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FEBRUARY/MARCH 2023
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Should I Represent Myself in Court? PROBABLY NOT: HERE’S WHY
On Nov. 21, 2021, someone drove an SUV through a Christmas parade in Waukesha, Wisconsin, killing six people and injuring 62 others. Two days later, Darrell Brooks Jr. was charged with six counts of first- degree intentional homicide. He was later charged with an additional 61 counts of recklessly endangering safety by use of a dangerous weapon for the same event. Brooks and his attorneys deployed various tactics to disrupt court proceedings and eventually pleaded not guilty by mental disease. A few months later, Brooks withdrew the plea. Days before the trial began on Oct. 3, Brooks dismissed his public defenders, electing to represent himself in the upcoming legal battle. He then proceeded to cause chaos throughout the trial. He continually interjected whenever possible and had to be removed from the courtroom repeatedly during jury selection. Brooks fell asleep at the defense table, stripped his shirt off, and constantly interrupted the judge throughout his case. In the end, his antics proved fruitless. Brooks was sentenced to consecutive life sentences for first-degree intentional homicide. The judge also sentenced Brooks to 17 1/2 years for each of the 61 counts of first-degree reckless endangerment. Altogether, Brooks was sentenced to more than 1,200 years behind bars. While it’s not uncommon for individuals to represent themselves in court, it’s rarely recommended. Representing yourself in court can make winning your case even
more difficult. Here are just a few of the many reasons one should never represent themselves in court. Lack of Knowledge and Experience Lawyers spend years honing their craft and becoming well-informed in their field. Being a lawyer isn’t just about gathering evidence or challenging facts in a courtroom. A lawyer has to understand the proper procedure and how trials are conducted. Judges are scrupulous in their enforcement of the rules, and disregarding procedure or proper conduct can get you removed from the courtroom, much like Brooks was during jury selection. You could even make an error that places you in contempt of court, leading to even more problems. Additionally, lawyers get plenty of experience before taking their first case to trial. They don’t just pass the bar exam and start helping clients. They shadow other attorneys and observe trials to understand how to best assess witnesses and strengthen their legal knowledge. Self-Incrimination Many people who represent themselves make the mistake of thinking that their roles as a defendant and a lawyer are entirely separate, but this is not true. Anything you say or do can be used against you by the prosecution, which will likely damage your case. You have to be aware of your emotions during the process. Your freedom may be on the line, but that doesn’t mean you can get upset
or angry while representing yourself. This will likely reflect poorly on you and could further damage your case. Slim Chance of Victory It should come as no surprise that representing yourself in court will be a difficult battle, especially if you’re facing off against a seasoned attorney. A Department of Justice study found that those who represented themselves in immigration appeals were successful 10% of the time, compared to a 40% success rate when a pro bono lawyer handled the case. The risk of representing yourself far outweighs any benefits you can imagine. If you’re in a situation where you are required to go to court, whether for divorce or because you’re being charged with something, it’s always the better option to hire representation. Your lawyer will have your best interests in mind and fight for your rights in court. If you need representation, give us a call today!
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STAY SAFE ONLINE!
GUARD YOUR PRIVACY AND PEACE OF MIND
What happens if you’re found guilty of cybercrimes? Laws have been made to address criminal behavior that involves computers, computer systems, and the internet. In fact, every state has its requirements and potential penalties depending on the type of crime — and penalties may be severe, even for first- time offenders. The penalties could include the following: Fines These range widely, but a misdemeanor conviction can result in minor fees of a few hundred dollars or possibly up to $1,000. At the same time, felony convictions can have fines of up to $100,000. Jail or Prison If someone is convicted of a specific cybercrime, they can face jail or prison sentences. The most severe crimes can even result in a prison sentence of 20 years or more. Probation Depending on the case, a person can be on probation for a year or more and need to report to a probation officer, pay court costs and fines, or maintain employment. Though technology can make life a little easier, there are dangers we must avoid. So, create strong passwords, keep your systems updated, and be mindful of the information you’re giving out.
While it’s only the second month of 2023, interior designers have already noticed several design trends homeowners use to spice up their living spaces. If you want to revamp your home, look no further than these three tips! One of the most popular trends in 2023 is black accent walls or pieces. Black is a neutral color that gives your home a modern and edgy feel without overpowering your room. 3 Interior Design Trends of 2023 What’s Trending? As more business transactions, such as paying bills, shopping, and trading, have moved online, cybercrimes have affected more people than ever before. Unfortunately, the ill effects often lead to extreme financial ruin for businesses and individuals. We live in a digital world where everything can be found online. Whether it’s storing data or gaining access to information, we tend to use the internet constantly. With so many innovations and new technologies being created, it’s no surprise that cybercrimes are becoming more frequent than ever. What are cybercrimes? Cybercrimes are criminal activities that involve computers, networked devices, or networks. These are typically committed by cybercriminals or hackers looking for ways to steal information, damage computers or networks, or make a profit — whether personal or political. Some types of cybercrimes include: • Email and internet fraud • Identity fraud (where personal information is stolen and used) • Theft of financial or card payment data • Theft and sale of corporate data • Infringing copyright • Selling illegal items online
Jump back in time by incorporating vintage pieces into your home. From lava lamps to retro-style furniture and wall art, the possibilities are endless. Make any room in your home look bigger with round furniture and tables. Rectangular and square pieces will cut your room and make it appear smaller. But rounded-edge sofas, armchairs, and coffee tables will open up the space and give the illusion of a larger space.
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YES, HABIT TRACKING ACTUALLY WORKS! THE EASY WAY TO STAY MOTIVATED
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Back in the 1980s and ’90s, almost every sports movie included a training montage — and no montage was complete without a giant paper calendar hanging on the hero’s wall. As time ticked by and the big game or contest approached, the hero crossed the days out one by one. Each square was a success, and it was another day of training down! It sounds silly, but according to habit expert and “Atomic Habits” author James Clear, that giant calendar isn’t just movie magic. It actually works! For some people, tracking their habits — literally writing down their successes and failures in order to keep a record — is an effective way to build and stick with new routines, like New Year’s resolutions. In his book, Clear writes that habit tracking works because it makes a particular behavior “obvious, attractive, and satisfying.” Tracking our habits in a visible place (like a calendar on the wall) reminds us to keep our “streak” of good behavior alive and holds us accountable if we mess up. It also just feels good to cross a square off of the calendar.
become more motivated to continue down that path. In this way, habit tracking can have an additive effect on motivation. Every small win feeds your desire.”
You don’t need to use a ’90s calendar to track your habits in 2022. Instead,
Clear recommends leveraging technology to make tracking as easy as possible. If you want to build better spending habits, put your
credit card statements (which track your spending automatically) front and center. If you want to take more steps each day, buy a Fitbit so you don’t have to count them. That said, if you go the pen-and-paper route — or prefer an Excel spreadsheet — Clear suggests tracking your habit immediately after you finish it. That way, you’ll associate your positive behavior with the rush of satisfaction you get from checking a day off the calendar.
“The most effective form of motivation is progress,” Clear explains. “When we get a signal that we are moving forward, we
To learn more about Clear’s methods and download his free Habit Tracker Template, visit AtomicHabits.com/tracker .
Curried Steak With Scallion Rice and Peas
“I was arrested for a DUI and unknowingly did everything possible to compound the problem. Johnny Houston told me everything that I needed to do and we walked out of the courtroom with a reduced sentence of reckless driving. Mr. Houston knows exactly what to say in and outside of the courtroom to get the absolute best result possible for any mistake. I cannot thank him enough for what he did for me!” –Anonymous Phenomenal DUI Lawyer!
Ingredients
Directions
• 1 lb flank steak,
1. Season steak with salt and pepper. Brush with 1 tbsp curry paste, and let stand 10 minutes. 2. In a saucepan, combine rice, 1 3/4 cups water, 1 tbsp oil, and 3/4 tsp salt. Bring to a boil, then stir, cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer about 15 minutes before adding white and light-green scallions. Cover to steam. 3. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Swirl in 1 tbsp oil. Add the steak, flipping once; cook this for 7–9 minutes, then transfer to a carving board. 4. Reduce the skillet to medium heat, then add 1 tbsp oil and the remaining 2 tbsp curry paste. Cook this for 1 minute. Add 3/4 cup water and cook until reduced, about 30 seconds. Transfer to a bowl and cover. 5. Wipe skillet clean, then add remaining 1 tbsp oil. While stirring, add snap peas. Season with salt and cook this until crisp-tender, about 2–3 minutes. 6. Fluff rice before stirring in scallion tops. Slice steak against the grain, then serve with rice, peas, and curry sauce.
room temperature
• Kosher salt and ground pepper • 3 tbsp massaman curry paste, divided • 1 1/4 cups white rice • 2 1/2 cups water, divided • 4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided • 1 bunch scallions, thinly sliced, white and light-green parts separated from dark-green tops • 8 oz sugar snap
peas, trimmed and halved on the bias
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Inspired by MarthaStewart.com
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE The Dangers of Representing Yourself in Court Understanding Internet Crime Laws 3 Interior Design Tips for 2023 Retrain Your Brain With Habit Tracking Curried Steak with Scallion Rice and Peas Testimonial Relieving Headaches With Natural Remedies PAGE 1 PAGE 2 PAGE 2 PAGE 3 PAGE 3 PAGE 3 PAGE 4
PREVENTING MIGRAINES THE NATURAL WAY 3 SUPPLEMENTS TO TRY
Chronic headaches and migraines seem to strike at the worst times. If you suffer from frequent migraines, you’re familiar with canceling dinner plans last minute or leaving work early due to throbbing head pain, nausea, and discomfort. The worst part is that many medications don’t help; the only true cure is rest, darkness, and time. However, the next time a migraine strikes, try a natural remedy. These three natural products are safe, inexpensive, and have little to no side effects. Riboflavin (Vitamin B-2) According to the National Center for Complimentary and Integrative Health, 400 milligrams of riboflavin daily is proven to be beneficial in reducing
migraines in both adults and children. Riboflavin occurs naturally in dairy milk, cheese, yogurt, eggs, chicken breast, and salmon or can be purchased over the counter as a supplement. Magnesium As one of the most prevalent minerals in our bodies, magnesium can help treat chronic headaches and migraines. According to WebMD, studies have proven that those who suffer from migraines tend to have lower levels of magnesium than those who do not. Furthermore, some scientists believe that the mineral can block the chemicals in the brain that trigger pain and specific signals responsible for the auras (changes in vision or other senses) that many experience during a migraine.
Melatonin Melatonin, a hormone secreted by your brain’s pineal gland, has been proven to reduce the frequency and length of migraines. Those who suffer from chronic migraines have abnormally low melatonin levels, so taking melatonin supplements at bedtime is likely to help prevent nagging headaches and migraines. To prevent your next throbbing headache, it may be worth giving one of these safe and natural supplements a try after consulting your health care provider! After all, what do you have to lose?
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