The Law Office of Gregory N. Smith Legal Blog

Being in charge of an organization’s finances is a large responsibility. Any mistakes that are made could not only impact the organization but could also leave a treasurer susceptible to criminal allegations. In fact, a woman who served as the secretary of a volunteer fire department in Missouri is now accused of embezzlement. Reports indicate that though the woman was…

When a crime occurs in a town, there is an understandable need for answers. For example, the need to ensure that there is not a safety threat to other community members after five people were killed is strong. However, it is necessary to ensure that any arrests made and charges filed are supported by evidence in the case. Unfortunately, it…

There are many safe drivers on Missouri roadways. These drivers are vigilant at all times and prepared to appropriately react should an obstacle enter their pathway. However, even the most safety-conscious driver may not be able to respond in time to the unexpected actions of another driver. Unfortunately, a driver is now suspected of drunk driving following a recent collision…

If you have a habit of taking things that don’t belong to you, you should know the risks of this behavior. Stolen merchandise in Missouri can result in big penalties, whether you’ve taken goods from a merchant or another resident of Missouri. Shoplifting and Theft Shoplifting generally refers to taking money, merchandise, or property from a merchant. However, altering or…

There are times when a person may act in a way, without fully realizing the implications of their actions, that could leave them in a precarious legal situation. For example, a person who takes debris from a construction site may not fully realize he or she could be charged with a crime. Despite this, a Missouri man has recently pleaded…

Conflict is a relatively common part of life. While most conflict occurs as part of a verbal exchange, there does come a time when it may be necessary for a person to defend him or herself from violence at the hands of another. Unfortunately, there are few details available following a recent incident, termed an assault by Missouri law enforcement…

There are many people who have little experience with the law. As such, they may not fully understand all their options, should they find themselves facing legal charges. Some people may even assume that a conviction of charges is the end of the criminal justice process. However, it is often appropriate to file an appeal following a conviction. In fact,…

Mortgage fraud is a specific variety of financial institution fraud. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) defines mortgage fraud as misstatements, misrepresentations or omissions in relation to a mortgage loan. Mortgage fraud can be committed by a borrower or a seller, but it can also be committed by a bank officer, an appraiser, a mortgage broker, an attorney, a loan originator or…

For many people in Missouri and across the country, an encounter with a law enforcement officer can be panic-inducing regardless of whether the person is engaged in illegal activity. Unfortunately, it may be instinctive for some people to flee when such a confrontation appears imminent. In fact, a man now faces drug charges after prosecutors claim he fled from a…

The relationship between family members can often become volatile, especially if there is money involved. Though these disputes may lead to anger and arguments, they rarely lead to violence. Despite this, a man in Missouri is now charged with murder in connection to the death of his cousin. The incident that led to a fatality and subsequent arrest reportedly happened…