Tag Archives: William Balduf
When should I talk to police?
Many of our clients do not expect to be arrested or have a run in with the law. In times like this many people want to tell “their side of the story” in an attempt to get the police to understand and release them. It’s understandable, however ill advised. The police are not there to help you and in many instances will coax you into talking so you can set the record straight. Understand this, the police are not there to help you. The job of the police is to get a confession during your interview, even if that means they must lie to you. Additionally, they will often tell you that they cannot help you once you have contacted an attorney. It is not in your best interest to talk to police at any time without legal counsel.
What is considered a “hate crime”?
A Hate Crime occurs whenever an individual commits a crime against another individual, property or group as a result of his or her alleged bias or hatred towards the apparent race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, gender identity or any other characteristic represented by that individual, property or group.
Many charges can be considered a hate crime if the prosecution can also prove that evidence of bias exists. Physical assault, bullying, rape, harassment, reckless endangerment, criminal trespassing, vandalism, robbery and murder all become more serious charges when a hate crime is charged, and as a result the sentences are more severe upon a conviction.
Having an experienced attorney on your side to help you prove that the crime at issue was not motivated by bias will be crucial to the outcome of your case. To achieve the best possible result, look for an attorney with extensive trial and evidence experience that is familiar with the jurisdiction you are charged in, and can make proper motions if necessary for you to achieve the best possible result.
Being charged with a hate crime is considered a violent felony offense and carries stiff minimum sentencing guidelines. If you or someone you know has been charged with a hate crime, do not wait to get competent and experienced legal representation. I have over 35 years of criminal defense experience and offer a free consultation. Call me. 315-474-55-33
What should I do if I’ve been accused of rape?
“I am being accused of rape.”
The mere accusation of rape alone, regardless of its authenticity or a conviction could damage your entire personal and professional life. Rape is a felony, and conviction of rape in the State of New York can lead to 18 months to 25 years in State prison, along with being placed on the sex offenders registry, significant fines, loss of employment, and the ability to obtain certain types of employment or professional licenses. If you are accused of rape, you are facing serious legal trouble and need an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. It is important that you do not answer any questions or give any information to law enforcement without having your attorney present to protect your rights. In charges of rape you will need an aggressive attorney on your side to fight for you, even if you are completely innocent.
Call me immediately. I will review and analyze the case against you, listen to your side of the story and plan a legal strategy that is in your best interests. Remember the police and law enforcement are not on your side and they do not want to help you. Their job is to charge you and convict you. You need someone to be on your side. If you are in Onondaga, Madison, Cayuga, or Oswego County have been accused of rape or any sex related crime, call me immediately. I offer a free consultation. 315-474-5533
See related Articles:Social Media Evidence
Social Media Evidence
What you say can and will be used against you. We’ve all heard that phrase, and yet when it comes to social media, most forget that and, shall we say- overshare at times. Now-a-days everyone wants to share with their family and friends every aspect of their lives, Facebook, Instagram, Pintrest and Twitter dominate people’s smart phone and attention while they post sayings, pictures and memes of where they are going what they are doing, and even what they are eating. What most don’t realize is that its not only their friends and family that can see these posts, it’s the police, and the District Attorney’s Office as well, even if you think your posts are “private”. These posts risk becoming social media evidence.
Now even if you don’t go posting pictures of crimes you committed (sounds crazy but its happened), your social media posts can be used to establish motive, or corroborate a theory of propensity. Posting a picture of yourself flashing “gang signs” could be used to demonstrate a connection to a particular gang, a posting about a night out partying with your friends immediately before a DWI charge, or negative post about what a horrible person your ex is right before their tires are slashed, all can be brought into light to help strengthen the State’s case or as evidence against you in criminal charges.
Judges are supposed to consider whether evidence is authentic, reliable and relevant, but social media posts by the defendant themselves are often viewed as almost a confession of sorts and judges tend to admit all posts if they admit one.
If your own words are being used against you, you absolutely need an attorney on your side that is familiar with suppression and evidence rules and is a seasoned trial attorney. If you have been charged with a crime in the County of Onondaga, and are unsure of what will come next or have questions about evidence, call me. I offer a free initial consultation 315-474-5533, or make an appointment online HERE.
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