Martens Law Office PC

06/17/2024

How misjudging alcohol intake can lead to unexpected DUI charges.

Why am I facing an arrest?

05/23/2024

While an expungement can help people move forward, not everyone is eligible.

A few factors to consider.

04/19/2024

Do I have to do anything besides a breath test at a DUI stop?

https://www.martenslawoffice.com/blog/2024/04/what-is-the-standardized-field-sobriety-test/

04/17/2024

As lawyers, we’ve seen firsthand the impact of all types of distracted driving on individuals and families. That’s why, this month, we wanted to share some important statistics alongside a reminder about prioritizing driving without distractions 🚘

Feel free to share this post with your network to spread the word about prioritizing driving safely and without distractions 💛

04/09/2024

Terminology can be tough, especially when it's about something you may not be an expert in – such as criminal law. We thought we would make it as easy as the ABCs:

- Acquittal: Final judgment in a case where a defendant is not proven guilty
- Adjudication: A formal judgment on a court matter by a judge or jury
- Arraignment: Court session where the defendant issues their plea and is charged
- Bench trial: Trial where there is only a judge and no jury involved
- Charge: Formal complaint of a crime made in court against a defendant
- Compensatory damages: Money owed by the defendant to the plaintiff
- Detention: Temporary detainment or custody of a suspect or defendant
- Discovery: The prosecution turns over evidence in the case to the defendant

Feel free to share this post to help inform others and reach out to us if we can help answer any questions.

04/03/2024

You may know the Sixth Amendment guarantees that anyone facing criminal prosecution has the right to an attorney whether they can afford it or not.

But many Americans are unaware that this right has not always been upheld, which is why we decided to share the landmark case that changed it all: Gideon v. Wainwright.

🔎 The background: In 1961, Clarence Gideon was arrested after being found near the scene of a burglary in Panama City, Florida. When he asked for a lawyer to be appointed to him according to his Sixth Amendment rights, he was denied. Gideon unsuccessfully defended himself and was found guilty of breaking and entering and petty larceny.

🔎 The argument: While serving his sentence, Gideon decided to study law and soon realized his rights had been violated. He hand-wrote a petition for the Supreme Court to hear his case.

🔎 The conclusion: Upon reviewing his situation, the Court unanimously ruled in Gideon’s favor, reaffirming that the Sixth Amendment requires states to provide attorneys to criminal defendants who can’t afford a lawyer.

After Gideon died due to cancer in 1972, the local American Civil Liberties Union chapter had an inscribed headstone added to his unmarked grave.

On it was a quote from a letter Gideon wrote to his attorney: "I believe that each era finds an improvement in law for the benefit of mankind."

03/31/2024

From our families to yours, we wish each of you a fantastic Easter weekend filled with joy, reflection, and precious moments with loved ones. 🌷 However you celebrate, may it be a time of rest and happiness.

Hoppy Easter!

03/21/2024

What are my rights at a DUI stop in Idaho?

https://www.martenslawoffice.com/blog/2024/03/what-should-you-know-about-drunk-driving-stops/

03/01/2024

Could participating in DUI court help me avoid a criminal record?

https://www.martenslawoffice.com/blog/2024/02/can-an-idaho-dui-court-help-you/

02/10/2024

Super Bowl Sunday is almost here. And if you’re like us, you can’t wait for an epic night of stiff competition, cold drinks, and hilarious commercials.

Whether you're rooting for the AFC or NFC or maybe just hoping for a close and entertaining matchup, we hope you have a blast watching the game.

That said, which team are you pulling for? Share in the comments ⬇️

02/06/2024

What Is Considered Reckless Driving?

https://www.martenslawoffice.com/blog/2024/01/when-can-idaho-file-reckless-driving-charges-against-a-motorist/

01/15/2024

On this Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we pause to reflect on the enduring wisdom of Dr. King’s words:

"The time is always right to do what is right."

Let's commit ourselves each day to uplift one another and actively contribute to positive change in our communities. If you are looking for ways to give back or would like some general information about MLK Day, you can find resources at AmeriCorps.gov.

In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., our office will remain closed today as we remember his remarkable legacy of justice, equality, and hope 🌍