Despite Recent Shootings, Overall U.S. Firearm Death Rate is Decreasing

Recent mass shootings in Colorado, New York, and other states have left the nation reeling. But despite these high-profile events, the overall number of firearm-related deaths in the U.S. has decreased in recent years, according to a study by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

The Complex Nature of Marijuana Laws in California

California's marijuana laws are extremely complicated and can be challenging to understand. Back in 1996, Proposition 215 was the first statewide medical marijuana initiative that passed in the United States. Since then, individuals with a medical condition were authorized in California to use marijuana for medical purposes provided they have doctor's prescription. This law, however, is no guarantee that possessing and using marijuana – even for medical reasons -- will not result in drug charges. In fact, under federal law, marijuana use is still illegal.

Always Speak to a Lawyer First

A story reported by the Orlando Sentinel on Friday demonstrates how much a case can be changed by the actions of a lawyer. It also illustrates how important many of the procedures of the law are, and how much the trial can change from one day to the next.

Feds Push for Tougher State Drunk Driving Laws in Maryland, Other States

Virginia recently passed a tough new drunk driving law requiring those who receive their first-ever drunk driving conviction to have an ignition interlock device installed on their vehicles. Now, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is encouraging other states and the District of Columbia to adopt similar measures.

“Distracted Walking” an Increasing Cause of Pedestrian Injuries

Distracted driving is a well-known source of serious injuries and death, claiming about 5,000 lives nationwide each year according to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). However, “distracted walking” caused by using a cell phone or texting while traveling on foot is also starting to be a factor in car, pedestrian, and other accidents, according to the NHTSA.