Know Your Rights: The Right to a Speedy Trial In Wisconsin, the right to a speedy trial is a fundamental protection guaranteed by both the U.S. and Wisconsin Constitutions and is further reinforced by state statutes. However, these rights differ in how they are applied and the remedies they off...
The Sonya Massey Shooting: An Unjustifiable Tragedy On July 6, 2023, Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old Black woman from Springfield, Illinois, experienced what can only be described as a horrifying and entirely unjustifiable act of police violence. Massey had called 911, seeking help for what she beli...
Celebrating Independence: Reflecting on the True Meaning of July 4th As we celebrate July 4th, it's essential to remember what this day truly represents. The day Will Smith, Jeff Goldblum, Bill Pullman, and Randy Quaid saved the world from alien invaders. All kidding aside, Independence Day ...
Know Your Rights: Terry Stops At Melms Law, we believe that understanding your rights is crucial, especially when interacting with law enforcement. One common scenario where your rights might be challenged is during a Terry stop. Here's what you need to know about Terry stops, when they are perm...
Unraveling Your Case Like a Game of Clue: How Melms Law Solves the Mystery of Justice At Melms Law, we understand that legal cases can often feel like a real-life game of Clue. Just like in the classic board game where players must piece together clues to figure out who committed the crime, wher...
Know Your Rights: Understanding Privileged Speech Under the First Amendment in Wisconsin The First Amendment to the United States Constitution is a cornerstone of American democracy, safeguarding the right to free speech and expression. However, this right is not without limits. In Wisconsin, as...
The Vital Importance of Defending Speech We Disagree With In the fight to preserve our fundamental rights, one principle stands as a cornerstone of our democracy: the protection of free speech, even when it is deeply uncomfortable or offensive. Voltaire famously said, “I disapprove of what you s...
Honoring Heroes: Memorial Day Reflections from Melms Law As Memorial Day approaches, we at Melms Law take a moment to reflect on the significance of this solemn occasion. Memorial Day is not just a long weekend or the unofficial start of summer; it is a day dedicated to remembering and honoring ...
Understanding Your Rights: Cash Bail In Wisconsin Bail is a critical aspect of the criminal justice system, ensuring that individuals accused of crimes can secure their release from custody while awaiting trial. However, the issue of excessive cash bail is a significant concern, especially when ...
Understanding Search Incident to Arrest in OWI Cases in Wisconsin When facing an OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) charge in Wisconsin, it's crucial to understand how the law applies to searches conducted by law enforcement during your arrest. In Wisconsin, searches incident to arrest are govern...
May the Fourth Be With You: Defend Your Rights with the Force of the Law As the galaxy celebrates Star Wars Day on May the Fourth, we at Melms Law are reminded that the fight for justice often feels like a battle between the forces of good and evil. Whether you're up against a powerful opponent ...
Understanding Your Rights: When a Detention Lasts Too Long When you're stopped by the police, it's crucial to understand your rights, especially when it comes to the duration of your detention. The Fourth Amendment protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures, and this protection extends...
Challenging Evidence Seized Under a Search Warrant When law enforcement officers conduct a search under a warrant, any evidence they seize can significantly impact the outcome of a criminal case. However, not all search warrants and the subsequent seizures are lawful. If you've been arrested and...
Understanding Your Rights During a Terry Stop: What You Need to Know Attorney Frederick Melms April 15, 2024. At Melms Law, we believe that understanding your rights is crucial, especially when interacting with law enforcement. One common scenario where your rights might be challenged is ...
Your right to remain silent is a fundamental protection enshrined in the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, yet its implications are often misunderstood. This right is crucial for anyone facing legal troubles, but knowing how to effectively exercise it can make a significant difference in the outcome of a case.
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