Rose Legal Services Blog

At Rose Legal Services, we think it is imperative that we keep our clients and potential clients up to date on the climate of criminal law in St. Louis. Check out our blog, featuring the latest updates on criminal law: 

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February 11, 2025

Have you ever wondered if the police can lie to you during an investigation? It’s a question that often arises, especially when you feel pressured or uncertain about your rights. Yes, the Police Can Lie To You During an Investigation In the United States, the police are allowed to use deception as part of an […]

January 28, 2025

Assault charges in Missouri can range from misdemeanors to serious felonies, depending on the circumstances. The most severe type is aggravated assault, which carries substantial prison time if convicted. If you’re facing aggravated assault charges, you likely have questions about the law, the potential consequences, and how to defend yourself. At Rose Legal Services, we […]

January 21, 2025

When you interact with law enforcement in Missouri, what you say – or don’t say – can significantly impact your future. At Rose Legal Services, we regularly help clients navigate these crucial moments. Let’s talk about a little secret that could save you a lot of trouble: the magic word. When you find yourself in […]

January 17, 2025

If you’re facing murder charges in Missouri, you likely feel overwhelmed and scared about your future. Murder is the most serious crime a person can be accused of. The consequences of a conviction are severe, including decades in prison or even the death penalty. At Rose Legal Services, we understand the gravity of your situation. […]

December 31, 2024

A charge is a formal accusation filed by a prosecutor claiming that a person has committed a criminal offense. The prosecutor must file a document in court – a Complaint, Information, or Indictment – and there will be a court file, with a case number. Unless sealed, it will appear on CaseNet. At Rose Legal […]

December 26, 2024

A charge is a formal accusation filed by a prosecutor claiming that a person has committed a criminal offense. It takes the form of a court filing, either a complaint, information, or indictment. Unless sealed, it will appear on CaseNet. At Rose Legal Services, we’ve helped thousands of people who have been charged, arrested, or […]

December 12, 2024

If you’ve been charged with a felony offense in Missouri and have prior felony convictions on your record, you may be facing significantly more prison time as a “prior and persistent offender” under Missouri’s version of a “three strikes” law. As a firm that dedicates our practice exclusively to criminal defense, the attorneys at Rose […]

December 5, 2024

In Missouri, if someone dies, even accidentally, during the commission of a felony, anyone involved in that felony can be charged with Murder in the Second Degree—even if they didn’t intend for the death to occur. This legal principle, known as the felony murder rule, can result in murder charges for deaths that would otherwise […]

November 1, 2024

At Rose Legal Services, we are passionate about second chances. And one of our favorite things to do is to expunge a felony from a client’s criminal record. Recent changes to Missouri expungement laws have opened new possibilities for those with felony convictions. Based on our extensive experience helping clients navigate this process, this article […]

October 25, 2024

If you’ve been charged with a felony in Missouri, you’re likely concerned about the serious potential consequences – substantial prison time, steep fines, and the loss of certain rights. But in some cases, it may be possible to get your felony charge reduced to a misdemeanor. This can significantly lessen the penalties you face and […]

October 18, 2024

If you’ve been accused of rape or another type of sex crime in Missouri, you may be wondering about the difference between rape and sexual assault charges. The truth is, while people often use the term “sexual assault” informally to describe a range of sex crimes, there is no specific offense called “sexual assault” under […]

October 14, 2024

When facing criminal charges, the severity of the potential sentence can vary greatly depending on the presence of aggravating circumstances. These factors can significantly impact the outcome of a case, making it important for defendants to understand their role in the legal process. In this article, we will explain the concept of aggravating circumstances, provide […]

October 11, 2024

If you’ve been charged with a crime as a first-time offender in Missouri, you may feel overwhelmed and uncertain about your future. The good news is that you have options, and one of the most common paths forward is through a plea agreement. At Rose Legal Services, our criminal defense attorneys have decades of combined […]

October 4, 2024

When you’re facing a felony charge in Missouri, the potential consequences can vary significantly based on the specific class of felony involved. Missouri’s felony classification system plays a central role in determining the range of punishments you could be facing if convicted. As attorneys who dedicate our practice exclusively to criminal law, we know how […]

September 27, 2024

As criminal defense attorneys in Missouri, we often get questions about how juvenile records, particularly felony adjudications, can impact a person’s future. Many people believe that these records automatically disappear once the individual turns 18, but that’s not always the case. Let’s take a closer look at what happens with juvenile felony records in Missouri […]

September 4, 2024

Sex crimes are among the most serious offenses in our legal system, carrying severe penalties and long-lasting consequences for those convicted. These crimes encompass a wide range of illegal acts, from sexual assault and rape to child molestation and prostitution. In this article, our criminal defense attorneys provide an overview of the different types of […]

August 28, 2024

A felony conviction can limit your freedoms long after you’ve completed probation or served your sentence. While some rights, like voting, are preserved in Missouri for those not in custody, other restrictions can feel like ongoing punishment. However, you’re not without options. Missouri law provides paths to restore your rights and reclaim your good name. […]

August 21, 2024

Criminal records can have far-reaching consequences, affecting everything from job prospects to housing opportunities. At Rose Legal Services, we’ve helped many of our clients in Missouri and the Metro East part of Illinois who’ve been arrested, charged, or investigated for a crime. Many are surprised to learn what actually goes into a criminal record and […]

August 15, 2024

If you are facing criminal charges, it is crucial to understand the importance of hiring a skilled criminal defense attorney. At Rose Legal Services, we have assisted thousands of individuals who have been charged, arrested, or investigated for a crime. Our team of attorneys is passionate about helping good people get a second chance and […]

August 1, 2024

If you are facing criminal charges, the importance of hiring a skilled criminal defense lawyer cannot be overstated. An experienced attorney can provide invaluable guidance, support, and advocacy throughout the legal process, working to protect your rights and secure the most favorable outcome for your case. In this article, we will explore the benefits of […]

July 1, 2024

A police interrogation is a questioning process by law enforcement officers to gather information about a crime or suspect. It can be formal or informal. It can occur anywhere: an interrogation room at a police station, inside a patrol vehicle, at the scene of an alleged crime, roadside during a traffic stop, at your residence […]

June 24, 2024

Have you ever felt weighed down by the burden of a past mistake, a blemish on your record that just won’t go away? Or perhaps you’re concerned about how a youthful indiscretion might impact your future. If so, you’re not alone. Countless individuals across Illinois grapple with the effects of criminal records, even for minor […]

June 17, 2024

If you’re ever busted for going a little heavy on the gas pedal, you’ve probably wondered—once you’ve stopped grinding your teeth and beating the steering wheel in frustration—how it will affect your permanent record. Depending on where you are, it can get a little confusing as to whether or not speeding is a misdemeanor or just an infraction.

June 10, 2024

When it comes to serious crimes like murder, the legal implications can extend beyond just the individual who committed the act. In Illinois, the concept of being an “accessory” to a crime means you can face charges and punishments for assisting or facilitating an offense – even if you were not the person who committed […]

June 3, 2024

When you have a misdemeanor on your record, finding a job can be difficult. Employers often conduct background checks, and a criminal history can raise red flags during the hiring process. However, having a misdemeanor does not automatically disqualify you from employment. In this blog post, we’ll explore how misdemeanors can affect your job search […]

May 27, 2024

Criminal offenses are classified into two main categories: misdemeanors and felonies. These classifications are determined by the severity of the crime and the potential punishments that can be imposed. In Illinois, the distinction between a misdemeanor and a felony can have far-reaching consequences, affecting your future prospects and freedoms. Misdemeanors: Less Severe Offenses Misdemeanors are […]

May 20, 2024

If you’ve been arrested for drug possession in Illinois, you may feel overwhelmed and uncertain about your future. The legal process can be confusing, especially when you’re facing the possibility of criminal charges. But don’t lose hope—there are strategies that can help you navigate this challenging situation and potentially get your charges dropped or reduced. […]

May 13, 2024

We all make mistakes. Perhaps you got into a heated argument that turned physical. Or drove after having one too many drinks. Or pocketed an item you didn’t pay for. While regrettable, these missteps seemed minor at the moment. But if convicted of a misdemeanor crime, the consequences can haunt you for years to come. […]

May 10, 2024

In Illinois, battery involves any harmful or offensive physical contact — and depending on the circumstances, it can escalate from a misdemeanor to a felony case. The severity of a battery charge in Illinois depends on various factors, such as the circumstances of the offense and the accused’s criminal history. While battery is typically charged […]

May 6, 2024

A felony conviction can have significant and long-lasting impacts on your fundamental rights and civil liberties. Felons may permanently or temporarily lose the ability to vote, serve on juries, hold public office, own firearms, receive government benefits, and retain custody rights, depending on state laws. Understanding the specific rights you could potentially lose — and […]

April 29, 2024

If you’ve been caught driving on a revoked or suspended license in Missouri, you’re probably worried about the possibility of jail time. It’s a serious offense with potentially life-altering consequences, but with the right legal strategy and a proactive approach, you may be able to avoid spending time behind bars. In this article, we’ll explore […]

April 23, 2024

Clients facing criminal charges like domestic violence or assault often come to us hoping they can just “get the charges dropped” and make the situation go away. We understand this impulse. An arrest and criminal prosecution can turn your life upside down. The instinct is to want to make it end as quickly and quietly […]

April 1, 2024

It’s a homeowner’s worst nightmare—the police show up at your front door to search your house and find illegal drugs. Even if the drugs don’t belong to you, you could still face criminal charges. But who exactly is legally responsible when drugs are discovered on a property? It depends. Determining who faces arrest and prosecution […]

For those with a criminal record, landing a job or apartment can feel hopeless. Every application asks the dreaded question: Have you ever been convicted of a crime? Even one mistake in your past can torpedo future opportunities. Fortunately, Missouri law allows people to expunge criminal records, in certain circumstances. Expungement is —a process where […]

November 2, 2023

As defense lawyers, one of the most common questions we encounter revolves around domestic assault charges. Domestic Assault cases constitute a significant portion of the cases we handle, and it’s essential to understand that these cases are rarely straightforward. In our jurisdiction, prosecuting attorneys’ offices often maintain a strict “no-drop” policy when it comes to […]

November 1, 2023

A hit-and-run is not something anyone plans for. In those split seconds after an accident, fear, confusion, or uncertainty may lead you to make a decision you never thought you would – leaving the scene of an accident. It’s crucial to acknowledge that it can happen to anyone, even the most responsible drivers. In this […]

The age of consent in Missouri is a topic that can raise more questions than answers. Age-of-consent laws are in place to protect minors from sexual abuse and exploitation and to ensure that individuals engaging in sexual activity do so in a safe, consensual manner. In Missouri, the age of consent is 17 years old, […]

September 8, 2023

Imagine carrying a heavy backpack filled with stones everywhere you go, weighing you down and limiting your opportunities. That’s what it can feel like if you have been convicted of a felony in Missouri. A felony conviction may haunt you for years, affecting various aspects of your life, including employment, housing, and even personal relationships. […]

September 6, 2023

The world of law and order can be confusing, especially when it comes to classifying different types of criminal offenses. Three terms that are often used interchangeably yet distinctly different are murder, manslaughter, and homicide. Murder is perhaps the most well-known of these three terms and refers to unlawfully and knowingly causing the death of […]

August 8, 2023

If the police or FBI show up at your house with a search warrant, it’s essential to take certain steps to protect your rights and interests. Whatever you do, do NOT consent to the search. If you consent, then you will waive your right to challenge the search in court later. Here’s what you should […]

August 3, 2023

If you find yourself pulled over by the police and they want to conduct an open-air sniff around your vehicle using a K-9, it’s important to know your rights and act accordingly. First and foremost, do NOT escalate the situation or resist. If the police are acting unlawfully, that issue will have to be litigated […]

July 5, 2023

Not all criminal defense law firms are created equal. So, how do you choose an attorney that will give you the best shot at success? What can you expect once you’ve hired one, and what does that process look like? In this article, we’ll explore what to expect when hiring a St. Louis murder defense […]

July 3, 2023

Nobody should have to face criminal charges alone, especially when it comes to something as serious as second-degree murder. It can be a daunting experience, and it’s important to know the role of a St. Louis attorney in such cases. A skilled St. Louis criminal defense attorney can be instrumental in defending against any type […]

June 30, 2023

Missouri residents have the right to protect themselves and their property from harm, but the state has strict laws governing using weapons for self-defense. Knowing when and how you can use a weapon to defend yourself can mean the difference between staying safe and facing criminal charges. In this article, we will discuss the laws […]

Weapons charges are serious offenses resulting in severe legal consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and a criminal record. For an individual to be found guilty of a weapons crime, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant had intent, usually the knowing or intentional use or possession of a weapon. Without this specific […]

June 28, 2023

The Second Amendment of the United States Constitution guarantees citizens the right to keep and bear arms. But what does that mean for those who face weapons charges? What rights do individuals have when defending themselves and their property? Understanding how your rights are protected under the Second Amendment is essential if facing a weapons […]

June 26, 2023

Felony criminal charges are nothing to bat an eye at. Not only does a conviction mean possible jail time, fines, and a criminal record but there may also be collateral consequences like losing the right to vote or bear arms. So if you’re facing a felony charge in St. Louis, you’re probably feeling the weight […]

May 15, 2023

Being arrested and facing criminal charges can significantly impact your life—from your reputation to your personal relationships and even your freedom. Understanding what happens after you’re arrested—and the criminal defense process—is crucial. What are your rights? How do you defend yourself in court? Is there anything else that needs to be done before the trial […]

February 20, 2023

A drug possession felony conviction on your criminal record can negatively impact several facets of your life. One mistake, one lapse of judgment, can create a lifetime of hurdles.  Criminal records are like a stain on your life. Even if you regret your crime and have served your sentence. You’re a changed person now, but […]

May 14, 2021

What Happens to Your VA Benefits If You Go To Jail? Veterans Facing Criminal Charges If you are a veteran facing criminal prosecution, it’s essential to start thinking about and preparing for the repercussions this can have on your VA benefits. The Department of Veterans Affairs has the power to reduce or eliminate your VA […]

March 2, 2021

It’s common for people to interchangeably use the terms stealing, burglary, and robbery. Although each charge often involves the unauthorized appropriation of another person’s property, they are distinct offenses with different definitions and penalties in Missouri. For example, you might hear someone say, “My house was robbed!” In legal terms, this usually translates to, “My […]

February 3, 2021

If there’s one thing you need to remember during an arrest, it’s that you have the right to remain silent. Regardless of the situation, once your rights are invoked, you do not have to say anything further. You will be given the opportunity to speak with your lawyer or have one appointed to you. Invoking […]

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