Richard A. Merlino Criminal Defense Law

06/04/2026

Self-defense laws can vary significantly from state to state, especially when it comes to the duty to retreat and stand-your-ground principles. Learn more about how these laws may affect the legal use of force in self-defense situations.

https://www.usconcealedcarry.com/blog/what-is-a-duty-to-retreat-law/

06/02/2026

In 2026, obtaining or keeping a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) can be prevented by serious traffic violations, DUI convictions, failed DOT medical exams, and certain felony charges. While some disqualifications are temporary or situational, offenses involving drug trafficking, human trafficking, or repeat DUIs often carry permanent lifetime bans. https://cdltruck.com/cdl-disqualification/

05/30/2026

In a landmark decision, the California Supreme Court has unanimously ordered Attorney General Rob Bonta to explain why the state's death penalty should not be declared unconstitutional on grounds of racial discrimination. This decision is a significant step forward in a lawsuit filed by a coalition....

05/30/2026

In a landmark decision, the U.S. Supreme Court has revived a Black Mississippi death row prisoner's challenge to the jury composition that convicted him. The case, Pitchford v. Cain, centered on Terry Pitchford, a Black man sentenced to death for a 2004 robbery and homicide in Grenada County, Missis...

05/29/2026

A Florida real estate agent has entered into a plea agreement that allows him to seek a shorter sentence in exchange for testifying against former magistrate James Gosnell.

05/29/2026

Sometimes the best strategic decision to have an opportunity to save one’s life is to accept responsibility and mitigate one’s circumstances in light of the totality of circumstances, including a reasonable likelihood of conviction at trial. 

John Thorpe, James Gosnell's alleged co-conspirator, pleaded guilty to charges regarding child sexual abuse material.

05/28/2026

Drug‑impaired driving is against the law and increases crash risk. Alcohol, prescription meds, and ma*****na can all impair judgment and reaction time. Plan ahead for a sober ride and keep your friends and family safe. Learn more: https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drug-impaired-driving

05/28/2026

Former CIA Official Accused of Stealing $40 Million in Gold Bars, Exposing Deep Security Oversight Concerns A former senior CIA official with top-secret clearance has been accused of stealing 303 gold bars worth more than $40 million from the agency and storing them at his Virginia home, according t...

05/27/2026

Your news, policy, and updates from May 27, 2026.

05/27/2026

Just another afternoon in South Carolina