Following the jury selection process and after the court has given preliminary instructions to the jury, both sides (prosecution and defense) have an opportunity to make an opening statement to…

One of the most fundamental individual rights involved in a criminal case is the right to a jury trial in criminal cases.  While the United States Constitution guarantees the right to…

Jury Selection and Voir Dire Jury selection begins by calling in a panel of prospective jurors (sometimes called a “venire”).  In Utah, prospective jurors are chosen at random from a…

** Please note that statutes and rules affecting pretrial release in Utah have changed significantly since this article was originally published. Consultation with a good defense attorney, prior to taking…

The Utah Constitution prohibits courts from imposing excessive bail in a criminal case.  But the original bail amounts imposed in many cases may be higher than what a defendant can…

In Utah criminal cases, a bench warrant (arrest warrant) may be issued when the case is initially filed.  A warrant may also be issued if a person fails to appear…

In most Utah criminal cases, a defendant is constitutionally entitled to have a bail set by the court.  But in many cases, the initial bail set by the court may…

A 402 reduction (a motion filed under Utah Code 76-3-402) can reduce a felony conviction to a misdemeanor.  A 402 reduction can also help to restore your eligibility for expungement.…

The process of adopting a step-child is often a matter of securing formal legal recognition of the parent-child relationship that has developed over time. A biological parent may be deceased…

Terminating Parental Rights in Davis County Adoptions Many Davis County adoption cases involve children who have lost their biological parents. But in cases where a biological parent is alive and…

Utah law allows for adoption by either a married couple or by a single parent. But adoptions by single parents are treated differently under the Utah Adoption Act. If you…

When adopting a child, the courts in Davis County are required to consider the best interest of the child who is the subject of the adoption petition. Under Utah Code…