This is a fact scenario you don’t see every day. It also brings forth another Massachusetts criminal defendant who likely thought he would never see himself being prosecuted for felony crimes. Michael Clair, 53 years of age and hereinafter the “Defendant” was once a practicing dentist in Fall River. Now,…
As James “Whitey” Bulger awaits trial for his part allegedly played in the murders of 19 people, the government’s day of judgment has already arrived. Boston’s federal appeals court has upheld multi-million dollar judgments that had been awarded when the government was found liable for the deaths of three people…
Let’s first look at a recent United States Supreme Court case in point. On January 18, 2012, the Court rendered its decision in Maples v. Thomas. The case wasa criminal appeal from a gentleman who had been found guilty of murder and sentenced to death in Alabama state court. Later,…
According to media reports, David Ettlinger-a second grade teacher at Newton public schools-was arrested this week on child pornography charges. Recent updates indicate that Ettlinger, 34, is now also facing charges of indecent assault of a child under the age of 14. Several sexualized images of minors were allegedly found…
Attorney Sam’s Take On Martin Luther King And Credibility In the courts of justice, whether they be criminal or civil, the issue of credibility is always imperative. Technically, of course, I have already mis-stated the law. This is because a person’s credibility is not considered an issue unless that person…
Even a Boston Criminal Lawyer has families…divorced or not. Unfortunately, due to a death in the family, I am not available to post this daily blog as hoped this week. I will be back on Monday…with a salute to the late Dr. King. Best regards, and thanks for reading, Sam…
As you may be aware, there is a legislative effort underway today to change the laws regarding the use of cell phones while driving in Massachusetts. Most people seem to be for it. But is there really a need for it? Attorney Sam’s Take On Redundant Criminal Statutes The first…
Well, in a world in which some mothers who lose control resort to the killing of their children…I suppose you could call this Salem mother’s approach refreshing. According to the Commonwealth, she called the police on the kids. Apparently, her five kids had been fighting all day. Particularly that 15-year-old…
John Analetto, 48, of Belmont is another gentleman who’s New Year’s weekend did not go terribly well. On Saturday, the 19-year- state police veteran bid his family adieu as he donned a new role in the criminal justice system. He is hereinafter referred to as the “Defendant”. Arrested on Saturday,…
2011 is now history in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. In preparation for the changing of the year, a group called “AboutBail” compiled a list of some of the highest bail amounts throughout the country in 2011. Let’s take a look, changing the actual names of the defendants, at seven of…