“You have a truly sharp legal mind and your courtroom presence is among the best. I am forever grateful for your two years of hard work, dedication and service to my father’s case.” — R.C.

“I give Mr. Spano the highest possible recommendation. Mr. Spano helped me navigate a somewhat unorthodox legal matter, did so quickly, and always kept me informed.”

“Thanks for taking my case and getting me a not guilty verdict. You are a great lawyer. I could not asked for anything more. Please know you hold a special place in my family’s heart.” — G.B.

“Many thanks for the very professional and gentlemanly way that you conducted yourself at the trial of my son. I along with all of my family were thrilled beyond words with the outcome.” — B.B.

“Thank you for assuring me that just because a good honest person makes a mistake does not mean they have to be treated like a criminal!” — D.S.

Proven Criminal Defense In Upstate New York

The Supreme Court issues its ruling on hot pursuit

On Behalf of | Jul 22, 2021 | Criminal Defense |

In June, the Supreme Court Of The United States issued a ruling that marks a very important step in criminal defense. Essentially, the court decided that the factors surrounding each case will determine what law enforcement officers can or cannot do when pursuing someone for a misdemeanor offense.

What was the ruling?

The Supreme Court decided that if a person who is suspected of committing a misdemeanor is being pursued by police, the police do not have the right to follow them home without a warrant. At the same time, the court stated that all cases are different, and the circumstances of each can determine whether an emergency makes it permissible to follow a suspect home without a warrant.

What prompted the exception decision by the Supreme Court?

The exception for emergencies came about as a result of the case of a California man who had a conviction for driving under the influence in 2016. He was driving home when a police officer began following him because the man was playing music very loudly in his car thus disturbing the peace. The police officer followed the man to his home and into his garage, where he detected the odor of alcohol. After the man was taken to a hospital for a blood test to determine his blood alcohol concentration, it was revealed to be 0.245, which is three times higher than the legal limit of 0.08.

The man contested his conviction and claimed in his defense that the police officer violated his Fourth Amendment rights by following him into his garage with no warrant. The court subsequently rejected that claim, and the case went on to the Supreme Court.

Protecting your constitutional rights

An attorney may be able to assist you if you face misdemeanor charges after an arresting officer entered your property without a warrant. Your attorney may help you prepare your lawsuit to protect your rights.

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