Criminal law is an area of law that regulates the description and consequences of crimes. It dictates what behavior is harmful, dangerous, inappropriate, threatening, and that endangers the safety, welfare, and/or health of the general population. Many laws related to crimes are set by the federal government while others are set and regulated by each state. The following will cover some areas of criminal law in Sturgis SD.
Shoplifting
Shoplifting is a crime that involves stealing merchandise from a retail store. It is punishable by fines, imprisonment, community service, or a combination of these consequences. Not only does it affect your life with these consequences, it also leaves the perpetrator with a criminal record.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence, better known as DUI, is a crime. The state laws have become stricter in recent years and can lead to fines, incarceration, suspended driver’s license, vehicle confiscation, mandatory alcohol course, or any combination of these punishments. First-time offenders are no exception to the rules when it comes to the consequences, but repeat offenders (four or more) result in felony charges.
Drug Crimes
Drug crimes include possession, selling, and trafficking offenses. Each charge comes with its own consequences and can range from misdemeanor to felony charges. The punishment will be doled out according to the amount of drugs, how many offenses committed, whether or not the sale is to a minor, and other circumstances surrounding the drug charges. The punishment for most drug offenses is jail time, but can also be probation, community service, mandatory drug rehabilitation, and a number of other consequences.
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is hard to imagine, but it is a common criminal charge nationwide. It includes sexual, physical, emotional, and economic abuse. It is also referred to as spousal abuse and it is not tolerated in South Dakota. The charges and punishments for domestic abuse ranges according to the severity of the crime, repetitive abusive behavior, and other circumstances. This is a very complex area of the law where a lawyer will be needed.
This is a short list of actions that fall under the category of criminal law in Sturgis, SD. If you or someone you know has been charged with a crime, getting advice and representation from a qualified attorney is crucial to your case. Gunderson, Palmer, Nelson & Ashmore, LLP are attorneys at law that offer representation for criminal legal issues.
