercrime vulnerabilities can also help keep people safe online. Types of cybercrime Cybercrime can take various forms, including hacking, identity theft and phishing scams. It can also include cyberbullying and unauthorized access to computer systems or networks. Students may unknowingly engage in illegal activities ..read more