Sometimes proposed bills can be pushed through more quickly because they happen to be introduced at a time when emotions are high. An anti-crime package passed the State Senate this past week on the heels of the Boston Marathon bombing and another foiled attack planned on a Canadian train which would have eventually arrived in NYC. As fears and concerns over terrorism are heightened, the bill—which includes a few anti-terror law changes—was an easy pass for lawmakers. Continue reading “Anti-Crime Bill Passes NY State Senate”
Criminal Charges in the Bronx? You May Be Waiting A While…
When you’re up against criminal charges, a certain amount of delays are expected. Rarely does the criminal justice process move quickly. But as a new investigative report from the New York Times shows, if your charges are in the Bronx, you could be waiting an exceptionally long time. Continue reading “Criminal Charges in the Bronx? You May Be Waiting A While…”
New York Judges No Longer Allowed to Require Cash-Only Bail
The New York Supreme Court this week ruled that judges in the state can no longer require a defendant to pay a cash-only bail, and that they must provide other alternatives for defendants to post bail. Continue reading “New York Judges No Longer Allowed to Require Cash-Only Bail”
NY Bail Fees For Minor Crimes Create Debtor’s Prison
In a report released last week from Human Rights Watch and profiled in the New York Times, the country learned what many within the city already knew—if you’re poor, you’re more likely to be in jail. The courts have created a situation where people are sent to jail and unable to raise even a $1,000 bond, making them a resident of Riker’s Island for a short stay, even when facing charges as minor as possession of marijuana or jumping a subway turnstile. Continue reading “NY Bail Fees For Minor Crimes Create Debtor’s Prison”