Over the past decade, more and more people have taken to the streets in body armor, striving to become real-life superheroes. While any wannabe heroes may not be able to develop powers, like Superman, Wolverine or Spider-Man, anyone who is brave enough can choose to fight criminals the way Iron Man and Batman do. But is it […]
Can Spider-Man Legally Do What A Spider Can?
We know Spider-Man can physically do whatever a spider can, and he can climb around and shoot net everywhere he wants in his own home, but can he legally use these powers the way he does in the comics? That answer isn’t so obvious, and indeed, if he were real, Spidey would probably be well […]
Penal Code 597.5 (PC): Dogfighting Laws in California
You can face serious criminal charges if you have been accused of training or entering your dog in a dog fight. California laws prohibit even witnessing dogfighting displays. Prosecutors take these cases very seriously, and juries are often filled with dog lovers prone to bias against those accused of these charges. It takes a skilled […]
The Crimes of Ferris Bueller: Don’t Follow Ferris If You Want to Stay Out of Jail
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is a classic movie that reminds everyone that “life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” And while it’s important to take a break from your hectic life every now and again, you’re a lot better off not directly following […]
What is the Legal Definition of Reasonable Doubt?
You’ve almost certainly heard the phrase “guilty beyond a reasonable doubt,” but have you ever thought about the specific meaning of “reasonable doubt?” As an American, you should. That’s because this phrase is a cornerstone of our national justice system. Rather than some countries that consider you guilty until you are proven innocent, the American […]
The Downside to Wolverine Claws From a Legal Perspective
Wolverine’s claws are admittedly cool-looking, but they also offer some serious draw backs. Aside from the pain associated with the claws pushing through his skin every time they come out, they present a number of legal issues as well. For example, Logan could be accused of carrying a concealed weapon and if he ever uses […]
Is Santa a Christmas Criminal? An Attorney Weighs In
Over the years, many people have questioned whether or not Santa Claus has the right to enter homes and leave gifts behind wherever he goes, wondering if he is breaking and entering or committing a criminal act related to animal abuse, human trafficking, or stalking. While laws may vary from country to country and state […]
Is It Legal to Kill A Zombie in California?
The Walking Dead shambled back on the air last week with record ratings, making it the most-watched episode of any drama show in basic cable history. But with all the focus on the morality of life after a zombie outbreak, few people consider the legality of killing the undead. Let’s Assume There’s Still a Justice […]
What Kind of Charges Could Skyler From Breaking Bad Face?
While we don’t know how the show will end yet, season five has made it clear that Breaking Bad’s Skyler White is willing to work with Walt -as long as it means keeping their kids safely away from the mess. She’s terrified of him and if she were arrested for her role in Walter’s business, […]
Sometimes Ignorance of the Law May be an Excuse
You’ve no doubt heard the expression that “ignorance of the law is no excuse,” and while that’s true in most cases, it’s not the full story. For one thing, there are a handful of laws that are only crimes if the defendant knew they were breaking the law -for example, it is illegal to bring […]
