Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Sports Betting No Longer a Crime In New York, But Only Under Specific Conditions
Approximately one year after the US Supreme Court lifted the ban on sports betting, New York officially joined the list of states that no longer designate wagering on sports to be illegal crime. New York is officially the ninth state to legalize it after the state game commission approved regulations. Some now claim that… Read More »
A Look at The Federal & State Charges Against Jeffrey Epstein & Defenses He May Put Forth
The case against Jeffrey Epstein in New York has received a significant amount of attention in news headlines. After his 2007 negotiation with the US attorney’s office in Miami prevented him from going to prison, a number of people are wondering if he will serve time this time around and to what extent current… Read More »
New Child Victims Act Expands Statute of Limitations to Bring Child Sex Abuse Charges In New York
Since the #MeToo movement and allegations against Jeffrey Epstein have captured news headlines, a new law here in New York has also gained attention, as it provides alleged victims with additional chances to file criminal charges against their accusers here in New York. Specifically, New York legislators passed the Child Victims Act this year,… Read More »
New York City Bill Goes After Gang Database Used by NYPD to Arrest People
A new bill has been introduced in New York City to alter the New York Police Department gang database, which many argue is used as a surveillance tool to arrest and turn people of color (especially juveniles) into criminal defendants, especially when it comes to particular communities, which are unquestionably surveilled more than other… Read More »
New York Bans “Gay and Trans Panic” Criminal Defense
On June 30, New York banned the gay and trans panic defense, which has historically allowed for criminal charges related to violent crimes, including homicide, to be reduced under the justification that the criminal defendant committed violence against the victim upon realizing their sexual or gender identity. In other words, the victim’s sexual orientation… Read More »
Marijuana Laws and Regulations in New York
In the past several years, many states have either decriminalized or legalized marijuana. This can be very bewildering for individuals who have been stopped by law enforcement or accused of a crime when they may not actually have done anything wrong. Currently, marijuana has been legalized in ten states and Washington, D.C. Moreover, thirteen… Read More »
The Laws & Consequences of Driving While Intoxicated or Impaired in New York
Many people find themselves driving home after a party and being pulled over by law enforcement agents. This can lead to a very tricky situation resulting in criminal charges, fines, loss of driving privileges and even jail time. It is imperative for individuals being charged with any sort of crime or citation to seek… Read More »
Narcotics Charges & Consequences under Federal Law
Narcotics possession and/or distribution charges are extremely serious and can carry heavy penalties with extensive jail time. Furthermore, the fines associated with such offenses can be crippling for many. Having legal counsel to guide you through this process is necessary and imperative. Both federal and state laws play a part in criminal charges related… Read More »
The Gravity of Domestic Violence Charges in New York
Domestic violence charges are extremely serious and can result not only in jail time but also loss of wages, visitation, custody, job and may have other far reaching consequences. What constitutes domestic violence can be confusing and having legal counsel to assist in defending against such allegations or charges is vital. What is Domestic… Read More »
“Blame My Brain”: The Increasing Effectiveness of Neuroscientific Evidence in Criminal Defense Arguments
The argument that genetic abnormalities are linked to behavior and should therefore serve to provide leniency in terms of criminal defense and punishment is gaining traction in US courts. Now, one case in front of the New Mexico Supreme Court could set a powerful precedent for the rest of the country with respect to… Read More »
