Once upon a time, as I returned to private practice from my time as Executive Director of the Federal Defenders of Idaho, I made plans. Not going to get behind. Going to keep that calendar clear enough to run, ride or swim every day. Keep my time for me, and Sue and the kids.
“Sweet dreams are made of this….”
Continue Reading I remember thinking, “I’m going to blog every day.” Nice Dream!
You may have read that my dad, Chuck Peterson has returned to our law firm, Peterson Lawyers, after a year as the Executive Director of the Federal Defenders of Idaho. His selection to lead that organization a year ago was an occasion for celebration, and loss. I was proud he had been selected to lead the great lawyers and staff
Continue Reading Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers In America and Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent
Impartiality is a myth. So the idea that you will start with an impartial jury or fact finder (maybe a Judge) misses the mark. We all have inherent bias and prejudice that colors our decision making. All of us.
Let’s start with a simple example involving cars. I have a bias (or preference) in favor of Westfalia vans and Porsche 911s. The two are polar opposites – sexy German sports car and utilitarian German fun wagon. If I had both in my garage I would be a happy camper. Over time I have had both but modern automobiles have taken my eyes away from each. So too the two grandkids I cart around daily.
Continue Reading Start with Bias and Prejudice – your story must deal with these or you lose!
I saw it again the other morning in court – a young kid whose lawyer was paying little more than lip service in protecting his right to a fair and speedy trial. The truth is most people accused of a crime are treated like criminals, regardless of the fact the law is supposed to presume innocence. A judge in a
Continue Reading Most people accused of a crime are treated like criminals, that’s why we fight to protect your rights and keep you out of jail.
Today’s question: “What happens if you are arrested and charged with driving under the influence of drugs? Let’s say prescription drugs. What does the prosecutor have to prove to obtain a conviction?” This question comes to me more frequently today than ever before, probably because more and more people who are taking medications prescribed by their doctor seemingly intersect
Continue Reading Beware the prescription drug DUI – get a lawyer to win your case
OK – I get it. If you are the Prez’ and you ran on a scare platform that crime is rampant in the streets and makes it more likely you will be murdered in Chicago than you will find an empty Starbucks in Seattle, you’ve got to get tough on crime! So the Donald’s new AG is not fooling around.
Continue Reading AG Sessions directs get tough on crime campaign
Peterson Lawyers associate attorney Will Young tells us to "challenge that speeding ticket!
Speaking from experience, getting ticketed for speeding is not a fun experience. Seeing red and blue lights in your rearview mirror is not a good feeling. I realize speeding is not even close to the worst thing you can be accused of, it can still impact
In the fight of your life?
Five years ago I started this blog with a post about hiring a lawyer. What should you ask before you pay? Over the years, this post has stood the test of time. Read it and you will be a better informed consumer!
Forget those crazy lawyer TV advertisements, websites that promise you a win, and "former prosecutor can get you better results" come-ons.
Read this post I wrote in 2009 and then find your fighter!
Continue Reading IN THE FIGHT OF YOUR LIFE? Ask these 5 questions before you hire a lawyer!
The news tonight declares that Kennedy cousin Michael Skakel has won a new trial because his criminal defense lawyer did not do enough to provide an effective defense. Robert F. Kennedy was his uncle. Mr. Skakel was convicted of the murder of Martha Moxley in 1975. She was beaten to death with a golf club after she and friends attended
Just how do you address the court? What does your language tell the judge in that Ada County or Federal Court appearance? Whether you are a lawyer or a defendant, an expert witness or a plaintiff, the way you speak and the things you say can make a difference. Check out this video, it’s hilarious, but sadly true. We seldom speak with the authority or conviction we need to convey in court.
Continue Reading Preparing For A Court Appearance – Speak Like You Mean It