Crimes In Depth

Assault, Battery, and Aggravated Assault

States vary in their definitions and punishments for the crimes of assault, assault and battery, and aggravated assault.

What Is Manslaughter? What Is Murder vs. Manslaughter?

Manslaughter is an unlawful killing that doesn’t involve malice aforethought—intent to seriously harm or kill, or extreme, reckless disregard for life. The absence of malice aforethought means that manslaughter involves less moral blame than either first- or second-degree murder.

What Is Murder? Is Murder Different From Homicide?

Homicide is a legal term for any killing of a human being by another human being.

Domestic Violence and Domestic Abuse: Crimes, Penalties, and Resources

Domestic violence can include threatening, pushing, or more serious assaults, and can land the abuser behind bars.

Types of Theft: Petty Theft, Grand Theft, and More

Theft is a crime that sometimes goes by the title "larceny." In general, the crime occurs when someone takes and carries away someone else's property without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it.

The Differences Between Robbery and Burglary

Some use the term “robbery” when a “burglary” has happened, and vice versa. The words actually refer to different crimes, with their own legal definitions and penalties.

Burglary Basics

Burglary charges often carry stiff felony penalties. What constitutes burglary and what does a prosecutor need to prove to obtain a conviction?

Arson Charges and Penalties

Learn about arson crimes and some of the possible penalties.

Criminal Trespassing Law

Criminal trespass involves being on someone else’s property without permission. But the crime isn’t as simple as just being where you’re not supposed to.

Will You Get in Trouble for Selling Counterfeit Goods?

Counterfeiting is the act of making or selling lookalike goods or services bearing fake trademarks.

Is it illegal to post-date a check?

Postdating a check refers to writing a check but putting a future date on the check instead of the date that the person writes the check.

Animal Cruelty and Neglect

State animal cruelty laws punish a wide range of behavior, from torturing animals to not providing proper shelter or veterinary care.

Criminal Penalties for Owners of Dangerous Dogs

Dog owners could face fines or jail time for violating legal restrictions on keeping dangerous dogs. They may also be charged with serious crimes if their animals attack and severely injure people.

Dangerous Dog Laws

State and local laws target dogs that have shown themselves to be dangerous or vicious, by placing restrictions on their owners—and sometimes by killing the animals.

When It's Legal to Kill a Dog

There are legal justifications for killing someone else’s dog in some situations—especially when it’s necessary to protect people or property.

Disorderly Conduct and Public Intoxication

Learn about the crimes of disorderly conduct, public intoxication, and disturbing the peace, and the possible punishment that goes with them.

Drug Laws and Drug Crimes

From drug possession to drug trafficking, a look at laws regulating controlled substances.

Hit-and-Run Criminal Charges and Conviction Penalties

Learn the basics about the crime of hit and run, as well as potential penalties.

Open Container Laws and Tickets

Open alcohol containers in cars can mean trouble with the law.

Underage Drinking and Minor-in-Possession Laws

Underage-drinking laws and other criminal statutes punish minors who are illegally in possession of alcohol.