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

Iowa has increased the penalties for eluding police officers in an effort to improve road safety and deter reckless behavior. The new law makes it a felony if the offender exceeds the speed limit by more than 25 miles per hour during the pursuit. This change reflects a rising concern over the dangers of high-speed chases and the need to hold offenders accountable for their actions. Felony charges As of July 2023, attempting to avoid an encounter with law enforcement by excessively speeding is a felony, which means the consequences of a conviction are worse. In the past, this offense was an agg ..read more

Charges for operating a vehicle while under the influence often come with pain and embarrassment. They can also have significant financial impacts. Anyone facing a possible conviction for an OWI should be aware of the many potential costs. Iowa’s penalties for an OWI Iowa defines an OWI offense as when a person operates a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance. If the blood-alcohol concentration reaches or exceeds .08, a driver is also legally over the acceptable limit. In addition to possible imprisonment and license revocation, the fines are as follows: The fi ..read more

When faced with a traffic stop on suspicion of DUI, you might wonder what your rights are in terms of sobriety test refusal. Every driver should understand their rights as well as the risks when refusing a sobriety test. There are several things you should consider when it comes to refusal. Right of refusal In Iowa, as in many other states, you have the right to refuse a sobriety test. This includes both field and chemical sobriety tests, such as breath tests. While you have a right to refuse, you may also face repercussions for doing so. Penalties for refusal The state of Iowa has an implied ..read more

When the flashing lights of a patrol car signal you to pull over for suspected drinking and driving, the moments that follow can be critical. However, the mistakes made in the aftermath of a police stop can often compound the legal consequences. Understanding the pitfalls can empower individuals to make better decisions in the heat of the moment. Voluntarily incriminating yourself One of the gravest errors individuals commit is volunteering information that officials could use against them later. Admitting to having consumed alcohol or disclosing the quantity may weaken one’s defense in a cour ..read more

Police in Iowa take the issue of drugged driving very seriously. Drugged driving refers to operating a vehicle while impaired by any drug, not just illegal substances. Prescription or over-the-counter medications that affect your driving ability can also lead to an arrest. If the Iowa police suspect you of drugged driving, you face a daunting legal process, and it is important to understand the process. The initial arrest and booking process After the police pull you over and suspect drugged driving, they will conduct a series of tests. These can include field sobriety tests, breath tests and ..read more

Forming a prenuptial agreement with your spouse before marriage can be a prudent decision that protects your respective independence. Having a prenup does not necessarily mean you plan to get a divorce, but it does ensure you will maintain your livelihood if things do not work out. If divorce does seem imminent, however, you might start to wonder if the prenuptial agreement you have in place will actually hold up in court. Understanding whether or not your prenup is still valid will empower you to prepare accordingly for the impending split. Why might your prenuptial agreement be invalid? Thou ..read more

Being charged with a crime can profoundly impact one’s life. Beyond the fines and jail time that may come with criminal charges, a host of other consequences can cause far-reaching effects, just as direct penalties do. The collateral consequences of criminal charges can vary widely depending on the nature of the offense and the individual’s personal circumstances. Financial collateral damage Criminal charges may lead to collateral damage that affects a person’s livelihood and professional career. Many employers conduct background checks on job candidates as part of the hiring process. A crimin ..read more

Being arrested for drug possession can be scary, especially when you do not know what will come next. The consequences for this crime vary based on the amount you have on you, the type of controlled substance that you possess, whether or not you intend to sell the substance and whether you are a first-time or repeat offender. Here are some consequences you might face if charged with drug possession in Iowa. Direct consequences of possession of a controlled substance When people think of penalties for a crime, the first thing that usually comes to mind is the direct consequences. These include ..read more

If you have a suspended or revoked Iowa driver’s license because of an OWI charge, you may wonder what the consequences are if you continue to drive. Iowa law outlines what will happen if authorities find you driving without an active license and what you can do to get it reinstated to avoid future legal trouble. What are the consequences of driving on a suspended or revoked license? Under Iowa law, driving on a suspended or revoked license is a serious misdemeanor and is punishable by a $1,000 fine. You may also have your vehicle impounded for the offense. If authorities find you driving with ..read more