Author Archives: Jay Butchko
The Bankruptcy Statistics No One Talks About
If you are considering filing for bankruptcy, you may also be plagued with feelings of guilt and shame. Many individuals feel like failures when they get to this point financially, and worry that the taboo against fiscal breakdown will leave them judged harshly by family and friends. But perhaps there are some facts about… Read More »
Why It’s Wrong To Charge Juveniles In Adult Courts
The American criminal justice system has come a long way—although in some ways it seems to be taking a page from the past. There was a time that everyone was treated exactly the same by the system—regardless of gender, mental illness, or age. Anyone convicted of a crime was sent to the same place,… Read More »
What’s The Difference Between A Civil And A Criminal Case?
We hear about cases going to court all the time. The news is flush with stories about jurors deliberating the fates of defendants. But many people don’t really understand the difference between civil and criminal cases. Those differences are significant, and worth understanding. Legal Penalties Civil cases involve defendants who are accused of wrongdoing… Read More »
Understanding The Plea Bargain In Criminal Cases
If you are facing criminal charges, the prosecutor’s office may at some point be interested in a plea bargain. What do you need to know about the process, benefits, and pitfalls of accepting such a deal? Every offer is different, and the decision should be carefully weighed with the counsel of a trusted criminal… Read More »
A Fresh Start In 2022: Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
As the new year opens up new possibilities, perhaps it’s time for you to consider the ways in which filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy could give you a fresh start in the coming year. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by debt, it could be just the ticket. While just the word “bankruptcy” may bring anxiety… Read More »
Justice For All? Considerations Of Racial Inequity In The Criminal Justice System
If you have black or brown skin and have a run in with the law, you may be wondering if it’s possible to get a fair shake in the American justice system. The truth is, it’s a fair question. When you consider some of the statistics related to sentencing and incarceration you know that… Read More »
Superbowl Sunday = Domestic Violence
What comes to mind when you think of Superbowl Sunday? If you’re like many Americans, you may have visions of crowded bars and living rooms, collective cheers as the favored team advances, and group grumbling when things don’t go so well. But all in all, win or lose, it’s a good time for all…. Read More »
Pregnancy And Domestic Violence
Maybe things were rough in your marriage, but there were bright spots. Sometimes things seemed perfect, and your spouse was incredibly loving, complimentary, and kind. The violent episodes, though frightening and painful, were rare. Maybe you thought that pregnancy would bring you closer together, would make your spouse more careful about controlling that nasty… Read More »
Can I File Bankruptcy For My Student Loans?
If you’ve been listening to the political chatter relating to student loan forgiveness, you may be pinning your hopes on the possibility that the Biden administration will be forgiving anywhere from $10,000 to $50,000 in student loans. While there’s no guarantee that these amounts, or any amount of student loan debt will actually be… Read More »
Technology & Domestic Violence
Domestic violence occurs in all kinds of families, and in all kinds of ways. The abuse may be primarily verbal and emotional, or may be physical. For some, the abuse consists of sexual or reproductive coercion or abuse. Others may suffer financial abuse. For many, the abuse spans multiple aspects of life. Modern relationships… Read More »