#law office austin tx

[criminallawyeraustin]

Challenging Convictions on Grounds of Double Jeopardy

The Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution contains the Double Jeopardy Clause, which prohibits subjecting any individual “for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb.” This clause is commonly referred to as the Double Jeopardy Clause. Many individuals interpret this constitutional protection against double jeopardy to mean that a person cannot be retried for a crime for…

[maturemenoftvandfilms]

Drew Darby Born: February 22, 1947, San Angelo, TX Physique: Husky Build

William Drew Darby, known as Drew Darby, is a Republican member of the Texas House of Representatives from his native San Angelo, Texas. He represents District 72, which represents ten counties in West Texas spanning the Concho Valley and Permian Basin, an area larger than seven states. A successful businessman, Drew is the owner of Surety Title with offices throughout West Texas, and is Of Counsel to the Energy and Real Estate practice group at the law firm of Jackson Walker, LLP.

Damn... there has got to be something in the water as I’ve now lost count of how many politicians from Texas I want to fuck. And since I want to fuck him. Of course Drew is married with five children and ten grandchildren. Apparently, he was arrested in 2013, for having brought a gun in his carry-on bag through a security checkpoint at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. I wish I was that TSA agent. He'd be searched... thoroughly. With my penis.

[sideshow-tornado]

5 8 10 28 41 50 ❤️

5 what’s the last album you listened to?

The newest Pearl Jam record “Dark Matter” which I’ve been listening to a lot. I really dig it, but it’s my favorite band of all time so I’m an easy mark. Except their last studio album is the only one I haven’t overwhelmingly loved/enjoyed, so it’s a nice return to form.

8 if you could choose one language to instantly be fluent in, which one would you pick?

Probably Spanish, because I live in Texas and know a fair amount of the language already, would be very useful to have fluency.

10 what was your dream job as a child and is it anything like your current job?

I wanted to be a stand up comedian, an actor, and a film director. My current job is a retail optical and Optometrist medical office, so it’s not anything remotely like I what I wanted to be when I was a child. Although I sate the artistic desires best I can in my spare time, never found a path to making a living at it.

28 what’s your favourite sandwich?

I LOVE sandwiches, from a simple PB&J to a gourmet panini, but my absolute favorite sandwich of all time is from an Austin, TX submarine sandwich chain, Thundercloud Subs, the “Office Favorite” as it is called which is an egg salad sandwich with bacon & cheese, I opt for American, and also get shredded lettuce, mayo & regular mustard, and their “ThunderSauce” which is a special sauce they have that is soy bean oil/red wine vinegar/paprika, all on a 12 inch whole wheat sub roll. It has been too long since I’ve had one and I must get it again soon.

41 what family member, immediate or otherwise, do you get along with the best?

At the moment not a lot of them. I am very close to my parents, even if we all mutually frustrate each other often. I am close to my cousin’s oldest son, who is 23, and partly named after me. And another cousin’s husband I am quite close to and get along very well with, since “cousin in-law” is not really a thing we just refer to each other as cousins. I was a groomsman in his wedding to my cousin and he was a groomsman in my (less successful) wedding.

50. how long was your shortest relationship?

I would say I have a higher threshold of what constitutes a relationship, so the shortest one I can recall was about 4 months. And it doesn’t arm like that much of an outlier because I only have one relationship that lasted longer than a year (the failed marriage again), but I had a string of 11 month long relationships in my late teens and twenties, things just kept falling apart shy of the one year mark. It’s weird to think about now because I would have imagined I was single for so much of my youth but compared to my current record breaking singlehood stretching for years on end and far less dating activity overall it doesn’t even come close.

As always thank you for your interest and your questions 😎

[laureljacobs]

LAUREL JACOBS

full name: laurel jane jacobs

pronouns & gender: she/they, nonbinary

birthday & birthplace: november 19, 1984 (39); austin, tx

location: seabrook quarter

time in aurora bay: since november 2021

sexuality: lesbian

occupation: lawyer

@aurorabayaesthetic

about.

laurel was born in austin, texas, and she's country girl at heart even if she won't readily admit it. they've always got a patsy cline or dolly parton record going at home, but that's the extent of what they'll let other people see in terms of their southernness.

(alcoholism, neglect tw) her early home life was bad. her mom left at an early age and her dad was a functioning alcoholic who just worked, drank, and slept, and he just couldn't take care of her. they went into the foster system when they were six, after a CDC call when their neighbor noticed they was alone for more than 48 hours once. her dad got visitation and she spent the occasional weekend at home.

foster care wasn't good either. the homes were always underfunded and crowded, even when the parents did what they could. laurel learned quickly that there was a hierarchy in these places, and they learned to sleep with a metaphorical shiv under their pillow. they grew up with no sense of home or family, and it really fucked them up!

but she was always smart. unlike many of the kids around her, she stayed in school and focused on her work, cutting out any extra noise to do so. to cope, they just buried everything deep, deep down. she got into texas a&m for college, which wasn't her first choice, but she went for the in-state tuition. it's a party school, so they indulged occasionally and made a few friends for the first time ever, but they grinded all the while.

undergrad finished, and they went straight to law school — nyu, their first choice, which was also completely free and gave them a nice stipend, but they still took part time jobs through law school to chip away at their student debt. after getting her JD and passing the bar in new york, she got a job as public defender.

she stayed for a few years, until she was 28, but the work was starting to bog her down quickly. the complete lack of choice she had over who she represented often clashed with her morals, when she found herself advocating for people she knew were guilty of sometimes pretty heinous crimes.

so, with a good amount of money saved by then and nothing keeping her tied to new york, she quit, packed up her life, and moved to montana, specifically to the blackfeet nation, where her mother was from. they'd never known their mother, but they knew of their indigenous ancestry and had done a lot of their own reading into it. going there was a huge leap for them emotionally and spiritually, having spent almost 30 years feeling disconnected from any kind of heritage, but they eventually decided they could have a lot more to gain than to lose.

she settled in and opened a practice out of her home, though she was frequently working for pretty low pay or pro bono outright. she was sort of a one-stop shop because she was sometimes willing to work for free, able to flex a lot of different muscles outside of her speciality in criminal law.

they were there for a long time, almost ten years, and had really started to feel like they were making a life. they felt connected to the people and them and the land they were living on more than they ever had before, and life was quiet in a way it'd never been.

but then one day, laurel heard a knock on her door and answered it to someone who introduced themself as their half-sibling through their mother, and it was sort of comical how fast laurel ran. she'd managed to reconcile a lot of things with herself in her adulthood, but her relationship to her parents and her upbringing was never something she let herself confront.

they chose aurora bay basically by just putting their finger down blindly on a map, moved, took the bar in california, and quickly set up an office out of their home again, using some of the connections they'd made throughout their career to get contacts and clients early and get things moving from the get go. life's been quiet since then.

laurel is spiky, very slow to trust, and doesn't know how to take care of herself at all. they live in a big house in seabrook quarter that they maintain immaculately, has taken the batteries out of all of the smoke alarms so they can smoke inside, and has nothing but basics in their fridge. at her best, she's jocular and witty, and at her worst she's explosive.

family.

mother: minnie hudson (unknown)

father: jonah jacobs (estranged)

tidbits.

she's not very up front about her not-cis gender identity and use of mixed pronouns, but it's really because she has no interest in having a serious talk about her identity with everyone she meets, most of whom she doesn't really care to know past an initial conversation. if someone asks directly, laurel's happy to tell, and if they're ever in a situation where the need to be referring to themself in the third person, they'll switch out the pronouns. if others catch on, they catch on, but she's not incredibly pressed about it herself

a little bit of a jock, though she would never admit that. loves baseball and hockey, plays softball in a rec league like the little lesbian she is

(alcoholism tw) laurel has a complicated relationship to alcohol; on one hand, they know what it did to their father and know that being his child probably makes them predisposed to the same tendencies, but on the other they're entirely sure that they're different and smarter and actually they could stop whenever they wanted to.

connections.

ex-girlfriend of @katrinaxbeauford

close friend of/don't make her think too hard about it she'll have a crisis @margaretxalexander

went to high school in texas with @benj-hyun

bar regulars/frequent drunk debate partner w/ @clint-bennet

softball teammates w/ @cassidyxcooke

employed by @willxmeyers, @colexwalters

friend of @delilahcarreno

forever trying to steal @cricketcampbell away from her clients

foster kids who made it out alive club/avid shipper of @thewrenxharlow, @nomadjones

[azzy-the-christian-furry]

Here is a list of cities that did just that- defunded the police.

1. Austin, TX ($150 million cut)

2. Baltimore, MD ($22 million cut)

3. Boston, MA ($12 million cut)

4. Burlington, VT ($1 million cut)

5. Columbus, OH ($23 million cut)

6. Denver, CO ($55 million cut)

7. Eureka, CA ($1.2 million cut)

8. Hartford, CT ($2 million cut)

9. Los Angeles, CA ($175 million cut)

10. Madison, WI ($2 million cut)

11. Minneapolis, MN ($8 million cut)

12. New York, NY ($1 billion cut)

13. Norman, OK ($865,000 cut)

14. Oakland, CA ($14.6 million cut)

15. Oklahoma City, OK ($5.5 million cut) 16. Philadelphia, PA ($33 million cut)

17. Portland, OR ($15 million cut; this was later refunded as homicides skyrocketed)

18. Salt Lake City, UT ($5.3 million cut)

19. San Francisco, CA ($120 million cut) 20.Seattle, WA ($69 million cut)

21. Steamboat Springs, CO ($1.5 million cut) 22. Washington, DC ($15 million cut)

An attempt at abolishment-

Funny enough, it was actually deep red Alabama that actually abolished the police force temporarily- over racist texts.

Now, I ain’t against community policing. After all, Kyle Rittenhouse policed the heck out of his community… and the left lost their minds all over again. I don’t trust cops as it is, considering the left weaponizes them both locally and federally to go after dissidents/people they don’t like. I just don’t trust you people to make that call, considering you’re all highly insane.

I can think of another time the community policed itself. Two civil rights lawyers telling a group of terrorists to get off their lawn… and the left lost their minds over that one too.

I know words are hard for you, but the word “abolish” means “to do away with”. So if we are to “do away with” the police, that would mean no one is picking up when you call 911. If you defund them so much that, say, they can’t get the staff but still exist as an organization, the effect is similar.

Ultimately, of course, you should be able to defend yourself and your property with a gun. After all, when seconds count, the police are minutes, maybe even hours, away.

Another issue arises when you realize that the left loves criminals. So much so that they quite literally helped bail them out of jail for burning down cities (the frequent defense of pedophiles from the left doesn’t help matters). You can put up all the propaganda videos you’d like, but it won’t change the facts (I know leftists hate facts and logic; still haven’t figured out how they plan to go about gun control while also saying “abolish the police”) of the situation.

So why were the police refunded? Well, there are several answers to that. As mentioned, a spike in crime had followed. But it’s also worth pointing out Democrats had realized “we aren’t going to get anyone who isn’t a cultist to vote for us if they’re being mugged six times per week.” So what happened when they realized this? Well, they pivoted from “abolish and defund! FTP! Ban guns!” to “uh, uh, crap, uh, here’s money, cops! (Also still ban guns)”

The left both is and isn’t against the police. You see, they want laws to apply to their opposition, but never to themselves. If a police force might prove unreliable when it comes to enforcing leftist policies specifically, they’re to be done away with.

This may not sound like much, but it’s really the most important thing I’ve said here until this point.

Let’s look at federal law enforcement agencies- the ATF and FBI specifically.

Never does the mainstream left (or even a majority of the far left; though at this point there is little distinction colloquially speaking) seem to call for them to be abolished. That’s because the ATF and FBI persecute those who are of the right, while ignoring the crimes that the left commit. A right winger owns a rifle with a barrel that is a quarter inch too long. To the gulag! But a leftists intimidates a jury, commits arson, and attempts a murder? Not a single bit of this will be punished.

There are, however, times when local cops are against them (extremely rarely; sometimes a local cop might kill, for example, a knife wielding rapist or something to that effect- if this person just so happens, by pure coincidence, to be black, then the defunding and abolishment crowd marches in and commits acts of terrorism; the racism of low expectation plays a part in this. This is the exact scenario from Kenosha, by the way.)

Similarly, there have been local departments who have said, for example, “we aren’t enforcing your gun laws, crazy old man.” Which naturally pisses off the left, as an armed populace can oppose them. And a police force opposing them by saying they won’t violate rights? That just can’t stand.

Issues arise more often for the rights of the people when a PD (or federal agency) goes left wing. It is my opinion that the best (middle ground) solution to the issue is that every peaceable citizen is well armed (as is the natural right of the individual), and that law enforcement goes no higher than a sheriff (one reasonably appointed to by locals). That is, if we are to have a PD at all. So no, ATF doesn’t get to keep existing. Neither does the FBI.

Much easier to hold a smaller beast accountable. Wrestling a single house cat will always be easier than wrestling ten mountain lions.

But as I said, this is a middle ground solution. After all, Christ is King and the only legitimate authority. No human government is trustworthy, just as no one on the left is anything resembling sane. Unfortunately, that government isn’t here yet.

Could peace be kept without a police force at all? Yes. But this would require the left to cease to exist. The right (what little of it remains) at this point merely wishes to be left alone. The left wants to infringe, crush, and overrun. You rarely (if ever) see the right join together in a large mob to intimidate, destroy, and murder. Yet this is incredibly frequent for the left (7+ months of 2020, plus every summer since 2013 for example.)

The left will firebomb your house and have you ruined for a “mean tweet” (the definition of what is ok to say changes frequently), but excuse chants of “we’re coming for your children”. The right will want you in prison for touching children. These are two very different moral frameworks that cannot coexist.

If you really want a society in which cops aren’t needed, you’d need society to be entirely Christian (no, not the cultural “Christians.”)

[zhcustom]

Why Choose a Custom Home Builder in Austin, TX for Your Dream Home?

A perfect partner is required for building one's dream home. With respect to Austin, TX, a custom home builder is the one who can give you an excellent number of advantages that can transform your vision into realty. A custom home builder in Austin, TX, is a person possessing expertise, creativity, and a keen sense of detail. All details in a new home are sure to reflect all the flavor and style of the owner. This article discusses the top reasons why hiring a custom home builder in Austin is the best choice for your dream home.

Personalized designs suited to your lifestyle

Among many benefits of hiring a custom home builder, one of the most appealing and rewarding is designing a home uniquely and specifically suitable to your lifestyle. Unlike most pre-built houses, where you have to make concessions on the design and layout, a custom builder works with you and your own designers and architects to create the perfect floor plan tailored to your lifestyle. Do you want an open-concept layout for entertaining, a dedicated home office, or a spacious outdoor area? With a custom home builder, the possibilities are endless.

Quality Craftsmanship

Custom home builders take great pride in their workmanship in Austin, TX. They are aware that a house is an investment; so high-quality outcomes are expected and delivered. Good quality materials combined with quality tradesmen ensure your home will be beautiful, but most importantly, more durable. Sometimes, quality craftsmanship will pay off because fewer future repairs and renovations are part of the deal.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

Due to increasing energy rates and environmental issues, many homeowners like sustainable energy-efficient building. Custom home builders Austin, TX can take full advantage of the new technologies and materials that promote energy efficiency. Such includes installation of solar panels to high-performance insulation. They will help you incorporate sustainable solutions into your home design, reducing your carbon footprint and lowering utility bills to make your dream home eco-friendly and economical as well.

Local Building Codes and Permits

Building a house is literally a series of journeys through several regulations, permits, and zoning laws. Custom home builders in Austin, TX are well-versed with the local building codes and regulations prevailing in that place. This ensures your project will always be up to the mark in meeting specific requirements-thus meeting the requirements for compliance. They would take the hassle of the permitting process from you and free time elsewhere in the construction process to enjoy other aspects of having your house built.

Customer Service

The custom home builder can be expected to give you personal service through all the stages of building. The larger production builders treat you just as another number, so you cannot expect them to understand your needs or preferences. The tight professional and personal relationship will enable open communication that allows you to make good decisions and keep yourself involved every step of the way. You will work with a committed team that focuses on your dream and strives day in and day out to realize it.

Value Addition of Investment

A custom home is not where you hang your hat; it is an investment in your future. With a house built precisely according to your taste and lifestyle, you are most likely to have a higher resale value in the long run. Custom homes situated in prime locations like Austin, TX will appreciate in big deals; thus, you can consider your investment. Moreover, the features you can include from a custom builder might also be attractive features for future buyers, which would increase the value of your home.

Conclusion

Selecting a custom home builder in Austin, TX really means that you are investing in quality, customization and long-term value. You will be able to make the complexities of the building process much easier when you have a builder who understands your vision. And, certainly, you will have a home that just feels like you inside and out. If you happen to be searching for the finest Dripping Springs home builder, check out the benefits of custom construction. A good partner will make sure your dream home becomes a sanctuary for you and your family and a valuable asset for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to build a custom home? There is no standard time for custom home construction. It depends on various factors, such as complexity of design, weather, and permit approvals. Generally, a building time span could range from several months to over a year. 2. What does it cost to build a custom home in Austin, TX? Costs will range drastically depending on location, materials, and size. A good average is an Austin custom home builder to be able to have costs ranging from $200 to $400 per square foot.

3. Do the custom home builders provide financing options? Most of the custom home builders have local lenders with whom they can work to finance tailored to your needs

4. Is it possible for me to make changes in the construction process? Yes, custom home builders can accommodate any alteration you may require at the construction stage, but it is best to make any desired alterations in advance so that a change in the original design doesn't lead to any delay or cost overrun at the construction site.

5. What can I customize about my new home? You can customize almost everything about your home, starting from its floor plan to finishes, appliances, and outdoor spaces. The possibilities are virtually endless!

[two-bedroom-austin-tx]

Studio townhomes near downtown Austin

Alta Wildhorse Ranch is a luxurious studio townhome near downtown Austin. This community offers different floor plans. It has a variety of living spaces for studio, one-, two, or three-bedroom townhomes. The community also boasts a resort-style atmosphere that features a range of amenities such as a swimming pool, tanning ledge, pool deck with cabanas, outdoor kitchen with grill & bar area, two-level fitness space, yoga or exercise room. This is also a gated community with controlled access. Then, the residences themselves are equipped with designer ceramic tile backsplashes, stainless steel Energy Star appliances, 9-foot ceilings, modern bathrooms, and advanced technology features. With convenient access to major transportation routes, Alta Wildhorse Ranch offers a truly upscale and comfortable living experience. For inquiries, contact Alta Wildhorse Ranch using their website.

Austin, TX, Strong Economy

Austin boasts a robust economy fueled by technology, healthcare, and education. This simply means that there are plenty of job opportunities in Austin, and it continuously provides a wealth of employment prospects for all the job seekers. By looking at the city's business, it can be deduced that Austin's business climate is very favorable, and it attracts ambitious individuals and experts from across the globe. This strong economic foundation serves as a magnet for entrepreneurs and professionals seeking new opportunities. With a diverse range of industries and a spirit of innovation, Austin continues to thrive as a hub for career growth and development.

Texas State Capitol

One of the historical landmarks in Austin is the Texas State Capitol. I like this place because it's a magnificent building that stands as a symbol of the state's rich history and heritage. The visitors at Texas State Capitol can explore the Capitol's grand halls, learn about the government of the state, and admire the stunning architecture of this place. The visitors can also take a guided tour to gain insights into the building's history and significance. The Capitol provides a unique and educational experience for the visitors of all ages. This provides a glimpse into the heart of Texas government.

LPD Uses AI to Draft Reports

The Leander Police Department (LPD) has introduced Draft One, a new program developed by Axon that can draft police reports in seconds using body camera audio. This is a time-saving measure as the law enforcement industry faces staffing struggles. However, local prosecutors have expressed discomfort with using AI in the police report space, as it may miss out on the human element and potentially impact prosecutors' and defense attorneys' actions. Probationers and defense attorneys also have concerns about the potential impact of AI on probable cause affidavits. Axon spokespersons state that safeguards are in place to ensure accuracy, including officers reviewing and signing off on the report's accuracy before submitting it for the next round of human review. I think the review is a good part of the process.

Link to Map Driving Direction

Texas Capitol 1100 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, United States

Get on I-35 N/US-290 E 4 min (0.9 mi)

Continue on I-35 N. Take US-290 E and 290 Toll to US-290 E. Take the exit toward Airport/TX-45Toll S/TX-130Toll S/San Antonio/FM-3177/Decker Ln/Harris Branch Pkwy from 290 Toll 9 min (9.0 mi)

Get on TX-130 S 3 min (2.0 mi)

Take Exit 439 to Blue Bluff Rd 1 min (1.0 mi)

Alta Wildhorse Ranch 10350 Blue Bluff Rd, Austin, TX 78724, United States

[inxspacetime]

❝ I used to be on fire.❞

｡:*STATS<>

NAME: Dominic Oscar Romano NICKNAME(S): Nicky AGE: 48 BIRTH DAY/ZODIAC: January 5th, Capricorn BIRTHPLACE: Austin, TX CURRENT LOCATION: Austin, TX OCCUPATION: Sheriff HAIR COLOR: Brown EYE COLOR: Blue HEIGHT: Five foot ten (5'10'') OTHER NOTED FEATURES: N/a. +: Positive -: Naive ｡:*<TRIVIA>

Meant to be a professional football player. And he was for a total of five games. During his last game, he received an injury that would force his career into an early grave.

Decided to pursue a career in law enforcement when he returned to his hometown, partly inspired by his father who was a retired officer. 

He’s not a super smart guy. Some have even questioned how he managed to become a cop, let alone sheriff. The reason most don’t press the issue too much is that while he isn’t the wisest, he has a kind heart and a positive attitude that made him hard to hate (it didn’t hurt that he was pretty easy on the eyes, as well).

Faceclaim is James Marsden.

｡:*<>LINKS

Face

Body

Musings

Wardrobe

Crushes

Threads

Memes

[criminallawyeraustin]

Eligibility for Pre-Trial Diversion Programs

A defendant must meet certain requirements to be classified as eligible for participation in a pre-trial diversion program. He or she must be a first-time offender who is charged with a less serious offense like a misdemeanor. These programs are more common for juvenile criminal offenders because courts view these programs as helping juveniles keep their records clean and protect their future…

[dankusner]

Expunge

Right On Crime Supports S565: A Conservative Approach to Strengthening North Carolina’s Economy and Workforce

Right On Crime supports the policies of North Carolina S565, a bill that restarts the automatic expunction of criminal records for thousands of North Carolinians who were found not guilty or whose charges were dismissed.

Currently, these criminal records are eligible to be cleared, but government bureaucracies, fines, and fees are a barrier to them attaining meaningful employment, housing options, and educational opportunities which improve public safety.

More than a million cases are eligible for expunction, but remain in limbo after a pause was extended until July 1, 2024.

S565 will put in place the necessary provisions to address the concerns that arose with the initial round of automatic expunctions, implementing the administrative changes necessary to correct these issues, and to allow for District Attorneys to have access to the expunged records.

“This legislation is a conservative and data-driven approach to fortify our state’s economy with individuals who are eligible to be actively engaged in our workforce,” said Maggie Horzempa, North Carolina Director of Right On Crime. “S565 will alleviate a burden on taxpayers, strengthen our economy, fortify families, and create safer communities in North Carolina.”

One in every three Americans has some type of criminal record, and the same barriers and stigmas of a criminal record are hurdles for those who are found not guilty and whose charges are dismissed.

S565 only allows for expunction of dismissed charges and those where a person was found not guilty, no convictions will be expunged.

Expungement does not hide criminal records from law enforcement, but court records are sealed from public view for things like employment, housing, and education access.

Eligible individuals will no longer file a petition in court—a process that can be both expensive and time-intensive as courts process each paper petition individually, straining valuable judicial resources.

North Carolina employers are struggling to meet their workforce needs.

S565 removes barriers to work and broadens our state’s potential workforce.

Horzempa says, “North Carolina was named America’s Top State for Business, propelled by a robust economy and a skilled workforce—a feat we aim to sustain. Let’s stay business-minded and ensure the prosperity of North Carolina for generations to come. As conservatives, it is our duty to hold the government accountable, support family values, and demand a justice system that promotes public safety for every hard-earned tax dollar.”

Communications Director for Right On Crime 

A native Texan, Kerr has a B.A. in Journalism and minor in Political Science from Texas Tech University, and she’s the proud parent of three grown daughters. Stay Informed

Thank you! 901 Congress Avenue Austin, TX 78701 (512) 472-2700

Contact Privacy Policy

Dallas County leaders announce 8th Expunction Expo to help clean up criminal records

The program has granted more than 2,750 expunctions since it began in 2017, according to a news release.

The Dallas County district attorney’s and district clerk’s offices announced Monday applications open next week for the eighth annual Expunction Expo.

The program offers some people a chance to clear their Dallas County criminal records.

More than 2,750 expunctions have been granted since the event began in 2017, according to a news release from the DA’s office.

The expunctions allow some people to find jobs, go to college or serve in the military, the DA’s office said.

“The Expo has grown each year, enabling us to help more people get a fresh start and become contributing members of society again,” District Attorney John Creuzot said in a statement. “With this growth come changes to ensure a sustainable program for years to come.”

Expunctions may be granted for those who were arrested but never charged or indicted or, in some cases, if a criminal charge was dismissed or a person was acquitted, pardoned or completed deferred adjudication.

Applicants can apply online starting at 8 a.m July 8.

The first 500 applicants will be considered and notified no later than Sept. 9 if they qualify.

From there, participants will be matched with a volunteer attorney who will set up an appointment between Sept. 16 and Oct. 11 to help fill out and file court documents.

The program is a partnership between the DA, district clerk, public defender’s offices and others.

A record may be expunged if it meets the following criteria:

A person was arrested but a charge was never filed or was no-billed by the grand jury.

A felony, Class A or Class B misdemeanor charge was dismissed without any type of community supervision or probation before dismissal.

A Class C misdemeanor was dismissed, or a person successfully completed Class C deferred adjudication and two years have passed since the dismissal.

A person was acquitted by a judge, jury or appellate court and had no other charge stemming from the same arrest.

A person was convicted of a crime but was later pardoned by the governor or president.

A person was convicted before Sept. 1, 2021, for unlawfully carrying a weapon under section 46.02(a) of the penal code.

A case is not eligible for an expunction if:

The case is still pending.

A person convicted in the case, even if they only paid a fine.

A person received probation, community supervision or deferred adjudication for a felony, Class A or Class B misdemeanor — even if the case was later dismissed.

Applications can be submitted online at

www.dallascounty.org/expunction or by phone at 214-875-4999. Anyone with additional questions is asked to call 214-653-2905.

[arhammehta]

What is Wrongful Termination and How to Address It in Austin?

Unjust dismissal is a prevalent problem faced by those without employment. It becomes particularly widespread during economic downturns. For instance, there was a 3.6% increase in unemployment cases from January to May 2020 because of COVID-19 lockdown measures.

Accompanying the significant rise in unemployment filings were allegations of unjust dismissal. This was the scenario in almost every state across the US, including Austin, TX, known for its abundant employment opportunities, but because of this, there's also a heightened risk of wrongful termination incidents in the city. 

If you're among the numerous individuals who have recently become unemployed, there's no need to worry. Here's how you can determine if you've been wrongfully terminated and the steps you can take in response.

What is wrongful termination?

Wrongful termination occurs when your employer dismisses you for reasons that violate the law. Wrongful termination often calls for hiring of an employment lawyer who can help navigate through the process. The Law Office of Jeffrey A. Goldberg can help you get familiarized with what constitutes wrongful discharge and the steps you can pursue in response.

Your termination might be wrongful if your employer dismissed you:

Because of discrimination

Contrary to federal or state labor laws

For reporting and refusing to partake in harassment

For reporting and refusing to engage in illegal activities or safety violations

Retaliatory termination

If you were dismissed in retaliation for reporting hazardous or unlawful work practices or products, you are covered by whistleblower protections. Notify the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) about your termination and follow the guidelines for filing a whistleblower complaint. 

Termination due to exercising your legal rights

If your employer has dismissed you for asserting rights granted by state labor laws, you can report your termination to your state's labor department.

If your employer terminated you for exercising rights regarding leave, wages, or overtime, file a complaint with the Department of Labor.

Consult with a legal advisor

Consult with a legal advisor if your employer unjustly terminated you for a reason not covered by state or federal law.

Before pursuing legal action against your employer for discrimination, you must first file a report with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

Consider ADR

Most cases of wrongful termination typically result in out-of-court settlements, saving both parties from the trial process. In these instances, the affected party can choose mediation or arbitration as alternatives to litigation

Certain courts might require attempting mediation before proceeding to trial. Mediation entails a neutral third party aiding in reaching a compromise. Conversely, arbitration simplifies the trial process, streamlining discovery rules and procedures while providing an efficient resolution to disputes over wrongful termination.

In navigating wrongful termination challenges, with awareness and proactive steps, individuals can address unjust dismissals and strive for fair resolutions, promoting workplace integrity and justice.

[graymanbriefing]

Law & Order / Major Crime Brief: Staff Shortage  In Austin, TX; the city police department is currently in a staffing shortage that is impacting public safety and investigations. Due to the shortage of manpower, detectives are being dispatched to officer-level calls-for-service (CFS) as uniformed officers are often unavailable to answer. The city asked citizens, on September 1st, to report certain robberies via an online reporting application or to use a non-emergency phone number (311) IOT to reserve 911 for more urgent CFS. The Austin Police Association reports that Austin should have 2,000 officers employed to respond to the current level of CFS but currently has 1,475 officers. Since the "record high" year of crime in 2020, Austin has seen a 77% increase in auto thefts, 18% increase in aggravated assaults, and 30% increase in murders. In California, law enforcement agencies have begun offering "record" sign-on bonuses to attract officers as the agencies continue to suffer from a manpower shortage. Alameda Police Department is offe...(CLASSIFIED, see full brief at www.graymanbriefing.com) Debrief: Nationwide, similar shortages of law enforcement officers exist in every state. Since 2020, such shortages have become commonplace. Pay, hours, and decreased moral (amplified by the "defund the police" movement) are the major factors for the shortage. LA, MA, IN, NY, NH, NM, DC, MO, OK, IL, PA, and MN are states where we have seen reports of multiple law enforcement agencies with shortages, all of which have added unique recruiting strategies to attract officers or fulfill manpower gaps. These states have changed laws to allow for retired officers to be sworn back in, added $10k sign-on bonus, or added additional part-time slots. The crisis is ongoing and continues to impact public safety. Community outreach, routine patrol, and investigations are most im...(CLASSIFIED, see full brief at www.graymanbriefing.com)

[scpagroupllc]

How To Ensure Tax Preparation For Contractors and Realtors in Austin and Dallas, TX?

Earning an income every week or after a month's end is the rule worldwide. Not every individual is employed by a company and has to follow specific employment rules. There are many freelancers or small business persons who have no fixed income. Trying to remain profitable is the only challenge that troubles them greatly. Yet failing to pay the required taxes is a strict no-no. Instead, independent professionals need to use the best service related to tax preparation for contractors and realtors in Austin and Dallas, TX.

The term should not come as a surprise for people engaged in their professions for a long time. Getting in touch with a reputed firm or an expert tax advisor to ensure proper tax preparation well before the tax season is also essential. Such experts will share information about the applicable tax laws and tax compliance applicable to the concerned professions. Tax preparation services are sure to include the following, thus benefiting the taxpayer hugely:-

· Tax Planning

· Filing Tax Returns

A realtor must be well aware of the deductions applicable to the profession. Having all receipts handy and readily available will enable the tax preparer to calculate the tax liability accurately. Filing the returns well within the deadline is simple and easy, therefore. Learning about the "Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act" is also welcome for realtors and property brokers. Some of the tax benefits that they can expect courtesy of the tax preparer include deductions for the following:-

· Marketing & advertising expenses

· Coaching, training, and educating prospective realtors

· Licensing and renewal fees for all real estate professionals

· Dues for real estate associations, multiple listing services, and brokerage fees

· Transportation expenses incurred on the job

· Expenses for travel, lodging, and meals incurred for business purposes

· Home office expenses when the realtor operates out of a self-owned or rented home

· Expenses for buying gifts for clients (up to $25), entertainment, and other client-centric causes

It is important to remember that all of the above deductions will be applicable only when the expenses are directly related to the real estate business and necessary for ensuring operations

There are diverse types of contractors whom the user employs to undertake projects on behalf of their customers. The employer, contractor, and subcontractor will have to file their tax returns independently. The tax adviser should be well informed about the following before filing the returns for the said contractor:

· The extent of business controlled by the contractor singlehandedly

· Whether the tools and other resources required for the projects are provided by the contractor

· Are there any benefits to the contractor mentioned in the agreement?

Using the services of a tax advisor or consultant is necessary to ensure tax preparation for contractors and realtors in Austin and Dallas, TX, for speedy and accurate filing of taxes.

[shrumlawofficesblog]

Seek the Compensation You and Your Family Deserve Today: Contact a Trusted Dog Bite Lawyer in Austin, TX

Introduction:

Dogs are often considered man's best friend, providing companionship and loyalty. However, even the most docile dogs can sometimes exhibit aggressive behavior, leading to unexpected and unfortunate dog bite incidents. If you or a family member have been a victim of a dog bite in Austin, TX, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages. The Law Office of Matthew Shurm, a trusted dog bite lawyer in Austin, is here to help you seek the compensation you and your family deserve today.

Understanding Dog Bite Incidents in Austin, TX:

Austin, a city known for its vibrant culture and dog-friendly community, sees its share of dog-related incidents. A dog bite can cause severe physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial strain, particularly if medical treatment is required. Texas law holds dog owners responsible for their pets' actions, making it possible for victims to seek compensation for their losses.

Why You Need a Dog Bite Lawyer:

Navigating the legal complexities of a dog bite case can be challenging, especially when you are dealing with pain and emotional distress. Hiring an experienced dog bite lawyer like Matthew Shurm can make a significant difference in your case. Here's how our law office can assist you:

Case Evaluation: We offer a free initial consultation to evaluate your case and determine its potential strength. Our team will listen to your account of the incident and provide you with an understanding of your legal rights and options.

Gathering Evidence: To build a strong case, evidence is crucial. Our skilled investigators will gather all relevant evidence, including medical records, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage of the incident.

Establishing Liability: Proving liability is essential in dog bite cases. Texas law imposes strict liability on dog owners, meaning they can be held responsible for their dog's actions, regardless of any prior history of aggression.

Calculating Damages: As experienced dog bite lawyers, we understand the various damages you may be entitled to receive, such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. We will work diligently to ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming, as they often try to minimize settlements. We will handle all communication and negotiations with the insurance company on your behalf, protecting your interests.

No Recovery, No Fee:

We understand that the aftermath of a dog bite incident can be financially straining. To alleviate this burden, the Law Office of Matthew Shurm operates on a contingency fee basis. This means you don't pay any attorney fees unless we successfully recover compensation for you.

Conclusion:

If you or a loved one has suffered from a dog bite incident in Austin, TX, you don't have to go through it alone. The Law Office of Matthew Shurm is dedicated to fighting for your rights and seeking the compensation you and your family deserve. Our team of experienced dog bite lawyers will guide you through the legal process and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses. Don't wait any longer—contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step towards securing your future. Contact us if you want to speak with a personal injury lawyer.

[denial-rivers]

Taralynn Mackay - Lawyer in Austin, TX - Avvo

Find Texas attorney Taralynn Mackay in their Austin office. Practices Administrative law, Government, Licensing. Find reviews, educational history and legal experience. — Read on www.avvo.com/attorneys/78701-tx-taralynn-mackay-47358.html

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Thinking about Austin, TX which votes on whether to criminalize homelessness every couple years and continues to inflate its police budget.

The problem though is you could completely get rid of all psychiatric providers and hospitals in Austin and involuntary hospitalizations would still happen - because to do so is built into the law itself. The best short-term reform until abolition happens I can think of is to redo the law (not easy, possibly impossible in a red state) so that providers no longer are responsible for whether or not their patients "are at risk of harming their selves or others" (the paternalism is built into the law and because psychiatry is part of medicine itself, your PCP will be responsible if you don't have a psychiatrist if you so much as have a PHQ done, now becoming a medical standard). This way, random judges won't be the ultimate deciding factor in what constitutes harm to self or other and the clinicians on the treatment team will be much more likely to let patients leave.

My question is why involuntarily hospitalize someone if they are at risk of harm to others? What can meds really do for someone who really wants to kill someone? There is no cure for any mental illness. If you want to punish someone after the fact, that's a different question entirely - but to think we can medically "prevent" violence is utopian imo. The real question is what do we do with people once we abolish prisons, which I think is a fair question to ask, but should be kept separate from involuntary hospitalizations (which in Texas can ONLY be initiated by the police but MUST be initiated by the provider if patient has admitted suicidal or homicidal intent or is psychiatrically "debilitated" enough to be of harm to self).

Should we push for PHQs to be kept off regular annual checkups at PCP offices so providers will have less of an excuse to hospitalize their patients?

Missing here though is a key question also: what do long-term homeless mentally ill people think? Do they like or not like the involuntary hospitalization system the same way the housed do? They may not be worrying as much about bills (definitely rent) but might need a temporary place to stay if weather gets bad. If housing isn't first given, is getting rid of invol hosps just harming people in the short term by getting rid of a emergency housing option in a city where homeless "camping" is illegal?

what the mayor of new york is doing with psych hospitalization is not a new application of the way psych wards are used--psych survivors know this and we've been talking about it for decades the way that involuntary hospitalization is used as a form of social control, and the power and danger that a mental illness diagnosis holds. what is frightening about the way the mayor is talking about this is the way he is giving this quiet rhetoric legitimacy and a voice. psych professionals have been using involuntary hospitalization as a form of incarceration for a long fucking time, and as psych survivors know, you can get hospitalized involuntarily for Many things beyond just "being a danger to yourself or others." what's making me nervous right now is that this likely will lead to more interactions between police and homeless people where police feel emboldened to enforce even more options of incarceration. I think it is important to understand that New York is not the only place doing this and in fact this is the way involuntary hospitalization generally operates. New york is not an aberration: the whole system is intended to work like this and is completely fucked, which is why we need to be fighting for psych abolition and building in mad liberation to our understanding of prison abolition.